From Shop Owner to Community Builder: Empowering Women in Business and Tackling Homelessness in Tulsa

Lori Nair, a female business owner in Tulsa, started her shop by chance 22 years ago when her daughter needed a special bag for her wheelchair. She began sewing and eventually expanded to embroidery. Her love for being in Tulsa and enjoying the work she does with the support of her team at Tatermash Embroidery have been instrumental in her success.

Tulsa has seen an increase in female business ownership, with a score of 61/100 in the latest data on equality indicators. This reflects a positive trend in the city’s support for women entrepreneurs. Networking with other small businesses has been crucial for Nair’s success, highlighting the importance of community support in business.

On the other hand, Tulsa has seen a significant decline in homelessness by disability status, with a score dropping from 35/100 in 2018 to 20/100. Homeless man Walt Lewis, who uses a wheelchair, shared his struggles and the need for more resources to support individuals facing homelessness. Mayor GT Bynum acknowledges these challenges as part of a larger narrative for the city of Tulsa.

The stories of Lori Nair’s success as a female business owner and Walt Lewis’s challenges as a homeless individual reflect the diverse experiences within the Tulsa community. Despite their different realities, both highlight the importance of support systems and resources in shaping the city’s overall landscape.