Shinjini Das

5 Power-Packed Entrepreneurship Lessons from an HBCU Grad and Tech Startup Founder 🚀 I recently watched the Forbes interview with Dr. Benjamin Harvey, the Founder & CEO of AI Squared. As a proud HBCU grad from Mississippi Valley State University and Bowie State University, Dr. Harvey shares some 🔥 insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. Here are my key takeaways from his journey: 1️⃣ Embrace Financial Literacy 💵 - Dr. Harvey emphasizes understanding profit and loss statements. Even with a technical background, knowing your numbers is crucial. 2️⃣ Identify and Solve Critical Gaps 🔍 - He noticed that 90% of AI technologies weren’t being used effectively. By addressing this, he created a solution to bridge the last mile in AI implementation. 3️⃣ Leverage Diverse Experiences 🌍 - From the NSA to Silicon Valley, Dr. Harvey gained valuable insights from both sectors. These experiences enriched his problem-solving skills. 4️⃣ Build a Strong Network 🤝 - Connecting with key individuals and organizations, like Databricks and investors, was vital for AI Squared’s growth. Networking opens doors and provides support. 5️⃣ Adapt and Evolve 🌱 - Facing financial challenges, Dr. Harvey had to pivot and adapt his strategies. Resilience and flexibility are key to overcoming obstacles and sustaining your business. These lessons from Dr. Harvey's journey are inspiring and actionable for anyone looking to make their mark in the tech world and in business. 🎥 Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/e4cc3qqV #HBCU #Entrepreneurship #TechStartup #AI #FinancialLiteracy, #Networking #CareerGrowth #BlackExcellence

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The story of Wally Famous Amos cookies is a blend of triumph, challenge, and reinvention. As we celebrate National Black Business Month, let's honor the lessons from Wally Amos' journey: 1. Scale sustainably 🌱 2. Master financial management 📊 3. Protect your brand identity 🛡️ 4. Embrace innovation and resilience 💡 Wally's legacy shows us that setbacks can become comebacks. Let's learn and grow stronger. #NationalBlackBusinessMonth #Entrepreneurship #BlackExcellence #BusinessLessons #WallyAmos

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Trailblazing for a Diverse Tech Future: Challenges & Solutions for Black Tech Founders Black tech founders share their experiences as first-generation pioneers in the industry, discussing the burden of being trailblazers and the lack of representation. Discover how they aim to overcome obstacles and create opportunities for themselves and future generations. #BlackTechFounders #DiversityInTech #Trailblazers #TechPioneers #RepresentationMatters #TechIndustryChallenges #Entrepreneurship #TechCommunity #AccessToCapital #CreatingOpportunities Listen to the entire interview at https://lnkd.in/eMASrZwK

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Check out “narrAtIve: The Road to 100” with Black AI Media 🌟 100 stories, 1 mission: Celebrating Black excellence in Technology and AI. This journey spotlights trailblazers, innovators, and thought leaders from the global Black community who are rewriting the future. 🚀✨ Join us as we amplify voices and elevate stories that represent resilience, innovation, and impact in every corner of the tech world. 🌐 From entrepreneurs and AI researchers to educators and activists, these are the stories shaping the narrative for generations to come. 💡 Ready to be inspired? Follow along as we share each story—one post at a time. Be part of the journey and help us shape the future of technology and AI! 🔗 #narrAtIve #RoadTo100 #BlackInTech #BlackExcellence #AIInnovation #TechForGood ➡️ Like, share, and comment to support these voices and fuel the journey. Let’s make history together!

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🚨 New Interview to Finish the Year Strong! 🎉 I couldn’t be more excited to finish 2024 with an absolute powerhouse interview on narrAtIve: The Road to 100 on Black AI Media™! Meet the genius, Marie Roker-Jones, a 2x founder (Curious Culture), social impact advocate, and a leader who’s redefining what it means to build with purpose in tech. 🎥 Episode Title: "Empathy for the Win: Social Impact in Tech" Marie’s insights in this conversation are nothing short of transformative: 💡 How empathy drives innovation and real impact in technology. 🌍 Why centering social impact isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s the smartest strategy for the future. 🔥 Her journey as a 2x founder and her vision for creating equitable, inclusive spaces in tech. This interview is packed with inspiration, actionable takeaways, and the kind of wisdom that will energize you as we head into 2025. 🔗 Catch the full interview here 👉🏾 https://lnkd.in/e6PmcKQF Marie’s work is a reminder of why we do what we do, which is to create a legacy that moves communities forward and builds a better world. I can’t think of a better way to wrap up this year’s journey on The Road to 100. Let me know what resonates with you after watching, and let’s keep building a future where empathy and impact lead the way. #Narrative #RoadTo100 #MarieRokerJones #SocialImpactInTech #EmpathyForTheWin #BlackExcellence #RepresentationMatters #BlackAIMedia

