This past weekend was nothing short of magical! I had the opportunity to speak at the She Leads 2023-2024 fellowship kickoff in New Orleans, a gathering that pulsated with the energy and aspirations of phenomenal women, especially Black women, in activism.
In my session, "Narratives of Change: Storytelling as a Catalyst for Movement Building and Community Empowerment," I explored the profound influence of our stories.
As Audre Lorde once said, "When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid."
Our narratives are our strength, our tools to shape a more equitable world, particularly amplifying the voices of Black women that have the power to shift paradigms.
The day was filled with good vibes and energy from the start, beginning with Sula Spirit's rejuvenating meditation and moving through the profound wisdom shared by Stefanie Brown James, Collective Pac. Led masterfully by Lolita Ross, Shared Strategy Group, every moment was a testament to our collective strength and learning.
The She Leads Fellowship, founded by Ashley Shelton, a project of the Power Coalition for Equity and Justice, is a testament to something vital: empowering Black women is the key to transforming communities. We are not just leaders; we are the pulse of change.
In the words of Maya Angelou, "I come as one, but I stand as 10,000," reminding us of the generations of strength and wisdom we carry within us
This year’s fellows will embark on impactful projects connecting mental and physical wellness, self-preservation, and knowledge as pillars of empowerment and community rejuvenation. This approach acknowledges a crucial truth: the well-being of the community is connected to the engagement and empowerment of the community. The fellowship illustrates how knowledge and active community engagement are not just important but essential in empowering movements. The fellows' projects are designed not just to inform but to ignite action and foster deep community connections.
As we step into the future, the She Leads Fellowship stands as a source of hope and dynamic action. It's more than a program; it's a movement championed by the powerful voices of Black women, driving towards a more equitable and just world.
To the inspiring fellows of the She Leads 2023-2024 cohort: your journey is awe-inspiring, and I'm excited to see the waves of change you'll create. Together, let's continue to elevate our stories, empower our communities, and build movements that resonate with strength and purpose.
Anneshia Hardy | The Hardy Exchange