How Intergenerational Allyship Can Boost Black Women's Leadership

Empowering Black Women's Leadership 🌍✨ In our August masterclass "Claiming Power: Global Strategies Fueling Black Women’s Leadership", Latanya Mapp reminded us of the power in building something new that better represents Black leadership rooted in community, collaboration and inclusion. She spoke to the importance of supporting one another and the potential for cross-regional partnerships to strengthen global movements. At B-WEL, we believe every connection, conversation, and collaboration deepens our collective impact. We're shifting the narrative by ensuring Black women leaders have the support to thrive, transform systems, and uplift their communities, despite systemic barriers. 📽️ Watch the full masterclass now on YouTube https://lnkd.in/d-DG9YdY #WeAreBWEL #Blackwomeninleadership

Together in Equity: Specialist Training and Consultancy (TIE), trainers and consultants bring a powerful blend of professional expertise and lived experience, offering insights that resonate across sectors and drive meaningful change. This week, we’re thrilled to spotlight one of our inspiring collaborators: Ellisha Soanes (She/Her) is the Founder & Lead Consultant of SHINE by ES Consulting and a renowned Author, Inclusive Leadership Specialist, EDI Strategist, and Public Speaker. As a Chartered Inclusion & Diversity Consultant and keynote speaker, she has shared insights at the Houses of Parliament and across the UK, helping leaders and organisations embed equity, diversity, and inclusion through strategic reflection, inclusive policy, and culturally responsive curriculum design. Among her many achievements, Ellisha was the first UK FE lecturer to teach Black History year-round, earning the AoC President’s Award, and was named one of Glamour’s Top 15 Most Influential Black Women in the UK. She is also the author of “Elimu”, used in schools nationwide, co-founder of Aspire Black Suffolk, a UN Women Delegate, and curator of the Power of Stories / Black Panther exhibition. Beyond the UK, Ellisha leads international leadership programs and cultural events, amplifying underrepresented voices in arts, heritage, and enterprise. Through SHINE by ES, Ellisha supports organisations with inclusive leadership development, EDI strategy, anti-racism frameworks, neurodiversity initiatives, wellbeing programs, and culture change facilitation, building communities that don’t just include they truly belong. To find out more about Together in Equity (TIE) and how Ellisha Soanes can support your organisation, please contact Rachel Heathcock at rachel.heathcock@localgoveasteng.gov.uk #TogetherInEquity #TrainingYouCanTrust

Black executives hold just 1.2% of FTSE 100 positions. When you consider that Black people make up 3.9% of the general UK population, you can see a clear gap. This tells us something important about the path to leadership:the journey to the top isn't as open or straightforward for everyone. This isn't about blaming anyone; it's about seeing a system in action. Many companies are doing good work on diversity, but these numbers show that we still have more to do, particularly when it comes to getting black professionals into the most senior roles. The focus can't just be on bringing people in at the beginning of their careers. It has toalso be on making sure the way is clear for them to move up. For companies to truly achieve equity, we need to look closely at our talent pipelines. We have to ask ourselves: are there hidden barriers that might be holding people back? Are our promotion and development processes truly fair? How do you think we can make it easier for black professionals to ascend through leadership? Find out more here: https://zurl.co/lYJzg #WorkplaceChange #BlackLeaders #BlackProffesionals

We're thrilled to announce that Gaingels has joined the Change the Board Game Coalition, an initiative spearheaded by E.L.F. BEAUTY to champion inclusive governance. As our Director of Corporate Board Diversity, Brandon Parkes, often highlights, diverse leadership drives stronger business outcomes. Research from N.C. A&T Division of Research confirms this, showing that U.S. companies with above-average gender diversity on their boards outperformed peers in Return on Equity by an average of 256%. We believe that boardrooms should reflect the communities they serve. This is an exciting step forward in creating valuable opportunities and amplifying our impact across our 2,500+ portfolio companies. Thank you, E.L.F. BEAUTY, for your leadership! Learn more in the press release here: http://bit.ly/4nIYukk

