7 Ways to Create Economic Inclusion for Minority-Owned Businesses

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7 Ways to Create Economic Inclusion for Minority-Owned Businesses

Dr. Nika White • October 22, 2019

Inclusive economics is the concept of ensuring that those who are part of historically disenfranchised, marginalized, and disadvantaged communities have the same opportunity to engage in capitalism and successful entrepreneurship.
When people speak about disadvantaged businesses they are usually talking about ethnic-minority, women, LGBTQ+, and veteran-owned businesses. These populations are often challenged in terms of lack of economic inclusion and opportunity.
How do we offer them economic prosperity?

Typically, the reason this disadvantage occurs is because there is difficult access to capital, key networks, experience, mentors, and a business knowledge base.
These are all necessary support systems to launch, grow, and sustain a business. If you are in those disadvantaged communities, you may not have someone in your circle to ask questions to, be coached by, or engage with.
A great metaphor for this is a first-generation college student (someone who is the first person in their family who is going to school or university).
Higher education puts energy into supporting those students because they know that first-gen students often struggle, don’t have parents or siblings who can answer questions, and have general trouble in navigating the scholastic system. Many higher education institutions have addressed that by implementing different support systems, scholarships, and mentorship programs.
This same thing has to occur with minority or disadvantaged business owners. Because they are basically “first generation” business owners.
Without this support, it’s hard to ask the right questions, know the right steps to take, and chart a path for economic success. In the same way I talk about intentionality with diversity and inclusion, we need to be intentional with economic inclusion as well.

The Various Challenges These Business Owners Face
Minority and disadvantaged business owners face a variety of challenges in the marketplace. Some of the most pressing challenges include:
– Lack of access to capital
– Lack of skill access to employers
        •If you don’t have the talent available, it makes your ability to grow and facilitate a business even harder
– Lack of ability for businesses to take on sizeable contracts
        •Even if the opportunity presents itself, many of these business owners can’t take advantage of the opportunity because they don’t have the bandwidth or the right people, systems, or equipment in place
– Lack of personal and professional networks to provide guidance or growth
        •Often for a business to grow, they create joint ventures or collaborations to go after a contract—and many times, these networks are not available for minority-owned businesses
– The general misconception that ethnic-minority or women-owned businesses do not offer the same level of quality as a majority-owned competing business.
       •Often, this is the bias we have as a society

7 Ways to Combat The Challenges that Disadvantaged and Minority-Owned Businesses Face
The issues I’ve shared in this article are real and make the state of minority-owned businesses very vulnerable. To approach this vulnerability requires a level of intentionality. We have to realize that the responsibility for this rests on three parties: the actual minority business owners, the general consumers, and the corporate community. Here are seven important things these parties must do:

1. Educate ourselves on the WHY
We must dive into why is it important for us to care about this topic. There needs to be purpose and benefit for us to support minority-owned businesses. The purpose is in the economic benefit.
Minority-owned businesses in America account for 1 trillion in gross receipts – and the last time I checked the stats – they support 7-8 million jobs. That’s a real significant source of economic growth in America and provides an incentivized WHY for the business owners, consumers, and corporations to get involved with economic inclusion.

2. Don’t speak in a shaming attitude
We do not want this to come across as shaming or to make anyone feel bad.
This conversation is meant to bring awareness. Shaming is counter-productive. But, we do need to help people feel knowledgeable about the benefit of minority-owned businesses so they can get on board (and create buy-in “because of”, and not “in spite of”).

3. Minority communities need to invest in themselves and recognize their own strength and value
For whatever reason, minority populations do not have the same level of confidence and boldness about their value that majority counterparts do. I think that does a disservice – we need to make sure that we’re coupling bold business leadership with the right knowledge needed.
It is already so hard in terms of competing in the marketplace, so minority and women businesses have no room for error. We really need to hone our craft and our trade. We must stay up to speed on the latest knowledge, new technologies, and work on our business acumen. Just because you start a business and become an entrepreneur, doesn’t mean you have the acumen to grow and sustain the business. They are skills that must be learned and developed.
And once that business owner develops more skills and capability, their confidence in their own strength and value can grow. I find a lot of disadvantaged businesses are in a rut where they are always working IN the business, and this leaves no room at all for them to work ON their business. That is a key point because if you’re not focusing on strategic vision and growth strategy, you’re always going to stay where you are.

