I’m not sure when I first began following ‘In Her Shoes‘ blog, but the site’s profiles of black women entrepreneurs are a huge source of inspiration for me. Founder, media maven Renae Bluitt uses her popular platform to celebrate “some of the most driven, talented, inspiring and let’s not forget, flyest female entrepreneurs on the planet.”
When I saw that Renae had produced a documentary, called “She Did That.” as an extension of her blog, I knew I HAD to see it. More than that, I wanted others to see it.
The film explores the lives and journeys of four women who are celebrated business owners, including one of my favorite bloggers Luvvie Ajayi, whose book of humorous essays “I’m Judging You” was one of my 2018 faves. (It clearly was also a fave of my friend Akanke, because she hasn’t returned it from when I allowed her to borrow it in Jamaica earlier this year #sideeye #gimmebackmybooksis.)
Renae put up an Instagram post about the film, and I commented under, tagging Bermuda International Film Festival to suggest they look to bring it in.
Earlier this year I wrote a detailed manifesto slash doodled some ideas on a Scott Towel about hosting a series of events to inspire, empower and connect Black women. This plan would unfold alongside my manuscript, losing 30 pounds, and decorating my home in a rustic Mediterranean style.
That is to say, not one thing came to fruition.
However, as it says in the Book of Procrastinations chapter 4, vs 11: ‘Unto the one full of wine and song shall come a great opportunity, if they hath their eyes and heart open.’
So, after that split second of wondering whether someone else would feature this movie, I said to myself ‘Self. This is for you,’ and reached out to Renae.
On Sunday, November 18, a sold out audience of mostly Black Bermudian women were inspired by “She Did That.”
For over an hour, we were wowed by stories of resilience, creativity, and downright Black Girl Magic. After the film, I moderated a panel featuring filmmaker Renae, and local Black women entrepreneurs Kidist Emery (Salon Pink), Nikki Fagan (The Brand Lion), and Crystal Clay (Olive Branch Consulting). We discussed tipping point moments, reaching white customers in a racially segregated country, how to break out of the habit of downplaying our accomplishments and taking the first step towards entrepreneurship.
It was an incredible occasion.
I want to thank my sponsors, Bermuda Economic Development Corporation, Bacardi Limited, BGA, Orange Bay Company, and Crimson Media. Special thanks to Jasmine Desilva, and all the other volunteers that helped to make this event possible.
And of course a huge thank you to everyone who attended! Each ticket purchased was an affirmation. I am excited to announce more events like these and look forward to connecting with even more incredible Bermudian women.
For more photos, visit my Facebook Page..
