Defender Network’s Post

Most Fortune 500 boardrooms look Iike an Ivy League alumni mixer from the 1950s. Across the world's top companies, a mere 19% of board members are from racialized communities. The situation is even more dire for Black directors: 👉🏽 In the UK, just 8% of FTSE 100 directors are Black 👉🏽 In Australia, only 8% of ASX 200 directors are non Anglo-EU centric 👉🏽 In the US, Black Americans hold 7% of Fortune 500 board seats This Juneteenth, I'm challenging myself and other leaders to move beyond lip service, 👉🏽 if you are building a board of directors for your startup or small medium size enterprise, I encourage you to move beyond, performative "diversity theatre." Real change requires sustained effort and bold leadership. 👉🏽if you are not building a board, a place to start is by supporting Black business owners with your funds. I have dropped two links below to help get you started. PS: Give Erin Corine Johnson and the #ReparationsRace a follow all through June to see how you can contribute to closing the racial wealth gap of $1.5 trillion.

Today we’re honouring some trailblazing Black leaders who broke barriers and shaped the future of business. ⬇️ Despite greater awareness of the benefits of diverse leadership, Black leaders in finance and business still face systemic barriers and significant underrepresentation. ⚖️ There are just eight Black CEOs in the Fortune 500, and Black employees still comprise only 1.5% of senior positions in private UK organisations — so there’s still work to be done. 💪 These are just some of the pioneers who overcame obstacles in banking, law, entrepreneurship and finance, and we celebrate them for blazing a trail for future generations. 💥 #Blackhistorymonth #diversityinbusiness #financeleaders #law #DEI #leadership #Blackleaders #tech #accounting #finance #Blackleadership #entrepreneurship #diversity #equity #equality #representation

🌟 BLG Wales + Diversity X Present: Black Leadership Journeys 🌟 Join us for an inspiring evening at Tramshed Cardiff as we celebrate Black Leadership! We’re thrilled to welcome an incredible panel of Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic leaders who have paved their way to success. This is your chance to hear firsthand from trailblazing entrepreneurs who have overcome challenges and become successful leaders. Link to join: https://lnkd.in/eGxnnkuZ Opening conversation with Prof. Emmanuel Ogbonna, Yusuf Ibrahim & Chantelle Haughton. ✨ Panelists include: Alexia J Barrett – Film & Television (BBC, and owner of her own production company) Romario Ellis – Founder of Outer Circle (focused on apprenticeships) Yusuf Ibrahim The Co-chair of The Black Leadership Group Dr. Youmna Mouhamad, PhD (Raising EIS/SEIS) Researcher & Founder Marquis Caines – Venture Capital & Angel Investing Expect powerful insights into their journeys, challenges, and how they triumphed. Plus, you'll have the opportunity to engage in Black Leadership Circles, where we’ll discuss emerging themes and collaborate on solutions to drive progress in Black Leadership. 🗓 Date: Tue, Dec 10, 2024 🕕 Time: 18:00 GMT 📍 Location: Tramshed Cardiff Don’t miss this chance to be inspired, network with like-minded individuals, and take the next step in your own Black Leadership Journey. See you there! ✨ Note: "Black" is used as an inclusive term for people from ethnically diverse backgrounds who share a lived experience of racism. #BlackLeadership #Entrepreneurship #Diversity #Networking #Inspiration #Empowerment #BLGWales #DiversityX

🌟 Unlocking Potential Through Mentorship 🌟 Mentorship can profoundly impact the lives of young Black males, fostering growth, confidence, and a sense of direction. By becoming a mentor or being open to mentorship, we can create a supportive community and help shape the leaders of tomorrow. Action Steps to Make a Difference: Become a Mentor: 1. Reflect on your strengths and experiences. 2. Join mentorship programs. 3. Connect with educational institutions. 4. Be consistent and reliable. 5. Create a safe, open environment. 6. Encourage personal and professional growth. Be Open to Being Mentored: 1. Recognize the value of mentorship. 2. Identify your needs and goals. 3. Seek out potential mentors. 4. Be proactive and reach out. 5. Be open and receptive. 6. Engage actively. 7. Show appreciation and gratitude. Let's work together to support and uplift young Black males. Your involvement can make a significant difference! 👉 Check out my blog post for a deeper dive into the power of mentorship and actionable steps you can take: https://lnkd.in/ggCYtrcK #Mentorship #Leadership #PersonalGrowth #SupportYoungBlackMales #CommunityImpact #CareerDevelopment

New Blog Post: Celebrating Black Male Leaders Making a Difference Today In my latest blog post, I honor the incredible black male role models who profoundly impact our communities. From personal experiences with family and mentors to the necessity of fostering supportive relationships, this post delves into the importance of role models and the positive change they bring. Key Highlights: - The power of early role models in shaping lives - The need for diverse role models in different areas of life - Gratitude for those leading the way in challenging times Action Steps: 1. Reach out for help 2. Reach out to help others 3. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on how we can continue to support and uplift the next generation. Your insights are invaluable! 🌟 #RoleModels #Leadership #Community #BlackExcellence #Mentorship https://lnkd.in/gvBeKb_E