4. Have Thick Skin and Celebrate The Win
I always tell minority business owners… we probably have to have thicker skin than most.
If you are a women, ethnic, or cultural minority-owned business, something that can help as you strive to grow your business and face challenges is to acknowledge and make the most of small wins.
We often get caught up in the process or sit around waiting for the right big opportunity to happen, rather than inspiring ourselves and taking action. Minority-owned business owners need to strengthen our psyches and celebrate each and every win—big or small. These mini celebrations help to provide self-value and strengthen our mindset.

5. Support and Invest in Each Other
A message we have to send to minority-owned businesses is that they have to invest in each other. We are not exonerated from our part to play in all of this. There’s a lot of conversation in the minority community that minority-owned businesses do not support other minority-owned businesses.
I have the fortune of knowing Maggie Anderson and her whole platform is about supporting black-owned businesses. For one whole year, her family only purchased items and services from black-owned businesses.
If we are not supporting each other, how are we expecting our other counterparts to support us as well? If one of us wins, all of us win. Investing in each other also looks like creating partnerships, collaborating, doing business with each other, establishing mentor/protégé relationships – anytime you can mentor someone who is trying to get to where you are, that certainly creates tremendous value.

6. Support by the General Consumer
In the same way I share that minority-owned businesses need to support each other, the general consumer also needs to support minority and women-owned businesses. Not only does this provide obvious capital and economic benefit, but it provides a social benefit as well. If the consumer had a good experience with that business, they should refer them to someone else. Or, if they didn’t have a good experience, if they are missing the mark, that business owner needs to know – you need to give feedback. You can help improve and solve the problem.
Normal consumers need to be proactive about their own spending habits. Supporting minority-owned businesses makes a larger impact than people realize. As a tip, your local chamber can be a really good resource to learn more. So be more intentional with spending habits and what role you can play as a general consumer.

7. Support by the Corporations
There is an even bigger opportunity for the corporate community to support these businesses. This requires our corporations to be much more innovative in terms of developing strategies to help increase the number of contracts with minority-owned firms.
I happen to work with a lot of procurement leaders who are already doing this work quite well. Where I find the separation between those who are doing well versus those are going through the motions correlates directly with intentionality and creativity. They don’t just let simple inconsequential details stop them from allowing a minority business owner to be in consideration.
Those corporations and businesses are on the pavement, searching for and connecting with those under-represented populations. I equate this to the scenario of—if you’re trying to hire someone for a job and you’re looking to create a diverse application pool—it takes extra thought, intentionality, and effort to deliver upon that. You can’t just post, you must search! Corporations need to be intentional, be diligent, and do the work necessary to create diverse supplier pools
If a lot of employers and businesses in the market are being thoughtful, then you’re going to have a diverse applicant pool from which you can contract. With this, comes new services and innovation, almost like a domino effect. And this will continue to attract talent and corporations to the marketplace.

The Ripple Effect
In the end, there is a ripple effect from the community, consumers, and corporations contributing towards economic inclusion

When you think about the prosperity of a community – we have to be very thoughtful and intentional about the concept of “rising tides lifting all boats”. By supporting economic inclusion, we can build cities and communities that are attractive to individuals who see themselves in this successful and supportive narrative.

By serving and supporting those underserved and minority-owned businesses, we increase the talent and output of the global business community.

The post 7 Ways to Create Economic Inclusion for Minority-Owned Businesses appeared first on Nika White Consulting.

