Black Women Lawyers Association of Los Angeles, Inc.’s Post

Measuring our impact has always been a sticky challenge—one that defies easy quantification. How do you measure something as intangible as the experience of not quite belonging, but not quite knowing why? I joined the 10,000 Interns Foundation in 2021 with a mandate to answer this question. My task was to author our first ever impact report, assessing whether we were meeting our mission as an organisation. It took me four years to get there. Why? Because the last four years have been dedicated to building an organisation that could support over 50,000 applicants, 1,000 participating organisations, and an alumni community of over 7,000, alongside an unstoppable team.  But more importantly, because the only people that can truly speak to our impact are those affected by our work, and that wasn’t my story to tell in 2021. We’re now finally at a place where we can understand our impact beyond the numbers. Where we can offer a space for people to tell their own story. The result? Pages upon pages of rich insight, personal stories of empowerment, courage, fear, and ultimately, change. So, if you want to know whether we’ve met our original mission of offering improved access to entry for Black talent, you can finally read our first ever impact report. If you want to know what the workplace looks like for Black talent, and what we’re going to do about it over the next 10 years, you can find that in there too... A big thank you to those that trusted me with the the task of pulling together our story, and those of the candidates, interns, and organisations that have engaged with our work. To those that have made this all possible Rebecca Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, David Hutchison, Q5 and Daniel Levy, ClearView Research, Dr. Kenny Imafidon MBE, Dr. Elsa Zekeng, Michael Barrington-Hibbert Wol Kolade Dawid Konotey-Ahulu, Jonathan Sorrell, Faye Woodhead, Stuart Breyer, and the whole 10K team! Read the full report here: https://lnkd.in/eDytyh7m

It's time to let go of the thought that you have to work twice as hard. I know this thought feels true. I know it has worked for you in the past. I know it's what your parents and your grandparents have been telling you for years. I know it's what got you here. But for where you're going, it no longer works. What got you here, won't get you there. Being a partner isn't about how hard you work. It isn't about saying yes to every ask Or working away diligently in the background It's isn't about never asking for help, Doing it all yourself, Waiting until you know it all or are 100% sure before you offer a view, Or striving to make everything perfect. These qualities served you in the past. Now they are keeping you stuck. Progressing to the top requires a whole different set of skills - Knowing what to say no to Knowing when to ask for help Taking feedback on board without making it about you Including yourself Taking up space, being front and centre. These are the qualities that will move you forward. Progressing your career is no longer just about the hours you bill. It's about the skills you've developed The experience you've gained. It's about the relationships you've built The people in your corner The work you bring in How well you are known How much you are trusted How highly you are rated The way you are seen The value you are adding. This doesn't come from working harder. It comes from working smarter. P.S. If you're a mid to senior level black lawyer and you want to progress within the industry, join Be The First Progression for Black Lawyers where I'll teach you to work smarter instead of harder. Enrolment for the next cohort is coming soon. Click the link below to join the waiting list and be the first to know when we open. 👉🏾https://lnkd.in/dsUEYuB7 #bethefirst #blacklawyers #lawyers #attorneys #careerprogression #careercoaching #lawyercoach #impostersyndrome #diversityandinclusion #legalimposters #lawyerlife

IT organizations and technology companies are taking steps to create a more diverse workforce by partnering with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to recruit Black IT professionals. This intentional effort is aimed at building a more inclusive talent pipeline and addressing the underrepresentation of Black professionals in the industry. By actively seeking out and investing in diverse talent, IT organizations and tech companies are taking a crucial step towards building a more equitable and representative workforce. Let's continue to support these efforts and work towards a more diverse and inclusive tech industry. #diversityintech #HBCUs #blackprofessionals

Are you coming? Enrolment for the May 2024 class of Be The First Progression for Black Lawyers is closing. Today is your LAST CHANCE to enrol. This is your opportunity to join a select group of black lawyers who are progressing to the next level and changing the face of this industry. We want you with us! Imagine how you would feel if today was your LAST DAY getting stuck in should-be thinking. Your LAST DAY working twice as hard and hoping it's enough. Your LAST DAY feeling undervalued and excluded. Your LAST DAY being unclear about what you need to do to get promoted, bring in clients or sustain your career over the long term. Your LAST DAY needing external validation to feel that you're good enough. Your LAST DAY feeling exhausted and overwhelmed and thinking the only solution is to quit. That amazing feeling is exactly how you'll feel the moment you join Be The First. I can't wait for you to join us. Apply now by clicking here 👉🏾https://lnkd.in/e68gU8WH Let's go. #bethefirst #impostersyndrome #blacklawyers #lawyers #attorneys  #blacklawyers #coachingforlawyers #careerprogression  #careercoaching  #diversityandinclusion  #legalimposters #blackleaders