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I want to share two of my new Courses with you. I finally can pass on what I have been learning. a) Navigating AI as a Black or Latino Father Entrepreneur https://lnkd.in/ghPcPTJA b) Mastering Artificial Intelligence https://lnkd.in/g4XXyGvm

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🎙️ Exciting Announcement! I'm Now Podcasting! 🎙️ I’m beyond thrilled to embark on this new journey of podcasting because I believe in the incredible power of sharing conversations that truly matter. I couldn’t have asked for a better guest than Jamaar Johnson, also known as the "Entrepremedian." His unique blend of stand-up comedy, marketing, and public speaking offers a fresh and inspiring perspective on personal branding and organisational wellness. In this episode of the WorkWell podcast, you’ll discover: Humor as a Connection Tool: Learn how Jamaar uses humour to captivate and connect with his audience. Boosting Creativity and Productivity: Insights on how to cultivate a vibrant and productive work environment. Building a Resonant Personal Brand: Strategies that have helped Jamaar craft a brand that truly resonates with his target market. The Power of "Super Connections": Techniques to form deep, meaningful relationships. FORM Acronyms for Deeper Conversations: A framework to ask more meaningful questions and connect on a deeper level. Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to stand out, a marketer aiming to engage more effectively, or someone eager to enhance their public speaking skills, this episode is packed with invaluable insights! Let’s enrich our professional, storytelling journey together, one conversation at a time. 🗣️✨ Listen to the full episode on Substack here: https://bit.ly/45p6Fdo #entrepremedian #personalbranding #publicspeaking #humorInentrepreneurship #workwellpodcast #newpodcastalert

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Here's my 2024 LinkedIn Rewind, by Coauthor.studio: The American Dream could be made in China, packaged in the Caribbean, and traded in Lagos - but first, you need the right infrastructure and mindset. That's what 2024 taught us at GreenBii. From my uncle's garage in Silicon Valley to supporting 500+ African retail businesses, we proved that innovation isn't about location - it's about creating the right conditions for growth. Key milestones that shaped our journey: • Scaled to 500+ retail businesses in under 2 months • Made important partnerships • Expanded service offerings across multiple categories 2025 is about scaling beyond education and retail. We're bringing enterprise-grade solutions to more African SMEs, because doing business the smart way isn't just about technology - it's about creating sustainable growth. To every SME owner pushing boundaries: Your garage today could be tomorrow's empire. Let's build it together. #dobusinessthesmartway #GreenBii #SimplifyingGrowth -- Get your 2024 LinkedIn Rewind! Go to coauthor.studio

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The Black AI Jedi for Seniors: Embracing the Future with Wisdom by: Rev. Dr. Philippe SHOCK Matthews | Foreword by: Dr. Jimmy J. Davies In today's rapidly changing world, technology often seems daunting and inaccessible to seniors. Yet artificial intelligence holds immense potential to enrich the golden years by connecting age-old wisdom with modern innovation. "The Black AI Jedi for Seniors" is your comprehensive guide to harnessing the power of AI to improve senior living. https://lnkd.in/euqTUSaF

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🌱 Growing Organically! 🌱 Black AI Media™ is reaching more people organically—with just the power of community! We’re building a space for Black voices in AI and tech, and every view, share, and comment helps amplify our mission. 👉🏾 Let’s keep the momentum going! If you believe in empowering Black voices in AI, here’s how you can help: 1️⃣ Visit blackaimedia.com and explore our latest content 2️⃣ Share this post with your network 3️⃣ Drop a comment to let us know what topics/resources you’d like to see next! Together, we’re shaping the future. Let’s grow, innovate, and inspire! 🚀✨ #BlackAIMedia #OrganicGrowth #CommunityPower #AmplifyBlackVoices #AIForAll #LetsGrowTogether

