If you’ve ever wanted to be in a quality relationship with a Black woman, connect deeper with the Black women in your life, or understand the value of Black women’s relationships, this is for you.
Portia James joined me in a transparent, real conversation about why these relationships matter, why they’re sometimes challenging, and how to cultivate strong, meaningful connections.
Why Heavy on the Black?
When I first met Portia, she confidently stated: “I support Black women—heavy on the Black.” That stuck with me because Black women are often overlooked, under-supported, and excluded from spaces where they should be thriving.
Portia, a behavior analyst and business strategist, made a deliberate choice to serve Black women exclusively. And that decision wasn’t just about business—it was about alignment.
The Struggles of Black Women in Business & Leadership
Black women often struggle to find:
- Mentors who understand their experience
- Work environments that embrace their leadership
- Safe spaces where they don’t have to shrink themselves
Portia shared how she struggled to work outside of Black spaces—how she found herself feeling triggered, unseen, and undervalued. And honestly? Many of us have been there.
That’s why choosing who we align with matters.
The Power of Black Women Supporting Each Other
We need each other. Period. But too often, we hesitate because of the following:
- Some Black women feel like they can’t work with other Black women.
- Many have been conditioned to be guarded.
- We’ve been taught to “hold it in” instead of reaching out for help.
But here’s the truth: When Black women unite, we are unstoppable.
And that’s what we need more of—collaboration, transparency, and vulnerability.
The Challenge
Why are we so guarded?
Portia and I realized something: Neither of us has ever had a Black woman mentor.
Think about that. Two successful Black women in business, leadership, and strategy—and yet, we’ve never had a Black woman mentor to guide us.
That speaks volumes.
Why this could be happening
- Fear of being vulnerable – We’ve had to build so much on our own that we don’t trust others with our growth.
- Past experiences – Many Black women have been burned in professional and personal relationships, making them hesitant to open up.
- Scarcity mindset – We’re sometimes afraid to share ideas out of fear they’ll be stolen or used against us.
But keeping walls up keeps us from thriving.
Breaking the Cycle: How to Build Stronger Black Women Relationships
1. Release the Fear – No one can take what’s meant for you. Sharing doesn’t diminish your power—it multiplies it.
2. Be Intentional – Seek out relationships with other Black women who challenge, support, and uplift you.
3. Let Go of Transactional Mindsets – True relationships aren’t about what you can get—they’re about growing together.
4. Be Open to Mentorship & Sisterhood – The right connections will push you higher than you can go alone.
Final Thoughts: Lift as You Climb
We need Black women friendships, mentorships, and partnerships—in life and business. And we have to be willing to show up for each other.
So, I challenge you to:
- Support a Black woman in your circle today.
- Find a mentor—or become one.
- Let go of fear, step into alignment, and watch how your relationships evolve.
Become a part of The Connect membership community to build relationships with black women desiring connection and deep connection.
Until next time, be open, be real, and connect deeper. 💫