Voices of Empowerment

Success for everyone: Get inspired by the achievements of everyday underrepresented Americans and find your own path to success.

Empowering Change: Sara D. Gayle's Journey with the Tulsa Idea Challenge 

The Tulsa Idea Challenge

Sara D. Gayle shares her inspiring experience with the Tulsa Idea Challenge, where she and Chris Walonski developed "Progress Passport," an app designed to assist formerly incarcerated women in their reintegration journey. The app connects users to resources, mentors, and community support, rewarding them for achieving milestones. The challenge provided a supportive platform for refining their idea, fostering connections with like-minded individuals, and offering valuable training. Winning the Best Experimenters award, Gayle highlights the transformative power of the challenge in sparking innovation and community improvement.

Read more from Sara D. Gayle at Tulsa World.

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Actionable Resources

Empower your career with targeted strategies and tools to overcome systemic barriers and achieve your career and personal goals.

Building Wealth and Legacy, Key Tips from Space Continuum

John and Joshua Johnson of Space Continuum share valuable insights for Black entrepreneurs looking to succeed in the niche industry of interior design. They emphasize the importance of thorough industry research, assembling a strong advisory team, and staying financially prudent by seeking grants and avoiding debt. Joshua advises cultivating passion and persistence, as well as developing a robust business plan that demonstrates industry knowledge and vision. Their journey underscores the importance of faith and resilience in overcoming challenges and building generational wealth.

Read more from Kristin Morgan at Ebony.

One More Resource

• American Airlines Enhances Travel Experience for Passengers with Disabilities: American Airlines is leading the way in improving travel for passengers with disabilities by implementing automated tags for wheelchairs and mobility devices. These new tags provide detailed information, ensuring better tracking and handling throughout the journey. The airline has also invested in staff training and specialized equipment, enhancing service reliability. Travelers with disabilities, or those assisting them, are encouraged to check with their airline about these capabilities before flying to ensure a smoother experience. Read more from Shaun Heasley at Disability Scoop.

DEI Insights Corner

Discover the latest in DEI innovations and strategies. Every historically underrepresented worker and ally should know best practices and emerging trends for inclusive workplaces.

Equity as a Solution to Talent Scarcity

As global talent shortages loom, integrating equity into business practices emerges as a strategic imperative. Companies like Randstad advocate for flexible work arrangements, equitable pay, inclusive hiring, and empowering employee resource groups. These measures not only attract and retain diverse talent but also foster innovation and trust within organizations. Prioritizing equity is not just a moral choice—it's a business necessity for sustainable growth.

Read more from Randstad CEO Sander van ‘t Noordende at Forbes.

DEI Insight Corner Roundup

• Debunking Myths, DEI's True Value in Hiring: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are more than just buzzwords—they are key to building innovative, high-performing teams. Nancy Shapiro, former executive at The Recording Academy, shares her experience with DEI practices, emphasizing that they ensure the selection of the most qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds. She challenges the misconception that DEI hires are unqualified, highlighting that true DEI brings out the best talent, fostering creativity and excellence. Read more from Nancy Shapiro at Yahoo News.

• Addressing the 'DEI Hire' Label, A Caution and Opportunity for Inclusivity: As Vice President Kamala Harris emerges as the Democratic presidential nominee, Republican leaders urge their colleagues to avoid racist and sexist rhetoric, particularly the dismissive label of "DEI hire." This caution reflects a growing understanding of the political risks associated with alienating key demographics. The term "DEI hire," often used pejoratively, can overshadow the qualifications and achievements of individuals from diverse backgrounds. This discussion provides an opportunity to embrace and redefine the term, highlighting the value of diverse perspectives and the importance of policies that foster equity and inclusion. Read more from The Grio.

• Femtech Innovations, Bridging Gaps in Women’s Health: Femtech is revolutionizing maternal and reproductive healthcare by addressing long-neglected needs and empowering women globally. With growing investments, these technologies offer innovative solutions—from advanced prenatal monitoring to sustainable menstrual care—promoting gender equality and improving health outcomes. However, ensuring privacy, safety, and trustworthiness is crucial for these tools to truly benefit women. Read more from Tonie Marie Gordon at NPQ.

