Watch Full Interview here: https://youtu.be/V2NoooV7E0M
When I first started my journey as an entrepreneur, I remember being told in subtle and not-so-subtle ways that I wouldn’t make it. I’ve heard professors, employers, and even peers say that “people like me” wouldn’t graduate, get hired, or succeed in leadership. Those words stung. But they also fueled me. I realized quickly that the very traits others saw as weaknesses—speaking up, caring deeply, pushing for excellence—were the things that made me who I am.
Hearing the story of Shernett Martin, Executive Director of Anchor Canada and founder of Black Girls Inc., reminded me of that truth. Her path from being told she would fail to building transformative spaces for Black women entrepreneurs offers lessons that every one of us can use to grow stronger businesses and stronger communities.
Here are the insights I’m carrying forward:
Speak your truth and trust your instincts
Don’t quiet your spirit for anyone. If something feels right to you, chances are hundreds of others feel the same. Those instincts are not barriers; they’re gifts. The scars we carry make us more effective leaders because we lead with authenticity.Monetize what you love and leverage your skills
Every experience you’ve had—whether in teaching, law, healthcare, or another field—can become an asset in your business. Shernett turned her teaching skills into a framework that helped Black women transform passion projects into real revenue. The same can happen for us: the tools are already in our hands.Build networks that take care of themselves
One of the most powerful things I’ve seen is how much brilliance we already have in our own community. Shernett’s Sisterlood retreats showed that when Black women came together, they didn’t need to look outside for resources—printing, marketing, legal advice, all of it was in the room. For us as Black entrepreneurs, interdependence is the key to scaling.Secure sustainable funding and structure
Grants are a great starting point, but long-term success comes from building sustainable revenue and operational systems. That means securing corporate sponsors, creating permanent roles with benefits to retain talent, and finding safe, dedicated spaces that reflect and serve our community. Without these foundations, even the best programs can fizzle out.Be a doer in this renaissance moment
We are living in a renaissance for Black entrepreneurship. The time for waiting is over. We don’t need perfection to begin—what we need is consistent action. Every step we take opens doors for those coming after us.
Takeaways you can apply today
Trust that your lived experience is a leadership asset, not a liability.
Audit your own skills—then find ways to monetize them in service of your community.
Look first within your network for resources before going outside.
Start building for sustainability now: sponsors, staff, and space.
Take one action this week toward your vision—don’t wait for perfect conditions.
The future of our community depends on more of us becoming doers. Our time is now.
Watch Full Interview here: https://youtu.be/V2NoooV7E0M