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Finding Community in Chaos: The Power of Shared Stories

By Nika White • February 12, 2025

The news cycle spins, a whirlwind of policy changes and shifting landscapes. It's easy to feel adrift, overwhelmed by the constant influx of information. In times like these, the search for solid ground, for connection, becomes paramount. We hear a lot about "community," but what does it truly mean to be in community with others, especially when the world feels so uncertain? This question has been weighing heavily on my mind, particularly after recent events. It brought me back to a memory, a snapshot of connection in the midst of political turmoil. Remember the debate watch party in DC? A group of women, my community, gathered with anticipation, only to be met with results none of us desired. The air was thick with disappointment, but something else emerged – a shared sense of solidarity. We were in it together. Now, with a new administration taking office, that same group of women have reconnected. We’re not just commiserating; we’re supporting each other, navigating the changes, and finding strength in our shared experience. This, to me, is the essence of community. It's not just about shared interests or geographical proximity; it's about the willingness to show up for one another, especially when times are tough. It's about creating a space where vulnerability is welcomed and shared experiences become a source of collective strength. This concept of community extends beyond political landscapes, weaving its way into all aspects of our lives. I'm personally looking forward to experiencing this firsthand later this month when I attend a wellness retreat with my daughter. It's an opportunity to connect with other Black women, to share stories, and to find solace and rejuvenation in a space designed for us. It's a chance to build community through shared experiences and a collective pursuit of well-being. At Nika White Consulting, we believe in the power of storytelling to foster this very sense of belonging. Storytelling is more than just sharing narratives; it’s a powerful tool for building bridges, fostering empathy, and creating inclusive environments. Whether it’s within a workplace or a broader community, stories connect us on a human level, reminding us that we are not alone. Think about it: Sharing personal experiences: Creates a sense of shared identity and validates individual journeys. Highlighting diverse voices: Ensures that every community member feels seen and valued. Inspiring action: Motivates us to contribute to something larger than ourselves. Bridging gaps: Fosters understanding and empathy across cultural and generational divides. We can all play a role in building stronger communities by embracing the power of storytelling. Here are a few ways to get started: Create spaces for sharing: Organize events or gatherings where people can share their stories. Incorporate storytelling into training and development: Use stories to illustrate key concepts and foster deeper understanding. Highlight employee or community stories: Share these narratives on various platforms to amplify voices and celebrate achievements. Focus on authenticity: Share genuine stories from real people to build trust and connection. Use multiple platforms: Leverage social media, newsletters, and other channels to reach a wider audience. In this era of constant change and uncertainty, community is more important than ever. It's the anchor that keeps us grounded, the support system that helps us navigate challenges, and the source of strength that empowers us to create a better future. Let’s embrace the power of shared stories to build the communities we need, the communities we deserve.

Celebrating 5 Years of Community and the Future of DEI: An Intentional Conversation with Dr. Nika White and Katrina Jones

