When I look back at this past year, I’m in awe of how a simple idea turned into a growing movement. Sisterhood in Success was born out of my personal experiences navigating the workplace as a Black woman. I knew there was a critical need for safe spaces where Black women could connect, share, and grow—both personally and professionally.

In 2014, I found myself running along Kelly Drive, determined to push my body beyond its limits after the birth of my son. I had been training for months for a 5K race, with late-night runs and relentless preparation. The day of the race finally arrived, and my entire family, even my brother who had flown in just to support me, was there to cheer me on. I was ready—this was my moment.

As Black women in leadership, we often hear the saying, “It takes a village.” But have you ever paused to ask yourself if your village has the emotional, mental, and spiritual capacity to truly guide you? The truth is, our village—our family, friends, and immediate community—often means well. They love us, want the best for us, and try to offer advice that they believe will help us navigate the complexities of life and leadership.

In a world that often underestimates and undervalues Black women, it's more important than ever for us to bet on ourselves. "They not like us" isn't just a statement—it's a call to action. It's a reminder that we are unique, resilient, and capable of achieving extraordinary things despite the odds. Betting on ourselves means recognizing our worth, harnessing our power, and being the change we want to see in our communities and beyond.

In today's professional landscape, discussions around workplace toxicity and its detrimental effects are becoming increasingly prevalent. However, for many women of color, broaching this topic can be fraught with fear, hesitation, and uncertainty. Despite facing unique challenges and adversities, they often find themselves silenced by the complexities of navigating workplace dynamics as minorities.

Is it becoming common practice to include credit reports as part of the employment screening process? If so, yet another barrier for minority applicants.