Dr. Joy Buolamwini

Embracing Ubuntu on Juneteenth 🌟 Today, as we celebrate Juneteenth, we honor the spirit of freedom, resilience, and unity. This day commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in 1865, marking a significant milestone in our ongoing journey towards equality and justice for all Americans. To reflect on this national holiday, I wanted to share some thoughts on the African spirit of Ubuntu, that I learned about while in grad school for global leadership. Ubuntu—"I am because we are"— recognizes that our individual well-being is deeply connected to the well-being of our community. Ubuntu teaches us the importance of empathy, compassion, and mutual respect. It also reminds us that we rise together to overcome struggles, and that our collective strength is built on the foundation of our shared respect, empathy, and connectedness to humanity. On this Juneteenth, let us reflect on the lessons of Ubuntu: 1) Embrace empathy: by trying to understand the struggles and triumphs of others as our own. 2) Foster unity: by celebrating our diversity and work together to build a more inclusive society. 3) Cultivate resilience: by drawing strength from our shared history to overcome challenges and create a better future. As we commemorate this day, let's commit to individual actions that embody these principles and continue to educate, advocate, and support one another in the pursuit of true equality and justice for all. If we do so, we can indeed create a world where everyone's freedom and dignity are upheld. Let's live the spirit of Ubuntu every day. #Juneteenth #Ubuntu #Leadership #Community #Diversity #Inclusion #Equality #Justice

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Set your clocks for 10 am EST tomorrow, November 13th to tune in to the lastest episode of Black Innovation Alliance podcast, From Chains to Links. Alisha L. Gordon, LaKisha Greenwade and I join Ifeoma Ike, Esq. and the #BIASquad to talk all things Black Innovation! Check out the trailer here: https://lnkd.in/e4nheuF3 If any of these topics resonate with you: -Being Resilient as an Entrepreneur is Exhausting - Innovation as a Right Not a Privilege -Lack of Cultural Competency in Entrepreneurship Education - Poverty, Fear of Failure, and Early Signs of Entrepreneurship - Redefining Support For One Another (what DeShuna Spencer, Nikki Porcher and I spoke about last night) ....make sure to have your notetakers ready! After you take a listen on any of your favorite podcast platforms, come back to this post and share in the comments what stood out to you. What do you want to unpack more? #FromChainstoLinks #BlackInnovationAlliance #DynasticWealth

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Hello LinkedIn fam! In an effort to be more active in this space by sharing professional joys, I have to take a moment to share the research of the Mitsui Collective. In the first year of my job at the Jews of Color Initiative, I was deeply moved by the idea that Mitsui brought forward to talk about the embodied impacts of racism and antisemitism for Jews of Color. I'm so grateful we had the opportunity to support this research, which has now officially been published for the community. This is a type of research that has not been done before that traces these unique intersectional experiences. If you're interested in learning about how racism and antisemitism impact JoCs, check out their research here: https://lnkd.in/gKbuf9FC

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Let's talk about gender & the academy. Last summer, when Nemat (Minouche) Shafik took over the presidency at Columbia University, 6 of the 8 Ivy League institutions were led by women. Since then, 4 of the 6 women have resigned. At least 3 of them were forced. Claudine Gay. Liz Magill. Nemat Shafik. The #HigherEducation presidency is up for grabs. The headlines are heartbreaking. The uproar distracting to an industry already in major tumult as it navigates a new era in which students are fewer & more discriminating -- where small schools are closing by the dozens & innovative ones are reinventing the university in a way that deserves attention. I know many college presidents personally. I don't know Gay, Magill, or Shafik, so I have no perspectives informed by observations of their character or personality. But I do know this much ... Nobody is scrutinizing the decades-old dissertations of white MALE academic presidents, calling the use of common industry jargon "plagiarism." No one is turning the very unfortunate and cringe-worthy commentary -- while being talked into a corner by a Congressional hearing (which was admittedly, at the very least, evidence that the presidents had been over coached by legal teams &/or had some concerning lack of moral clarity on the issues) -- into a reason to oust accomplished, dynamic, successful leaders ... if they aren't women & minorities. But interestingly, all 4 who testified were WOMEN. If that panel of leaders had been 4 MEN, they would have been easily forgiven for saying what legal counsel told them to say. We would have shrugged our shoulders in disgust & gone on with our lives. Those presidents would have been called "a little rough around the edges" & "unapologetic in protecting free speech." Had that panel been male presidents, 75% of them wouldn't currently be out of a job. But the panel was all women & now it's not just a panel, it's a target. Meanwhile, the average American has no opinion whatsoever about all the male HIE presidents who are presiding over $60 million budget shortfalls & decimating the endowments & putting all their cronies on the board, without putting the needs of learners first. Nobody is holding to account all the male leaders whose colleges are failing. Culturally, we're always waiting for women leaders to fail. And when they don't, we push them over the edge & say it was their own fault. It's a complicated issue, the resignations of Gay, Magill, & Shafit. I'll be the first to admit there are nuances I haven't considered & that, at the very best, I'm an industry insider who (despite her passionate perspectives) doesn't know the whole story. None of us does. But protecting a campus when protesters "occupy" a building, the sidewalks, or an entire lawn is a matter of safety. Letting police arrest lawbreakers is the right thing to do. LEADING, as these presidents have done, is only scandalous because strong women turn heads. Strong women make the academy uncomfortable.

