Weekly Insights by Blaze Group: Tactical Support for Black Mompreneurs

In a recent article, Forbes highlights three Black women who share strategies to support mental health as entrepreneurs. The strategies were:?

1. “Surround yourself with a circle of like-minded Black women who understand your unique challenges. This support system can provide advice, guidance, and a safe space to share experiences.” - Natasha Bowman, Bowman Foundation.
2. “Accepting that you may need additional support is a strength, not a weakness...don't be afraid to seek help” - Joquina Reed, DEI and Decolonial consultant.
3. Getting screened for ADHD, OCD, Autism, and any other conditions. Dr. Samantha-Rae Dickenson stated, “Realizing I am Autistic later in life clarified a lot for me. While the journey has been overwhelming and sometimes difficult, it's also been empowering. I now better understand my needs and how I can ask for support or accommodations and accommodate myself.”

The 19th*, a nonprofit newsroom amplifying information for those underserved and underrepresented in American media, highlights data that signifies that non-white people, women, and girls are now experiencing autism at much higher rates. Furthermore, this research indicates that Black women and girls, in particular, may be underdiagnosed as research highlights that autism presents itself differently within Black women.

Our 2023 State of Black Women-Owned Businesses Report?? conveyed that Black mompreneurs are in chronic need of mental well-being support, with three-fourths of respondents reporting anxiety and stress levels of 4 or higher on a scale of 1-5.

In light of this news, below are a few ways organizations can support Black mompreneurs:?

1. Organizations that provide mental health services can create initiatives that target Black Women Entrepreneurs: Organizations can partner with mental health professionals and experts to provide specialized support and guidance for Black women entrepreneurs who are mothers. This can include hosting educational webinars, inviting guest speakers, or organizing support groups tailored to their needs.
2. Advocate for policy changes: Organizations can advocate for policy changes at local, regional, and national levels to address systemic barriers and provide better support for Black women entrepreneurs who are mothers. This can involve advocating for affordable and accessible mental health services, promoting diversity and inclusion in entrepreneurial spaces, and working towards reducing the stigma around mental health.
3. Provide mentorship and networking opportunities: Organizations can create mentorship and networking programs specifically designed for Black women entrepreneurs who are mothers. These programs can connect them with successful entrepreneurs and business leaders who have similar lived experiences and can provide guidance, support, and share their experiences.
4. Organize workshops and training sessions: Conducting workshops and training sessions focused on mental health, resilience, time management, emotional well-being, and work-life integration can equip Black mompreneurs with the necessary skills and strategies to manage their mental health effectively.

By implementing these strategies, organizations can play a crucial role in alleviating the mental health challenges faced by Black women entrepreneurs who are mothers, providing necessary support for their overall well-being and success.

We encourage you to download the full 2023 State of Black Women-Owned Businesses?? report to learn more about the needs and profiles of Black women entrepreneurs. Let's advocate for mental health resources tailored to the unique experiences of Black mompreneurs. Together, we can make a difference!

To download our annual research report, visit blazegroup.io/research.