Vanessa Womack

How to Create Opportunities for Black Women Entrepreneurs to Thrive Black women entrepreneurs are the backbone of our economy, and it’s time we give them the recognition and support they deserve. As someone deeply involved in business and leadership development, I’ve seen firsthand the resilience, innovation, and drive that Black women bring to the entrepreneurial space. Despite facing systemic barriers and a lack of access to traditional funding sources, these women are starting businesses at a faster rate than any other demographic group. The future of entrepreneurship lies in the hands of Black women, but to unlock their full potential, we must create equitable opportunities and resources tailored to their unique challenges. This means investing in their ventures, providing mentorship, and amplifying their voices. Here’s how you can make a difference: • Invest: Allocate funds specifically for Black women-led startups and businesses. • Mentor: Offer your time and expertise to guide and support emerging Black women entrepreneurs. • Amplify: Use your platform to highlight their achievements and share their stories. If we truly want to drive innovation and economic growth, we must prioritize the empowerment of Black women entrepreneurs. What steps will you take today to support and uplift Black women in business? #Entrepreneurship #BlackWomenLead #SupportBlackBusiness #Leadership #blackwomanceo

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Black men, despite the challenges and restrictions historically placed upon us, it's vital to take the lead in shaping our futures and the futures of those around us. Leadership offers us the power to transcend the social construct limitations and redefine our narratives. By stepping into leadership roles, we not only challenge the stereotypes and misconceptions that have been imposed on us but also inspire others to envision and strive for a better future. Leading allows us to create spaces where we can thrive, advocate for our communities, and empower the next generation to break free from the systemic barriers that will only continue to prevent the valuable contribution possible for collective progress and growth. Besides, taking the lead means embracing our strengths, experiences, and unique perspectives, and using them to influence positive change. As Black men, we possess a wealth of knowledge and resilience gained from navigating these challenges, which can be leveraged to inspire others and drive meaningful progress. By the way, leadership isn't just about personal success; it's about lifting others as we climb, building a legacy of empowerment and resilience. By taking the lead, we model for younger generations the importance of self-belief, perseverance, and the courage to defy limitations. We show them that despite the obstacles we face, we have the agency and ability to make a profound impact in our communities and the world. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #motivation #inspiration #education #mentoring #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #PersonalDevelopment #Mindset #Psychology #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #Knowledge #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence #BestVersionOfYourself

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Save the date for a day of empowerment, connection and transformation!

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Black men, it’s imperative that we emerge as leaders who are committed to shifting the consciousness amongst ourselves. For too long, we've been conditioned by societal narratives that aim to limit our potential, control our progress, and define our worth. Leadership in this moment is about more than just personal success; it’s about collective upliftment and reprogramming the way we see ourselves and each other. To break generational cycles of disempowerment, we must first challenge the limiting beliefs that have been ingrained in us — beliefs that we are not worthy, that we are not capable, or that we are destined to remain in the shadows. Shifting our consciousness begins with acknowledging our inherent greatness and rejecting the forces that attempt to diminish it. Dismantling what holds the power to limit our advancement requires solidarity and intentional action. We must not only support each other but also hold each other accountable to higher standards of excellence and self-respect. Our influence and power grow exponentially when we move in unison, grounded in shared values and a vision for collective progress. This is about building a future where we no longer have to fight for scraps but thrive in spaces that reflect our full potential. Leadership in this context means taking responsibility for both our own growth and the empowerment of our brothers, ensuring that we all rise together, creating legacies of greatness that will uplift future generations. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #LifePurpose #mentoring #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #BlackMenCollaboration #BlackMen #Impact #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #HigherEducation #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence

