There are few who are as fierce as Kendra Davis, and this woman embodies what this series is all about: saying “no” to the racism, the red tape, the obstinance that’s gotten us where we are today. She’s a single mom, tax examiner, and community advocate. Through her work with Cohear, a community engagement company connecting decision makers with everyday experts, and Champions of Change, a leadership program for folks seeking to advance Black-led ideas, she’s grown into a fiery voice fighting for grassroots change from within. She laughs when she says she might run for office someday, but this woman has a serious plan, an enormous heart, and more.

From a false eviction to housing insecurity to being undervalued in the workforce, Shonetina Benson has experienced a number of the economic barriers many Black women face every day. As a single mother, she’s worked tirelessly to provide better opportunities for her daughter, making tough sacrifices in the process. She shared her story with us – the happiness and the pain – with honesty and grace, beaming with joy as she talked about her daughter, her new business ventures, and what makes a home a home. Shonetina has a peaceful demeanor and an infectious laugh that entices you to join along, reminding you that although life is hard, there are blessings and sparkles of light in between the shadows.

Leola Lynch is incredible. Equipped with a strong work ethic, she’s confident, charismatic, and sincere. With a thoughtful transparency, she shared with us the barriers she faces in her career as an external auditor – the only Black woman in her region – and how she’s using her experience to push necessary changes to improve the corporate sector. She hopes to see work environments that are rewarding, flexible, and flourishing for all employees no matter their gender, race, or background.

Leola Lynch is incredible. Equipped with a strong work ethic, she’s confident, charismatic, and sincere. With a thoughtful transparency, she shared with us the barriers she faces in her career as an external auditor – the only Black woman in her region – and how she’s using her experience to push necessary changes to improve the corporate sector. She hopes to see work environments that are rewarding, flexible, and flourishing for all employees no matter their gender, race, or background.

Jeneya Lawrence’s spirit is just like her wardrobe: warm, colorful, and fun. Her vibrancy is felt even over the distance of a Zoom call. She’s a leader, community advocate, mother of two, and creative at heart. We spent an afternoon in mid May discussing her work as a Health Champion, the undervaluing of Black women in the workforce, and the need for access to more resources that will aid in self-sufficiency and building more unified communities.

Kurstin Jones, a social worker for The Salvation Army, has a passion for helping people reach their greatest potential. From housing to childcare to the workforce, Kurstin is open and honest about the uphill battles her clients face. She is undoubtedly committed to untangling the systems that have created generations of inequality and continue to function as roadblocks for the many women she works with every day.