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In today’s Sunday Times: “Most accounts of the lessons to be drawn from the Black Consciousness era rightly focus on the twin imperative to engage in individual quests to decolonize the mind and collective projects aimed at creating a strong counter-hegemonic group consciousness. One of the underexplored aspects of Black Consciousness philosophy is the imperative to forge what Martin Luther King Jnr, in a different context, called “beloved communities”. This Biko Month we would do well to also focus on Black Consciousness clarion call to forge beloved communities. This imperative is pressing. Our communities are broken. There is nothing communal and edifying about some of our communities…Without viable and convivial communities, the nation cannot be born. Put differently, talks about “National Dialogues” are doomed to just be talks unless there are concerted efforts to rebuilding communities. The National Question will not be resolved without first resolving the community question.” Biko Lives.

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Beyond Charity: Catholic Social Teaching as a Framework for Sustainable Change For years, charity has been the primary approach to addressing poverty, but Catholic Social Teaching (CST) guides us toward something more powerful—empowerment. Inspired by Pope Paul VI’s call for the poor to become “artisans of their own destiny,” CST offers a framework that serves immediate needs and builds pathways for sustainable change. In Ukraine, where war has devastated healthcare, education, and social services, the need for this transformative approach couldn’t be more urgent. According to the National Bank of Ukraine, unemployment hovers around 15.3%, though many say it’s higher. In the face of these challenges, charity alone cannot provide the necessary resilience. What’s needed is an approach that goes beyond aid—one that fosters long-term impact, empowers communities, and creates jobs. This is where social enterprises rooted in CST principles come into play. Through the Platform for Social Change, we see the real potential of faith-based social enterprises to rebuild Ukraine. Over the past two years, Platform has supported over 100+ social enterprises led by young people and religious communities. These enterprises don’t just provide services; they create jobs, support families, and circulate profits into community programs. By blending business and mission, they offer an economic model that sustains itself, aligned with Gospel values and social innovation. A standout example is a community-led initiative where young social entrepreneurs provide health education and affordable products, teaching neighbors about sanitation and health while generating income for their families. This model tackles local needs and reinvests profits into community projects, creating a self-sustaining impact cycle—“See, Judge, Act.” By continuously evaluating needs, we ensure that these enterprises adapt and evolve. Catholic Social Teaching isn’t just a set of ideals—it’s a practical guide to action, especially in regions where traditional charity struggles to keep up. Faith-based social enterprises transform CST from theory into concrete solutions, giving hope and dignity back to communities. Let’s collaborate to grow this impact, creating more opportunities to build resilient communities. If your organization is interested in partnering with us to bring about sustainable social change in Ukraine, let's connect. #SocialEntrepreneurship #CatholicSocialTeaching #UkraineRebuilds #FaithInAction #SustainableChange

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Our Two New Books: Number 2 of 2 https://lnkd.in/en-73CPU

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For the past few years, I’ve been building something deeply meaningful to me—a community exclusively for Black creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals who lead with purpose, action, and vision. A safe space where our ambitions can breathe freely, where we are no longer bound by the need for validation from those who have historically held the power. I’ve always believed that building our own networks is not only essential but transformative. We need to create the opportunities, collaborations, and partnerships we’ve long waited for others to provide, and in doing so, we establish our own tables, grow our own capital, and forge our own paths. Recent weeks have reminded us, yet again, that no matter our contributions or achievements, society still has a long way to go in appreciating the value of Black people, our ability to lead, and particularly the strength and vision of Black women. Time and time again, Black women have shown up, leading movements, advancing culture, and redefining industries, yet the recognition and respect we deserve continue to lag. But here’s the truth: we have everything we need within our own community. By pooling our resources and connections, we can create a powerful, self-sustaining network. That’s what M.A.D.E. Community is all about—a collective force where we uplift, invest in, and champion each other. And in 2025, we’re coming back stronger than ever with a full slate of programs and events. Our goal? To build a thriving network and database for those ready to take action and make a difference. If you’re ready to invest in yourself and your community, I invite you to check out M.A.D.E. Community and join us. Together, we’ll build what we’ve always deserved. https://lnkd.in/eFHMaktv

