Local business owner, entrepreneur, chef, author and all-around rock star Makini Howell recently joined the Washington Work and Family Coalition for a local forum on women’s economic security. Makini, who is on the board of the Main Street Alliance, shared how, as a business owner, strong wages, paid leave and smart workplace policies make her business thrive.

Makini stated, “When working people and their families have basic economic security and the tools they need to stay healthy, we all do better. Everyone needs decent pay, basic benefits like paid sick leave and paid family leave, and the chance to follow their dreams. We have to fight together to make that a reality and it starts with women.”

Check out video of Makini’s entire speech below!