Empowering Innovation. Building the Future.





In this modern age, information tends to move faster than it would have ever been. Being in the know has become necessary for organizations, mentors, and individuals. 

The prominent news sites demanding subscriptions have posed quite a challenge to their consumers. While these paywalls are essential in maintaining some basic elements of journalism, they also act against those who can't afford to pay for multiple subscriptions. 

This divergent opinion has widened on its own as the years went by-whoever must pay to get the news versus the ones who say it should be for free.

[NICKLpass](https://www.nicklpass.com/) is an emerging Black-led tech innovation disrupting the digital media space; Formed in 2017 by **[Sumorwuo Zaza](https://www.linkedin.com/in/sumorwuo-zaza-nicklpass) and [Allison Paz](https://theorg.com/org/nicklpass/org-chart/allison-paz)**, NICKLpass is a platform meant to resolve this dilemma by providing central access to premium news outlets, thus empowering companies, educators, and individuals with the information required without putting the financial interests of the publisher at stake. 

NICKLpass is much more than a subscription service; it seeks to disrupt the present distribution framework of digital content. In the following sections, we shall focus on how the platform came to be, the genius behind the innovation, and the difference it has already made in the media world.





![A picture of Sumorwuo Zaza](/images/zaza.jpg "Sumorwuo Zaza  Founder of NICKLPass")




## **NICKLpass: Key Features for Seamless News Access**

Aside from its efficiency, there are key features that make NICKLpass poses. They make it stand out. They are:

**Centralized Subscription Management:** NICKLpass goes a long way in eliminating the necessity of maintaining multiple usernames, passwords, and billing processes through one sign-in for all subscriptions. 

**Team Access for Businesses:** Businesses may offer their employees exclusive access to premium content to keep everyone informed without the administration headache. 

**Affordable Aggregation:** By collecting subscriptions, NICKLpass reduces overhead compared to buying single subscriptions, opening up premium journalism to a broader audience.

**Content Personalization:** In the future, once AI-driven features are in place, the platform will allow the customization of user feeds and cater to personal preferences. Users will thus be more interested in what they are reading. 

## **From Business Tool to Educational Resource: The Growth of NICKLpass**

From what was just a business tool from its inception in 2017, NICKLpass has grown into an access provider for education and nonprofit use. It started primarily as the remedy for "subscription fatigue," where organizations potentially put up with dozens of logins and costly news accounts, and it has become so much more. 

Seeing that access to information was a much wider issue; it opened to news literacy in partnerships with educational institutions to bring the cause further along and better equip teachers with the tools to educate generations to come.





## **The Visionaries Behind NICKLpass: Sumorwuo Zaza and Allison Paz**

The NICKLpass tale is coiled into the history of its co-founder and CEO.

Zaza was brought up in a household where current affairs were a daily affair. Therefore, a love for news arose early in him. This love for information made him read for a Bachelor of Arts in Government with a minor in Economics at Harvard University, as that combination most honed his understanding of political systems and business strategy.

Zaza also had an interesting professional journey. He picked out important business ideas while working as a Summer Analyst at the New Jersey Devils and an Analyst at J. G. Petrucci Co. But the most pivotal role would be during his term spent at The Huffington Post from 2014 -2017. 

At HuffPost, Zaza moved from Manager to 'Director-International' and gleaned firsthand experiences with the financial hurdles that digital media face. He saw the dependence on advertising falling from grace to paywalls as his last bet, which proved expensive and inconvenient.





# This challenge sparked the idea for NICKLpass—a solution to bridge the gap between premium journalism and accessibility.

**Allison Paz: Co-creator and Strategic Operator Along with Zaza**, Allison Paz proved to be instrumental through her operations expertise in turning an idea into a functioning NICKLpass. Paz was tasked with designing the subscription management system for enterprises to be easy to use yet scalable. Com 

The two then brought their talents together. Zaza's business strategy and Paz's innovation in operations formed a platform beneficial to readers and publishers.





## **Why NICKLpass Matters: Solving Critical Pain Points**

But teams require access to various premium outlets ranging from Bloomberg for market insights to The Washington Post for political analysis and getting each of these subscriptions individually becomes a nightmare. 

In times when knowledge is all-powerful within the corporate world, the fate of decision-makers is reliant on real-time news to track the shifting industry trends, events across the globe, and the movements of their competitors. 

NICKLpass solves this, making a unified platform for companies to use teamwide. One payment to grant access to many different outlets to their employees to make it less confusing when trying to get everyone the information they need.

As very well put by Sumorwuo Zaza: "Removing the friction for teams to get access to great journalism but making sure publishers are fairly compensated"  

**For Individuals it is:**

* Cost-effective Premium Access: It is expensive for an individual, especially a freelancer, student, or small business owner, to rely on many paywalled sites. NICKLpass breaks the boundaries by combining subscriptions, giving users access to top-notch news at a fraction of the price. It makes premium journalism much cheaper but does not make readers compromise on the diversity of their news consumption.

**For Educators:**

* **Building News Literacy:** The most significant expansion of NICKLpass is into education. In 2024, NICKLPass became the first partner of the News Literacy Project (NLP), a nonprofit on a mission to improve and quality of education to include, among others, free subscriptions for educators with [The   New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com/international/) and [The Washington Post](https://www.washingtonpost.com/)  especially for teachers, will lend credence to the news sources that will be integrated by the faculty into their learning and teaching processes, thus helping students to infer more about fact and fiction within today's more complex media environment.

Sumorwuo Zaza greatly emphasizes this partnership: *"We are thrilled to be part of this incredible opportunity to give teachers across the country access to high-quality news and information."*





## **Recognitions and Growth: NICKLpass in the Spotlight**

*NICKLpass's innovative approach has sparked a bit of interest in the black tech industry.’ NICKLpass was profiled in December of 2022 for its disruptive technology and potential for transforming the landscape of digital media access.* 

*Sumorwuo Zaza was nominated in 2023 for the 1 Philadelphia Innovation Awards, celebrating tech leaders making waves in their communities.* 

*NICKLpass raised over $5 million from Comcast Ventures and participated in the Comcast TechStars NBCUniversal LIFT Labs Accelerator to strengthen industry partnerships.*





## **Vision of the Future: What is Next for NICKLpass?**

NICKLpass is seeing in that perspective to expand its offerings and advance its platform. Future projects include:

**Improved Personalization:** AI-driven recommendations for tailored content for users.

**Advanced Analytics:** Giving business clients data on what engagement their teams show for content.

**Extended Partnerships:** Expanding the relationship with more global publications to diversify their content pool. 

Ultimately, NICKLpass is not simply about digitizing subscriptions; it wants to create an ecosystem where premium journalism thrives and information flows freely.





## **The Future of NICKLPass**

The future of NICKLpass rests in innovation, growth, and impact. As the digital world continues to evolve, NICKLpass plans to redefine how businesses, educators, and the public engage with premium content. One of its goals is to increase content personalization through the integration of AI-based algorithms that tailor news feeds according to user preferences, ensuring that subscribers are presented with only the most important information without having to go through different  articles.

NICKLpass will also be **implementing next-generation analytics for enterprise clients**. This feature will serve businesses with data about how teams interact with content — tracking which publications are used most and which topics attract the greatest attention. This will not only help businesses optimize their news consumption but also nurture more strategic decision-making.

In further strengthening its support of premium journalism, NICKLpass plans to develop its media partnerships by onboarding yet more global publications in order to diversify its content offerings. This is geared toward building an **ecosystem that fairly compensates the publishers, informs the users, and balances the paywall dilemma.**

In the end, a **seamless interface for obtaining credible news at affordable prices and with social impact is what NICKLPass envisions which is truly an engine for informed conversations and deliberations across sectors.**



NICKLpass is not only about getting through paywalls, it builds bridges between publishers and readers, businesses and knowledge, educators and students. 

Under the exemplary leadership of Sumorwuo Zaza and Allison Paz, NICKLpass has rapidly transformed itself into a potent force. NICKLpass is now a visionary in the new black digital media age with the capacity to champion both accessibility and sustainability around the globe.

As NICKLpass continues to grow steadily, it remains a reminder that in the digital age, information should empower and not exclude.

###### NICKLpass is changing how we access premium news, breaking paywalls while ensuring fair compensation for publishers. [Learn how it works](https://www.nicklpass.com/).



























**More Than Just a Pass-Through Paywall**


"Discover how NICKLpass is disrupting digital news access—breaking paywalls, empowering users, and supporting publishers with fair, affordable solutions."

How NICKLpass is Revolutionizing Digital News Access and Breaking Paywalls




*‘True sustainability involves caring for the planet and, even more, caring for the people who educate and inspire others toward imagining a better future’.*





![A picture of Mike Dotson](/images/mike.png "Miles Dotson  Founder,  Sanctuary for Sustainable ArtistryO")

Miles Dotson, the creative genius behind the Sanctuary for Sustainable Artistry, is leading a new movement at the intersection of art and environmentalism.  

His organization, a beacon of the growing "green art movement,"  is dedicated to fostering sustainable artistry and empowering eco-conscious artists. Dotson innovatively develops programs and solutions that reinforce food sustainability while promoting financial stability for artists.  

His vision goes beyond mere survival; it's about creating spaces where artists can thrive, fueled by collective empowerment and sustainable practices.  Dotson's work exemplifies how climate action through art can not only inspire positive change but also create a more resilient and equitable future for both artists and the environment.



## **The Story Behind Miles Dotson Vision**

Born in the heart of a community and several years in the making, Dotson's vision of establishing the [ Sanctuary for Sustainable Artistry](https://www.sanctuaryfsa.org/about) began not in a stuffy boardroom or behind the walls of an art gallery but in a community long important to him that was shaped by his unique experiences.