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The Importance of African American Representation in Tech 👨🏾‍💻 Technology is the foundation of our modern world, driving innovation, progress, and solutions to complex challenges. Yet, the tech industry continues to face a representation gap when it comes to African American professionals. Representation matters—not just for diversity but for inclusion, equity, and innovation. Studies show that diverse teams perform better, generate more creative ideas, and build solutions that cater to a broader audience. African American representation in tech ensures that the voices, experiences, and perspectives of our community are embedded in the technologies shaping the future. For young Black professionals and students, seeing leaders and innovators who look like them is inspiring. It signals that there is room for them to grow, thrive, and lead in this transformative field. As we advocate for equity, let’s continue to break barriers, uplift one another, and pave the way for the next generation of Black tech leaders. Representation is not just a goal; it’s a necessity. Let’s celebrate our achievements and keep pushing forward. The future of tech is brighter when we all have a seat at the table. #BlackInTech #RepresentationMatters #DiversityInTech #Innovation

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🌍 Accelerate High Quality Outcomes-based Projects 🌟 📅 Deadline: August 26, 2024 The Outcomes Accelerator is inviting applications for high-quality Outcomes-Based Funding (OBF) projects. This program offers flexible funding, targeted expertise, and networking support to help test, launch, and scale innovative initiatives aimed at making a significant impact across various sectors. The Outcomes Accelerator is a catalytic platform to accelerate more effective testing, scaling and the eventual mainstreaming of outcomes-based financing (OBF) approaches into the delivery of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) impact. The Outcomes Accelerator works with stakeholders across the outcomes-based financing ecosystem – including governments, development agencies, investors, services providers, intermediaries, and knowledge partners – to address the key barriers facing the market and unlock funding for high-quality outcomes-based financing projects. 🔗 For more information, visit https://lnkd.in/dSuTB427 #CommunityDevelopment #SustainableDevelopment #ClimateAction #Innovation

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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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The online communities pushing Black male voters to the right The manosphere is a sprawling ecosystem of podcasts, YouTubers, message boards, and more aimed at disgruntled men. Now a subset of the manosphere aimed at Black men is exposing cracks in Black voters' steadfast support of Democrats. On this episode, we take a look at how the Black manosphere came to be and wonder: could this loose community of aggrieved dudes swing the election? https://lnkd.in/eK6b8-mE

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Unlocking Potential with Culturally Relevant Curriculum for African-American Youth As we continue to strive for educational equity, the importance of culturally relevant curriculum for African-American youth cannot be overstated. When students see themselves and their heritage reflected in their education, it sparks engagement, fosters pride, and cultivates a deeper connection to learning. Statistics Speak Volumes - According to a study by the National Education Association (NEA), African-American students in culturally relevant programs have a 24% higher graduation rate compared to those in traditional settings. - The same study reports a 20% increase in student participation and engagement. - Critical thinking skills improve significantly, with a 15% higher performance in problem-solving tasks. Critical Thinking and Individualized Learning Culturally relevant education not only boosts academic achievement but also enhances critical thinking. When students analyze and engage with material that resonates with their experiences, they develop a stronger capacity for critical analysis and independent thought. Individualized learning strategies further amplify these benefits. Tailoring education to meet the unique needs of each student ensures that no one is left behind. This approach respects each learner's pace, strengths, and areas for growth, creating a more effective educational environment. Embracing "Unschooling" The concept of "unschooling," or learner-directed education, complements culturally relevant curricula. By allowing students to pursue their interests and learn through experiences that matter to them, we nurture a love for learning and curiosity that extends beyond the classroom. Real Stories, Real Impact We’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of this approach at The Uhuru Academy. Watch this parent testimonial to see how culturally relevant education has impacted their child’s journey: https://lnkd.in/ev8kJP3y Together, we can unlock the full potential of our youth and pave the way for a brighter future. #Education #CulturallyRelevantCurriculum #AfricanAmericanYouth #CriticalThinking #IndividualizedLearning #Unschooling #UhuruAcademy #BlackExcellence #Empowerment

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67% of Christian leaders say mentors and cohorts are more valuable than anything else when integrating their faith and leadership. That’s why I started 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀, an exclusive global cohort for Christian executive leaders. Is the cohort worthwhile? I’ll let one of the leaders answer that: “𝗜𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵!” Sounds like something you should be a part of, right? The next cohort starts soon, so message me to find out more. Let’s go on this journey together! Mark --------------- I love equipping and inspiring great leadership and deep faith through teaching and coaching! 🔆Leadership cohorts 🔆One-on-one coaching 🔆Birkman Method assessment 🔆Graduate theological education #leadership #ceo #coaching #faith #impact

