In the heart of Compton, an inspiring story unfolds of Patricia Williams and her daughters, Nicole Enearu and Kerri Harper-Howie, who have remarkably taken charge of all McDonald’s franchises in the city, epitomizing female empowerment and familial achievement.
Their saga, which is particularly resonant during International Women's Month, is a testament to perseverance, entrepreneurial spirit, and the impact of women in leadership roles.
Starting over thirty years ago, Patricia ventured into the McDonald's business, initially inspired by relatives involved in the franchise. With her spouse's support, they used their savings to inaugurate their first restaurant in 1984. The business grew, mirroring the success of McDonald's itself, and following her divorce, Patricia assumed full ownership, expanding her footprint in the fast-food domain.
Her role as a businesswoman was skillfully balanced with her responsibilities as a mother and her career as a rehabilitation therapist, showcasing her unwavering resolve and dedication.
Her daughters, Nicole and Kerri, joined the family business, bringing their unique skills and making significant strides. Nicole became a pioneering force, being the inaugural African American female leader within the McDonald’s Southern California Regional Leadership Council. At the same time, Kerri applied her legal acumen to the business, eventually engaging in the Next Generation training program to further embed herself in the franchise's operations.
Together, they have elevated their McDonald’s outlets to be more than just restaurants; they are community hubs that prioritize family-oriented settings and local engagement. Their charitable organization, the Williams/Enearu Organization, is a conduit for their altruism, providing scholarships and supporting various philanthropic endeavors.
The Williams family not only serves as a model of business success but also as an emblem of hope and empowerment, resonating profoundly as we honor women's achievements worldwide during International Women's Month.