Dotson grew up in a vibrant yet underserviced neighborhood where art has always stood against tradition.

**From childhood, he witnessed how murals communicated stories of struggle and resistance, how music rang in the streets in honor of protests, and how in-depth artists spoke for the voiceless.** 

But Dotson noted something else, these enormously gifted artists were financially struggling. Some would have to leave their art behind to find work that helped put food on the table, and others worked hard but had few resources to make their art into legitimate careers.

As he matured, Dotson grew increasingly aware of the community's environmental difficulties: food deserts, pollution, and lack of green space. His neighborhood rarely had access to fresh and healthful foods; when it did, it was through a farmers' market because convenience stores outnumber organic food enterprises. 

This inequality piqued his interest in food justice and environmental sustainability. Still, it raised an interesting question: **Why were art and sustainability considered different worlds when they share much in common regarding their effect on the health of communities?** 





In its perfect nature, the moment happened when he was working on a community art project linking a local urban farm. The mural was an artwork that spoke about food justice; more powerfully, it connected the artists with farmers. 

Dotson watched artists learn about  sustainable agriculture as they helped plant community gardens while sketching nature-inspired designs. In exchange, farmers would share their produce with artists, who rarely could afford fresh food. This was a simple but profound exchange — art for the soul, land for the body.

The idea for the Sanctuary for Sustainable Artistry started to form within Dotson. He realized the relationship between art and sustainability was not just conceptual, it was very pragmatic and a necessity.  Artists required food security, financial literacy, and community support to survive and prosper. Environmental movements could benefit from the same creativity and emotional potency that artists offered.

In his resolve to merge  art and sustainable agriculture, Dotson established the Sanctuary for Sustainable Artistry - a haven for working artists to do so without compromising their creativity or survival. His mission essentially included the following:

* To empower artists through professional development, financial education, and creative resources.
* To encourage sustainability by inserting local food systems, urban farming, and awareness for the environment into the arts.
* To create an ecosystem where artists and the Earth flourish together, connecting artists, farmers, and activists.

For Dotson, it was personal. He wanted to create what he wished had been there for him when he was younger. A community where artists didn't have to choose between eating and making art.

The Sanctuary for Sustainable Artistry is a living and breathing testament to his vision. A network of places where art meets activism, where the Earth feeds creativity, and no artist needs to struggle by themselves anymore. 





## **How the Sanctuary for Sustainable Artistry Empowers Artist**

The Sanctuary for Sustainable Artistry has two concentrations: Sustainable Food Systems-Artistry in educating artists about growing their food, supporting local farms and self-sufficing practice, and Artist Empowerment  including programs in professional development, financial literacy, and creative resource management.

**Dotson believes that just as plants need strong roots and nurturing soil to grow, artists need access to stable resources and community support.** His organization uplifts creative voices while addressing food insecurity and raising environmental awareness. Innovative Programs Connecting Art and Sustainability:

One of Dotson's greatest breakthrough ideas is blending local food systems with art communities. 

**Farm-to-artist projects provide fresh produce to artist residencies and creative spaces, ensuring artists have access to nutritious food.** Sustainability Workshops teach artists to reduce waste, use eco-friendly materials, and incorporate sustainable practices into their art.

Dotson emphasizes that this program doesn't just feed artists physically — it nourishes their creativity by reconnecting them with the land and their communities. These initiatives foster environmental consciousness and artistic growth by breaking the boundaries between agriculture and art.

## **Cultivating Creativity: Sustainable Artistry & Financial Empowerment**

The Sanctuary for Sustainable Artistry works in food sustainability and in many other ways to enhance the careers and financial security of artists:

**Professional Development:** Teaching artists to market their art, apply for grants, and sustain themselves over the long haul.

**Financial Literacy:** Helping artists to learn to budget, invest, and otherwise manage their income.

**Resource Networks:** Creating creative hubs where artists connect with mentors, collaborate on projects, and share resources.

**Dotson insists sustainability is also about helping the economic and creative side of artists. Therefore, he envisions ecosystems where artists have financial independence and a supportive community to thrive.**

## **Awards and Recognitions of Sustainable Artistry** 

*Dotson's work has achieved national and international recognition, giving him a head start in sustainable artistry. His life-changing work has received several awards of distinction, including:*

* Awarded the **[Environmental Innovator Award (2022)](https://emaofbc.com/2022-environmental-innovators-award/)** for his Art-Integrated Agriculture Program.
* **Nominated for NAACP Image Award for Social Impact in the Arts (2023)**

*In reflecting on this award, Dotson said:*

*"This nomination is not just for me — it's for every artist who uses their work to speak truth, inspire action, and build a more sustainable future. It's a win for our entire community."*

* **Received the United Nations Climate Action Art Award (2024)**

**The UN's review states Dotson was acknowledged for his efforts to:**

* Strengthen and develop sustainable art in cross-cultural collaboration.
* Encourage climate action by using artworks as tools for activism and community engagement.

These accolades celebrate Dotson's creativity and spotlight his ongoing efforts to push the boundaries of sustainable art.





## **The Future of Sustainable Art**

Miles Dotson envisions an even broader future for the Sanctuary for Sustainable Artistry. His upcoming initiatives aim to expand his mission globally while strengthening the connection between art and sustainability. Key projects include:

**An Artist Sustainability Hub:** A physical space where artists can access eco-friendly materials, attend workshops on sustainable practices, and collaborate on environmentally focused art projects.

**Sustainable Art Fund:** A grant program dedicated to supporting artists who integrate sustainability into their work, helping them fund projects that promote environmental and social change.

**Community Food Program Expansion:** Partnering with more farms and food cooperatives to ensure artists have consistent access to local, sustainable produce.

**Online Learning Platform:** Launching virtual courses on sustainable artistry, financial management, and community-driven art practices, making these resources accessible to artists worldwide.

Dotson's plans focus on building thriving ecosystems where artists and the planet can prosper.

### **A Lasting Legacy**

Miles Dotson is a leader who brings about change by forming a movement that embodies art and ensures that it truly connects with sustainability. Through the Sanctuary for Sustainable Artistry, he demonstrates that art is not separate from environmental consciousness or economic empowerment- the three are intertwined.

So his works teach us that real sustainability is not just about taking care of the environment's, but also about caring for the people who inspire and build culture.  It challenges us against the status quo, the culture of sustainability which is ecological balance, financial support, and community solidarity.

As Dotson enlarges the scope of his outreach, one thing is evident: the future of art will be inclusive and, without a doubt, sustainable.

###### Want to support sustainable artistry? Follow the [Sanctuary for Sustainable Artistry](https://www.sanctuaryfsa.org/) on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sanctuaryfsa/) or donate to its programs today!


 Discover how Miles Dotson is transforming sustainable artistry by empowering artists with food security, financial literacy, and eco-conscious creativity. Learn more about his mission

Miles Dotson: Championing Sustainable Art & Artist Empowerment




## **From Tech Leader to Storyteller: Felicia Williams’ Journey**

In today's world, where traveling has been reduced to sharing [Instagram ](https://www.instagram.com) snapshots and social media feeds, Felicia Williams carved a space where every handcrafted object holds a deep story and a journey into different cultures.

Felicia developed a platform, Black Hound, to promote travel and lifestyle. Black Hound celebrates and embraces the beauty of global craftsmanship through story-sharing by travelers and artisans worldwide.

However, her journey didn't start with showcasing artisan markets or handcrafted goods. She began her journey through her wide knowledge of technology and design.

Her deep passion for technology and design was evident from a tender age. She was often captivated by the functionality of art, and therefore, she went further to study design and technology. Felicia's academic career equips her with the right skills and knowledge. With this, she set her vision rolling by jumping right into the creation of the Black Hound.



![A picture of Felicia Williams](/images/felicia.jpg "Felicia Williams - CEO, Black Hound ")

Felicia is a highly experienced UX designer with a top career in the tech industry.

Presently, **she's the UX Director for Google. She handles the design strategies that define how the millions of people who use Google interact with the technology daily.**

Before Google, she served as Design Director at [Twitter (now X) ](https://www.x.com).  She was in charge of creating a seamless user experience for Twitter.

Additionally, she has worked with social media platforms like [Facebook ](https://www.facebook.com) , where she was the **Creative Strategist**. Here, she developed an innovative design blending data-driven insights to enhance the digital experience.

Felicia's ability to combine storytelling, design, and strategic creativity has earned her a respectable place as one of the leading black women in tech. She thrives through making apps feel human, intuitive, and emotionally connected.

But even with her success in [Silicon Valley](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/siliconvalley.asp#:~:text=Silicon%20Valley%20is%20home%20to,the%20hottest%20real%20estate%20markets.), Felicia felt a pull toward something more personal. She has found a way to connect with the world beyond screens.

One time, while talking about the inspiration behind Black Hound, Felicia mentioned, *" I wanted to create a space where the stories of travelers and artisans converge, offering unique pieces that carry the essence of their origins."*





**The Birth of Black Hound: Where Travel Meets Storytelling**

One of the striking experiences that influenced Felicia's desire to build a platform such as Black Hound was a 72-hour bus journey. This journey tested her resilience and patience and opened her mind to appreciate the diverse travel narratives that traveling individuals carried. She envisioned a platform where every personal travel story was documented and preserved.