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We are officially launching our special GGI Impact Fellowship Cohort. For those of you who don't know- In this write-up, I'm going to be detailing the various pillars of your Global Governance Initiative (GGI) journey. For the last 6 years, we have built GGI publicly. Why ? Because talks are cheap and Naman and I'd like to be always held accountable for every action, inaction, or innovation in your GGI journey. Frankly, it takes a lot of courage to put one's reputation on the line, and I am proudly going to do it—because I trust in our proven method. In the journey, there will be moments when we'd fail, we'll pivot, and we'll get frustrated. In fact, I can promise you that the journey is NOT going to be easy. Nothing worth achieving in life comes easy. But I assure you, we will come out stronger—because the entire experience is going to be so transformational for you. The entire GGI experience is going to be segmented into 3 pillars. 1. #Pillar 1: Building Fundamentals This completion won't be in a 'traditional' format. The GGI Fellows will analyze, communicate, and structure their thoughts as they complete the fundamentals of management consulting, public policy frameworks, and product management through masterclasses. All instructors will be industry practitioners- CEOs and Partners from India and US. Why ? Because I want you to fall in love with the subjects (more about Pillar 1 in comments). Pillar 1 will make you fall in love with the career in consulting and policy across global application areas. Without falling in love with learning—you can't acquire the skills to thrive in the industry. 2. #Pillar 2: Advanced Masterclasses on Real-World Challenges 1:1 mentorship project with MBB Consultants for 14 weeks on- A. Geopolitics B. Pressing policy issues C. Case interviews in Consulting This will go hand in hand with Pillar 1. All the GGI Fellows will be required to mandatorily complete pre-readings of material before their initial masterclasses (more about Pillar 2 in comments). 3. #Pillar 3: Soft Skills and Leadership Development This is where you will find your edge at GGI. You will surround yourself in an #international diversity, master communication, and leadership hacks like a BCG Consultant. This segment will cover everything from soft skills to business acumen, ensuring that you’re prepared for leadership roles in consulting or policy. While the experience will formally end in March 2025, this will only mark the beginning of your journey with the GGI Alumni Family. You will always be part of a network of changemakers and global leaders. Finally, you’ll be invited for exclusive #employment opportunities with our partners even after your graduation ! Because your success is my success—and believe it or not, I do have a lot of 'skin in the game'—as we march ahead in the journey, together. All the best (link in comments)! I look forward to meeting you all in the 2025 cohort of GGI ❤️.

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Data that opened my eyes this week from the Terra.do fellowship: The average US refrigerator emits more annually than many individuals in Africa…. This stark reminder of climate inequity highlights the critical need for a systems-oriented approach to climate solutions that considers all communities. As someone eager to dive straight into solutions, I'm grateful the program includes a strong social justice lens. It's a crucial reminder: As we all work at a breakneck pace to address climate change, we can’t accidentally overlook the communities most affected. Effective climate action demands both innovation and equity. #ClimateAction #ClimateJustice #Sustainability

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📢Calling all changemakers, good troublemakers, and innovators in Greater Boston: If you want to join a dynamic multi-racial, cross-class, intergenerational community of peers, apply to GenUnity's Fall Fellowship programs! Too rarely do we find space to connect across difference on the issues that matter most - to foster collaboration between those experiencing local issues (e.g., housing insecurity) and those working to tackle it. GenUnity is creating that space, and we invite you to join us! Our fall programs will deep dive into the housing crisis and health inequities driving Boston's 23-year life expectancy gap. You'll gain a deeper understanding of why problems persist and build the relationships and capacity to drive change. See the links in the comments to apply by May 24th, nominate a friend, or sign up for our newsletter! #greaterboston #civicleadership #community

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Vance’s lies about Haitian immigrants abducting pets and wildlife, spreading STIs, and killing children do not just demean Haitian immigrants. These racist ideas demean Black immigrants *and* Black Americans. Racist ideas are like a contagion. They don’t just latch onto the target. They spread and latch onto everyone associated racially with the target. Racist ideas of Haitian immigrants as dangerous reinforce racist ideas about Black Americans as dangerous. Racist ideas about Black Americans as dangerous incite the everyday police brutality of Black Americans.

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Leveraging Technology to Amplify Voices: Empowering the African Diaspora Discover how the Future is Black podcast explores alternatives and solutions to empower and amplify the voices and stories of the African diaspora through digital media. Learn how technology can be leveraged to make a positive impact on communities and improve quality of life. #EmpoweringVoices #AfricanDiasporaStories #TechnologyImpact #DigitalMediaPower #FutureIsBlackPodcast #CommunityEmpowerment #PositiveChange #QualityOfLifeImprovement #AlternativeSolutions #DigitalMediaImpact #thefutureisblack #thefutureisblackpodcast

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