By Nika White • February 11, 2025

This year, we celebrate the 5th anniversary of our Intentional Conversations Vodcast community, continuing with our weekly live event featuring Dr. Nika White and a guest co-host. Our most recent guest, Katrina Jones , was a rich conversation filled with insightful, covering a range of topics related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), from personal experiences to the evolving landscape of DEI in organizations. We're excited to share some key takeaways from this important discussion. Katrina's Joy and Perspective: Katrina generously shared her personal experiences, highlighting her passion for connecting with people and her joy in everyday moments, like watching her daughter play. She acknowledged the challenges of our current times but emphasized the importance of taking things one day at a time and finding personal coping strategies. Dr. White echoed this sentiment, underscoring the importance of focusing on joy, especially during difficult periods. Building Inclusive Cultures: A Marathon, not a Sprint: A core theme of the conversation revolved around the misconception that building an inclusive culture is a short-term project. Dr. White and Katrina emphasized that true inclusion requires a long-term commitment and a fundamental shift in organizational values and culture. Setting goals and investing for a year or two is not enough. Meaningful change happens through consistent effort and focusing on how people behave daily. Katrina shared examples of practical steps, such as ensuring accessibility in note-taking and being intentional about team activities. It's about weaving inclusivity into the fabric of the organization, not just implementing processes. The Evolution of DEI: The discussion also explored how DEI work has evolved in organizations. While the language and specific approaches may change over time, the core principles of DEI remain crucial for attracting and retaining top talent. Dr. White and Katrina acknowledged the current political climate's impact, which may prompt some organizations to re-evaluate their strategies and language. However, they firmly believe that DEI is not going away. It will continue to evolve, adapting to better serve all employees. Amplifying DEI work and maintaining a strategic and intentional approach are key to its continued success. Engaging Stakeholders: A Collaborative Approach: Dr. White highlighted the importance of engaging a broad range of stakeholders in DEI conversations, including white men, and expanding our understanding of diversity beyond race and gender. Katrina added that involving teams like HR, legal, and compliance is equally crucial. They also discussed the varying levels of public communication organizations employ regarding their DEI efforts, with some being more transparent than others. Both speakers cautioned against taking media headlines about companies pulling back from DEI work at face value, as these stories may not always represent the complete picture. Safety Concerns for DEI Practitioners: The conversation also addressed a critical and often overlooked aspect of DEI work: the safety of practitioners. Dr. White and Katrina shared personal experiences of being more cautious in public appearances due to safety concerns, including a recent incident involving the publication of personal information of diversity professionals. They stressed the importance of prioritizing safety, making mindful decisions about public engagement, and extending grace to others navigating similar challenges. The discussion also touched on individuals' different roles in social movements and the importance of rest to avoid burnout. This conversation provided valuable insights into DEI's current state and future. It reinforced the importance of long-term commitment, genuine engagement, and a focus on creating truly inclusive cultures. We are grateful to Dr. White and Katrina for sharing their expertise and personal experiences with our community. Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.

Navigating Turbulent Times With a Focus on Leadership, Community, and Equity: An Intentional Conversation with Dr. Karen Hills Pruden

By Nika White • February 5, 2025

On a recent episode of the "Intentional Conversations" Vodcast, hosted by the NWC Team, we had the pleasure of speaking with Zachary Nunn , a dynamic entrepreneur and thought leader. Zachary, a former Big Four consultant, is the founder and CEO of Living Corporate, an experience management company focused on driving healthy and fair experiences for employees and customers. His journey to founding Living Corporate was deeply personal, born from a desire to create a space where marginalized voices were heard and celebrated. From Personal Experience to Impactful Solutions: Zachary shared his own experiences navigating the corporate world as a Black man, highlighting the lack of representation and the challenges he faced. This personal experience fuelled his passion to create a platform that would empower others. Living Corporate began as a podcast featuring insightful conversations with executives, activists, and thought leaders across various industries. Recognizing the immense value of these conversations, Zachary developed an AI-powered platform that transforms the podcast library into a valuable learning resource for organizations. A Focus on Respect and Transparency: When asked about his strategies for fostering inclusive environments, Zachary emphasized the importance of respect and transparency. He believes that these fundamental principles should guide all interactions, both within his own company and in his work with clients. "We want to lead with respect and transparency in all things," Zachary explained. "Whether it's a project plan, a roadmap, or simply asking for clarity on an assignment, these are all part of building a respectful and inclusive work environment." Moving Beyond DEI: Zachary made an important distinction, stating that Living Corporate doesn't consider itself a "DEI company." Instead, they focus on driving healthy and fair experiences for all employees and customers. This broader perspective emphasizes the importance of creating a positive and equitable environment for everyone, regardless of their background. Key Takeaways: Personal experience can be a powerful catalyst for change. Zachary's personal journey inspired him to create a platform that empowers others. Respect and transparency are foundational to inclusive environments. Building strong relationships requires open communication and a genuine commitment to understanding and valuing diverse perspectives. Focus on creating positive and equitable experiences for all. Moving beyond traditional DEI frameworks allows for a more holistic approach to creating a truly inclusive and welcoming environment. Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.