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This is interesting on two fronts: One- Funds should have the autonomy to support and fund initiatives they believe in, including those that target specific demographics such as Black women business owners. This aligns with the principle of freedom in investment decisions and philanthropic endeavours, allowing VC firms to address particular disparities and support underrepresented groups. The First Amendment protects charitable donations, and VC funds should be free to use their resources to promote diversity and support marginalized communities as part of their mission and values. Two- Programs that exclude individuals based on race, such as the Fearless Fund's Strivers Grant, can be seen as discriminatory and polarizing. The Civil Rights Act of 1866 prohibits racial discrimination in contracts, and ensuring equality means that opportunities should not be limited to certain racial groups. Discriminatory practices, even if well-intentioned, can undermine efforts towards inclusivity and equality, creating further divisions. Your thoughts? https://lnkd.in/d57dD2Rd

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Last night, I spent some time with Muslim leaders around the country at a gathering hosted by the Muslim Civic Coalition. We talked about post-election reporting, messaging, and stakeholder engagement. The organizers and leaders I met have been working relentlessly to ensure Muslim Americans use their voices this election. Many questions arose around how to frame a "win" when candidates of both parties have caused incredible harm to our community. Leaders also had practical questions about communicating with various stakeholders and the appropriate timing of post-election briefings and products. Here are a few takeaways everyone could benefit from: 1. Think about the questions you're getting from your stakeholders that you feel ill-equipped to answer. Don't ignore this. What do you need to be able to offer a compelling response? Are there things you can't know? Then say that, but point to what's certain now and what's next. 2. Map out your stakeholders. These groups are typically some combination of funders (don't wait for the grant report deadline), volunteers or community members who are already connected with you, community members who care about your work but might not know you yet, coalition partners, and community leaders. 3. Don't wait too long to communicate. Stakeholders will be looking for answers. Tell your story on your own terms, rooted in the long-term goals of your organization and cause. (I've included a suggested communication timeline below) 4. Repurpose content as much as you can and keep things tight. This is especially important for small teams or startups. The fact that you ARE communicating and being responsive is what's most important. I can't understate the difficulty of this election season for Muslim Americans. So much is at stake for our community, for other marginalized people, and for our loved ones around the world. Despite the difficulties, we've also found new allies, grown our civic infrastructure by leaps and bounds, and seen a new generation of bold leadership emerge, ready to keep fighting no matter who's in charge. This is democracy. This is the struggle. And I'm honored to be surrounded by so many powerful people who show up over and over again, even on the days when a "win" feels out of reach. ----- Hi, I'm Hannah 👋 I help nonprofit leaders drive transformative strategies and inspire the people they need to make change. I'd love to help you tell your story and turn your ideas into influence and impact. #election2024 #nonprofitleadership #democracy #muslimamerican #nonprofitconsultant

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#InReelTime Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs compilation🚀another one of my favorite storytelling clips I’ve created💫 RICE is an economic mobility engine for the community: driving Black entrepreneurs and small business owners to innovate, grow, create jobs, and build wealth. Part business generator, innovation lab, and museum, RICE invests in Black entrepreneurs, strengthens businesses, and creates community. Learn more about the mission at https://lnkd.in/eD7Wz5HU

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As of June 24th, Ayana Parsons has stepped down from her role at Fearless Fund, and I am compelled to honor her extraordinary journey and relentless fight for Black women entrepreneurs. Ayana's departure symbolizes not just a leadership change but a powerful statement about the exhaustion and disappointment that comes with battling systemic inequities. We recently celebrated Juneteenth, marking freedom and progress. Yet, the lack of a hate bill and the ongoing attacks on our community are harsh reminders of the institutional racism that persists. It's outrageous that when we strive to support Black businesses—much like other communities do—we face backlash and are expected to pull ourselves up despite the shackles of systemic oppression and the legacy of slavery. In the corporate world, the narrative is painfully similar. Black women in DEI roles often find themselves fighting for every crumb, their efforts minimized, and their voices marginalized. The burden of championing inclusion and equity should not fall solely on those already oppressed by these very systems. Ayana's work at Fearless Fund exemplifies this struggle, yet she has created a legacy of empowerment against all odds. Supporting Black businesses is not an act of favoritism but a crucial step toward genuine inclusion and equity. It is disheartening that any focus on the advancement of Black individuals is frequently framed as an "inclusion issue," perpetuating a cycle of exclusion and marginalization. Despite these challenges, Ayana Parsons has fought a noble fight. Her leadership has not only paved the way for countless women to achieve entrepreneurial success but has also highlighted the strength and resilience of Black women everywhere. Her impact is profound, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Thank you, Ayana, for your unwavering commitment and for all the strides you've made. Your fight has ignited a powerful movement, and your legacy will forever be a beacon of hope and empowerment. #Leadership #BlackExcellence #Entrepreneurship #FearlessFund #DEI #Equity #Inclusion #BlackWomenLead

