Sisters Inc. Summit provided NYC with inspiration and empowerment through its 1st in-person event.

In the bustling metropolis of New York City, BLACK ENTERPRISE held the first-ever in-person Sisters Inc. summit on Dec. 9. The day was filled with dynamic panel conversations, genuine mentorship, and holiday shopping, all centered around Black women. It was an opportunity to witness the power of these Black women entrepreneurs, not only in their individual accomplishments but in the synergy that emerged when they stood and worked together.

The first panel to kick off the day was between Danessa Myricks, founder of Danessa Myricks Beauty, and BE’s Alisa Gumbs, VP/ deputy chief content officer. They spoke on ‘the power of perseverance’; emphasizing how having strong drive and faith can help your entrepreneurial journey. Myricks noted, “All of us are inspired by the opportunity to create our own destinies. Your commitment is the most important thing throughout the journey. Even when things are really hard, the one thing you really don’t want to give up on is you. Every part of your life’s journey is part of your entrepreneurial journey.” She also spoke on the importance of representation in many industries, or lack thereof.

The next panel that resonated with the audience was between BE’s Senior Digital Editor, Sidnee Michelle; Leah Williams, chief executive officer, Digitalundivided; and Jamila Wright, founder of Brooklyn Tea. They discussed “financing your dreams” and the different paths of women entrepreneurs. Williams spoke on some financial options for women entrepreneurs. She noted, “In terms of pitch competitions, you may not win or receive a little capital, but you can win with the connections. In terms of grants and funding, some institutions give you money when you don’t need the money, and they never give you enough of it. I suggest exploring every avenue possible.” Wright spoke on being one of the only Black-owned companies in the industry. She said, “We grew through community. Gross roots. There are a lot of tea places out there, but no one sells tea like Brooklyn Tea. That’s what makes us special.”

The day concluded with a panel between Nicole Cober Johnson, founder of The BOW Collective, and BE’s Social Media Editor, Tierra Smith, who discussed building a million-dollar business. Cober Johnson dropped gems on how female entrepreneurs in the audience can reach that goal. She said, “Being in business is an investment. You have got to spend money to make money. If you want to get to $1 million, do the math and replicate yourself. 90% of all businesses are solopreneurs.” She ended the conversation by focusing on the power of partnership. “I know how hard Black women work – I know we can work together. If you’re in a ‘I’ mindset, you’re not collectively minded. Know who you are, your value proposition, and that of other Black women around you.”

Attendees also enjoyed a holiday market featuring Black-owned brands and food trucks provided by Kinky Taco and GG’s Fish and Chips. Stay up to date on the upcoming virtual Sisters. Inc conference on Jan. 17 and 18 on BE’s social media and YouTube pages.

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