A Conversation with Zachary Nunn, Founder & CEO of Living Corporate

By Nika White • January 31, 2025

Unpacking Courageous Leadership with Jelisa Dallas: An Intentional Conversation with a DEI Perspective

By Nika White • January 21, 2025

The Intentional Conversations Vodcast recently hosted Jelisa Dallas , a distinguished speaker, author, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) expert. The conversation delved into the crucial aspects of courageous leadership, fostering resilience, and cultivating an inclusive environment. Here are some key takeaways through a DEI lens: 1. Courageous Leadership Beyond Confidence: Dallas emphasizes that courageous leadership goes beyond mere confidence. It encompasses: Soul Work: Understanding one's values, biases, and how they impact interactions with others. Emotional Intelligence: Developing empathy, self-awareness, and navigating complex interpersonal dynamics. Readiness for Change: Embracing vulnerability, adapting to new situations, and aligning beliefs with actions. This framework highlights the importance of self-reflection and continuous growth, which are essential for leaders navigating diverse and often challenging environments. 2. The Power of Values Alignment: Dallas underscored the significance of aligning personal values with organizational values. When values are misaligned, individuals may experience frustration, burnout, and difficulty authentically leading. DEI Lens: This emphasizes the need for organizations to prioritize DEI values and create an environment where individuals can authentically bring their whole selves to work, regardless of their background or identity. 3. Navigating Dissonance Between Personal Values and Societal Realities: The conversation addressed the challenges of navigating a world where personal values may not always align with societal or political realities. Dallas suggests: Distinguishing between "truth" and "fact": Acknowledging the reality of the situation while focusing on personal truths and how to navigate within those constraints authentically. Prioritizing self-care: Engaging in practices that promote emotional well-being and resilience, such as mindfulness, rest, and connecting with supportive communities. This is particularly relevant in a DEI context, where individuals from marginalized groups may experience systemic barriers and discrimination. 4. The "Go Brave" Framework: Dallas introduced her "Go Brave" framework, which emphasizes: Growth: Continuous learning and personal development. Optimism: Maintaining a hopeful outlook despite challenges. Boldness: Taking risks and stepping outside of comfort zones. Resilience: Developing the capacity to bounce back from setbacks. Authenticity: Leading with integrity and embracing one's true self. Victory & Virtue: Striving for excellence while upholding ethical principles. This framework provides a practical roadmap for individuals and organizations seeking to cultivate a culture of courage, inclusivity, and positive change. 5. Courageous Giving: Dallas emphasizes the importance of "giving courageously" – giving from a place of overflow rather than depletion. Giving courageously highlights the need for leaders to prioritize self-care and replenishment to ensure they can support others effectively. DEI Lens: This concept is particularly relevant in DEI work, which can be emotionally demanding. Leaders must prioritize their well-being to avoid burnout and maintain the energy and compassion necessary to advocate for equity and inclusion. 6. Soul Work as a Foundation for Courageous Leadership: Dallas's book, "Soul Work," explores the importance of self-reflection, self-awareness, and addressing internal barriers to personal and professional growth. Individuals can cultivate self-confidence and authentically lead by understanding and addressing internal obstacles such as self-sabotage. Final Remarks: The conversation with Jelisa Dallas provided valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of courageous leadership. Individuals and organizations can create a more inclusive and equitable world by incorporating these principles – self-awareness, emotional intelligence, values alignment, and a commitment to personal and professional growth. Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.