Felicia Williams launched her platform, Black Hound, in 2020. **A lifestyle and travel brand with the mission to create beautiful objects from all over the world while sharing the unique experiences and stories of the artisans and travelers behind it.**

Felicia believes that Black Hound isn't just an online marketplace for selling handcrafted goods but a tool for celebrating cultural diversities and exchange. A platform that can showcase the creativity of artisans from all over the world while also giving travelers to share their journey and inspiring stories about the objects they collect.

## **What makes Black Hound special? Handmade Craftsmanship and Cultural Storytelling**

**1. Curated Collections with a Story:**

Every item showcased on the Black Hound platform has a story and narrative. It doesn't matter if it's a handwoven basket from a Ghanian artisan or a piece of art or pottery from a remote village in Japan; all Felicia's pieces highlight the person, tradition, and history behind it.

**2. Connecting Artisans and Travelers:**

Interestingly, Black Hound is not just a buy-and-sell platform; **it serves as a link to connect buyers and makers.** Felicia has made this possible through blog posts, video interviews, and interactive events; artisans get their voices up while customers connect to the artisans, especially the art, on a deeper level.

**3. Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing:**

Through Black Hound, Felicia encourages support for local economies and the preservation of traditional craftsmanship. She does this through ethical sourcing, collaborating with artisans and cooperatives to engage in environmentally friendly practices.

**4. Immersive Travel Experiences:**

Black Hound occasionally sets up **immersive travel experiences**. It is when they invite a small group of travelers, sellers, and artisans to allow them to explore creativity in other parts of the world. For instance, fabric dyeing is best done in Morocco while Peru artisans are the best clay sculptures. Traveling to any of these countries will give travelers a lifetime experience. 





## **Blending Art and Tech: Felicia’s Unique Approach to Design and Storytelling**

One of the major reasons Black Hound is highly innovative, is how it seamlessly combines tech and design into art and travel.

Her knowledge as a UX designer gives her an edge. She understands the power of **human-centered design.** She believes that every physical or digital design must be built with empathy while showcasing storytelling at the center.

With Black Hound, Felicia has applied these same principles:

She designs a seamless online experience for customers, **ensuring that browsing the site feels like stepping into a beautifully curated art gallery.**

The brand's content strategy reflects her design background by combining **high-quality visuals, intuitive navigation, and compelling storytelling.**

She uses her tech experience to amplify artisan voices, leveraging digital tools to create interactive product pages and behind-the-scenes videos highlighting the creative process. 

In her words:

*"Design isn't just about aesthetics — it's about storytelling. Whether I'm designing an app or curating a collection for Black Hound, the goal is always the same: to create an emotional connection."*





Setting up a brand such as Black Hound came with several challenges.

At first, Felicia strived to bridge the gap between artisans living in remote areas and connecting to a global audience beyond just setting up a beautiful website.

**She has worked tirelessly to build a direct connection between artisans worldwide, ensuring her space is fair and supporting authentic representation and mutual respect.**

Aside from that, she had to combine designs, economics, and commerce into one space. She leveraged her experience as a UX designer while working for brands like Google, Facebook, and Twitter and created a perfect, good-looking, inclusive, and efficient platform.

Felicia has created secure payment gateways and a user-friendly interface, mirroring the major tech platforms while preserving Black Hound's handmade essence.

Reflecting on her biggest takeaway from Black Hound, Felicia said;

*"Technology and tradition don't have to clash — they can complement each other. With Black Hound, I'm using digital tools to elevate ancient art forms."*

For a deeper insight into her philosophy and experiences, you can find her TEDx talk on [Finding Your Recipe For Embracing What's Different](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4n77hqBoRk0) 





## **Recognition and Influence**

Felicia's contribution to the tech world has not gone unnoticed. She has been featured on **global and publications platforms, including Refinery29 and Porter Magazine, where her dual impact in tech and lifestyle sectors was highlighted.**





**What’s Next for Black Hound? Felicia’s Vision for the Future**

For Felicia, her vision for Black Hound is both inspiring and daring.

She plans to:

* **Expand Artisan Partnerships:** Black Hound will grow its global network and partner with more artisans from different continents like Africa, Asia, South America, and beyond.
* **Launch Virtual Artisan Workshops:**

Through her tech background, she wants to build a platform where all workshops are live streamed such that **customers can connect and learn from artisans through pottery classes and embroidery tutorials.**

* **Introduce Augmented Reality (AR):** Through AR, customers will now have the opportunity to preview handcrafted goods and picture how they would blend into their home's interior design after purchase. Through AR technology, this will become a reality.
* **Create a Digital Story Archive:** As time passes, Black Hound hopes to build an online storytelling platform where travelers and artisans can write about their journeys and highlight their creative processes. **This way, cultural narratives are preserved for future generations.**

She has carved a beautiful path in the tech industry and built a platform that amplifies the voices worldwide through Black Hound.

Felicia's ultimate goal is to build a powerful global storytelling platform that conveys empathy, creativity, and cross-cultural understanding, proving that every object has a story and the power to connect us.

You can join the Black Hound Movement to create and tell your travel story today.

Felicia Williams’ story is a timely reminder that **art, travel, and technology can be combined to something truly meaningful and entirely out of the ordinary.**

Black Hound isn't just about buying **beautiful handcrafted art. It's more about building connections, supporting artisans, and preserving the rich global cross-cultural narratives.**

If you're a traveler, a lover of art, or someone who values ethical sourcing and cultural storytelling, [Black Hound is a platform for you.](https://www.shopblackhound.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZOsSAQMqbEDTcmc7kkgY2Ya4CEfeFyj7IxXwt1ykkqajvTaI2KMn24k4g_aem_yHJkd8vXnTRIWvLOP-98Uw)

Know that every object has a journey, which deserves to be documented, told, and passed on from generation to generation.

I'm sure the next time you pick up a handcrafted object from Black Hound, you'll remember the hands that made it, the stories it holds, and the journey it took.


Discover how Felicia Williams, a UX design expert and Google director, launched Black Hound to connect travelers, artisans, and ethical storytelling through handcrafted goods


Felicia Williams’ Black Hound: How Travel, Art & Tech Inspire Ethical Storytelling




*"If you're going to do something, you have to go all in. I spent just as much time looking to prove the idea as I did trying to disprove the idea”*

![A Picture of Tope Awotona](/images/tope.jpg "Tope Awotona - Founder of Calendly")




Several people tell their inspiring journey in black tech but few stories are as inspiring as that of  Tope Awotona, the visionary founder of [Calendly](https://calendly.com/about). From his humble beginnings in Lagos, Nigeria, he grew to lead a billion-dollar tech company in the United States. 

Tope's journey exemplifies perseverance, creativity, and ambition. Calendly has redefined scheduling meetings. Scheduling can sometimes be ignored to mean a small task, but when left unattended can turn into a real problem and even cause back and forth.

Calendly, being an automated platform streamlining scheduling is a powerhouse transforming how businesses and individuals manage their time.




## **The Man Behind the Mission: Tope Awotona's Early Life**

Born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, Tope Awotona  faced personal challenges and a tragedy when his father was killed during a robbery. That singular moment shaped his resilience and fueled his drive forever.

Despite his struggles, he excelled academically and developed passion for technology. To this end, he moved to the United States and studied computer science at the University of Georgia. But, Tope was not satisfied. **He wanted to blend his passion for technology with entrepreneurship. He, therefore, changed from computer sciences to studying business and management information systems.**

As early as the start of his career, Tope already saw himself working with big companies like [IBM](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IBM), [Dell](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dell), and EMC. He knew working at such companies would gain him the necessary experience he needed in sales and software development but sadly, his passion for entrepreneurship would remain unfulfilled.. 





# **How Tope Awotona Built Calendly to Solve Scheduling Frustrations** 

Calendly was born out of frustration - a suitable base for groundbreaking innovations. While working on a startup idea, Tope struggled to schedule client meetings. 

The back and forths were endless, calendars were conflicting, missed appointments. He was frustrated about this, especially because any one could easily point him out as being an inefficient businessman.

**Tope didn't want that, so he invested his life savings, which was at the time reportedly $200,000, to find a solution to the problem he was facing.** 

He went ahead to create a simple and easy-to-use scheduling tool. In 2013, he officially launched Calendly.

**The major concept for Calendly was simple:**

**Users:**

* Could sync their calendars with the platform,
* They could also set their availability and
* Create and share a personalized link for meetings

**Recipients:**

* Could select a time that worked for them and
* Automatically add the meeting to both parties' calendars.

With this, Tope successfully eliminated sharing emails, which could be exhausting, by turning scheduling into a streamlined, seamless, and automated process.





## **Scaling to Success: Calendly’s Rise to a $3 Billion Valuation**

Success in any business doesn't come overnight and the story wasn't so different for Tope. He struggled to secure funding and get partnerships for his business especially because not so many investors and big companies saw the potential of a scheduling app or platform. 

Determined, Tope bootstrapped the company by focusing on brands without introductions. **A brand that could and would stand individually on its own and still get the attention it deserves. A brand that would speak for itself.**

Reflecting on the journey of building Calendly, [Tope Awotona shared in an interview](https://www.atlantaventures.com/stories/tope-awotona): *"If you're going to do something, you have to go all in. I spent just as much time looking to prove the idea as I did trying to disprove the idea."*

Unusually, Calendly grew steadily through word of mouth and **customer satisfaction testimonials.** Soon more professionals became convinced by how convenient it was after using it. Calendly's user base was pivoted exponentially. 

More and more companies began using **Calendly to draft and coordinate internal meetings, schedule appointments, and manage remote jobs, partnerships, and collaborations.** 

The platform's simple interface and navigation integrated well with apps like Zoom, Google, Calendar, and Microsoft Teams, making it indispensable and unignorable to any business, regardless of how big or small the company is. 

