Athena Pro’s Post

Black women in America have faced numerous challenges throughout history and still continue to face direct and constant opposition. Despite this, they remain resilient and strong. As Malcolm X declared in 1964, "The most disrespected person in America is the black woman. The most unprotected person in America is the black woman. The most neglected person in America is the black woman." Sadly, these words still hold true today. As educators, it is important that we acknowledge these issues, not only to support the women currently facing them but also to prepare young ladies for the challenges they may encounter on their journey to self-excellence. We must operate from a place that empowers young women to not be defined or confined by these truths but to use them to chart their individual paths to success. Let us continue to support and uplift black women, recognizing their strength and resilience in the face of adversity. #leadership #salutethedoers #blackgirlmagic #themostauthentic #marketing #branding #battleinthebluffs #careerconnect #ny #ma #ct #fl

“To be a Black woman in leadership is to be undermined and underfunded, while people continually question the excellence that put you in the rooms where your voice is never quite good enough to convey the final word. Senior, Director, Head of, the title doesn't matter. Heads swivel towards us to explain racism and sexism, but our voices are less valued later.” A study published in the Education Review observed the “vacuum of understanding” faced by Black women in the workplace. Let’s try to UNDERSTAND the experiences of many Black women leaders as a first step in supporting them.

**For Immediate Release**  🌟 This is my resignation—a monumental career move! 🌟  After years of relentless advocacy and strategic leadership, I am choosing to center myself and amplify the voices of Black women on this journey. It’s time to take off the cape and celebrate our brilliance unapologetically! Despite holding only 1.6% of executive roles in corporate America, Black women control over $1 trillion in spending power and are the heartbeat of grassroots movements, shaping culture, politics, and social innovation.  With nearly two decades of experience across industries—from tech to non-profits—and academic research in Women’s Gender and Sexuality Studies and Africana Women’s Studies, I’m stepping fully into my truth as both an artist and a healer. I’ve advised leaders on building inclusive cultures, developed equity-driven initiatives, and facilitated transformative dialogues. Now, I’m ready to repurpose my multi-hyphenate intelligence and ambition to carve bold new pathways in program design and thought leadership.  As Audre Lorde powerfully said, “I am deliberate and afraid of nothing.” Let’s collaborate and rewrite the narrative together! When Black women rise, we all rise. Join me in partnership as we forge a new path where we’re fully seen, heard, and thriving. 🌈  For a deeper dive into my journey and vision, please see the full memo attached. As Beyoncé says, “It’s time to sing a new song!” 🎶  #BlackWomenRise #SoulfulLeadership #Empowerment #NewHorizons #AuthenticLeadership #Equity #DEI

Imposter syndrome is experienced by many Black Women in leadership positions, who often find themselves battling stereotypes and biases. At Black Woman Leading, we encourage each other to recognize our worth, challenge self-doubt, and assert our rightful place in the workplace. We belong here, and it's time to let our accomplishments speak volumes. Have you ever experienced imposter syndrome in your career journey? We'd love to hear about a time when you overcame self-doubt and stepped into your power! Let us know in the comments below. #leadershipdevelopment #blackwomenatwork#womenempowerment

After leading our "Physical and Mental Health in the Workplace" roundtable at this year’s Voices in The Shadow, we sat down with the incredible Dr. Vanessa Awong Eya'a 🩺, NHS Doctor, Co-founder & CEO of EVE. She spoke passionately about how powerful it was to be in a room full of peers and the transformative energy that comes from sharing space with other Black women. While she’s accustomed to being “the only one” in many spaces, Dr. Vanessa is clear that we need more of these spaces—where we can gather, uplift, and celebrate each other. Grateful for her insights, leadership, and commitment to change. Let's keep building the environments where all Black women feel seen, valued, and empowered. #TheVoicesInTheShadow4 #BlackWomenInTech #MentalHealthInTech

Delve into the crucial insights from this thought-provoking article by Dr. Shauna D. A. Knox, "The Impossible Dilemma of Black Female Leadership: The Tragedy of Nobody Seeing Us Even When Everybody's Watching." This powerful piece sheds light on the challenges faced by Black women leaders in the workforce, navigating a landscape historically designed to suppress their voices and contributions. From chronic underemployment to enduring exclusion from essential benefits, the hurdles are immense. 👉 The Dilemma: Black women leaders often find themselves in an impossible situation—forced to either conform to harmful stereotypes or risk being cast aside and marginalized. 👉 The Struggle: In predominantly White spaces, Black women are expected to code-switch and deny their true selves to gain acceptance and access to opportunities. Yet, even when they comply, they may still face discrimination and bias. 👉 The Consequences: Those who refuse to conform risk being labeled as the "Angry Black Woman" and face isolation and mistreatment. Even within organizations led by Black women, these challenges persist, perpetuating a cycle of suppression. 👉 The Solution: It's time to stop drowning Black women leaders and to stop making them disappear. Recognizing and dismantling harmful stereotypes and biases is crucial for creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace for all. Let's amplify these voices, challenge the status quo, and work towards a future where Black women leaders are truly seen, heard, and valued. #DiversityandInclusion #BlackWomenLeadership #Empowerment #HealthEquity https://lnkd.in/gXYhcZyv

