— Pictured above (L to R): Outgoing C3MD President Liz Richardson, board member Wendy Baird, incoming C3MD President Camille Mazelev, board member Kevin Howard.
You may remember meeting Camille at one of our in-person events or at one of our monthly virtual meetings, and you might have been introduced to her as a recent Conscious Capitalism of Central Maryland (C3MD) board member. This year Camille Mazelev is taking on a new role with C3MD and we’re excited to have her. Everyone, meet our newest C3MD President—Camille Mazelev!
The founder of Maze Consulting LLC, Camille works collaboratively with entrepreneurs and small business owners to help them grow with impact, leading with a community-first approach. After spending 20 years stewarding multimillion-dollar programs, Camille was ready to shift gears and put the needs of local entrepreneurs into focus, harnessing her talent, knowledge, and skillset to better serve her community. Now, she’s hoping to bring those community connections into the conscious capitalism fold and continue to foster and build new relationships through her new role as C3MD President. We had the opportunity to ask Camille a few questions about her journey to conscious capitalism and what she hopes to achieve in 2024 in her role as president.
What was your first recollection of the term “conscious capitalism”?
I first heard the term “conscious capitalism” in the spring of 2022. Laura Bacon, founder of The 3rd, introduced me as a potential panelist for an upcoming C3MD event to Liz Richardson of Indigo Ink, also C3MD’s board president. Liz explained what conscious capitalism was and what it meant to be a conscious business. It was the first time I heard a term for what I try to practice and instill in the entrepreneurs I work with.
Beyond what’s on the website, what does conscious capitalism mean to you?
Most entrepreneurs I’ve met started their businesses to address specific needs in the communities they are part of. To me, conscious capitalism is about maximizing the positive impact on the communities we serve. Through conscious capitalism, we have the opportunity to strategically, and with open minds and hearts, become a force for good.
Which pillar resonates with you the most?
It is hard for me to choose which pillar resonates with me the most, but I will say that right now, and given the work I do with entrepreneurs, higher purpose is at the forefront. I firmly believe that without the “why,” a vision of a better world, and the strategy to make it all possible, businesses will struggle to make a positive impact. Purpose has to be clear before everything else falls into place, especially organizational culture.
As a relatively new member of C3MD, you have really taken to the group since your first guest speaking event in 2022. In 2023 you became a board member (which we were thrilled about!). What inspired you to become a member in the first place and then progress to the position of President?
Part of the mission for C3MD is to “equip individuals and organizations to embrace and implement conscious business principles through collaboration, educational programs, practical tools, and strategic partnerships.” There is an alignment between that mission and my personal mission to assist heart-centered organizations in positively impacting our community. Community is everything! And through that we can make lasting change — that’s what motivated me to join C3MD. The opportunity to work with the C3MD board to increase awareness of the movement and further expand Conscious Capitalism into Maryland was one I had to jump on. I am inspired to continue engaging with entrepreneurs and other organizational leaders to build and support thriving, progressive, and inclusive communities.
Can you share your thoughts about your approach to C3MD in 2024?
Over the years, I’ve encountered numerous entrepreneurs and leaders of small businesses who, I’ve come to realize, instinctively practice conscious capitalism even if they are not familiar with the term. Building on the foundation laid by my predecessors, my goal is to enhance awareness and foster a dynamic community dedicated to the core principles.
What are you most excited about for C3MD in 2024?
In 2024, I hope to deepen our partnerships and expand awareness of the Conscious Capitalism philosophy. Maryland has been working hard to support budding entrepreneurs and small businesses, and I’d like to work with our budding and seasoned business communities to incorporate Conscious Capitalism as they develop and scale. It’s easier to start on the right foot than to course-correct later, but it’s doable within a supportive community.
Anything you would like to add about your new role with C3MD?
I am thrilled to be part of C3MD! I look forward to engaging and continuing to foster community connections. I welcome feedback on how we can most effectively serve our members.
Thank you, Camille and we look forward to working with you this year in your new role!
–– C3MD
Thank you to C3MD President Camille Mazelev for participating in this interview. If you are interested in submitting a guest blog post please reach out. We want to hear what you have to offer!
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