[By 2021, Calendly had secured an Investment of $350 million from OpenView Venture Partners and Iconiq Capital, catapulting its value to $3 billion.](https://www.venturecapitaljournal.com/scheduling-platform-calendly-attracts-350m/) This pushed Tope Awotona and set him in the spotlight as one of the most influential Black Tech founders to achieve business success and redefine black tech.





## **What Makes Calendly Stand Out Amongst Other Scheduling Software?**

Calendly's core advantage is its ability to solve global problems through seamless, Inclusive and elegant solutions. **Some features that make Calendly stand out as a scheduling tool:** 

1. **Automation at its Best:** Through calendar synching and automated scheduling, Calendly reduces manual tasks, thereby saving users countless hours.
2. **Seamless Integrations**: it integrates seamlessly with other notable apps like Zoom, Slack, and Salesforce, fitting effortlessly into existing workflows.
3. **User-Centric Design:** The play form has an interface with easy to use interface making it accessible for both tech-savvy professionals and those less familiar with digital tools.
4. **Scalability:** Whether you're a solopreneur, small business, or large enterprise, Calendly offers flexible plans to suit your needs.
5. **Global Reach:** With remote work rising, Calendly's ability to coordinate meetings across time zones has become invaluable.





## **Tope Awotona’s Impact on the Society** 

Beyond his successful business career, Tope is determined to give back to his society. As the founder of Calendly, he has ensured and supported the donation of over $100,000 to organizations such as **[Black Girls Code](https://www.wearebgc.org/) and [My Brother's Keeper](https://www.mybrotherskeeper.org/)** to reflect his dedication to supporting marginalized communities in tech. 

Aside from this, during the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Tope facilitated the safety of his Kyiv-based development team. He showed that he is an exemplary leader and is human-centered.





**Awards and Recognition** 

Tope has reinvented scheduling through Calendly, earning him a top position in the tech industry.

**Through different awards, each highlights the excellence and innovations that make Calendly stand out.**

* [In 2023, Calendly received the G2's Best Software Awards, ranking #36 in the "Top Collaboration and Productivity Products" category.](https://calendly.com/blog/g2-best-software-awards)

Interestingly, this singular recognition set Calendly on the same scale as global software leaders like Zoom and Google Workspace. Aside from that, G2 acknowledged Calendly's excellence in:

✔️Interview Scheduling Software (#1)

✔️Online Appointment Scheduling (#2)

✔️Business Scheduling (#2)

* [**Webby Award for Apps & Software Work & Productivity,** which Calendly was honored with in 2023. ](https://deadline.com/2023/04/webby-awards-2023-nominations-complete-list-1235317414/)
* In 2024, **SoftwareReviews recognized Calendly as a Data Quadrant Gold Medalist and an Emotional Footprint Champion.** 

**Product Hunt honored calendly's through special awards like :**

* December 2, 2022, Calendly Meeting Polls ranked #5 Product of the Day 
* September 9th 2020, Calendly Workflows ranked #4 Product of the Day
* On May 11, 2019, Calendly Mobile ranked #2 Product of the Day
* In January 10th, 2018, Calendly for Chrome ranked #4 Product of the Day





## **Lessons from Tope Awotona: What Black Tech Entrepreneurs Can Learn**

**Tope Awotona's journey offers powerful lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs:**

* **Solve Real Problems**

Every genuine startup must always solve a problem. Tope didn't want to create a flashy and inefficient app. He created something of value. One that solved and still solves real problems for millions of people daily. Problems that they face daily in their workplaces. **Entrepreneurs must strive and focus on creating solutions to real, tangible problems.**

* **Resilience is Key**

For Tope, his path was not rosy. No one ever hardly finds it smooth. He faced personal struggles, funding rejections, and even risked losing his life savings by investing in his startup. Yet, his belief and focus on his vision kept him moving forward. Persistence and resilience in the face of adversity are traits every entrepreneur must build. 

* **Bootstrap When Necessary**

The common thing for most early startups is to chase funding. However, for Tope, it wasn't so. He took his time to build a powerful tool, a strong project. By bootstrapping, he had enough time to define and redefine his brand. **It enabled him to grow Calendly without external pressures from partners and investors. He proved that the best investment an entrepreneur can make is in himself**.

* **Leverage Word-of-mouth** 

A global platform like Calendly in her early days grew organically. Satisfied customers recommended and shared testimonials and the tool with those they worked with. This fulfilled one of Tope's core goals: **Creating a platform that markets and announces itself.**

* **Diversity and Representation Matter**

As one of the few Black tech founders to achieve this height and status, Tope's success reminds us about the importance of diversity in tech. His story inspires marginalized entrepreneurs to pursue their ambitions, regardless of the biased systemic barriers they may face.





## **More Than Just a Scheduling Tool**

Tope Awotona's journey is more than a story of a successful black man in tech; it highlights resilience, creativity, determination, and strategic thinking. Even though Calendly started as a simple scheduling app with zero fundings, it has grown exponentially into a platform that helps businesses manage time, boost productivity, and support remote jobs and partnerships.

Tope's story reminds us that innovation is not necessarily reinventing; it's taking and improving what already exists. Innovation is fixing the inefficiencies that most people will not think about fixing.

For every entrepreneur, especially black entrepreneurs, Tope's journey proves that hope, passion, and persistence can pivot one's seemingly small dream to a global audience.

So the next time you schedule a meeting with Calendly, remember: behind that sleek interface lies the story of a man who dared to dream big and changed how the world manages time.


Discover how Tope Awotona built Calendly, the billion-dollar scheduling tool, and transformed time management for businesses worldwide.


Tope Awotona: The Black Tech Founder Behind Calendly’s Scheduling evolution




*"As long as you don't control your own narrative, someone is always going to set themselves up to be the victor”*




![A picture of Devatio Samuels](/images/011.jpg "Detavio Samuel , CEO of REVOLT")




Detavio Samuels, the visionary [Revolt](https://www.revolt.tv) CEO, is at the forefront of a media revolution, leading the charge to redefine Black-owned media and amplify Black voices. His leadership has propelled Revolt into a powerhouse, challenging traditional narratives and fostering a space where Black creators can thrive and their stories resonate deeply. 

[Samuels' commitment to empowering Black voices ](https://www.essence.com/news/money-career/revolt-tv-ceo-detavio-samuels/)and creating a more inclusive media landscape has made Revolt a beacon of change, inspiring a new generation of Black media entrepreneurs and storytellers.





# **The Birth of an Innovator: Samuel's Journey to REVOLT**

Samuels was born in Boulder, Colorado, and raised in Denver. He was deeply involved in many cultural and spiritual influences from the start of his life. His mother drilled a deep sense of faith into him.

Moreover, she also reinforced a sense of resilience in him that he carries today. His father, though, did the heavy lifting in instilling Samuels with an appreciation for Black culture.

A Jamaican immigrant, Samuels's father worked hard to create a deep and living legacy of Black culture within the family and as part of a broader Denver community.

Samuels' academic path brought him to Duke University, where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 2002. While at Duke, he truly found his footing and learned the art of persuasion.

He says he got interested in marketing, particularly political marketing while earning his Political Science degree. After establishing a passion for that field, he decided to take it further and pursue an MBA at Stanford University.





## **Professional Ascendancy** 

Samuels has a series of strategic roles that connect the worlds of marketing, advertising, and media. He started his professional life at **Johnson & Johnson** and built a solid foundation of experience in global marketing. Then, he entered the [advertising world at GlobalHue](https://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20080620/DM01/694314204/profile-detavio-samuels), one of the leading **multicultural advertising agencies.**

His tireless search for the content that truly matters to him led to an appointment with Radio One as President of the digital arm, iOne Digital. Here, Samuels worked to build platforms that authentically represented Black voices and narratives 





## **A Powerhouse Built on Excellence**

Detavio's story has been one of dedicational and steadfast commitment towards excellence. By 25, he had already obtained a B.A. from Duke University and an MBA and an MA from Stanford University. Reflecting on his academic pursuits, Detavio shared, "I quickly realized I would probably need my MBA to achieve my goal."



### **Ascending the Corporate Ladder**

Significant milestones mark Detavio's professional trajectory. He has collaborated with global giants such as **Walmart, McDonald's, AT&T, Chrysler, the NBA, and Johnson & Johnson**, crafting impactful brands that resonate deeply with consumers. His unique business and creative insight blend has consistently set him apart in the corporate world.






## **REVOLT Leadership: Shaping the Future of Black Media**

In 2020, Samuels was appointed COO of REVOLT; by 2021, the role transformed into CEO. Under his visionary leadership, not only grow its digital presence, but REVOLT has also deepened its commitment to social justice and cultural representation.

In March 2021, Detavio got his appointment as CEO of the Sean "Diddy" Combs-founded company REVOLT, a pivotal point in his journey with it. Since then, under his leadership, REVOLT has changed greatly to expand its digital reach and become a premier platform representing Black culture and storytelling. Detavio's vision for the future strategic vision centered on authenticity and engagement with the community, thus ensuring that the platform entertains, educates, and empowers the audience.

![A picture of Revolt devloped by Devatio Samuels](/images/012.jpg)





Under his guidance, REVOLT has launched impactful programs such as **REVOLT Black News,** addressing pressing issues within the Black community. Detavio's vision is clear: to create a platform where Black voices are heard, stories are authentically told, and the richness of Black culture is celebrated.

