A Decade of Healing through Storytelling in Community:

A Reflection from Our Founder

Remembering 2014

PRECIOUS J. STROUD BlackFemaleProject Founder

I have been reminiscing about our origin story—how and why I founded BlackFemaleProject. As a young professional, I made an exhausting effort to dampen and quiet my spirit. I thought that in order to be employable, promotable, and non-threatening at work, I had to comply with the status quo. And the status quo was not welcoming of my Black womanness. By the time I reached mid-career, I went as far as changing my name on my resume to get a job—and it worked.

At that point, I broke. I couldn't hold the contradictions in my body any longer. What I was experiencing and watching others navigate was worth exploring. I began to study how systemic oppression operates in the workplace and how the manifestation of these practices destroys our bodies, especially for those of us who are Black women. I gained an understanding of the root causes of race-, class-, and gender-based discrimination. My healing journey began and led me to create BlackFemaleProject.

What We Do

To date, BlackFemaleProject has served more than 5,000 women. We work to elevate the voices of Black women, affirm our experiences, and provide insights for achieving self-defined success in the workplace and beyond. We believe that the purpose of life is to realize our wildest dreams and to live in alignment with our gifts and calling.

Imagine a world where Black women bring our full selves to work without any negative consequence—that is the vision BlackFemaleProject is working toward.

Why It Matters

Data reveals that BlackFemaleProject provides a much-needed healing outlet for Black women to process personal and professional experiences and reflect on their identities. The women in our community consistently offer powerful and heartfelt testimonials, articulating the impact and vitality of the physical and virtual spaces we curate for their well-being.

What to Expect in 2024

We’re excited to bring back in-person events this year! We have a dynamic calendar of offerings planned. In the spirit of returning to the core programming that built BlackFemaleProject, I will host a monthly salon series in Oakland, CA. Additionally, several of our advisory council members, many of whom have been around since our early years, will offer personalized sessions for you to choose from throughout the year. 

Join us as we celebrate 10 years of healing!

With love,
Precious