The Moment My Mindset Shifted: Building Profitable Businesses and Knowing How to Exit Attending a mastermind event in the vibrant city of Dallas was nothing short of transformative. It was there that I had the opportunity to meet two dynamic leaders— Adam Coffey and JT Foxx —both of whom left a profound impact on my journey. Adam Coffey a powerhouse in private equity, has built an incredible career managing over 51 companies and achieving exits totaling more than $2 billion. His story compelled me to dive deeper into understanding the art of scaling profitable businesses and planning strategic exits. However, as I delved further into the investment sector, I was struck by a glaring truth—the underrepresentation and limited support for Black men in this space. That’s when I discovered the incredible movement led by Jewel Love and the Black Executive Men Community (BEM), a thriving ecosystem for Black male executives navigating corporate environments. After a few enlightening conversations with BEM leadership, I became a member. The experience has been nothing short of inspiring. Now, as I step into my new role as Regional Director for City of Atlanta I am more motivated than ever to drive change. My mission is to uplift and empower Black men who are advancing their corporate profiles—whether in C-suite roles, investment careers, or entrepreneurial ventures. BEM is the bridge to making these aspirations a reality. To learn more about the Black Executive Men Community and how it’s creating opportunities for Black men like me, click: https://lnkd.in/gZkjyqTE Let’s build, grow, and lead together📌

Meet South Carolina native Deborah "DJ" Thomas! Sherecently graduated from the Goldman Sachs One Million Black Women: Black in Business program, which aims to help Black women sole proprietors grow their businesses. Thomas, who founded A New View For You, LLC, underwent 12 weeks of intensive business education courses, including scaling for growth, marketing, finance, leadership, and customer profiles. She networked with top business professionals, which helped her to gain valuable insights to help her business grow. Thomas shared, "For me, completing this program has really given me a roadmap. I knew what I wanted to do with my business. But, I really know the direction in which my business will go now. I have my action plan. So, I know now what I need to have accomplished by three months. I know what I need to have accomplished in six months. It has given me an inspiration to continue to grow my business. To scale my business, to be able to hire other people, that's one of the other benefits of this program." Thomas plans to hire more staff to help with her interior design and remodeling business and is excited about the prospect of growth and scaling. Check out her story 🔗 https://lnkd.in/eXEnb9Wj

Though #DEI is a persistent issue, #blackhistorymonth serves as a good time to reflect on the progress the #realestate sector has made in promoting diversity – and what else can be done to advance the cause. When a reporter with Multi-Housing News was looking for Black sources who have excelled in the industry and mentored others, we had the perfect suggestion: Leah Granderson, Head of DEI at TJ client Lendlease. Read the resulting Q&A in today's #TJTALK where Granderson provides insights including the better decision-making and financial outcomes realized by prioritizing DEI, how networking and mentorship benefit minority professionals, and the importance that intentional, top-down leadership has on making real estate an industry open to all: https://conta.cc/432CXtm

The first few weeks of the Consultrepreneurship program have been transformative. (Anyone who knows me personally can tell just how much I've changed in the course of three weeks.) During our orientation session, we dived deep into the significance of African history, a topic that is often overlooked yet unmistakably crucial. Understanding our history is not just about honoring the past; it’s about providing context for our present and learning from it how to shape a better future. African history isn't as widely recognized or taught as it should be, even and perhaps especially among Africans. This neglect can lead to a disconnect from our roots and a diminished sense of identity. The Consultrepreneurship program through its orientation has made very clear the importance of reclaiming and celebrating our heritage, reminding us that our history is rich, diverse, and full of lessons that are vital for our growth and unity. I am incredibly grateful to have found a community within this program that feels like home. It’s empowering to know that my struggles are shared and that we are all in this together, supporting and uplifting each other. This sense of solidarity and collective strength is what being part of the African diaspora is truly about. I look forward to learning even more as the program progresses. The journey so far has been enlightening, and I am excited for the knowledge and experiences yet to come. What an amazing way to create future leaders to build futures that honor our legacy. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey. Let’s continue to uplift and inspire one another. #Consultrepreneurship #AfricanPerspectives #EntrepreneurialSpirit #InnovativeLearning #Empowerment #AfricanHistory

This year has been a transformative journey through the power of literature, guided by profound recommendations from visionary friends and colleagues. Each book has deepened my understanding of our roles in shaping a better future and left an indelible impact on my thinking. Here are some highlights: "What We Owe Each Other" & "Reimagining Capitalism" – Recommended by Zanes Cypress, Jr. Cypress and Secretary Kevin Anderson, these reads challenge us to rethink our legacies and the structures we build for future generations. "Disruptive Thinking" by T.D. Jakes – Suggested by my friend Shina Parker, this book is a blueprint for breaking through conventional barriers and embracing visionary leadership. "How to Succeed in Business Without Being White" by Earl Graves – Introduced to me by Jessica Hebron, this classic stands as a testament to the pioneering spirit and resilience required to navigate and excel in the business world. "Survival Strategies" – Recommended by guy Mansur Abdul-Malik, MRED, HDFP, PMP this book is a top contender for essential reads on critical thinking, especially for young Black men striving to elevate their perspectives. "The Advantage" by Patrick Lencioni – UMBC President Valerie Ashby recommended this, and it has become a cornerstone in my toolkit for effective leadership and organizational health. "Binga" – A compelling narrative about one of the first Black bankers, perfect for those interested in the legacy of economic empowerment, complementing the story of Anthony Overton. Reading about former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern – Essential for my trip to New Zealand, providing valuable insights into leadership and global perspectives. "How the Word is Passed" – Gifted by my daughter’s former basketball coach, this book delves into our collective responsibility and consciousness, a timely read given the current dialogues in Harford County. These books are not just reads; they are tools for empowerment, legacy-building, and transformative thinking. What literature has inspired you this year? Share your recommendations and let’s continue the journey of knowledge and growth together. #TransformativeReading #BuildingLegacy #VisionaryLeadership #SundayReading