According to research, diverse teams make better decisions 87% of the time.... Now in the midst of the last leg of the summer term for students, I am reflecting on the work we do at ACEN (African Caribbean Education Network) to help Black students envision life beyond GCSEs and A'levels and how we support companies to diversify their workforce. Having co-hosted an early careers event in Manchester this year alongside my colleague Aisha Sanusi, it was inspiring to experience the palpable desire to excel as over 100 students found the time on a grey, cold afternoon after a long day at school to attend an inclusive and engaging information event at one of the leading global professional services powerhouses - PwC. Partnering with PwC's Talent Engagement team spearheaded by Sarah Delaney, attendees learned about how, where, and when to apply for the array of early career schemes on offer. The real highlight was the highly interactive Q&A session paneled by newly employed Black undergraduates and school leavers who had successfully gained places on PwC's paid graduate or college leaver programs. Witnessing the enthusiasm and determination of those in attendance, it is evident that these initiatives profoundly impact both students and corporate partners. The opportunity for students to interact with professionals, gain insights into the corporate environment, and visualise their potential futures fosters a sense of possibility and motivation. For corporations, these events are a valuable avenue to engage with diverse talent early, helping to break down barriers and build a more inclusive workforce. A diversified workforce is not only beneficial for social equity but also drives innovation, enhances decision-making, and contributes to increased profitability. We invite more companies to collaborate with us at ACEN to continue this vital work. Our national network uniquely positions us to bridge the gap between able Black students who have valuable contributions to make to the economy and EDI-progressive firms seeking to expand their talent pipelines. Get in touch.

Receiving rejection letters had become a regular occurrence, leaving me to question my place in the job market with each one. Despite applying to hundreds of jobs and attending numerous interviews, I was pretty sure my CV wasn’t the problem even though my dream role remained elusive. However, through this long and painful process, I learned the secret gems of perseverance, never giving up and most importantly, the power of learning and networking. I decided to view each application as not just a job opportunity but a chance to hone my soft skills while connecting with industry professionals, leading me to valuable insights and connections that ultimately shaped my journey. Every job application became an opportunity for self-improvement. I meticulously tailored my resume, crafted compelling cover letters, and refined my interview techniques, growing more confident with each iteration. Despite the setbacks, I realized that each rejection brought me closer to finding the right fit, closer to what I termed a “Fortunately”. This shift in mindset was the game changer. After countless rejections and unwavering perseverance, I finally received the job offer I had been tirelessly pursuing with an organisation I was almost too sure wouldn’t consider my skill set and it has indeed been an upward transformative experience ever since. To anyone facing their own uphill battle, I encourage you to keep pushing forward, believing in yourself, and embracing the journey, because amidst the "nos" and setbacks, all it takes is one "Congratulations, you've been selected" to change everything. Hosted by Black Professionals Scotland , opportunities like the I AM Black Conference 2024 offer invaluable resources for enhancing employability skills and networking with like-minded individuals, further empowering Black professionals to achieve their full potential. Our speakers know what it takes to succeed in the job market as a candidate and as a professional and they’ll be sharing these secrets with you. To register, visit www.iamblackconference.com to book your tickets! There is an 𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗯𝗶𝗿𝗱 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝟱𝟬% (code - HALFONLY) if you book by the 20th of February!! Fully packed with 30 Employer Brands, 20+ Speakers & Facilitators, Engaging Keynotes and Powerful Networking Opportunities, I encourage every professional to jump on this and we look forward to seeing you on the 29th of April.