LEADERSHIP 112 YOU CAN DELIVER GREAT LEADERSHIP!! "Great leadership is possible and available even in black communities." #DrLennieEsomitoje Previous and Existing Great Leadership in Black Communities is a Testament to Resilience and Potential. The assertion that great leadership is possible and available even in Black communities is not only a statement of fact but a testament to the resilience, ingenuity, and potential inherent in these communities. Throughout history, Black communities have faced systemic barriers that have often limited access to opportunities and resources. Despite these challenges, countless individuals have emerged as powerful leaders, inspiring and guiding their communities toward progress and equality. Here are a few reasons why great leadership is possible and available in Black communities: Rich History of Leadership: Black communities have a long and illustrious history of leadership, from the Underground Railroad conductors to the civil rights activists of the 20th century. These individuals demonstrated exceptional courage, determination, and strategic thinking in the face of adversity. Resilience and Adaptability: Black communities have often been forced to adapt to changing circumstances and overcome significant obstacles. This resilience has fostered a culture of innovation and problem-solving, which are essential qualities for effective leadership. Community-Centered Values: Many Black communities are deeply rooted in values of collective well-being, mutual support, and social justice. These values provide a strong foundation for leaders who are committed to serving the needs of their communities. Diverse Skillsets and Experiences: Black communities are home to individuals with a wide range of skills, experiences, and perspectives. This diversity can lead to innovative solutions and effective leadership. Rising Generation of Leaders: A new generation of Black leaders is emerging, many of whom are highly educated, skilled, and passionate about making a positive impact on their communities. These individuals are poised to continue the legacy of great leadership in Black communities. In conclusion, while systemic challenges and historical injustices have undoubtedly impacted Black communities, these communities have also produced an abundance of exceptional leaders. By recognizing and supporting the leadership potential within Black communities, we can help to create a more equitable and just society for all.

“If you are the only one in the room, you are meant to be here.” Flavilla Fongang This quote struck a chord as I reflected on today's panel celebrating Black History Month, where community, connection and collective success were front and centre. I’m increasingly convinced that sustainable innovation and business growth are inseparable from inclusive leadership, psychological safety and purpose-driven community building. Flavilla reminded us that stepping into spaces where we may be the only one isn’t a token moment it’s a legitimate contribution. Meanwhile, Raphael Sofoluke has built platforms like the UK Black Business Show to amplify Black business leadership and create ecosystems of opportunity. Key take-aways for leaders and organisations: Prioritise diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) as strategic levers for innovation, not just as check-boxes. Cultivate community and networks as vital components of wellbeing and resilience for leaders. Recognise that enabling others to rise supports your own leadership journey when people thrive, organisations thrive. If you’re navigating leadership transitions, scaling your team, or seeking to build more inclusive culture, these themes matter deeply. I’d welcome your thoughts: what practical steps have you taken to ensure that “the only one in the room” becomes “one of many voices at the table”? #BlackHistoryMonth #LinkedInNewsUK

“If you are the only one in the room, you are meant to be here.” Flavilla Fongang This quote struck a chord as I reflected on today's panel celebrating Black History Month, where community, connection and collective success were front and centre. I’m increasingly convinced that sustainable innovation and business growth are inseparable from inclusive leadership, psychological safety and purpose-driven community building. Flavilla reminded us that stepping into spaces where we may be the only one isn’t a token moment it’s a legitimate contribution. Meanwhile, Raphael Sofoluke has built platforms like the UK Black Business Show to amplify Black business leadership and create ecosystems of opportunity. Key take-aways for leaders and organisations: Prioritise diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) as strategic levers for innovation, not just as check-boxes. Cultivate community and networks as vital components of wellbeing and resilience for leaders. Recognise that enabling others to rise supports your own leadership journey when people thrive, organisations thrive. If you’re navigating leadership transitions, scaling your team, or seeking to build more inclusive culture, these themes matter deeply. I’d welcome your thoughts: what practical steps have you taken to ensure that “the only one in the room” becomes “one of many voices at the table”? #BlackHistoryMonth #LinkedInNewsUK

Empowering women to lead transforms communities. CASA (Cornerstone for Women Leaders), and Hagerstown Community College are partnering to provide women survivors of domestic violence with access to career-building education through the Women at the Forefront program, supported by d’Vinci Interactive’s Women’s Leadership Scholarship. Read more. http://bit.ly/3VCE00x

“Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” At just 21, Aaliyah Likuluta is already shaping conversations around youth leadership, equity, and community ownership. We met her at the last Co-op Congress in Birmingham, where she shared her perspective on raising awareness of co-operative models among young people - and why education and initiative are key to lasting change. Aaliyah reminds us that we don’t need permission to start. We need persistence, connection, and the belief that small steps matter. From attending conferences to leading conversations, every action helps build a stronger, more inclusive co-operative movement. 🌱 Watch the full video on our YouTube channel to hear more from other changemakers reimagining community ownership - https://lnkd.in/eXCBiV_V

Last year we also facilitated a workshop for an initiative of Rosa Rebellion called THE /whiteboard: “a curated space for collective co-agitation” that “equips white women in positions of visibility to build a more equitable future and actively cede power and privilege to sustain racial justice.” Our session titled "Constructing Positive White Leadership" explored the Helms' Model of White Identity Development alongside leadership archetypes as frameworks for self-reflection and dialogue. Dr. Janet E Helms, an American Research Psychologist, developed this model in the 1990s as a framework to support white people to understand their accountability in maintaining racism as well as their role in dismantling it. Across professional sectors creating spaces for white-identifying leaders to examine identity and leadership through an equity lens can be deeply educational and supportive, and transform awareness into accountable action. Photo of Dr. Janet E. Helms from bc.edu