The LA Fires: A Story of Devastation, Unity, and the Power of Storytelling

By Nika White • January 15, 2025

The recent devastating wildfires in Los Angeles serve as a powerful reminder of our world's interconnectedness and the urgent need for collective action. This tragedy unfolded against a backdrop of climate change, highlighting the critical importance of sustainable practices and environmental responsibility. The story of the LA fires is a multifaceted narrative. It's a tale of immense destruction, with thousands of homes lost and lives tragically impacted. It's a story of resilience, with communities coming together to support those in need. But it's also a story that raises important ethical questions. One such question revolves around the deployment of incarcerated firefighters. While their labor provided valuable assistance in battling the flames, the ethical implications of utilizing prison labor deserve serious consideration. This situation underscores the need for a just and equitable criminal justice system that prioritizes rehabilitation and avoids exploiting individuals for profit. Beyond the complexities of the criminal justice system, the LA fires also showcased the power of international cooperation. Firefighters from Mexico bravely crossed borders to lend a helping hand, demonstrating the importance of global solidarity in times of crisis. This act of international assistance is a powerful reminder that we are all interconnected and that collective action is crucial in addressing global challenges. This tragedy also serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address climate change. The increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires are a direct consequence of rising temperatures and changing weather patterns. Moving forward, it is imperative that we prioritize sustainable practices, invest in renewable energy sources, and work towards a more environmentally conscious future. How Storytelling Can Impact Corporate Culture With all its complexities, the LA fires offer a powerful example of how storytelling can impact corporate culture. By sharing these narratives, we can: Foster Empathy and Understanding: Stories can help employees connect with the human impact of global events, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of the challenges facing our world. Drive Action and Change: The story of the LA fires can inspire employees to act on climate change, whether through supporting environmental initiatives, advocating for sustainable practices, or engaging in community service. Promote Diversity and Inclusion: Sharing stories of international cooperation and community resilience can highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion in addressing global challenges. Fostering a Storytelling Culture Nika White Consulting offers a comprehensive framework for embedding a storytelling culture within organizations. By leveraging the power of narratives, organizations can: Enhance Employee Engagement: Create a stronger sense of community and shared purpose. Strengthen Organizational Identity: Align employee narratives with the organization's mission and values. Foster Leadership and Collaboration: Equip leaders with the storytelling skills to inspire and motivate their teams. Drive Inclusion and Representation: Provide a platform for diverse voices to be heard and valued. By implementing a storytelling culture, organizations can harness the power of narratives to create a more human-centered, empathetic, and impactful workplace. Connect with Nika White Consulting Want to learn more about how Nika White Consulting can help your organization embed a storytelling culture and achieve its goals? Visit our website at https://www.nikawhite.com/storytelling to explore our offerings and contact our team.

Breaking Down Barriers: An Intentional Conversation with Deaf Coach and Advocate, Kellina Powell

By Nika White • January 14, 2025

On a recent Intentional Conversations Vodcast, we spoke with Kellina Powell , a deaf coach and advocate, podcast speaker, bestselling author, and passionate entrepreneur. Kellina's inspiring journey, marked by resilience and a commitment to empowering others, offers valuable insights into the importance of inclusion and breaking down barriers for the deaf community. Navigating the Hearing World: Challenges and Triumphs Kellina candidly shared her experiences growing up deaf, navigating both the deaf and hearing worlds, and the unique challenges she faced as a Black woman with a disability. From facing discrimination in education and the workplace to overcoming self-doubt, Kellina's story is a testament to her strength and determination. Key Takeaways from Kellina's Journey: The Power of Representation: Kellina emphasized the crucial role of representation and role models in the lives of young people with disabilities. Her encounter with a deaf professor profoundly impacted her, inspiring her to become a leader and advocate for the deaf community. Breaking Down Communication Barriers: Kellina highlighted the importance of effective communication, emphasizing the need for clear and concise language, avoiding jargon, and ensuring accessibility for people with hearing impairments. Simple gestures like facing the speaker and using clear masks can significantly improve communication. Building Inclusive Workplaces: Kellina stressed the importance of creating inclusive workplaces that value diversity and accommodate the needs of employees with disabilities. This includes regular training on disability awareness, creating accessible work environments, and fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity. The Importance of Mental Health: Kellina emphasized the mental health challenges faced by many individuals with disabilities and the importance of seeking support and guidance. She encouraged others to prioritize their mental well-being and seek professional help. Kellina's Advice for Allies: Learn and Educate Yourself: Stay informed about disability issues and seek resources and training opportunities. Challenge Assumptions: Be mindful of your language and avoid making assumptions about people with disabilities. Create Inclusive Spaces: Actively work to create inclusive environments in your workplace, community, and personal life. Kellina's message is clear: everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued. We can create a more equitable and just society for all by embracing inclusivity and breaking down barriers. To learn more about Kellina Powell and her work, read her book: " Every Day I Am Just Deaf. " Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.

