An entrepreneur at heart, Andrea Bibbs embodies the spirit of innovation. As the founder of June Dragonfly, a curated gifting company that exclusively sources products from women and underrepresented founders, and The ACB Group, a marketing media consulting company, Andrea is a powerhouse who’s carving out spaces for underrepresented voices in the business world. As a distinguished member of the 2024 Legacy Leadership Executive Cohort, she’s taking her mission to new heights, further solidifying her impact on the community and beyond.
From Corporate to Curating:
Andrea’s journey to entrepreneurship wasn’t linear. After 20 years in corporate America, she excelled but felt a deeper calling. Inspired by female entrepreneurs and driven by the desire to align her work with her passion, Andrea began dreaming of a different path. After having children, she realized the importance of leading by example, showing her kids the value of following one’s beliefs, and ultimately took the leap of faith to lead her where she is today.
I wanted them to see mommy doing something that she loves and something that they can respect. I had this feeling that there was a deeper meaning to what I should be doing or I had a bigger calling out there.
While Andrea was working in corporate, the seeds of June Dragonfly were planted. She had always been inspired by entrepreneurs and dreamed of one day creating a company that could curate meaningful, personalized gifts. The idea stayed with her, a quiet ambition, while she continued her corporate journey.
When her job faced acquisition, Andrea saw a window of opportunity and courageously raised her hand for a voluntary exit. This marked the beginning of a period of exploration and self-discovery. Shortly after leaving, she began consulting through acquaintances, which led to the creation of The ACB Group, her marketing and media consulting firm. Working with incredible women-owned brands reignited her entrepreneurial spirit and brought her dream of June Dragonfly back to the forefront.
Nearly a year after starting The ACB Group, Andrea took the leap and launched June Dragonfly, fully embracing her new identity as an entrepreneur.
The Joy in Curation
For Andrea, the most fulfilling aspect of her work is the people. Whether it’s working with small businesses and women entrepreneurs whose products she curates for her gift boxes or seeing the joy on customers’ faces when her carefully selected gifts hit the mark, it’s these moments that make her work deeply rewarding. Andrea’s ability to bring people together, connecting them through thoughtful, curated experiences that spotlight underrepresented voices, is where she truly shines.
Where Impact and Growth Converge: Andrea’s Legacy Leadership Path
Andrea was drawn to the Legacy Leadership program because it was unlike anything she had encountered before. With its focus on collective responsibility, self-reflection, and intentionality, the program resonated with her on a personal level. As someone who is committed to making a meaningful impact through her businesses, Legacy Leadership offered Andrea the tools and support to grow, not just as an entrepreneur, but as an individual dedicated to making a difference.
I love how intentional it is, it’s not just about making sure you have your systems in place, but it’s also about how you are showing up, as a person.
For Andrea, being a part of Legacy Leadership means sharing and contributing to a deliberately-cultivated space where community is abundant and success is built on the tenets of intentional collaboration. With a strong emphasis on valuing where you come from, as demonstrated by her relationships with her family, friends, and heritage, Andrea transforms the world around her by putting her most authentic self forward and creating genuine connections for growth and mobility.
As a mother and entrepreneurial change-maker, Andrea’s journey with Legacy Leadership is a testament to the program’s ability to nurture leaders who are are not only successful but who also contribute positively to their communities. The program’s emphasis on legacy-building, while directly looking at those who came and paved the way before us, inspires leaders like Andrea to think beyond the immediate outcome and to focus instead on creating lasting change that honors her heritage and blazes a trail for future generations to build off of.
What Andrea Unique Perspective and Impact at The LOLA:
At The LOLA, Andrea contributes a unique energy and perspective. As a first-generation Canadian with immigrant parents and over 20 years of corporate experience, she brings fresh perspectives to the community. Her presence at The LOLA has helped cultivate new relationships, foster partnerships, and introduce innovative ideas, enriching the space with her diverse background and entrepreneurial spirit.
We hardly ever talk about ourselves (as Black women.) We hardly ever talk about our shine, right? But I do feel I bring a different energy. I bring my unique energy to The LOLA. And I feel like it’s cultivated. Some new relationships with people here.
Finding Empowerment and Connection at The LOLA
The connections Andrea has made at The LOLA have been transformative. The relationships she’s built—whether as friends, vendors, or clients—have been genuine and impactful. The LOLA has not only become a client of The ACB Group but was also among Andrea’s first corporate clients for June Dragonfly. This trust and support from The LOLA community have been instrumental in Andrea’s entrepreneurial journey.
Celebrating Andrea’s Remarkable Achievements
Andrea has much to celebrate. From surviving her first year as an entrepreneur to curating gifts for the Chicago Bulls, and even establishing a kiosk at Lenox Mall, her achievements are a testament to her determination and vision. Despite starting June Dragonfly on a leap of faith, without even an e-commerce site, Andrea has accomplished what once seemed impossible, proving to herself that anything is possible with courage and a bit of “vibes.”
Through Legacy Leadership, Andrea is not just encouraged, but also empowered to intertwine her professional aspirations with her own deeply-rooted values of authentic leadership and interconnected passions. In this way, she ensures that her business ventures are profitable and purposeful, aligning perfectly with Andrea’s belief that true leadership extends beyond the office and into every facet of life.
Looking Ahead
As she prepares for the holiday season, Andrea is focused on launching June Dragonfly’s e-commerce site and expanding her corporate client base. These goals are just the beginning of what promises to be another remarkable chapter in her entrepreneurial journey.
Words of Wisdom
Andrea’s advice to anyone aspiring to be an entrepreneur is simple:
Jump in.
She emphasizes the importance of taking that first step, even when the path seems unclear. For her, starting June Dragonfly was about more than just building a business—it was about creating something meaningful, something that makes her happy and proud. Her journey through Legacy Leadership and The LOLA has further reinforced the belief that life is too short not to pursue what sets your soul on fire.
Connect with Andrea
The ACB Group
June Dragonfly Instagram
The ACB Group Instagram
