From Stereotype to Success: Maya Ford’s Journey in Entrepreneurship and Inclusive Data Practices

SheVentures

Maya Ford cares deeply about truth in marketing. As the founder of Ford Momentum!, she challenges stereotypes, ignites innovation, and is conquering the business world with a diverse mentorship style and a strategic mindset.

Nearly all marketing consultants champion their data prowess, so what makes Ford stand out (in addition to her two decades of experience in marketing, communications, and operations)? Her hunger for knowledge and penchant to challenge the status quo cause her to break free from the conventional narratives that surround various societal groups. Ford is not afraid to call a spade a spade.

Ford uses a new proprietary data-led methodology called STOLO (Standard of Love) that helps communities address unique regional or local problems accurately and compassionately. STOLO, backed by MIT’s Data, Economics and Development Policy program, is quickly becoming the go-to process for accurate data collection.

Why is STOLO so powerful? Historically, data has been used to confirm a theory instead of being used to offer new considerations. STOLO incorporates five pillars to guide data collection and analysis:

• Literacy
• Economic power
• Values
• Self-esteem
• Justice

Ford uses these pillars to inform data collection (surveys, gamified mobile apps) with the end goal of driving equitable results that are true to what people want and need, not only of benefiting those in power. STOLO is a radical way of helping the historically under-represented own their data and their voices — and leverage their assets for change. Listen to Ford describe STOLO in action, provide case studies where STOLO is already creating change, and why she believes this methodology will be embraced by more communities.

If you are a corporate leader, a parent, or a community member who desires change and isn’t afraid to tackle problems head-on, this episode is for you.

Key Highlights

• Unravel the importance of inclusive data compilation and storytelling in fostering societal advancement.
• How has traditional data aggregation fallen short of addressing the entire community
• Gain insight into Maya Ford’s entrepreneurial arc and her efforts to confront systematic challenges as she pivots to entrepreneurship as a small business owner.
• Understand the pivotal role diverse mentorship and strategic planning play in every entrepreneur’s journey.
• Learn about a STOLO case study in Houston, the process and costs of STOLO projects, and how the goal is to create more inclusiveness by representation.
• Realize the power of collaboration with skilled people in stimulating business success.
• Explore how technology is altering human relationships, influencing mental health, and reaching marginalized communities.
• Connect with Ford on LinkedIn to stay updated on her work and insights in marketing, communications, and operations.
• Consider hiring FordMomentum! to implement its data-driven approach in your own organization or community.
• Join the STOLO community and use its model to identify and prioritize the standards and values that are important to you and your community.
• Support FordMomentum!’s goal of creating justice, fairness, peace, and economic power by engaging with its services or spreading awareness about its work.