April 11th 2024.
Martina Edwards has made history as the first Black female broker for Merrill Lynch on the bustling floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Her journey as a trailblazer in the financial industry is nothing short of remarkable, and she continues to inspire others even after leaving her groundbreaking role.
In a recent interview with The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Alabama native discussed her decision to step away from the NYSE and pursue further education. She explained, "I wanted to gain a deeper understanding of how these deals were coming to market, so I thought the best next step for me would be business school." She graduated in 2008, during the country's economic crisis, proving her determination to thrive even in challenging times.
A finance graduate from Tuskegee University, Edwards joined the NYSE as a Merrill Lynch trader during the week of the tragic 9/11 attacks. As previously noted by BLACK ENTERPRISE, she now aims to leave a lasting legacy by guiding others on how to manage and move forward in times of crisis. "I want my legacy to be one that is remembered for thinking beyond myself and outside of myself," she said. "I often joke and say that you can't time the market...life can be unpredictable, but you have to weather the storms and keep moving forward."
At the age of 44, Edwards uses her expertise to empower minority women entrepreneurs as the chief of strategic partnerships at Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs, a Georgia-based financial institution. This organization provides funding, coaching, and connections for women, minorities, and entrepreneurs from low-income communities. Her dedication to uplifting underrepresented groups in the financial realm is evident through her work at Access to Capital and her role on the advisory board for Zane Venture Fund, a local venture capital firm.
Her journey on Wall Street began with a Merrill Lynch internship that ignited her passion for the high-energy environment of the stock market. After graduating, she joined the firm full-time, which she credits to her involvement with Sponsors for Educational Opportunity. She vividly remembers her awe upon witnessing CNBC's Maria Bartiromo reporting from the NYSE floor, thinking to herself, "This is where I want to go. This is the speed of work that I want to do."
Edwards also recalls the harrowing experience of being at the NYSE during the 9/11 attacks. She had just started her first week, heading to report for normal trading when the explosion on the South Tower of the World Trade Center erupted behind her. "I knew there was no getting to the Exchange...when I heard the roar of jet engines and saw the white underbelly of a teetering plane just above my head, and it felt so close," Edwards shared. Despite the devastation, she found solace in returning to the NYSE a week later, showcasing her resilience and determination to keep moving forward.
Martina Edwards' story is one of courage, determination, and breaking barriers. She continues to inspire others through her journey as a trailblazer in the financial industry and her commitment to empowering underrepresented communities. Her legacy will be one of strength and resilience, reminding us that we can overcome any challenge and leave a lasting impact on those around us.
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