Today we’d like to introduce you to Mari K. Bell.
Hi Mari, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hi, I’m Mari K. Bell, founder of No Ma’am Nation, a sisterhood of kickass women over 40. Who am I? I’m a southern girl from Columbus, Georgia, although I have lived all across the north and south. I attended Clark Atlanta University (a local HBCU), and Penn State University.
Before launching No Ma’am Nation, I looked high and low for something that spoke to all of who I am as a black woman over 40. I envisioned a group filled with real, fun-loving women who defy aging stereotypes. And when I couldn’t find it, I decided to create my own. Now, I’m managing a fast-growing online community.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
No, it has not been a smooth road. In the journey leading up to No Ma’am, I experienced some highs, like writing my first novel entitled The Quarters. I’ve also experienced many lows, including caring for my sick mother who eventually succumbed to dementia.
I truly don’t believe success/growth is ever smooth. Like several other members of No Ma’am, I have had many career changes. I’ve worked for large corporations and small businesses and launched a few. On a personal front, I’ve been a single mom and now I’m a wife with a blended family. I’ve been challenged with weight gain and sometimes even self-esteem issues. This winding path has afforded me the opportunity to relate to the women of No Ma’am. I am truly a member of the tribe.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
The ladies of No Ma’am have surprised me with their love of our Wednesday Wine Down hosted on Facebook Live. Each week we have a blast discussing topics where members feel free to ask anything. We’ve had all sorts of guests, including a vegan chef, a sexologist, and a mixologist. On rare occasions we’ve even invited men into our venue to discuss dating after 40 and play a dating game!
In the coming weeks, members can look forward to more Wine Down sessions on self-care, mixology, interior design, and much more.
How do you think about luck?
These days, I feel quite lucky. I’ve created this community with women who are truly reflections of each other. They are funny, engaged, and loving life. If you’re a woman over 40 and you want to join us email @info@nomaamnation.com.
Contact Info:
- Email: info@nomaamnation.com
- Website: www.nomaamnation.com
- Instagram: @nomaamnation
- Facebook: @nomaam
- If you’re interested in The Quarters, find it on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Quarters-Mari-Bell/dp/069245344X/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=The+Quarters%2C+Mari+Bell&qid=1613949545&sr=8-1
Image Credits
The Visual Bloc – Shannon Bell
