Breaking the “Broken Rung”: Empowering Black Women to Lead in Today’s Workplace

Did you know that for every 100 men promoted to manager, only 58 Black women are given the same opportunity? This disparity creates a “broken rung” on the career ladder, making it even harder for Black women to advance into senior leadership roles. Yet, research shows that Black women are just as ambitious as their peers and often more motivated to create inclusive workplaces and serve as role models for others like them.

So why do these barriers persist—and how can we break them down? Enter Essence of Ujima, a transformative leadership coaching program designed to empower Black women to navigate traditional workplace norms, overcome systemic challenges, and thrive in leadership.

The Reality for Black Women in Leadership

Black women face compounded barriers of race and gender biases, making them the least supported demographic in corporate America. According to Lean In’s State of Black Women in Corporate America report:

• 49% of Black women believe their race or ethnicity will hinder their chances of getting a raise or promotion.
• Black women are less likely to have mentors or sponsors to advocate for their advancement.
• Daily experiences of microaggressions and being the "only" Black woman in the room further amplify the emotional toll.

Despite these challenges, Black women continue to lead with resilience, commitment, and a vision for change. But they shouldn’t have to go it alone.

The Essence of Ujima

A Solution for Systemic Change The Essence of Ujima program is named after the Swahili word “Ujima,” which means collective work and responsibility. The program embodies this principle, creating a space where Black women can connect, learn, and grow together.

Over eight weeks, participants will:

• Develop critical leadership skills like strategic planning, negotiation, and decision-making.
• Engage in real-world exercises such as futurespective analyses to anticipate and overcome challenges.
• Network with peers, mentors, and industry leaders who share their experiences and understand their unique needs.

This isn’t just a coaching program; it’s a movement to redefine leadership for Black women and build a community of support and empowerment.

Why This Matters to Everyone

The success of Black women in leadership is not just a moral imperative—it’s a business one. Diverse leadership teams drive innovation, better decision-making, and higher profitability. Companies that prioritize equity are more likely to thrive in today’s global economy. By investing in programs like Essence of Ujima, organizations can play an active role in dismantling the barriers that have held back generations of Black women.

Get Involved

Whether you’re a potential participant, a mentor, or an ally, there’s a place for you in this journey. Together, we can create workplaces where Black women not only succeed but thrive.

• For Black women interested in joining: Learn more about the program and how it can transform your leadership journey.
• For allies and sponsors: Your support is vital. Share this program with your network or connect with us to explore partnership opportunities.

Let’s not wait for change to happen. Let’s build it together. If you’re ready to be part of this transformation, visit Essence Of Ujima or DM us to learn how you can get involved.