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Driving Positive Change In Our Community
The BrwnGrlz Collective is dedicated to empowering Black female entrepreneurs by fostering a thriving community that champions Black enterprise, education, and business growth. Our mission is to create opportunities that uplift and support Black women on their entrepreneurial journeys while strengthening the economic foundations of our communities.
Through education, we equip women with the knowledge and skills to excel in their fields. Through collaboration, we build a network of mutual support and shared success. Through advocacy, we amplify the voices of Black women in business, ensuring their contributions are recognized and valued.
Our vision is to cultivate a legacy of success, resilience, and empowerment for Black women in business, transforming their entrepreneurial dreams into lasting impacts for future generations.
Since our establishment in 2023, we have honed our skills and expertise to support BLACK female entrepreneurs.
Contact us today to see how we can assist you.
Meet Our Board
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Desiree Artemus
Owner of Aligned Quality Gemz
and First Chair of BrwnGrlz Collective
Desiree Artemus is a talented jewelry designer and Columbia, SC native who has been making waves in the industry with her brand "Aligned Quality Gemz" for the past three years. Despite her undeniable talent, Desiree has faced numerous challenges as a black female business owner.
In an industry that has historically been dominated by specific groups, Desiree has encountered limited representation and opportunities. Facing prejudice and a lack of recognition, she found solace and strength in partnering with other black females who shared her experiences.
Understanding the importance of education and empowerment, Desiree actively works primarily towards the advancement of other black females. Through collaborations, mentoring, and sharing resources, she strives to create a supportive community that uplifts and celebrates the achievements of black women.
Desiree's journey as a jewelry designer and her advocacy for female empowerment serve as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and a reminder of the vast untapped potential within marginalized communities.
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Shamay Oware
Shamay Oware is a homeschooling mom of three with nearly a decade of homeschooling experience. As the founder and executive director of Akoma Cares, she aims to empower melanated families worldwide by helping to foster safe spaces for Afro-centered education and the building of strong community.
With an educational background in arts, human services, and liberal studies, she brings a diverse skillset to her work. Shamay's professional journey encompasses early child development, senior services, teen mentorship, grant writing, lesson plan and curriculum development, personal training, and coaching. Outside of her professional endeavors, Shamay embraces her creative side through jewelry design and cherishes quality time spent with her family.
Founder of Akoma Cares
and Vice Chair of BrwnGrlz Collective
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Jazmin Watkins
As a 12-year Army veteran, Jazmin Watkins has dedicated herself to serving her country with honor and commitment. After her successful military career, she ventured into entrepreneurship and became the proud owner of Raw Nature Face and Body.
Offering natural skincare solutions, her business aims to promote healthy and radiant skin for all. Alongside her entrepreneurial journey, Jazmin is also the co-director of the nonprofit organization BrwnGrlz Ent.
Our nonprofit focuses on empowering young women of color by providing mentorship, educational resources, and a platform for their voices to be heard. Together, we strive to make a positive impact within the community.
Owner of Raw Nature Face & Body and Chief Executive Officer of BrwnGrlz Collective
BrwnGrlz Initiatives
BRWNGRLZ Bags
BRWNGRLZ Bags is an initiative designed to highlight products and services to event attendees and prospective customers. *Entrepreneurs donate sample size items to BRWNGRLZ BAGZ for Exposure.
The Collective Experience
The Collective Experience is a program aimed at empowering black female entrepreneurs by showcasing their businesses and sharing their stories through social media (podcast interviews) to drive business growth. This initiative not only increases the visibility of the hosting business but also boosts the profiles of the featured entrepreneurs.
Weekly Book Club
The Weekly Book Club aims to enlighten entrepreneurs on topics like mental health, spirituality, mindset transformation, and different facets of business, including accounting, marketing, and social media. Books are curated for monthly reading. This interactive program meets weekly and is conducted online.
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Our Work in the Community
Check Out Our Weekly Interviews
Weekly Interviews
Weekly Bookclub
Panels and Discussions
Check Out Our Upcoming Events
We are partnering with The South Carolina Juneteenth Freedom Fest.
We are providing giveaway bags to early registration participants. Bagz will be filled with products/services from local black owned businesses.
We are partnering with Local Non-Profit Hush No More.
We are providing giveaway bags to early registration participants. Bagz will be filled with products/services from local black owned businesses.
We are partnering with a homeschool organization Akoma Cares recognizing neurodiversity among us.
We are partnering with a homeschool organization Akoma Cares celebrating Galentines Day.
We are filling 25 bags full of goodies And flyers from products to services.
🌟✨ Join us for our engaging weekly interviews as we shine a spotlight on extraordinary rising entrepreneurs and their inspiring achievements.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to gain valuable insights from their remarkable success stories every Tuesday!
📚🎉 Attention all book enthusiasts! 🌙✨ Mark your calendars for our live Bookclub on TikTok, airing every Monday at 8pm EST. Join the vibrant discussion to expand your horizons!
Don't forget to follow us for more exciting content and become part of the vibrant community of #brwngrlzent and #brwngrlzcollective. Let's elevate each other and celebrate the beauty of entrepreneurship, fostering a strong sense of community and support along the way! ✨💪
Events Calendar
Special Thanks to Our Supporters
Help BrwnGrlz Make a Difference
The BrwnGrlz Collective thrives through the support of individuals and organizations who believe in our mission to empower Black female entrepreneurs. Here’s how you can help:
1. Donate
Your financial contributions directly support our programs. Donations help us provide resources, create opportunities, and uplift the Black women in our network.
2. Collaborate
Partner with us to create new opportunities for Black female entrepreneurs. Whether through offering internships, mentoring, or sharing resources, your collaboration can make a lasting impact.
3. Volunteer Your Expertise
Join us as a mentor, panelist, or workshop leader. Sharing your knowledge and skills directly benefits the women in our community, providing them with tools and inspiration to succeed.
4. Spread the Word
Follow us on social media, engage with our content, and share our mission with your networks. Your voice can help amplify the visibility of Black female entrepreneurs and grow our community.
Together, we can build a future where Black women entrepreneurs thrive and inspire the next generation. Thank you for your support!
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement
At the BRWN GRLZ Collective, we are committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in all aspects of our work. We believe that everyone deserves to be treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, or ability.
We recognize that systemic racism, discrimination, and inequality exist in our society, and we are committed to addressing these issues through our programs, policies, and practices. Although our organization focuses on the needs of brown and black women, we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
We believe that DEI is not just a goal, but a continuous process of learning, growth, and action. We are committed to working towards a more just and equitable society, and we invite our staff, board, volunteers, and community to join us in this journey.