We come together from different backgrounds, perspectives and expertise, making Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) part of everything we do. Senior Consultant, Savannah Miller, recently spoke at University of Southern California, on how Qvest incorporates DEI into our culture. During the DEI Recruiting Panel, Savannah shared these key insights: ✊ Celebrating differences. Employees are encouraged to join pods and employee resource groups (ERG) aligned to their interests. Whether planning events through the culture pod or making a social impact through the pro bono pod, there is something for everyone. If not, we’re encouraged to start our own. ✍️ Combating socioeconomic disadvantages. Qvest addresses socioeconomic disparities through the New Hire Boot Camp. The new analyst class meets for a week of programming to prepare for life in consulting. This ranges from how to effectively present to conducting stakeholder interviews to pitching proposals. 🤝 Making mentorship multidimensional. Our mentorship program matches new hires with a mentor of similar background or interests. Our Black Leaders and Doers ERG, recently started another mentorship program to provide black employees with support from people with shared experiences. Learn more about upcoming campus events and open positions at https://lnkd.in/gmGKKptH. Applications close April 1st! #LifeatQvest #campusrecruitment #diversity

Hi LinkedIn Community! I'm thrilled to extend an invitation to the inaugural Equity in The Media Fellowship, hosted by the Department of Communications, Film, and Media Students. This two-day event promises hands-on breakout sessions, film screenings, engaging professional panels, and the unique opportunity to observe two live tapings of "In Conversation" segments. These offerings provide a dynamic and practical experience, allowing students to glean valuable insights directly from industry professionals. In the Media and Entertainment industry, the underrepresentation of Black professionals in executive decision-making roles is a pressing issue with far-reaching implications. This fellowship aims to spotlight the array of careers available in Film and TV while championing diversity within the industry. Recognizing the significance of Black History Month in this context is paramount, as it acknowledges the often overlooked contributions of Black Americans in media and beyond. ALL University of New Haven students, regardless of major, are cordially invited to connect with a diverse array of media industry professionals. From�Production, Distribution, Sales, Finance, Entertainment Law, and Sport, attendees will have the opportunity to hear firsthand from executives shaping the landscape of media and entertainment. I look forward to witnessing the impact of the Equity in The Media Fellowship and the positive transformations it catalyzes within aspiring media professionals. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions. Please share this with your networks as well. See you at the event! #experientiallearning #careerdevelopment #careereducation #careeradvancement #diversity #equity #entertainment #filmdistribution #filmproduction #entertainmentlaw #sportsentertainment #podcast #education #blackhistorymonth #blackexcellence

All this month, we are shining a spotlight on the incredible rising stars in financial services who are breaking barriers and making a difference in the industry, in honor of #BlackHistoryMonth. Next up in this series: Walter Chikwinya, an Executive IQ® by Money Management Institute participant and Gateway Scholarship recipient. Our interview with Walter below reveals his career journey, thoughts on the significance of this month, and invaluable advice for those just starting out in the industry:   What are some of the experiences and opportunities that you can point to that supported your career growth? Early in my career, I was fortunate enough to have managers and mentors who saw my potential and believed in me. When I was offered my first management position, I didn’t think I was ready for it but I took a chance, put in the work, and, looking back, I am so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone. Sometimes, you just have to believe in yourself and amazing things can happen. I was also (and remain) someone who is keen on professional development so I pursued and took advantage of both formal and informal opportunities which would help me learn more about the industry, hone skills in my specific role, and become a better leader (the MMI Executive IQ Program is one such example).   What does Black History Month mean to you?  For me, the thought of Black History Month evokes a range of emotions and thoughts but, in the end, is really a time to reflect on the journey of black people and allies who supported the equality movement. I am eternally grateful for the courageous men and women who paved the way so that black people could enjoy the rights they do today. Without their brave actions, the world would be a very different place than it is today. Being of African descent, Black History Month is also a time for my family and I to reflect on colonialism and the widespread impact that it had on the world we live in today.    What advice would you give to someone starting out in the industry? The first thing I would advise a new entrant to do is really put some thought into why they chose and want to be in this industry. Knowing your “why” will go a long way in keeping you grounded when things get tough and you begin to question whether this was the right industry for you. A clear “why” will also give you purpose and help point you in the right direction as you gain experience and opportunities arise. Secondly, I would encourage someone new to the industry to avoid specializing too soon if they are unsure of what they want to do in financial services. Having a couple or more potential career paths and being willing to change roles early on will diversity your skillset, let you know what you do or don’t like, and provide you with more options as your career progresses.    #FinancialTrailblazers #DiversityInFinance #DEI #EmpowerChange #MMIGateway #RisingLeaders