This headline is anti-Blackness in full effect. A daily reality for Black women leaders. They go low, and we are expected to go high. Yup, that’s a nod to our forever First Lady Michelle Obama 👑 Yet, here’s the thing - going high is also steeped in the unrealistic expectations of Black excellence. You know, working twice as hard and exceeding in spite of the goal post constantly moving. DEI is not the enemy. I mean, let’s break down the acronym - Diversity. Equity. Inclusion. In the land of the free and the home of the brave, these are 3 nouns that act as values and guiding principles that are not explicit in our founding declaration. DEI needed to be spelled out for a reason. Yup, read that sentence line again. In fact, this 248 year experiment with American democracy was founded when my ancestors were living radically different lives. My yt DAR (daughters of the American Revolution) side of my family tree, and the Black and likely Indigenous side. Here’s the thing - America isn’t being forced to do anything. We each have a choice. I truly believe. Even as a Black woman living the gender and racial wealth gap. It’s up to each of us to have the awareness to step out of the delusion of our comfort. And yes, I’m looking at the leaders at SHRM and CFRE International 👀 You cannot lead with inclusion without first addressing the inequity. Are you a DEI professional in title or the core work you hold in your role/work? Are you looking for a community that decenters ytness and the shenanigans that comes with it? Are you needing a listening partner to navigate these socio-politically charged times? Then let’s chat 💬 As DEI continues to be under attack, let’s be mindful of the bullying taking place and the illusions being sold as fact. What gives me hope is Black women leaders will continue to defy expectations amidst our ongoing exhaustion and the conditioning - like this headline - that tells us otherwise. How are you finding hope today? In Lovelution… p.s. If you believe change is possible, then you are a changemaker. Change begins with you!

Can You Hear Me Now is more than just a memoir—it’s a manifesto for change. The story of Black women in politics is one of extraordinary resilience, determination, and the relentless pursuit of justice in spaces where our voices have often been silenced or overlooked. Throughout history, Black women have fought against systemic barriers, not just to be included but to reshape the very fabric of political discourse. Our experiences, our stories, our voices have been catalysts for transformation, even when the odds were stacked against us. That is what makes this moment in history so important!! In Can You Hear Me Now, I dive deep into my journey—from my childhood in Grenada to my time in Canadian politics. I share the lessons learned, the challenges faced, and the victories won. But more importantly, I explore what it means to be a Black woman in positions of power and influence, and the responsibility that comes with it. This book is not just about my story—it’s about the collective experience of Black women who have been on the frontlines, advocating for change, breaking down barriers, and paving the way for future generations. It’s a call to action for all of us to listen more deeply, to amplify marginalized voices, and to continue the fight for equity and justice in every sphere. As I reflect on my own journey, I hope to inspire others to find their voice, stand firm in their convictions, and never back down in the face of adversity. Because when we speak up, when we share our truths, we don’t just change our own lives—we change the world. If you’re ready to be inspired, challenged, and motivated to take action, I invite you to read Can You Hear Me Now. Let’s continue this important conversation. Together, we can create the change we wish to see. 🌍📚 Purchase here: www.celinacc.ca/book #Leadership #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #BlackWomenInPolitics #Resilience #CanYouHearMeNow #CelinaCaesarChavannes #Empowerment #SocialJustice #AmplifyVoices #addwomenchangepolitics #addwomenchangeeverything

📣 I'm still looking for white women leaders who want to learn how to champion Black women and people of color! The Accomplices in Action series is for you, and we have a session TOMORROW at 9:00 am CDT If you haven’t, register now. https://lnkd.in/eXjrwyfS These conversations are filled with candor and vulnerability. You will transform, grow, and build your self-awareness so you can navigate this world unapologetically risking your power and privilege for the benefit of others. Accomplices in Action helps you deepen your analysis and identify paths to action. This series will help you become a better citizen, friend, neighbor, parent, and leader as we enter into a new era of inclusion. Come to discover your power and learn how to use it! The skills and knowledge you gain from this series will empower you to make a real difference in your workplace, your community and beyond.