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🎙️ Pass me the mic! 🧐 I have the pleasure of hosting a provocative panel focused on black founders: the triumphs, the challenges and the journey. 👏🏾 My guest panelists Erika Brodnock, Barbara and Mohamed will be sharing the good, bad and the ugly from firsthand experiences and how they have thrived despite the odds for what will be a fun and engaging conversation. 🚀 Look forward to seeing you there! #blacktechfest #underrepresentedfounders #swimmingagainstthetide #equitableventure #venturecapital #startups #blackfounders #teamwork

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What's up LinkedIn fam? Who could use an extra $120k in funding for their startup? If you are an HBCU student, graduate, or faculty member and a startup founder, we invite you to apply! The HBCU Founders Accelerator is a 16-week (mostly virtual) intensive program completely customized for each startup. Each company works one-on-one with dedicated advisors that we pay to provide executive-level support to the founders for the entirety of the program. We make an initial investment of $120,000 in each selected startup. At least one member of the founding team must be an HBCU student, alum, or faculty member; and the company must have a proof of concept/MVP that is in market or on the verge of commercialization. Applications for cohort #4 close November 1st at 11:59 PM ET. To learn more and apply for the HBCU Founders Accelerator, visit bit.ly/hbcuaccelerator

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The Art of Following Up: Attending my first AfroTech was an INCREDIBLE experience—a beautiful blend of conversations, energy, and connection. But what really makes a conference like this impactful isn’t just the event itself—it’s what happens after. Your follow-up game can make or break those developing connections, and after taking a moment to organize myself, I thought I'd share my approach to staying organized and intentional. Step 1: Capture the Connection in Real-Time During the event, I make it a habit to screenshot every new connection—whether it’s their LinkedIn profile, IG, or a quick snapshot of their contact info. It’s simple, fast, and ensures I don’t lose track of anyone. After connecting with someone, I jot down quick notes in my phone about: - What we discussed - What they were wearing (helpful for visual recall!) - Any key points I need to follow up on This practice keeps the moment fresh in my mind and helps me not to lose important details in the post-conference haze. Step 2: Organize and Reflect Post-Event Once the conference wraps, I carve out time to organize my thoughts and materials. This time around, I went to a coffee shop with my screenshots, notes, and energy still on 100 from the event. I go through each screenshot and do the following: - Write down their name and the platform or method where we connected (LinkedIn, IG, email, etc.) - Note exactly what I need to follow up with—whether it’s a “Nice to Meet You” email, a resume, a relevant deck, or even a simple follow on social. I create a checklist of people and follow-up actions so I don’t miss anyone. Step 3: Timing is Everything Follow-up timing is crucial. Based on experience, the sweet spot is within two weeks after the event. Why? - It gives people time to recover from the busyness of the conference. - It ensures you don’t wait so long that the connection feels stale. When I follow up, I’m concise, specific, and personal. I reference our conversation, mention something memorable from our interaction, and clearly state the next step (sometimes this isn't crystal clear so at least be clear in your interest to connect further) Networking doesn’t end when the conference does—it begins there. The real success lies in your follow-up game. Think of it this way: every missed follow-up is a missed opportunity. Taking the time to be intentional about connecting afterward shows professionalism, care, and effort. So, if you’re coming back from AfroTech—or any conference—remember this: the relationships you build are only as strong as the effort you put into maintaining them. Follow up, follow through, and watch your network grow into something meaningful. I’d love to hear how you approach post-conference networking, feel free to drop them below! 😀 #afrotech #afrotechconference #networking #followup

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