Fostering Belonging and Navigating Challenges in Education: An Intentional Conversations with Valda Valbrun

By Nika White • January 9, 2025

This blog post is inspired by a conversation between Dr. Nika White and Valda Valbrun on the Intentional Conversations Vodcast, focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the education system. Valda, a seasoned educator, and DEI practitioner, shared powerful insights into the challenges students of color face and offered practical strategies for creating more inclusive and supportive learning environments. Key Takeaways from the Conversation: The Importance of Authenticity and Representation: Valda emphasized the significance of acknowledging and valuing the diverse lived experiences of students, including their cultural backgrounds and identities. She shared her personal experience as a Haitian American woman and the importance of shaping positive narratives around people of color. Addressing Systemic Challenges: The conversation highlighted systemic issues such as the disproportionate representation of students of color in special education and disciplinary actions, as well as opportunity gaps and inequitable access to resources. Creating Cultures of Belonging: Valda stressed the need to move beyond simply admitting students of color into schools and actively work towards creating environments where they feel a sense of belonging. This involves acknowledging their unique identities, incorporating their experiences into the curriculum, and fostering meaningful relationships with educators. Navigating Microaggressions and Bias: The discussion addressed the prevalence of microaggressions in schools and the importance of equipping students with the tools and language to address them effectively. Valda emphasized the need for trusted adults and reporting mechanisms to support students experiencing these situations. The Role of Educators: Valda highlighted the crucial role of educators in creating inclusive classrooms. She encouraged teachers to embrace students' diverse backgrounds, incorporate their experiences into instruction, and foster critical thinking skills. She also advocated for providing educators with professional development and support to become culturally competent. Pre-emptive Strategies and Reframing DEI Work: Valda discussed the importance of proactive measures to protect DEI efforts in the face of pushback and attempts to limit access to inclusive education. She suggested reframing DEI work as creating "cultures of belonging" where everyone feels valued and supported. Concrete Examples and Statistics: While the conversation didn't explicitly cite specific statistics, Valda mentioned the concerning statistic that students of color may experience up to 90 microaggressions per week in school. This data point highlights the urgent need to address this issue and create more inclusive environments. To further illustrate the challenges discussed, here are some relevant statistics from reputable sources: Discipline Disparities: According to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights Data Collection, Black students are disproportionately suspended and expelled compared to their white peers. For example, during the 2017-18 school year, Black students represented 15% of all students but accounted for 38% of out-of-school suspensions. Achievement Gaps: Data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) consistently shows achievement gaps between white students and students of color in various subjects. These gaps are often attributed to systemic inequities in access to resources and opportunities. Special Education Disproportionality: The U.S. Department of Education also reports disproportionality in special education, with Black students being more likely to be identified as having intellectual disabilities or emotional disturbances. Moving Forward: The conversation between Dr. White and Valda provides valuable insights and practical strategies for advancing DEI in education. By acknowledging systemic challenges, creating cultures of belonging, and empowering students and educators, we can work towards a more equitable and inclusive education system for all. Call to Action: Educators: Reflect on your own practices and identify ways to create more inclusive classrooms. Seek professional development opportunities to enhance your cultural competency. Administrators: Implement policies and practices that promote equity and address systemic disparities. Provide resources and support for educators to create inclusive learning environments. Parents and Community Members: Advocate for equitable education policies and support initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion in schools. Students: Speak up against microaggressions and bias. Seek support from trusted adults and utilize available reporting mechanisms. By working together, we can create a more just and equitable education system where all students have the opportunity to thrive. Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.

