By Joanna Sherrow
Navigating the pathways of technology with a focus on Software as a Service (SaaS), I’ve taken on a journey that blends my design, automation, and workflow experience into a platform that helps business owners streamline their sales and marketing efforts. Allow me to introduce myself: I’m Joanna Sherrow, the proud owner of EmpowrSoft a SavvyChic Design, LLC company that offers a comprehensive system and software solution and provides website and marketing services.
When I was young, I dreamt of becoming a news anchor, delivering stories that would captivate audiences on TV. However, fate had different plans in store for me; I found myself drawn into the world of sales and marketing.
Little did I know that this detour would equip me with invaluable skills and insights, laying the foundation for the entrepreneurial journey that awaited me.
Originally from the Philippines, 2015 marked a significant turning point as I bid farewell to my homeland, I remember only having two hefty suitcases and a carry-on, all in the name of love. Relocating to the United States was a bold decision fueled by passion, propelling me across continents to unite with my beloved.
As I settled into my new environment, I found myself getting a job that, while practical, left me looking for deeper fulfillment. I keep telling myself I know I am destined to do more, but what was it? It was during this time that I began to perceive technology not merely as a toy but as a powerful tool for shaping the future. I mean, I wasted a lot of time scrolling through Facebook and watching cat videos at one point (no offense). My journey led me into the digital world, where I started to learn about personal branding, website design, and marketing strategies, harnessing technology to make a lasting impact.
My journey has been characterized not by a well-lit highway but by a winding trail of self-awareness driven by observation, action, and an insatiable thirst for knowledge.
While I may have yet to gain complete expertise in coding or possess the technical expertise to craft intricate algorithms, my strength lies in envisioning how technology can enrich lives and businesses.
I recognize the potential it holds and am eager to explore how it can elevate both my endeavors as a business owner and those of others. I knew I needed to create sustainability in the business and help others create the same. I always have this mantra “Everything is figureoutable,” I was determined to explore something outside my knowledge and comfort zone. Sometimes I laugh at myself and wonder what I am getting myself into.
Technology has been and is still a trusted ally in my mission to empower small businesses. Witnessing firsthand how the right technological tools could amplify creativity and drive business growth, I remained committed to leveraging technology to help others. However, as I go deeper into this, I couldn’t help but notice the glaring gender gap, with few women venturing into technology.
Yet, amidst this landscape, one woman stood out and served as my inspiration: Melanie Perkins, the visionary founder of CANVA. Her journey serves as an example of how the transformative power of technology can democratize design and make it accessible to all. Canva has changed my life as it opened my eyes to my creative side.
Inspired by Perkins’ trailblazing spirit, I started looking for a solution to some entrepreneurial challenges. The challenge of having too many tech stacks just to get things going in our business. Why not streamline and minimize the cost we all spend? So through extensive exploration of various software and platforms, I sought the perfect combination to enhance business operations and drive growth, got the license for EmpowrSoft, and launched the platform.
Armed with nearly twenty tech stacks under subscription to streamline my operations, I seek a solution that could empower businesses far beyond my own.
Through meticulous research and unwavering determination, I launched software tailored to meet the unique needs of small business owners. Despite grappling with technical intricacies, I remained steadfast in my pursuit of realizing my vision.
My story is a testament to the importance of embracing technology as an integral part of the entrepreneurial journey. As a woman in a predominantly male-dominated industry, I embrace the challenge of representing a minority voice in the world of software. My path lies in the courage to act upon fleeting thoughts, trust intuition, and tirelessly pursue a vision. In fully embracing technology, I stand not as a solitary figure but as someone guided by the expertise and shared vision of those who strive for a brighter tomorrow.
Recognizing the enduring potential of systems and software, I expanded my horizons to include a software-as-a-service model.
About Joanna
Joanna Sherrow was born and raised in the Philippines before moving to the US in 2015. Upon settling into her new home, she discovered a passion for innovation and creativity, particularly in personal branding, website, and graphic design.
Motivated by her Filipino heritage, Joanna persevered through challenges, continuously pushing forward to achieve her goals.
