Jo Cato, SBA 2024 Woman-Owned Business of the Year, is president/CEO of Periwinkle Group, Cruzin Vegas Mobile Billboards and Grab and Go Vending.
Q: What are you reading?
A: I am reading the book “The Shift: Courageously Moving from Season to Season” by Keion Henderson. This book has been my go-to guide as an entrepreneur and mother, offering invaluable insights on transitioning seamlessly between seasons. I just finished “Democracy” by David Meerman Scott and feel inspired to turn fans into customers and fans in my new business opportunity overseeing retail and airport concession spaces. Both books are exceptional, and I look forward to applying these strategies, increasing customer engagement, and shifting between seasons to the next level!
Q: What is your favorite restaurant or place to take clients?
A: Our city is filled with a rich tapestry of cultures. I am Jamaican, and I love nothing more than sharing vibrant flavors of the Caribbean and African cuisine and unique dining experiences with my clients and colleagues. From the spicy flavors of Jerk Dat, a Jamaican restaurant, to the comforting dishes of Mama Putt African Cuisine, you can’t you can’t beat the atmosphere, and the food is absolutely delicious!
Q: How do you decompress after a long week?
A: To decompress, I spend quality time with loved ones, self-care routines, and meditation are my tools for maintaining harmony. From thought-provoking podcasts, cultural events in Las Vegas to socializing with friends over a glass of wine or trying new restaurants, I make time for enrichment and relaxation.
Q: What do you do to workout?
A: I enjoy dancing and walking. They are stress relievers for the mind and body. I find peace and rejuvenation by challenging myself to move in new ways through dance. Walking three to four times a week keeps me grounded while dancing on the weekends ignites my passion.
Q: What is the biggest challenge facing Southern Nevada?
A: Southern Nevada, a hub of tourism, entertainment and innovation, and more recently, the epic center for professional sports, is at a critical juncture. It grapples with significant issues like water scarcity, educational gaps, housing issues and economic disparities. The urgency of addressing these challenges lies in sustainable solutions that cater to the community’s diverse needs and level the playing field for small businesses. The educational shortcomings in the area profoundly impact local businesses.
Southern Nevada’s transformation is not just about its reputation as a leisure destination — it’s about recognizing its potential as a fertile ground for opportunity. This path to progress is paved with the diversification of business models, the removal of barriers through policy, the promotion of sustainable business practices, and, most importantly, cultivating broad and equitable growth that can benefit community members.
As an entrepreneur from a minority group in Southern Nevada, I’ve experienced unique challenges with starting and growing a business. Our community’s resilience is remarkable as we navigate these hurdles with determination and perseverance. Despite the obstacles faced, the next five years is very crucial; there is hope and optimism for the future of small businesses in Southern Nevada; we can elevate our entrepreneurial ecosystem by confronting these challenges. I applaud our leaders efforts to deep dive, head-on and fostering a culture of inclusivity and sustainability.