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Black men, it’s imperative that we emerge as leaders who are committed to shifting the consciousness amongst ourselves. For too long, we've been conditioned by societal narratives that aim to limit our potential, control our progress, and define our worth. Leadership in this moment is about more than just personal success; it’s about collective upliftment and reprogramming the way we see ourselves and each other. To break generational cycles of disempowerment, we must first challenge the limiting beliefs that have been ingrained in us — beliefs that we are not worthy, that we are not capable, or that we are destined to remain in the shadows. Shifting our consciousness begins with acknowledging our inherent greatness and rejecting the forces that attempt to diminish it. Dismantling what holds the power to limit our advancement requires solidarity and intentional action. We must not only support each other but also hold each other accountable to higher standards of excellence and self-respect. Our influence and power grow exponentially when we move in unison, grounded in shared values and a vision for collective progress. This is about building a future where we no longer have to fight for scraps but thrive in spaces that reflect our full potential. Leadership in this context means taking responsibility for both our own growth and the empowerment of our brothers, ensuring that we all rise together, creating legacies of greatness that will uplift future generations. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #LifePurpose #mentoring #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #BlackMenCollaboration #BlackMen #Impact #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #HigherEducation #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence

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⚡️ Warning: Get ready for some high-voltage insights from one of higher ed's most dynamic changemakers. 🚀 Dr. Anthony Iacono, President of County College of Morris, is a force in educational innovation. Under his visionary leadership, CCM has been recognized as one of the nation's top 50 community colleges and a leader in workforce development. His bold approach to institutional transformation goes beyond surface-level changes – it's about reimagining the entire educational ecosystem. 💡 Here's the thing: When others drift into playing it safe, Dr. Iacono pushes boundaries. His track record of fostering innovation and building industry partnerships has set new benchmarks in higher education leadership. 🌟 This Thursday, witness a conversation that could reshape your perspective on institutional transformation. 📅 Join us: 🎙️ The Show - with Joe 📌 Thursday, 10:00 AM CST 🔗 higherperformancegroup.com 🎯 Don't settle for incremental change. Join us for a masterclass in educational transformation. #edleadership #edleader #highered #higheredleadership #teamdevelopment #cancelaverage #leadership #leadershipdevelopment

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Attention: (A FREE community for Federal Black Women Leaders to make 2025 Your Year!!)   Black Women, Weathering, and the Silent Storm: Why ‘Black Don’t Crack’ Isn’t the Whole Story!!!! Sis, we’ve all heard it: “Black don’t crack.” And yes, we hold onto that phrase like a badge of honor when someone mistakes us for being 10 years younger than we are. Yes, our melanin is magic & poppin! But we also deserve to thrive on the inside, not just survive on the outside. But let’s be real—just because we don’t look like we’re breaking doesn’t mean we’re not weathering. Lately, I’ve seen too many stories of women like us—Black women in our 40s and 50s—just dropping dead. Women who seemed healthy, vibrant, and full of life, gone in an instant. It’s heartbreaking. And it’s not random. This phenomenon is called weathering— It’s a term coined by Dr. Arline Geronimus to describe how the constant stress of racism, sexism, and being everything to everyone wears us down from the inside out.   Chronic stress weakens our immune systems, accelerates aging, and makes us vulnerable to diseases like heart attacks and strokes. The world praises us for being “strong,” but that strength often comes at a cost. And by the time we hit our 50s, we might look fabulous, but our bodies could be a decade older than others. Why the Second Half Is Your Time!! This is why I believe so strongly in doing it your way in the second half. Owning your own business, creating wealth for yourself, and designing a life that works for you—not for everyone else—isn’t just freeing; it’s necessary. When you own your business, you take back your time, your health, and your energy. You stop running yourself into the ground for someone else’s gain and get to decide how you work, who you work with, and how you live. Federal Black Women Leaders this is your time to launch your business and start building something that’s not only profitable but aligned with the life you want to create. Here’s What We Must Do:   Stop Thinking Strength Means Suffering: Rest is a necessity, not a luxury.   Prioritize Your Health: No more “I’ll get to it later.” Make yourself a priority. Build Communities That Support You: You need spaces where you can lean on others and be seen for who you are. Join the Movement to Launch and Build!!   The second half isn’t just about surviving storms. It’s about launching your business, creating wealth, and freeing yourself from the grind to thrive on your terms. That’s why I created a FREE Skool membership—a space for us to connect, share, and build the lives we deserve. This is where you’ll get the guidance, support, and community you need to launch and grow your business successfully. 👉 Click here to join the community for free: https://lnkd.in/gUqCCvXi Let’s reclaim our health, wealth, and freedom—together. #BlackWomenMatter #Weathering #BlackDontCrackButItWears #SecondHalfFreedom #LaunchYourBusiness #BuildYourWay