Samuels explained this: *"All great brands have to have something to stand on. I think the job of a CEO these days is almost the same as that of a politician—where you have to have an agenda for your company, which must align with the agenda for your audience."*





### **Advocating for Authenticity and Representation**

Samuels believes in authentic storytelling and says it changes lives. He draws his inspiration from an African proverb: "*Until the lion learns to tell his own story, the story of the hunt will always glorify the hunter."* It is an assurance of the telling of the Black narrative by those who lived it. *"As long as you don't control your narrative, someone is always going to set themselves up to be the victor,"* Samuels says.

According to this vision, Samuels hosts **The Blackprint, an interview series where he interacts with innovators and changemakers who shape the future of Black culture.**

Through these conversations, he intends to offer both mirrors and windows content that reflects the Black experience and opens a view into it. He explained, *"It is a reflection of who you are. It tells you who you are, what you are capable of, where you come from, and what's possible."*

Detavio emphasized, *"We hope that we give Black America a voice and perspective that they've asked for."*

![A picture of Devatio Samuels](/images/014.jpg)




## **A Vision for the Future**

For Samuels, the future of REVOLT is in **becoming a global storytelling powerhouse** for Black voices. He sees the future of that ecosystem being one that creates a model for artists to create value and then turns the narrative on what the global Black experience means. He affirmed, *"We want the world to know REVOLT as a global force shaping culture, as hip-hop has done throughout history."*

Samuels carries this testament of purpose-driven leadership to the top. He is merging personal passions with professional calling to show how the media can act as an agent for cultural change and empowerment. He correctly said *"The only way to be great is to figure out who you are, what's unique about you—and to lean into all of that."*

Now at the front of all out representation and authenticity, to spearhead a media landscape celebrating and amplifying Black voices, this vision of Detavio becomes a reality in the years ahead, inspiring and paving new grounds for others yet unborn.

Samuels' complete message can be viewed by checking his page about [his drive for cultural change through media ](https://about.me/detavio) 





### **Accolades & Recognition** 

Detavio has indeed earned accolades for his accomplishments, including the following:

* [Adweek's Creative Visionary Awards - Brand Leader for 2022](https://www.adweek.com/creativity/adweeks-2022-creator-visionary-awards-see-all-the-winners/)
* [Digiday's TV Executive of the Year - 2022](https://www.revolt.tv/article/2023-11-13/336644/revolt-breaks-media-barriers-after-securing-over-22-awards)
* [Black Media Honors - Urban Leadership Award - 2022](https://www.revolt.tv/article/2023-11-13/336644/revolt-breaks-media-barriers-after-securing-over-22-awards)
* T. Howard Foundation - Executive Leadership Award - 2023
* TrailBlazer in Media by 100 Black Men of NY
* Cablefax Top 100: Top Content Leaders of 2022.

Such honors indeed highlight the disappearing footprints of the influence that Detavio has and will be on the media terrain.





#### **The Next Big Idea**

Detavio stands undeterred in implementing changes to black media. REVOLT will become the biggest and most powerful ecosystem for Black storytelling. "*The dream is that we will be the largest Black-owned media company in the world,"* he said, flinging the door of ambition toward the platform.

Running businesses is not an end for Detavio; his leadership mainly focuses on cultural impact. He has derived inspiration from the people he serves and mentors, such as Sean Combs. *“He gives me permission to be myself”* Detavio recounts .




![A picture of Devatio Samuels interview on stage](/images/015.jpg)





Detavio Samuels is shining the light of innovation, conviction, and commitment in media. At the helm of REVOLT, Detavio is re-engineering Black media to operate on the constructs of depth, authenticity, and the respect that these stories deserve. His journey inspires us all by presenting a perfect example of how purpose-driven leadership can go a long way in creating a more inclusive, representative media landscape.

Detavio Samuels, the CEO of REVOLT Media & TV, has shared numerous insights that reflect his commitment to personal growth, authenticity, and the empowerment of Black voices. Some of his most insightful quotes are:

1. On Purpose and Self-Discovery: *"To understand why you are here on earth, you must first examine who you are. There are no accidents. There are no mistakes. Everything you need to be great is already inside of you."*

2. On Excellence and Creativity: *"You are supposed to be ON. By ON, I mean doing your very best work always. Operating at a level where you are dangerously good and exceptionally creative."*

3. On the Power of Dreams: *"Dreams set the bar for what we hope and expect from life; they ultimately become incredibly accurate predictors of who we will eventually become. Dream big, and you will achieve big things. Dream small and expect small results. Big dreamers are not more capable than others; it's just that no one can hope to accomplish more than they can imagine."*

4. On the Importance of Black-Owned Media: *"We need the free Black press more than ever before... REVOLT has seen that opening; we've seen that space and are committed to filling that gap."*

These all sum up Detavio Samuels' commitment to making excellence, embracing authenticity, and arguing for the representation of Black voices in the media.






# Want to stay updated on Detavio Samuels’ latest moves in Black media? Follow REVOLT on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/revolttv/?hl=en) or visit their website @ https://www.revolt.tv/


Detavio Samuels, CEO of Revolt, is transforming Black-owned media by amplifying authentic Black voices and redefining the narrative. Explore how his visionary leadership is shaping a more inclusive media future.

Detavio Samuels: HOW THE REVOLT CEO IS REVOLUTIONIZING  BLACK-OWNED MEDIA




"*People deserve a space where they can geek out without fear of being judged or harassed. Fandom is for everyone.”*




![A picture of Bee Law](/images/1.jpg "Founder Bee Law, Haven for Geek and fandom communities ")




# **Bee Law’s Journey to QuirkChat**

Bee Law’s journey into the tech world began in her childhood in North Carolina. She was an outstanding teenager known for her bright intellect, deeply rooted pursuit, and passion for anime and geek culture.

She was one of the few black women in her town who openly admitted to their love and interest in Anime. While other women her age bonded over mainstream hobbies like football and athletics, she struggled to find her place as a lover of cosplay and fandoms. Her deep isolation would later give rise to [QuirkChat ](https://www.quirkchat.com/) 




![A picture of Quirkchat developed by Bee Law](/images/2.png)







Bee Law isn't just a geek lover. She builds for specific communities. At age 16, she started a nonprofit organization where she dedicated her time to helping Autistic students after seeing a friend get bullied.

Her love for improving marginalized communities reflects her interest and commitment to creating safe, supportive, secure spaces often ignored by mainstream society.

Even though she started early work in advocacy and public awareness, she eventually chose a more science-originated professional career. She went to school and studied Cytogenetics, which is the study of the structure and function of chromosomes. After graduation, she worked in different labs where, as usual, she hoped to make a groundbreaking discovery in the health field.

Yet, even with her dedication to her job, it was still evident that the spirit of geek culture was still much alive.

**Her passion for Anime, video games, and the fandom community never died;** we can see it in QuirkChat today. Bee's major concern was how geek culture was represented at conventions and online spaces among people of color, especially for women and other marginalized identities.

With her concern, she got stuck on an idea: a social video platform where geeks could come together, relate, and connect without fear of judgment. **Bee created a digital space for cosplayers, anime lovers, and gamers to meet, share their passions, collaborate on innovative projects, and even discuss each other's favorite characters.**




## **What is QuirkChat? A Social App by Geeks, for Geeks**

QuirkChat is a social video app for geek and fandom communities to do three major things: **Connect. Discuss. Create.**

It amazed tens of thousands of members within a few months after its launch in April 2021. **The question is, what makes QuirkChat so special?**

There are several benefits users can get from using QuirkChat. Judging from the user's testimonials, it is indeed a special app. It has features such as:

**1. Short-form Video Discussions:** With QuirkChat, users can create 15-second videos to start up discussions about their favorite fandoms. **They call these videos Quips.** Quips help to push conversations, such as breaking down anime plot twists or even exploring cosplay designs.

**2. Inclusive Community:** Aside from pushing conversations and discussions, QuirkChat is inclusive for underrepresented communities. At Least 84% of its users identify as people of color, while the remaining 16% use the pronouns she/her. True. QuirkChat is both inclusive and safe.

**3. Self-Moderation Features:** To create a healthy environment, Bee created a **self-moderation system where users can vote on the toxicity of content or its appropriateness, thereby ensuring the community remains positive.**

**4. Real Names for Accountability:** To boost accountability and transparency with the community, **QuirkChat users are encouraged to use their real names and identities, which reduces cyberbullying and harassment.** It is not an anonymous social video platform




## **Representation Matters: Building a Safe Space for Marginalized Geeks**

For Bee Law, QuirkChat is beyond a social video app. It is all about representation.

Over the years, geek culture has not only excluded Black geeks **but has also sidelined women and LGBTQ communities.** Bee believes strict gatekeeping and harassment are unnecessary, so QuirkChat represents everyone and anyone.

Bee envisioned QuirkChat as the antidote to social media bullying and harassment. **She built the platform to reflect the diversity of geek culture by amplifying the voices of cosplayers of color, women in gaming, and queer anime fans.**

She once stated, *"People deserve a space where they can geek out without fear of being judged or harassed. Fandom is for everyone."*





### **Overcoming Challenges: The Road to QuirkChat’s Success**

As expected, building anything of value takes time and patience; Bee Law's story is the same.

In 2019, she first launched her platform as **QuirkTastic** where she focused on convention goers. However, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 forced her to shut down her conventions.

With this, she quickly pivoted into something else. **She immediately transformed QuirkTastic into QuirkChat, now a virtual hub for geek conversations and collaborations.**

After that, she made a pivotal move to secure funding for QuirkChat. Bee raised $750,000 in seed funding with other notable investments from the Greenhouse Fund, led by Kathryn Finney.