DEI Insights Closer

The Equity Advantage: Strategies for Inclusive Leadership

In "Crafting Your Leadership Narrative: The Equity Advantage," Darein L. Burton explores how equitable practices are vital in tackling talent scarcity and boosting innovation. Drawing from insights by Randstad CEO Sander van ‘t Noordende, the article outlines four key strategies: promoting flexible work arrangements, ensuring equitable pay, implementing inclusive hiring, and empowering business resource groups (BRGs). By leading these initiatives, underrepresented leaders can champion change, foster inclusivity, and enhance their career prospects.

 Read more from Darein L. Burton in Perspectives on Leadership.

Community Connections

Explore events and networks that empower underrepresented professionals with support and crucial career-advancing opportunities.

Freedom to Be Heard: Defending DEI in Tennessee

The "Freedom to Be Heard" summer field hearings in Tennessee spotlight the critical importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). At the historic Lorraine Motel, leaders from FedEx and Amazon testified on how DEI fuels collaboration and growth, emphasizing that diversity strengthens both communities and workforces. Despite recent legislative attacks, these events underscore the unyielding commitment to a Tennessee that values and leverages its diversity.

Read more from Raumesh Akbari at The Tennessean.

Community Connections Roundup

• Revitalizing Communities, Primestor’s Mission for Change:  Arturo Sneider and Primestor Investment Management are transforming underinvested urban areas with projects that prioritize community needs and local hiring. By developing affordable housing, essential services, and job opportunities, they empower residents to shape their own futures. Sneider emphasizes that success isn’t about charity but providing the chance for self-determination. As Primestor revitalizes neighborhoods, it fosters a movement of change, proving that investing in communities leads to a stronger, more vibrant society. Read more from Billy Yost at Hispanic Executive.

• Supporting LGBTQ+ Latino-Owned Businesses Year-Round: Celebrate diversity and innovation by supporting these five LGBTQ+ Latino-owned businesses beyond Pride Month. From Hernan Lopez's Owl & Co in West Hollywood to Kevin Alcaraz and Anthony Diaz's Plantiitas in Long Beach, these entrepreneurs enrich our communities with unique products and services. Their businesses reflect the rich cultural heritage of the queer Latine community and foster inclusivity, sustainability, and mindful living. By choosing to patronize these businesses, you help promote economic equity and ensure their vibrant voices are heard and valued. Read more from Melaina de la Cruz at Hispanic Executive.

• Florida Arts Organizations Rally Amid Funding Cut: Facing the first state funding cuts since 1969, Florida's arts organizations are mobilizing to secure private support. These cuts threaten the cultural and economic vitality that arts bring to communities, generating millions in local revenue and supporting thousands of jobs. Leaders from institutions like the Young Singers of the Palm Beaches and the Gulfshore Playhouse emphasize the arts' role in fostering community bonds and enriching social life. As state funding recedes, these organizations call for continued public and private support, underscoring the arts' critical impact on education, tourism, and local economies. Read more from Roger Williams at Florida Weekly.

Cultural Highlight

Celebrate diverse voices and cultural contributions in art, literature, music, and media and be multicultural smarty pants. 😊

Karol G Shatters Records on Historic European Tour

@bichotarecords

Karol G cantando "EL MAKINON" en su ultima noche en el Estadio Bernabéu en Madrid, España 4/4 🏟️🔥 #karolg #elmakinon #madrid #bichotaseaso... See more

Karol G’s "Mañana Será Bonito Tour" has set a new record in Spain, surpassing Taylor Swift’s previous ticket sales milestone with over 240,000 sold. The tour, now the largest Latine European tour in history, showcased her dynamic performances and celebrated her cultural roots. With appearances from artists like Amaia Montero, the Colombian star highlighted her journey of self-discovery and empowerment. The tour grossed $300 million and reached millions worldwide, cementing Karol G's status as a global music icon.

Read more from Jeanette Hernandez at Remezcla.