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Dr. Lilisa J Williams introduces "From Leader To Leadership," a transformative program designed for leaders facing challenges in team building, emotional intelligence, DEI, delegation, and trust for themselves and their teams. Registration information for this Free introductory workshop is on the flyer. #LeadershipDevelopment #TeamBuilding #EmotionalIntelligence #DEI #Trust #ProfessionalDevelopment

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This article from Black Enterprise Magazine came at the right time! As the former Executive Director and now CEO of End Rape On Campus (EROC), I've had the privilege of working with various leadership coaches. Today, my needs as a leader have evolved, and I'm at a critical juncture in my journey of rebuilding EROC and honoring its legacy. Before any executive leadership coaches reach out to me, please note: I’ll reach out as I do my preliminary research. I know what I want and need, and I’m intentional about finding the right fit. Here’s a snippet of what I’m looking for: - A Black Executive Leadership Coach: My career journey has been shaped by having had at least 12 white supervisors, 95% of whom were women-identified. Only one has consistently supported and mentored me, exemplifying true allyship. I seek a Black Executive Leadership Coach who understands the challenges I’ve faced and has successfully navigated similar experiences. Their insights on how they found their strength, will, and motivation will be invaluable as I chart my path forward. - Coaching Style: I need a coach with an authentic, supportive, and direct approach. Someone who isn’t afraid to ask tough questions, respectfully challenge me, and guide me towards an authentic and appropriate direction. - Current Goal: My vision is ambitious: to lead EROC through a $1 Million+ transformation. I need a coach who can help translate my ideas and drafts into a strategic and realistic pathway. I aim to ensure EROC’s sustainability and empower future staff to carry forward its mission with drive and motivation. - Investment: While I deeply desire to invest in myself or have my organization support me, it’s not feasible at this moment. However, this is a need I am committed to fulfilling. QUESTION: I'm curious to learn from YOU, reader, who have had/currently have an executive leadership coach, what you have found to be rewarding in your journey? Thank you for your attention to my post and support as I embark on this exciting chapter. Sheena Collier | Enna Jimenez | Sabrina Saunders Mosby | Sabrina Hersi Issa | Diane Randolph Jones, MS, MFA | Fakisha Fabre | Bentina Terry | Sharisse Kimbro | Tiffany Dufu | Lynn Perry Wooten | Kimberly Bryant

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My work serving on boards has provided me with invaluable professional and personal insights. This documentary highlights some of the challenges being faced by Black women seeking these same opportunities. "The journey of Black women striving for equal footing in corporate leadership, especially within corporate boardrooms, has been a saga of resilience amidst systemic hurdles. Championing fair policies, bolstering childcare support, and acknowledging the distinct challenges faced by Black working mothers are imperative steps toward cultivating an inclusivity. Only through multiple tactics can tomorrow's boardrooms truly reflect our society's diversity and multifaceted talent pool."

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I’m working on a proposal for SXSW Edu and brainstorming topics related to Black women educators and leaders. As I did this, something crossed my mind. Last time when we facilitated a session around Black women in Education there was one male in the room and about 2-3 non Black folks. It was a beautiful session and much needed but I want to highlight something that needs to be said: Black women can’t be the only ones who are invested in our growth, development and retention. We are constantly talking amongst one another about issues that are happening across the country, across various sectors, even in spaces where we invite ANYONE to be a part of the conversation but too often than not, there are very few non Black women present. We can’t be the only ones caring about these issues. Some of you have jobs where you serve as a leader or decision maker and I hope you ask yourself when is the last time you showed up for Black women? When is the last time you invested in them? When is the last time your advocated for Black women? When is the last time you sharpened your skills around supporting them? Hopefully if I have the honor of presenting at this conference we will see more people who are ready to carry some of this load on their backs vs expecting Black women to carry it all ourselves.