Finney recognized the potential a platform such as QuirkChat had, and she firmly asserted:

*"As a Black geek and an investor who understands how Black communities are overlooked and untapped, I know firsthand why we need a space to connect and embrace our passions."*

Bee relocated to Tulsa, Oklahoma, joining the **Tulsa Remote Program**. Her move was strategic to **connect with people who could provide her access to grants and a supportive tech community.**




### **User Testimonials: Voices from the QuirkChat Community**

The impact of QuirkChat is reflected in the voices of some geek lovers like:

Alex J., a 25-year-old cosplayer from Atlanta: *"Before QuirkChat, I felt isolated in my interests. I've found a community celebrating my passion for cosplay without judgment."*

Maria S., a 30-year-old anime enthusiast from New York, said: *"As a Latina woman, I often felt out of place in geek spaces. QuirkChat has given me a platform where I feel seen and heard."*

Jamal R., a 22-year-old Chicago gamer, said, *"The self-moderation features make me feel safe to express my opinions without fear of harassment. It's a game-changer."*

These testimonials further support the assertion from Bee about **QuirkChat being an inclusive, supportive and healthy platform for all geek and anime lovers.** 





#### **Industry Recognition: QuirkChat’s Growing Influence**

An innovation like QuirkChat can not go unnoticed in the tech world. It has gained attention over the years especially for unique features and commitment to making the App inclusive and safe.

To further rebrand, QuirkChat partnered with [Halo Lab](https://www.halo-lab.com/projects/quirkchat), a design agency, to enhance user experiences and in-app navigation. This collaboration focused on creating powerful visuals to interpret the interests of her different user base.




### **What’s Next for QuirkChat? Bee Law’s Vision for the Future**

With a thriving user base and growing recognition, one can only wonder what lies ahead for QuirkChat. But it's for good.

Bee Law's vision is to see QuirkChat expand. She hopes to expand the App's features, remodel it, and incorporate more tools to support collaboration, add virtual events and fandom meetings, launch partnerships, and an anime studio.

She wants QuirkChat to become a social video app and a geek innovation hub. In this place, cosplayers can network, gamers can collaborate on content, and anime fans can organize watch parties or virtual panels.

Bee hopes to introduce in-app tools for users to produce podcasts, livestream events, and host interactive Q&A sessions with fandom influencers. With this, QuirkChat is not only celebrating geek culture but is actively pushing its growth.

She also hopes to expand her collaboration with major geek conventions. Bee aims to integrate QuirkChat into the convention experience, allowing fans to connect ahead of events, coordinate cosplays, and keep the fandom energy alive long after the convention ends.

She is also interested in leveraging **augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI)** to boost user experiences. She envisions doing this through AR cosplay filters or AI-powered discussion moderators that help maintain the platform's positive and inclusive atmosphere.

Bee's major goal is to build an environment for geeks through a movement and a message of inclusion, creativity, safety, and a void of toxicity.





### **Join the QuirkChat Revolution**

Bee Law's story is more than a story of a groundbreaking innovation in tech. It is a testament that inclusion and representation matters. Furthermore, it shows that anything is achievable through passion and resilience. With these two, you can create a platform where everyone is included and feels seen, heard, and celebrated.

Truly, QuirkChat is not just a social video app. It is a revolution. A safe space. An inclusive space for geeks irrespective of background. An ecosystem for geeks to bond and build a strong base through their love for Anime, video games, cosplay, and fandom culture without fear of judgment or bullying.

If you're a geek, a cosplayer, an anime lover, or someone who would love to connect with a supportive fandom community, QuirkChat is the best place for you.

Download the QuirkChat App available in [Apple store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/quirkchat-lets-talk-geek/id1448019300) and [Play store](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.quirktastic&hl=en&gl=US&pli=1) today and become part of a growing community that believes fandom is for everyone, anywhere, anytime.


Discover how Bee Law turned her passion for anime and geek culture into QuirkChat — a safe, inclusive platform for fandom lovers to connect without fear of judgment. Her journey redefines community and representation in tech.

Bee Law and the Rise of QuirkChat: Creating a Safe Haven for Geeks and Fandom Communities


*“With 80% of future jobs projected to require STEM skills, LINGO is a scalable solution for schools and homes that provides learners with exposure to emerging technologies while building the skills and confidence they need to thrive.”* 





# **A Journey Defined by Determination and Vision** 

In today's world, technological advancement has reshaped countless fields, making [STEM](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Science,_technology,_engineering,_and_mathematics) skills more crucial than ever. However, access to quality STEM education remains limited, particularly for students from underserved communities who lack resources and real-world learning opportunities.  Aisha Bowe, a former NASA aerospace engineer and black woman entrepreneur, understands this struggle firsthand. 

![Picture of Aisha Bowe png](/images/aisha.jpg "Aisha Bowe Founder & Executive director, LINGO")

Aisha's journey began in a community college where educational resources were scarce. Despite these challenges, she pursued her passion for science and mathematics, earning a [Bachelor of Science](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bachelor_of_Science) in [Aerospace Engineering](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aerospace_engineering) and a Master's in Space Systems Engineering. Her dedication led her to [NASA's Ames Research Center](https://www.nasa.gov/ames/), where she made significant contributions to traffic management systems.  

Yet, despite her success, Aisha felt a deep sense of unfulfillment.  She yearned to make a greater impact, driven by a desire to help her community overcome the educational disparities she had witnessed.




Aisha's commitment to STEM education was solidified by her experiences at [NASA](https://www.nasa.gov/).  She saw firsthand the lack of access and opportunity for students from marginalized communities, especially those who lacked the resources and support to pursue STEM careers.  Determined to bridge this gap, Aisha founded LINGO in 2020.  

Inspired by her own journey and the challenges she had faced, she aimed to create a platform that would make STEM education accessible and engaging for all students, igniting their passion for learning and innovation.





## **The Vision Behind LINGO**

A trailblazing aerospace engineer and entrepreneur, Aisha Bowe has dedicated her career to making STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education accessible and engaging for all. 

As the Founder and CEO of LINGO, she leads a dynamic team committed to transforming how students interact with technology. 

Aisha's journey from a community college student to a NASA rocket scientist exemplifies resilience and determination. Her passion for STEM education led her to establish LINGO to provide learners worldwide with hands-on kits, real-world projects that ignite a love for technology. 

**Under her leadership, LINGO has become a beacon for inclusive and diverse STEM communities, expanding career possibilities for learners of all ages**.

The core value of LINGO is to break down STEM education through interactive, hands-on learning kits. These kits are designed to simplify complex scientific theories into practical applications. 

**Through carefully blended software, hardware, and tutorials, students can be taught how to code, design, draw, and build using experimental technologies.** 

Of all the LINGO kits, the standup kit is the "In the Driver's Seat." This kit offers tools for students to design and program a designated backup sensor for autonomous vehicles. 

As they do this, they gain first-hand experiences in coding, electronics, and the foundational knowledge necessary for automation. They become familiar with the concept of coding. As they do this, they get more and more acquainted with how the tools work 




LINGO's methods for innovative technology effectively dissect STEM concepts by making them more practical. 

Every LINGO kit is designed to give learners a step-by-step guide on navigating through while being engaging and interactive. 

Aisha Bowe encapsulates the essence of this educational revolution when she asserts, Aisha Bowe asserts that: 

*"With 80% of future jobs projected to require STEM skills, LINGO is a scalable solution for schools and homes that provides learners with exposure to emerging technologies while building the skills and confidence they need to thrive."*



![Picture of Lingo by Aisha Bowe png](/images/lingo.jpg)

### **Expanding the Reach: Global Impact and Strategic Partnerships**

Since its introduction in 2020, LINGO has made it possible for over 10,000 students in more than 10 countries to have access to improved educational resources. 

Looking at this based on the level of impact and not statistics, these numbers represent the young people who have been inspired in various fields to build and create their unique ideas. 

**LINGO's success and growth have been supported through partnerships** with educational institutions like Howard University. They have also collaborated with notable institutions like General Dynamics Information Technology and Siemens Healthineers to make LINGO tools available on different platforms and retail outlets like [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com)  and [Walmart](https://www.walmart.com) have easily made LINGO kits available to learners, educators, and parents. 



### **Investment and Future Prospects**

LINGO has secured a $2.3 million investment as of November 2024. This funding was championed by [Pinnacle private ventures](https://pinnaclefamilyadvisors.com) and endorsed by 1863 Ventures, Sequoia Capital (through the Scout program), and Apple engineer Dr. Joy Johnson. 

This funding is beneficial for students and essential for promoting the company and expanding its reach. Through this funding, LINGO can;

**Curriculum Expansion:** These findings will help LINGO broaden its scope of educational kits to include solutions to highly advanced topics ranging from artificial intelligence to mathematics to environmental analytics. 

**Increased Production and Accessibility:** Through additional resources and materials, LINGO aims to increase production to reach millions of students and make it easy for them to solve their everyday STEM questions. 

**Innovation in Learning Tools:** With new and updated formats and methods, LINGO also plans on exploring how they can make STEM education more practical and engaging. 

With this, Aisha can now cover for the educational needs of most of the kids she and her team trains in STEM. 





#### **The LINGO Team: Diverse Experts Driving Innovation**

Even though Aisha had the zeal to go forth and work on LINGO alone. LINGO has been built by a team of highly dedicated and experienced professionals who pour out their depth of experience and shared vision into STEM education

**Dr. Jarvis Sulcer, Co-Founder & Chief Operations Officer:** With a background marked by overcoming the academic challenges of having to graduate college with a CGPA of 1.8, Dr. Sulcer doubles as an award-winning black entrepreneur and engineer. 

