By Staff
Can you share the journey that led you to become the Executive Director of Black Connect?
My journey to becoming the Executive Director of Black Connect is rooted in a lifelong commitment to service, integrity, and community empowerment. As a veteran of the United States Air Force, I have always believed in serving a cause greater than myself. After transitioning from the military, I saw firsthand the systemic challenges Black entrepreneurs face in accessing resources, funding, and opportunities to build wealth. Recognizing the need for structural support, I was drawn to Black Connect’s mission of closing the racial wealth gap by empowering Black business owners. My professional experience in operations, strategic management, and consulting, combined with my passion for economic equity, positioned me to lead initiatives that create tangible change. I was honored to step into this role to further Black Connect’s vision and expand its reach and impact.
How has your experience in the United States Air Force helped you navigate this leadership role?
My experience in the United States Air Force provided me with a strong foundation in discipline, leadership, strategic planning, and risk management. During my service, I learned to assess challenges objectively, develop efficient processes, and lead diverse teams toward a common goal. These skills are critical in my role at Black Connect, where I oversee programs, build partnerships, and drive strategic initiatives aimed at empowering Black entrepreneurs. The Air Force also instilled in me a commitment to integrity and excellence, values that I carry into every aspect of my leadership at Black Connect. Navigating complex challenges with resilience and adaptability has been key to advancing our mission and expanding the organization’s impact.
Black Connect is tackling the monumental challenge of eliminating the racial wealth gap. How does the organization approach this goal?
Black Connect approaches the goal of eliminating the racial wealth gap with a multi-faceted strategy that addresses both systemic barriers and individual empowerment. Our initiatives focus on providing Black entrepreneurs with access to capital, legal support, education, mentorship, and networking opportunities. We recognize that closing the wealth gap requires a comprehensive approach, so we also advocate for policy changes that promote equity and inclusion. Programs like our pro bono legal services and business grants help bridge the resource gap, while partnerships with other organizations expand the reach of our mission. By creating a supportive ecosystem for Black-owned businesses to thrive, Black Connect aims to generate long-term economic sustainability for Black communities.
Building Black-owned businesses is at the core of Black Connect’s mission. What do you see as the most significant barriers Black entrepreneurs face today?
Black entrepreneurs face several significant barriers, including limited access to capital, systemic discrimination, and a lack of mentorship and networking opportunities. Many Black business owners struggle to secure loans or investments due to biased lending practices and a lack of generational wealth to rely on for initial funding. Additionally, Black entrepreneurs often face challenges in accessing professional networks and mentorship that are critical for business growth. There is also a disparity in access to resources and education related to business development. At Black Connect, we work to dismantle these barriers by providing grants, pro bono services, and educational resources to empower Black entrepreneurs and level the playing field.
Can you speak to a specific program or success story that highlights the impact of Black Connect on Black entrepreneurship and economic empowerment?
One of our most impactful programs is the Pro Bono Legal Service Initiative, which has provided nearly half a million dollars in free legal services to Black entrepreneurs. A standout success story is that of a Black-owned tech startup that struggled to navigate complex legal requirements for launching their platform. Through Black Connect’s legal assistance, the startup was able to complete its compliance needs, secure intellectual property protections, and officially launch its product. This support not only saved them significant costs but also ensured they had a solid legal foundation for growth. Today, that business is thriving, creating jobs, and serving the community — a testament to how direct support can lead to sustainable success and economic empowerment.
What are some misconceptions people have about the racial wealth gap or the challenges Black entrepreneurs face, and how do you work to dispel them?
One common misconception is that the racial wealth gap exists because of individual choices rather than systemic barriers. Many people believe that if Black entrepreneurs simply “worked harder” or “made better decisions,” they would succeed. This perspective ignores the historical and ongoing discrimination that has denied Black communities access to wealth-building opportunities. At Black Connect, we work to dispel these myths by educating the public on the structural inequities that persist, such as redlining, biased lending, and unequal access to education and resources. Through workshops, webinars, and public discourse, we highlight the need for systemic change while empowering individuals to take control of their economic futures.
Technology and innovation are reshaping business landscapes. How does Black Connect leverage these advancements to support Black business owners?
At Black Connect, we harness technology to bridge the gap between Black entrepreneurs and essential resources. Our digital platform connects members to mentorship, funding opportunities, and educational content, making support accessible regardless of location. We also offer webinars and virtual workshops on topics like digital marketing, e-commerce, and cybersecurity, ensuring Black entrepreneurs are equipped to thrive in a digital economy. Additionally, we are exploring AI tools and innovative tech partnerships to provide more efficient business solutions. By embracing technology, we empower Black-owned businesses to stay competitive and resilient in a rapidly evolving business landscape.
What upcoming initiatives or projects is Black Connect working on, and how can readers get involved or support the organization’s mission?
Black Connect has several exciting initiatives on the horizon, including the development of a Digital Center for Entrepreneurs. This center will offer digital literacy training, business development resources, and access to technology tools to help Black entrepreneurs grow their businesses. We are also expanding our Minority Veteran Agriculture Program to provide training and education for minority veterans in the agricultural sector, promoting economic sustainability and food ethics. Readers can support Black Connect by donating, volunteering their skills, or spreading awareness about our mission. To get involved, visit our website, follow our social media channels, or join as a member to actively contribute to closing the racial wealth gap.
Upcoming Events:
https://www.blackconnect.org/events
Atlanta Chapter:
https://www.blackconnect.org/atlanta-chapter
History
Founded on June 3, 2019, Black Connect was launched shortly before the pandemic and has remained dedicated to developing an entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through the provision of programs, services, and networks of business support, the Black Connect ecosystem provides its members in the United States with access to capital, knowledge, and resources that advance their professional and entrepreneurial careers. With an emphasis on low and moderate income communities, Black Connect’s holistic approach fosters the socioeconomic growth and empowerment of the Black community. The organization has expanded to operate local chapters in New York City, Tampa, Atlanta, and Tulsa.
Black Connect is the charitable arm of Blackconnect.com, the only Black- owned business and social networking platform created to enable entrepreneurial activities and promote the socioeconomic growth and empowerment of the Black Community. Blackconnect.com is the most comprehensive Black-owned business and social networking platform with members across the United States, Caribbean, Africa and the United Kingdom.
Black Connect is where people and businesses collaborate, educate, incubate, and innovate.