Cultivating Intentional Leadership: An Intentional Conversation with Yolanda Webb

By Nika White • January 9, 2025

In a recent Intentional Conversation Vodcast, we had the privilege of hosting Yolanda Webb , a renowned philanthropist, public policy expert, and advocate for equity and inclusion. Yolanda's insightful perspectives on human behavior, social impact, and community engagement provide valuable lessons for leaders seeking to create more diverse, equitable, and inclusive environments. Key Takeaways from the Conversation The Power of Attention Bias: Yolanda emphasized the importance of being mindful of our attention and focusing on what truly matters. By consciously directing our attention towards positive outcomes and meaningful actions, we can overcome distractions and achieve our goals. The Work is the Work: Despite the evolving terminology and shifting political landscapes, the fundamental work of creating equitable and inclusive societies remains constant. Leaders must stay focused on the core principles of fairness, justice, and human dignity. The Importance of Self-Awareness and Vulnerability: True leadership requires self-awareness and the courage to embrace vulnerability. By acknowledging our limitations and seeking growth, we can become more effective leaders and inspire others. Cultivating Purpose-Driven Cultures: Creating a purpose-driven culture involves prioritizing employees' well-being, valuing their contributions, and fostering a sense of belonging. By empowering individuals and fostering open communication, leaders can build strong and resilient teams. Practical Tips for Intentional Leadership Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness practices like meditation or journaling to cultivate present-moment awareness. Embrace Vulnerability: Be open to feedback, acknowledge mistakes, and seek continuous improvement. Foster a Culture of Inclusion: Create safe spaces for open dialogue, celebrate diversity, and empower marginalized voices. Lead by Example: Model the behaviors and attitudes you want to see in others. Prioritize Relationships: Build strong relationships with your team members, stakeholders, and community members. Final Thoughts Yolanda Webb's insights offer a powerful framework for leaders seeking to make a positive impact. By focusing on intentionality, self-awareness, and human connection, we can create a more just and equitable future. Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.

A Powerful Intentional Conversation with Natasha Wade on DEI and Black Women's Empowerment

By Nika White • November 26, 2024

In a recent episode of Intentional Conversations, Dr. Nika White had the privilege of engaging with the inspiring Natasha Wade , a renowned coach dedicated to empowering Black women. Their conversation delved deep into the complexities of diversity, equity, and inclusion, particularly highlighting Black women's unique challenges and triumphs in today's society. The Power of Community and Self-Care Wade emphasized the importance of community and self-care for Black women. She shared her journey of overcoming adversity and finding her purpose. By creating a safe space for Black women to dream, build, and thrive, Wade empowers them to break free from societal expectations and embrace their true potential. Challenging the Superwoman Schema One of the key themes of the conversation was the detrimental impact of the Superwoman schema on Black women. Wade discussed how this societal pressure to be perfect, strong, and independent can lead to burnout, stress, and mental health issues. She encouraged Black women to prioritize self-care, seek support, and challenge these harmful stereotypes. Reimagining the Workplace Wade also shared her vision for a liberated workplace that prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion. She advocates for workplaces that are empathetic and supportive and recognize the unique needs of Black women. Organizations can create environments where Black women can thrive by fostering a culture of belonging and empowerment. Key Takeaways from the Conversation: The power of community: Building strong connections with other Black women can provide invaluable support and encouragement. Prioritizing self-care: Taking time for oneself is essential for mental and emotional well-being. Challenging the Superwoman schema: Embracing vulnerability and imperfection is vital to achieving balance and fulfillment. Reimagining the workplace: Creating inclusive and supportive work environments is crucial for the success of Black women. By sharing her insights and experiences, Natasha Wade offers a powerful message of hope and empowerment for Black women. Her work is a testament to the transformative power of community, self-care, and intentional action. Intentional Conversations is a weekly podcast by Nika White Consulting that intersects diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue with leadership and business. Click here to register to attend the live sessions each Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon EST. You may also search archives to view replays of past episodes, or you can listen to the Intentional Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.