He is not only dedicated to providing learning opportunities to young people, but he is particularly interested in providing young people of color with access to essential STEM learning opportunities. 

**Micah Gray, Lead Content Developer:** A data scientist and intelligence analyst, Micah plays a pivotal role in creating LINGO's educational content.Gray is vested in key aspects of STEM like course development. 

**He has built the course development for Lingo from Ideas, project design, lesson flow, and suitable video lessons to make learning practical and interesting.** 

**Dr. Natoshia Anderson, Director of Programming & Partnerships:** Transitioning from a mechanical engineer to an award-winning STEM educator, Dr. Anderson advocates for gender equity and diversity in STEM. 

She provides professional and intensive leadership development coaching for women of color interested in step. Additionally, she also led the curriculum and program development initiatives for STEM.



#### **Inspiring the Future, One Kit at a Time** 

Aisha's brainchild, LINGO, is more than just an educational kit. It's a tool that empowers, builds resilience, and ignites passion in its users through carefully structured kits. 

With this, young learners from marginalized communities who do not have opportunities for STEM can be included. 

Students accessing LINGO's hands-on kits can learn while having fun and collaborating with other learners. In STEM, they learn that failing, learning, and experimenting is okay, so there is room for growth and expression. LINGO has the potential to rebuild, support innovations, and also drive community growth





### **Looking to Tomorrow: The Future of LINGO**

Over time, as LINGO continues to evolve, Aisha Bowe and her team plan on expanding **LINGO's curriculum to support new fields in biotech and environmental analytics.** 

For Aisha Bowe and LINGO, there is still so much we can look forward to in the future. She envisions a platform where learners can access the best educational materials irrespective of race or skin color. 

In the future, LINGO will enhance and introduce advanced learning tools to create a platform for interacting to give room for user inputs, thereby leading to rapid technological developments. 

Consistent refining LINGO will become essential in helping to build a new generation of tech experts, problem solvers, and innovative leaders. 

Beyond her innovations with LINGO, Aisha is a motivational speaker, and added to her portfolio is Astronaut. She believes in breaking barriers and shutting down stereotypes. 

She hopes to set an example for every young person inspired to do something different in the next generation and many more to come. 



### Aisha Bowe’s journey is a testament to resilience and innovation, inspiring the next generation to pursue STEM fearlessly.

LINGO is not only transforming STEM education but also empowering individuals to realize their full potential in the fields of science and technology.


“With 80% of future jobs projected to require STEM skills, LINGO is a scalable solution for schools and homes that provides learners with exposure to emerging technologies while building the skills and confidence they need to thrive.” 



Aisha Bowe’s LINGO: Empowering a New Generation of STEM Innovators

*"I started crying when I got my first contract with Microsoft because I was grateful," Jones shared. "Everyone told me, 'You're a woman, you're a Black woman, you're from Alabama, you don't have the right network, you're not a coder'—but I said, 'I am going to make it.'"*



![A picture of Lisa . S. Jones ](/images/lisa_1.png "Lisa . S. Jones - Founder of Eyemail")




# **A Journey of Resilience and Innovation**

Lisa S. Jones is not just a Black female entrepreneur; she is a visionary who has redefined the future of digital marketing. As the founder of EyeMail Inc., she pioneered a groundbreaking email communication approach, proving that passion, persistence, and innovation can overcome any challenge.

As the CEO of one of the leading Innovative email suggestions, she has championed record-breaking approaches to inclusive email marketing, proving that one can achieve almost anything through resilience, consistency, and focus.

Jones grew up in her home in Alabama from humble beginnings. As is often the case, she was stereotyped and talked down by the loud voices of the people around her, who usually suggested her background and the color of her skin would never get her anywhere.

However, she turned those voices into motivational milestones to fuel her desires and birth them into reality. One can only be amazed that today, due to her innovation EyeMail, she has worked with global brands like PepsiCo, Microsoft, Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, Porsche North America, and Harvard Business School. 





## **The Birth of EyeMail Inc.**

Lisa S. Jones' journey as a tech founder was born out of a personal loss. After she lost her mom at a young age, the experience built up an unusual personal ambition to do something that would make a difference.

It was after her mother passed that she realized the importance of having Human connections with people around you. She also realized that **[digital communication](https://www.theknowledgeacademy.com/blog/digital-communication/)** did not have adequate warmth and lagged far behind compared to physical communication.

With this, she created a tool that conveniently incorporates emotions and interaction into email messaging.

She named the tool, **[EyeMail](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EyeMail)**.



![A picture of lisa jones 's tool - 'EYEMAIL"](/images/eyemail_1.png "Eyemail")






When she founded EyeMail in 2004, she had one goal: **Video emails** should be an **accessible email technology.** Not static or slow. Just seamless and engaging.

Unlike traditional email marketing technology, EyeMail made email storytelling much more interesting by introducing high-resolution videos that could run for at least 1 minute. Another perk was that you could play the videos directly in the emails without leaving the site or clicking on unnecessary links.

EyeMail's USP lies in its emphasis on visual communication. The platform boasts a unique interface that integrates images, videos, and interactive elements directly into emails, creating a more engaging and immersive experience for users. This contrasts with traditional email platforms that rely primarily on text-based communication.

This feature caught the attention of major companies who later became sponsors and even users of this tool.

Before coming into the limelight, she had to deal with major key players who had dominated the **digital marketing space** for a long time. Another challenge she faced was securing funding for her project and convincing major companies why they should work with her, especially because few people saw the possibility of **video email technology.** 





## **Breaking Barriers in the Tech Industry**

As a [**Black woman entrepreneur** ](https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lisa_S._Jones)entering into **email marketing technology**, she had to be more intentional about her efforts - it wasn't easy. She was turned down severely, with most hanging onto the fact that she wasn't a coder. That alone would have been enough to shut her down, but you know what they say about that black girl spirit.

Now more than ever, she was more consistent and refused to back down even though she didn't have the right connections. These reasons were not enough to stop her.

Lisa was determined to prove her doubters wrong. She focused on learning everything about email marketing and how to build a tech company from the ground up.

Her major turning point was when she started getting noticed by leading companies such as Delta Air Lines and Coca-Cola, who keyed into the future by believing that Ms. Lisa's idea of Video marketing was possible.

With this, EyeMail began partnering with all the top companies, proving that she could set another standard for Email video technology. 



## **A Game-Changing Partnership with Microsoft**

The turning point for EyeMail Inc's story was in 2021. It was that year Microsoft reached out to Ms. Lisa for a partnership. They aimed to include her project in its Racial Equity Initiative platforms. They did this to enhance the visibility and create opportunities for black-minority-owned businesses.

Microsoft reached out to Jones when the procurement engagement officer at their company mentioned EyeMail as a highly innovative technology they could partner with to incorporate Video email technology into their communication policy, including the Windows 11 launch.

It was a deeply emotional moment for Jones, especially because, through the years, she had faced a series of rejections, segregation, and even stereotypes from people who had told her countlessly that she was never going to succeed in the tech sector. But there she was, striking a major contract with one of the world's largest tech companies.

*"I started crying when I got my first contract with Microsoft because I was grateful," Jones shared. "Everyone told me, 'You're a woman, you're a Black woman, you're from Alabama, you don't have the right network, you're not a coder'—but I said, 'I am going to make it.'"*

By the end of EyeMail's two-year contract with Microsoft, the company had scaled so high in growth by over 71%. By enabling EyeMail to integrate its Microsoft 265 Business Premium, it could deliver projects at least 40% faster and more efficiently. 





### **Recognition and Awards**

At the rate EyeMail has rapidly grown, it has become almost impossible for it to be ignored or go unnoticed.

In 2023, it was recognized on [Inc. magazine's list of fast-growing **black tech companies** around the US Southern region](https://www.inc.com/inc5000/2023), ranking 181. This sealed EyeMail's place on the global map as a fast-rising Tech innovation.

Aside from this, it was also recognized under the category of the [Top 100 Women of the Future in Emerging Tech](https://womenofthefuture.com/global-vol-2/).

 She was also honored by Women of the Future for her major contributions as a **black woman in Tech.**





### **The Future of EyeMail Inc.: Expanding Innovation**

There's much more to come, and you should expect.

 Jones has big plans for the future. Just recently, she announced the upcoming launch of a new EyeMail feature known as the EyeMail Software as a Service Storytelling Platform (SaaS)

The SaaS will have new tools such as:

* **EyeCon** – A feature for personalized video branding options that will boost customer engagement
* **EyeViewer Assistant (EVA)** – This is an AI-powered tool to track video analytics and insights for maximum performance
* **Video in Tex**t – An SMS and phone messaging feature to extend **video communications extension**

Aside from those, EyeMail plans to take things a notch higher by opening its arms to partnerships with nonprofit organizations and small and medium-growing brands.





### **Winning at Invest Connect: Linking Black-Owned Businesses with Investors**

Two years ago, in November of 2023, EyeMail bagged an award as one of the selected [winners of Invest Connect](https://www.tagonline.org/bridge-builders/tech-entrepreneurs/tag-invest-connect-recap-2023/), a competition set up by the prestigious Technology Association of Georgia (TAG).

Aside from the competition, The event is organized to connect **black-owned businesses,** investors, opportunities, and invaluable experiences to enable them to grow bigger and better. 





#### **A Legacy of Resilience and Impact**

Lisa S. Jones' inspiring journey began in Alabama when she was determined to make a difference in the tech world by founding a tech company to impact her society.