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Black men, we have too much power and potential not to be change agents, disruptors, and individuals who help to raise the consciousness of the collective. Once we become aware of our potential and power, we should use it for progress. Our power lies in our ability to influence and transform the spaces we inhabit. By recognizing and harnessing our innate strengths, we can challenge the status quo and bring about significant change. This means actively seeking opportunities to lead, innovate, and uplift our communities. Whether it's through mentorship, community involvement, or professional excellence, our actions can inspire and motivate others to strive for better. Our potential is not just for personal success but for collective advancement, creating a ripple effect that touches countless lives. Moreover, raising the consciousness of the collective requires us to be intentional about our impact. It means being vocal about injustices, advocating for equality, and setting examples of integrity and resilience. As we become more aware of our own power, we must also strive to awaken that awareness in others. By sharing our stories, experiences, and insights, we can empower those around us to realize their own potential. This collective awakening can lead to a more united and forward-thinking community capable of overcoming challenges and achieving greatness together. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #motivation #inspiration #education #mentoring #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #PersonalDevelopment #Mindset #Psychology #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #Knowledge #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence #BestVersionOfYourself

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The 2024 federal budget brings great news for tech education! Black Boys Code has reached an impressive 5,564 Black youth through CanCode 3, bridging digital divides and creating opportunities. We hope to continue our work in empowering youth with digital skills and are eager to receive funding through CanCode 4. The budget also includes $50 million over five years to establish an AI Safety Institute of Canada, ensuring responsible AI development and deployment. Black Boys Code, has been running AI and machine learning programs for over three years (even before ChatGPT became popular) We hope to expand our work in this area as possible funding recipients through CanCode 4. Discover below an infographic showcasing Black Boys Code's impact. This visual representation underscores how the federal budget's support directly translates into transformative tech education for our youth. #Budget2024 #CanCode #AISafety #TechEducation #Innovation #BlackExcellence

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[7] reasons why Black men should be a part of a mastermind group A mastermind group harnesses the collective power of its members, offering a dynamic platform for collaboration, idea exchange, and mutual support. 1. Diverse Perspectives: 🌍 Being part of a mastermind exposes you to a variety of viewpoints and experiences within the Black community, offering valuable insights and alternative approaches to challenges. 2. Community Support: 🤝🏾 Joining a mastermind provides a supportive network of fellow Black men who understand your journey and can offer encouragement, guidance, and accountability along the way. 3. Collective Wisdom: 🧠 In a mastermind, you have access to a collective pool of knowledge, skills, and resources that can help you navigate obstacles, seize opportunities, and achieve your goals more effectively. 4. Mutual Growth: 🌱 Interacting with other ambitious Black men in a mastermind setting fosters an environment of mutual growth, where members inspire, challenge, and motivate each other to reach new heights of success. 5. Empowerment: 💪🏾 Being part of a mastermind empowers you to take ownership of your personal and professional development, leveraging the support and expertise of the group to overcome barriers and realize your potential. 6. Networking Opportunities: 🤜🏿🤛🏿 Mastermind groups often facilitate networking opportunities, allowing you to connect with like-minded individuals, potential collaborators, mentors, and advocates who can further support your journey. 7. Accountability: ⏰ A mastermind provides built-in accountability mechanisms, encouraging you to set goals, track progress, and stay committed to your aspirations amidst life's challenges and distractions. By bringing together individuals with diverse skills, experiences, and perspectives, a mastermind creates a synergistic environment where members can leverage each other's strengths, overcome challenges, and achieve greater success than they could on their own. Through shared knowledge, accountability, and encouragement, a mastermind group empowers its members to reach new levels of personal and professional growth, making it a potent catalyst for individual and collective advancement. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #motivation #inspiration #education #mentoring #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #PersonalDevelopment #Perspective #Psychology #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #Knowledge #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence #BestVersionOfYourself

