INSIDE THE EPISODE:

Where did Black Girl Magic come from?

Kiwanee Crummey defines Black Girl Magic as the extraordinary ability of Black women and girls to thrive in environments where their autonomy and identity are often suppressed. This magic is not just about surviving but flourishing despite societal pressures and challenges. Kiwanee emphasizes that while Black girls are born with this inherent magic, it often gets stifled by external expectations and the need to conform.

The Importance of Nurturing Black Girl Magic

Kiwanee shares her insights on the complexities of raising Black girls and how their inherent magic is often not intentionally nurtured. She believes that societal pressures can lead to a lack of clarity about their true selves. Instead of embracing their identities, Black girls often find themselves adapting to the expectations of others.

Confronting Past Experiences

Kiwanee reflects on her own journey, emphasizing the importance of confronting past experiences and understanding how they shape our present. She describes a pivotal moment in her life when she had to face her struggles with belonging and the impact of her relationship with her mother on her interactions with other women. This self-exploration is crucial for Black women to tap into their "superpower," which she defines as the ability to rise above adversity and embrace their authentic selves.

The Transition from Childhood to Womanhood

Kiwanee highlights that the transition from childhood to womanhood is marked by a significant awakening—a realization of one's worth and the importance of setting boundaries. She encourages listeners to prioritize their needs and seek relationships and opportunities that align with their true selves. By doing so, they can break free from the cycle of survival mode and step into a space of empowerment and authenticity.

The Need for Introspection

Melanie and Kiwanee stress the importance of self-reflection and the need for Black women to give themselves grace as they navigate their journeys. They acknowledge that many women may not have the tools or support to explore their identities fully, but they emphasize that this exploration is essential for personal growth and empowerment.

Overcoming the Lack of Safe Spaces

Kiwanee agrees with a comment from a listener that Black women often lack the space to express their truths safely. Without that space, they struggle to develop and articulate their identities and voices. Introspection is crucial, but it requires the right tools and environments. Healthy conflict with important female figures in their lives—like mothers and sisters—can be a great starting point. Black women need safe spaces to confront their feelings and navigate their identities.

The Pressure to Code-Switch

Kiwanee discusses the pressure Black women face to conform through code-switching in corporate settings. She highlights the prevalent narrative that suggests Black individuals must alter their identities to succeed, noting that 57% of Black people feel compelled to code-switch. However, Kiwanee is on a mission to uncover stories of Black women who have ascended the corporate ladder without compromising their authenticity.

The Importance of Authenticity

Melanie resonates with Kiwanee's perspective, expressing her own commitment to researching the experiences of Black women who have achieved influence without code-switching. Together, they discuss the detrimental effects of competition among Black women in professional environments, where the perception of limited opportunities can create unnecessary conflict. Instead of fostering collaboration, this mindset often leads to rivalry, which undermines the potential for collective success.

Creating Inclusive Environments

Kiwanee emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for Black women, particularly through entrepreneurship. She points out that Black women business owners are the leading employers of Black individuals within their communities, presenting a significant opportunity for empowerment and growth. By establishing their own businesses and fostering inclusive environments, Black women can redefine success on their own terms.

Shifting the Mindset

The conversation also touches on the societal pressures that compel Black women to seek validation from prestigious corporate entities, often at the expense of their well-being and sense of self. Both speakers advocate for a shift in mindset, encouraging Black women to prioritize their authenticity and seek out organizations that genuinely value diversity and inclusion.

In this episode of the Empowered Presence™ Podcast, Melanie and Kiwanee emphasize the importance of creating spaces for Black women to express their identities and the need for authenticity in both personal and professional realms. They encourage listeners to take small steps toward self-discovery and to seek environments that appreciate their true selves. By embracing their Black Girl Magic, Black women can make a meaningful impact in their fields and lead fulfilling lives.

Connect with Kiwanee on LinkedIn and follow her journey as she works on her upcoming book, which aims to further explore the experiences of Black women in professional spaces.

For more in-depth discussions and branding advice, tune into the Empowered Presence™ podcast and explore the wealth of knowledge shared by Melanie and her esteemed guests.

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