Onward, Upward, Amplified.

Choosing business over the “comfort” of a 9–5 used to feel unglamorous and risky—and in many ways, it still can be.

But the wave of layoffs affecting federal employees over the last year has forced a shift in how many families define economic stability.

As a co-founder and business operator, it’s been meaningful to watch more people accept a hard truth: stability isn’t guaranteed. Life can change overnight. If the Creator Herself doesn’t promise safety and stability, why do we expect a job to?

AMPLIFY Graduation | Co-Founder Zainab Kamarah & her business mentor Carol Reese from ReeSources

On February 24, 2026, I graduated from the AMPLIFY Cohort, facilitated by the Metropolitan Business League and ChamberRVA—and I’m genuinely grateful for what this experience gave me.

As a business owner, there are seasons where you are building while also carrying uncertainty, responsibility, and vision all at once. This program met me in one of those seasons. It helped me sharpen my procurement strategy, think more expansively about opportunities with private corporations, and deepen my understanding of how relationships and certifications can strengthen the long-term future of a business.

What I’m leaving with is more than information. I’m leaving with new partnerships, refined processes, a stronger marketing direction, and the gift of a meaningful mentor in Carol Reese. I’m also leaving with something deeply personal: confirmation that discipline, faith, and consistency still matter.

I want to thank Lauren Boswell, the Metropolitan Business League, ChamberRVA, and Carol Reese for pouring into this cohort. And I want to thank myself—Zainab Kamarah—for continuing to believe in my vision in the face of uncertainty. That belief has carried me further than fear ever could.

For Conteh & Brown Group, this is not an ending. It is a strengthening. We are moving forward with plans to expand our GovCon services, welcome more clients, and launch our newsletter and free downloads so more business owners can access the tools and insight they need.

Thank you to everyone who has supported me, trusted my work, and encouraged this journey. I’m building with even more clarity now—and I’m excited for what comes next.

If you’d like to work with us, I invite you to book a call and join our mailing list.