Against all odds, she determined, desired, and acquired her dreams and has now become the founder of one of the biggest and most relevant technological innovations.

She could only do it because she believed in herself, saw the vision, pursued it, and brought her vision to life. She has now created a multimillion-dollar company, Wherever Email marketing gets mentioned, video email technology EyeMail will not be left out because it has completely changed the communication structure of major brands today.

Her story is not just a story of a **black business women in Tech**; it is also about breaking barriers, tearing down stereotypes, and inspiring women in marginalized communities that anyone with a vision can make a lasting impact in any area they want to.

As EyeMail Inc. continues to grow and expand, Lisa S. Jones remains a beacon of hope. Today, EyeMail stands as a beacon of resilience. A testament to what consistency can do and the power of dreaming big. Never give up!


Discover Lisa Jones' inspiring journey with EyeMail, revolutionizing email marketing with innovative, accessible, and engaging video-in-email technology.



One EyeMail at a Time: Lisa Jones's Inspiring Journey with EyeMail

*“Decolonizing therapy is about pulling up the mental health industrial complex at its roots... investigating what works, who it works for, and how this shows up in me.”* 

![A picture of Dr Jennifer Mullan png](/images/jennifer.jpg "Dr. Jennifer Mullan  Psychologist, Writer Decolonizing Therapy")

According to [**The Office of Minority Health (OMH**)](https://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/black-history-month-2025): Black Americans are more likely to be diagnosed with chronic diseases, have less access to quality healthcare, and receive lower quality care. This is due to a complex interplay of factors, including systemic racism, poverty, and lack of insurance.

Healthcare keeps evolving with technological advancement because there is a need for people to access the best healthcare available to them. Sadly, that is not the case with **marginalized communities.** Two visionary black women in tech, Dr. Jennifer Mullan and Ashlee Wisdom have pioneered an initiative to address** [healthcare inequalities](https://www.who.int/news-room/facts-in-pictures/detail/health-inequities-and-their-causes)** black people face every day. They have created a platform to redefine mental and physical health accessibility to make it inclusive and culturally favorable. 

# **Dr. Jennifer Mullan: Decolonizing Mental Health**

Popularly known as “The Rage Doctor”, Dr. Jennifer Mullan is a certified clinical psychologist and also doubles as a wound worker. To cap it all, she's the founder of the platform Decolonizing Therapy. 

* ![ A picture of the book written by Dr Jennifer Mullan titled ''' Decolonizing Therapy ''  which is about Oppression, Historical Trauma and Politicizing Your Practice png.](/images/decolonizing_therapy.jpg "Decolonizing Therapy")




As a psychologist, she focused on changing and improving the **oppressive chain of mental healthcare,** especially for marginalized communities i.e. black neighborhoods. She actively fights against oppressive healthcare and advocates for ending systemic inequalities.

 

Dr. Jennifer Mullan began Decolonizing Therapy when she became a Clinician. Through years of experience, She noticed that traditional mental healthcare ignores patients' cultural and historical backgrounds.

But most importantly, she noticed that this was happening with only patients in **marginalized communities.** 

With this realization, she started advocating for better health care for men and women of color. 

She believes that a patient can only truly heal when health practitioners connect with the patient, their ancestral practices, and intergenerational trauma. 





Through her platform Decolonizing Therapy, she sets up workshops, **mental health courses** and even retreats all geared towards educating society and health practitioners the best way to unlearn oppressive methods of therapy. She encourages indigenous methods for treatment and healing which she believes will lead to an improved sense of community and collective healthcare. 

After publishing her book **[Decolonizing Therapy](https://www.decolonizingtherapy.com/about): Oppression, Historical Trauma & Politicizing Your Practice** which gained widespread recognition in the mental health field,she started getting noticed. Since then she has been featured on global platforms and Media handles such as Forbes, The Guardian and Psychology today. 





## **How Ashlee Wisdom is Revolutionizing Healthcare  for Black Women.**

Ashlee Wisdom, the founder and CEO of Health In Her HUE, is a** [public health activist ](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23986382/)**who has dedicated most of her life's work to advocating for racial health inequality. She uses her platform to connect women of color to culturally responsive healthcare workers, and proper healthcare through familiar communities, this goes a long way to enhance rehabilitation.

Her key mission is to equip black women with the right knowledge and resources about the importance of their mental health and how they can navigate the chain of biased medical practices.

![A picture of Ashlee Wisdom png](/images/ashlee.jpg "Ashlee Wisdom")

Ashlee Wisdom’s inspiration for **Health in her Hue** was born from her experiences in the health care sector. As a worker in an academic medical center, she said that she witnessed** [racial biases](https://dictionary.cambridge.org/example/english/racial-bias)** on a daily occurrence and it affected her deeply. It was then she became convinced that she had to do something about the situation in her own way. 

As a public health worker, she knew that whatever solution she was going to put up had to align with her academic background in public health which will also in turn address very specific challenges in health care delivery to Black women and women of color to get quality health care. 

![Health in Hue App png](/images/hihh.jpg)

One time while speaking on the impact of HIHH, she said 

 *“We would bring health information to Black women where they were already scrolling through for content, and it resonated with them. Women would share with us that our content inspired them to schedule doctor visits, advocate for themselves at appointments, and consider how their work environments impacted their health.”* 

Health In Her HUE offers a comprehensive provider directory, educational resources, and community forums where women can share experiences and support each other. By leveraging technology, the platform aims to make healthcare more accessible and tailored to the needs of its users.

![Health in her Hue connections](/images/hue.jpg)




To further expand its impact, HIHH guarantees comprehensive healthcare directories, informational resources and education contents under specific community forums for women of color to share their own experiences and even offer support for each other. 

Ashlee Wisdom used the leverage of technology to enhance Health in her Hue and make it available to a larger percentage of people and tailored to individual needs. 

Aside from technological incorporation, Ashlee Wisdom's Health in her Hue has partnered with the best medical institutions and public health organizations to expand her reach, ensure quality delivery and efficiency. 

Interestingly, to improve the chain of oppressive healthcare she has also partnered with research initiatives who document healthcare experiences of black women through data collection and data driven insights.  





### **A Shared Vision for Inclusive Healthcare**

Dr. Jennifer Mullan and Ashlee Wisdom are both driven by the passion to dismantle the oppressive chain of racial health care provision for women of color. Through their work, it is evident that Health care has to be culturally favorable in order to enhance historical and intergenerational traumas for proper healing and rehabilitation. 

Dr. Jennifer Mullan’s approach involves educating therapists and **mental health practitioners** on the importance of understanding clients' cultural backgrounds and the systemic factors influencing their mental health. She advocates for a shift from traditional, Eurocentric therapeutic models to practices that honor and incorporate ancestral wisdom and collective healing. 

On the other hand, while there's a sharp contrast, Ashlee Wisdom's Health in her Hue focuses on empowering people with the right knowledge and telling them they can use it to take control of their mental health through informed decisions. 

Interestingly, Health in her Hue is not only a platform to connect women of color to professional **[health care providers](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_care_provider),** it gives these women the opportunity of building a community where they can share their stories without the fear of being judged while learning from each other. It gives them the assurance that they are not alone in what they're going through. 

In a group discussion, when she was asked about the future of healthcare for women of color, Ashlee Wisdom explained**:** “*The future of healthcare for Black women and women of color... is inclusive, equitable, and accessible. It involves breaking down systemic barriers, increasing awareness, and ensuring that Black women and women of color have easy access to comprehensive care and products that prioritize their specific health needs.”* 





### **Impact and Recognition**

Today, wherever **mental healthcare** for women of color is mentioned, Dr. Jennifer Mullan and Ashlee Wisdom's contributions will not go unmentioned. 

For Dr. Jennifer Mullan, her book Decolonizing Therapy has gotten a lot of attention and recognition. It has been featured in media outlets and she received the [ESSENCE magazine's 2020 Essential Hero Award under the Mental Health category](https://www.essence.com/news/essence-essential-heroes-awards-honorees-list/). 

Ashlee Wisdom's Health in her Hue has gained partnership, awards and nominations. She has made an impact in mental health and she has been praised for it as her impact is felt through collaborations with major platforms like Honey Pot Co who have not only amplified her mission of providing health care through culturally sensitive approaches. 

They're both making waves individually in the category of influential voices in mental health care. While Dr. Jennifer  Mullan speaks on major global Platforms in mental health conferences, Ashlee Wisdom has featured in major magazines like the Fast company and The New York Times as an **influential black woman** in health tech 





### **Looking Ahead**

Dr. Jennifer Mullan and Ashlee Wisdom are a beacon of hope, resilience, and the power of Black women in leadership together with the passion for addressing [systemic inequities](https://www.americanprogress.org/article/systematic-inequality/). They remind us that health care service delivery can be inclusive and equitable for all.

Their vision for the future is ambitious and inspiring. In the next 5-10 years, they aim to expand their reach and develop educational programs and platforms that empower women of color with the knowledge and resources to protect their mental health.  Ashlee Wisdom hopes to enhance the features of HIHH, making it a truly personalized and interactive platform that bridges the gap between Black women and quality health care services.  

Together, they are building a future where mental health care is accessible, inclusive, and empowering for all.


For more information  visit:

[Decolonizing Therapy ](https://www.decolonizingtherapy.com/) 

[Health in her Hue ](https://healthinherhue.com/)


Discover how Dr. Jennifer Mullan and Ashlee Wisdom are transforming healthcare through Decolonizing Therapy and Health In Her HUE. Their groundbreaking work is bridging gaps, promoting culturally competent care, and empowering marginalized communities with inclusive mental and physical health resources. 


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