For many users of networks and digital technologies, hyperconnectivity is a trigger for anxiety and techno-dependence, but Maryann Kilgallon aims to counteract this negative effect with POMM® Safety, a suite of simple and portable applications that some of its users describe as “a “problem”. Remedy for psychological stress.” The Mexican-American businesswoman, CEO and founder of Pink Lotus Technologies, has been developing a portfolio of digital products since 2017 that aim to ensure safety and well-being in work and private environments through the efficient use of technology.
Maryann Kilgallon, inventor of POMM® security devices.
Kilgallon, 53, developed POMM® safety devices after seeing the news on television that a child had suffocated after being locked in a car for several hours, as featured in the first episode of the second season of “Founding in Color.” , a documentary film Comcast Universal’s “Lift Labs” series about the challenges faced by minority entrepreneurs aired in February of this year. Looking for a solution to this all-too-common tragedy, Kilgallon warned that there is a global need to “protect the most vulnerable,” including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions who need urgent help in an emergency. POMM® (short for Peace of Mind Monitor) is the wearable device that can potentially save tens of thousands of lives and provide peace of mind to family members and employers. The application monitors a user’s situation, including their vital signs, and in the event of an accident, automatically shares their location in real time with the nearest emergency centers within the more than 5,000 to which the platform is connected.
As his company establishes itself, Kilgallon has identified new opportunities to diversify his platform by focusing on workplace safety, an area where statistics show Hispanics are more likely to suffer fatal workplace injuries compared to other groups. “This is the perfect time to expand and help companies address the safety of their employees,” says Kilgallon. “I even recently met a company manager who said to me, ‘Where were you two weeks ago when we thought we had lost one of our employees?'”
“We believe that safety is a moral and legal obligation for every company that can improve employee spirit, productivity and efficiency,” explains Kilgallon. “We want to make sure employees go home safely to their families every evening.”
According to Laresa Tapia, “Maryann’s drive is matched only by her big heart and desire to create positive change through her entrepreneurial endeavors.” Tapia, another successful local entrepreneur from the Orlando area, is the creator of Polyblox’s multilingual spelling totems, one Teaching resource to help teachers teach science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) subjects. ). “It’s an inspiration! Your creative approach to problem solving is great. He also really cares about supporting his fellow entrepreneurs. Maryann is a rising star!” Tapia wrote on Kilgallon’s LinkedIn profile.
Andrés Goyanes, founder of Aether Marketing Communications, the public relations firm whose client is POMM® Safety, believes the Orlando, Florida-based businesswoman and mother of two “had the courage and determination that we often read about .” other business luminaries. “Maryann has always been a kind and considerate person with a radiant charisma that continues to inspire her team and those she works with, including me.” Goyanes highlights humility on the same social network focused on business and employment and the commitment with which Kilgallon “continues to successfully find solutions through its “technology with a purpose” approach to innovation.”
Older man uses smartphone app. Westend61 (Getty Images/Westend61)
POMM® Safety is one of many Hispanic companies benefiting from UPS’ partnership with The Lonely Entrepreneur. The businesswoman, who was named to the 2021 Forbes Next1000 list and is a member of UPS Ignite, the UPS program to empower entrepreneurs in underrepresented communities, says she is very grateful for the community she has found through this initiative. “For the opportunity to network with other founders and make friends.”
Kilgallon relied on The Lonely Entrepreneurs’ suite of services to successfully navigate the complex phases of app and product development. “It was very helpful for a startup like mine to be able to rely on The Lonely Entrepreneur’s resources. For a single owner like me, getting feedback or ideas on the process or growth strategies can be challenging.”
Among the many benefits of this initiative is the opportunity for select members to apply for UPS grants through the Accion Opportunity Fund, an organization that has invested more than $500 million in its customers over its 25-year history. 90% of the fund’s clients are women, homeowners from ethnic minorities or entrepreneurs with a migrant background.
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