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By Dr. Bryan K. Hickman, 2024 As we prepare to step into 2025, the concept of Black excellence serves as a beacon of hope, ingenuity, and progress. Across fields like education, medicine, engineering, mathematics, law, social sciences, and beyond, Black professionals are reshaping their industries. These pioneers are not only influencing their respective fields but also building frameworks for equity and inspiration for future generations. In education, figures like Dr. Bryan K. Hickman illustrate the profound impact of scholarly dedication. As a professional educator, his work integrates academic rigor with cultural insight, fostering an environment where Black and Brown students feel seen and supported. Educators like him are ensuring that classrooms are inclusive, transformative spaces that empower all learners to thrive. Medicine showcases excellence through groundbreaking achievements and commitment to addressing systemic disparities. Black doctors, nurses, and researchers are driving forward conversations on equity in healthcare, ensuring that Black and Brown communities receive the care and respect they deserve. In engineering and mathematics, the creativity and brilliance of Black minds continue to break barriers, solving problems with precision and ingenuity. These fields are enriched by professionals who design solutions that not only advance technology but also improve societal well-being. Law and social sciences are also arenas of impactful change. Black lawyers, judges, and sociologists advocate tirelessly for justice and equity. Their voices challenge oppressive systems, championing reforms that benefit everyone. As a collective, these pioneers rise above mediocrity in an era flooded with content. The true leaders stand out—not because they are Black or Brown, but because their work embodies purpose, innovation, and authenticity. They avoid the repetitive “trash” that saturates so much of today’s media. Instead, they create valuable, forward-thinking contributions that inform, inspire, and uplift their communities. The future belongs to those who unite platforms, amplify meaningful dialogue, and embrace collaboration over competition. This vision of shared prosperity, driven by Black and Brown excellence, lights the way to a more equitable and innovative 2025. #BlackExcellence #CommunityLeadership #DrBryanHickman2024

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Black men, it’s essential that we aim higher than merely securing a single seat at the table. Representation is crucial, but true progress means seeing multiple voices of our community in these spaces, sharing diverse perspectives, and collectively impacting decisions. When only one of us is present, the full spectrum of our stories, talents, and insights is often lost. That’s why we can’t let “just one” be enough. Our goal should be creating environments where the presence of Black men is natural, frequent, and valued for the richness it brings. This requires us to see beyond individual success and to set a standard that invites others into spaces where historically we have been underrepresented. Besides, achieving this means we must be ready to challenge the status quo in meaningful ways. It means standing firm on values like integrity, respect, and unity, even when it feels uncomfortable or when it could risk our own position. We lead by example not only by excelling but by making it easier for others to enter these spaces, too. By fostering collaboration over competition, showing courage over conformity, we signal to the next generation that they, too, belong in the room—not as a token, but as changemakers. The more we uphold these values and bring others along, the closer we get to breaking down barriers and transforming spaces into true reflections of the communities they serve. Let us aim to inspire others by our actions, creating a legacy of inclusivity, strength, and true representation. ______________ Visit my website: https://richardacross.com Check out my books and journals + more! ______________ POSITIVELY SHAPING THE FUTURE™ #1millionblackmalestudents #LifePurpose #mentoring #HBCUsMatter #LeadingWithIntegrity #TheBlackMaleImpact #Blackexcellence #ChallengeCharacterAssasination #BlackMenCollaboration #BlackMen #Impact #leadingchange #CulturalTransformation #HigherEducation #MillionaireMindset #BlackBoys #changethenarrative #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveImpact #Book2024 #DrRichardACross #PositiveInfluence #OwnYourGreatness #InnerStrength #TrustBuilding #ChallengeTheNarrative #UniteForChange #dismantlingstereotypes

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