#CelebratingOurSisters: What we've learned so far

‘#CelebratingOurSisters’ is a content series dedicated to interviewing exceptional Black female changemakers who are passionate about social justice. It's been my absolute pleasure interviews with founders and business owners and discuss their passion for community impact and the insights they wish they’d had at the start of their professional journeys. Here's what I've learned from the series so far:

Elizabeth Anyaegbuna

Elizabeth Anyaegbuna is the Co-founder of media planning and buying agency Sixteen By Nine. In the interview Elizabeth discusses the motivation behind starting her own media agency, overcoming corporate racism, and the importance of representation and mentoring. She also reflects on past challenges, like code-switching to avoid bias. Now, as a business owner, she actively supports Black-owned businesses aiming to create equitable opportunities and foster inclusive environments in her industry.

My three main takeaways from Elizabeth’s interview:

1.  ‘Leadership’ means many things

As leaders, our role is to mentor, champion, speak up, support, collaborate and invest in minoritised talent.

‍2. Code-switching takes up energy

Changing yourself to fit into white corporate culture isn’t the flex you think it is. Being authentically you should be a priority.

‍3. Equity means we all need to play our part

And if we do that, we create workplaces and a wider world where everyone can thrive.

Danielle Bridge

Danielle Bridge, founder of ABC Life Support and interim CEO of Black Minds Matter UK, discusses her role and the challenges she’s facted in supporting mental health within the Black community. She emphasises the importance of networking and collaborating with allies to foster trust in mental health services. Danielle’s highlights from the past year include clearing a lengthy free therapy waiting list, and she’s looking forward to advancing the Black Minds Matters mission and also broadening conversations around mental health.

My three main takeaways from Danielle's interview:

1.  Cherish the challenges

Sometimes the things that you’re daunted by are the things that end up being the most rewarding.

‍2. ‘Mental health’ and ‘life’ are not separate

Prioritising the discussion about mental health within the Black community is super important.

‍3. Real ‘inclusion’ doesn’t necessarily mean ‘everyone’.

It’s okay to focus on one minoritised community if it creates real equity and tackles injustice. Too often, people criticise because they think inclusion means ‘everyone’ instead of understanding that it’s about inclusion of the most minoritised and marginalised communities.‍

Foluke Akinlose, MBE

Foluke Akinlose, MBE, founded PRECIOUS, the UK’s first digital platform for women of colour, in 1999. In the interview, she highlights this impact of her work but notes challenges such as visibility and access to opportunities. Looking forward, Foluke’s PRECIOUS organisation will celebrate its 25th anniversary with new initiatives, including a podcast and possibly a book.

My three main takeaways from Foluke's interview:

‍1.   Launch and then iterate

Don’t let perfectionism hold you back. Get your ideas out there first and then polish and iterate second.

‍2. ‘Community’ is defined by you

Wherever you turn to find understanding and support, whether it’s digital or face-to-face, that’s your community.

‍3. Be consistent

When your customers and supporters know that your brand and marketing is consistent it builds a sense of reliability and helps them to easily and immediately recognise your brand.‍

Tobi Oredein

Tobi Oredein, founder of media outlet Black Ballad, discusses the platform’s focus on amplifying the voices of Black women in the UK. Despite the challenges, Black Ballad celebrates Black women daily and ran a successful health awareness campaign, partnering with CoppaFeel! during Black History Month in 2023. Tobi highlights the importance of community among Black founders, and the privilege of serving Black women. She advises setting boundaries, building a supportive network, and stresses the impact of consistent brand communication.

My three main takeaways from Tobi's interview:

1.   Show up consistently

By showing up consistently, you not only contribute to the overall team reliability, but also create a positive and supportive atmosphere.

‍2. Find Your Squad

Seek out a network of individuals who get, uplift and inspire you. It’s about building connections that go beyond the surface, creating an invaluable support system.

‍3. Celebrate Your Wins

Success is not just about the big milestones; it’s about recognising and celebrating every step of the journey. When you achieve a goal, no matter how small, it’s a cause for celebration.‍

What all this means for sisterhood

These interviews show how that Black women have been driving social change for decades, often against incredible odds. And it’s clear that ‘sisterhood’ is one of the most crucial aspects of building lasting communities because it creates a foundation of support that is essential for personal and communal growth. For me, the strength I gain from these connections that helps me navigate and challenge the societal structures that try to limit our collective potential. By valuing and nurturing Black women, we can all contribute to the creation of a more just and supportive world.

I am not a fan of “overcoming adversity” narratives as a recipe for success. Because, for Black women, it is not our struggle but our optimism that makes us leaders, change-makers, and visionaries. Sisterhood offers a sense of belonging and a shared strength that helps Black women navigate challenges and celebrate victories together. It’s about lifting each other up and creating a community where everyone feels valued and supported. Embracing and respecting this insight will improve our collective ability to address societal challenges and move towards a more inclusive future.

This sisterhood is often like a superpower, creating a space where everyone can thrive, share resources, and celebrate each other’s successes.

I can't wait to bring you the next instalment of this series. And if there are AMAZING Black women, you'd like me to interview,  do let me know!

What do you think?

I’d love to hear your plans for the year ahead - sign up to the newsletter below, so we can stay in touch.