SOUP Network, also called the Society of Urban Professionals NYC, brings entrepreneurs, small business owners, executives, and professionals together in East Harlem to connect, learn, and grow.
After more than twenty years in business, I wanted to build the kind of networking experience I would actually want to attend. A room filled with entrepreneurs, professionals, business owners, and community leaders who came with the intention of building real relationships. That’s what Next Level Networking is all about.
I’ve learned over the years is that not every networking event is worth your time. After more than twenty years in business, I’ve become much more intentional about where I spend my evenings and who I spend them with. I don’t need to be in the biggest room. I’d rather be in the right one. And that’s why we have SOUP, the Society of Urban Professionals.
As we move into the last quarter of the year, I pay attention to where people are spending money, where businesses are opening, and which neighborhoods are seeing more activity. New York City is heading into another busy holiday season, which creates opportunity for restaurants, retailers, event companies, catering businesses, wellness brands, and other service-based companies.
For me, the best opportunities usually start with a conversation. Not a sales pitch. Not a room full of people shouting over music. Just a genuine conversation between people who are building something..
Commercial real estate is always evolving. Markets shift, opportunities change, and every property tells a different story. So whether you’re leasing your first storefront, expanding your portfolio, selling an asset, or making your first commercial investment, our goal is the same. We want to help you make decisions that support your long-term goals.
Next Level Networking is our curated speed-networking experience in East Harlem, designed to help you meet people who could become referral partners, collaborators, clients, or long-term business connections.
I was looking through a few photos recently and came across pictures from the ladies brunch I hosted at the Virtuoso Realty Group Harlem office in December, centered on the book Ask and It Is Given. It made me smile because it was such a good afternoon.
The longer I’ve been in business, the less interested I’ve become in fitting that mold. I’d rather people know me for how I think, how I work, and what I value.
I’ve found over the years is that my day is usually decided before work even begins. The way I start my morning has a direct impact on how I show up for everything that follows. I’m intentional about that.