When it comes to business success, we often hear about competition and dominance. But six powerhouse Black female entrepreneurs are proving that collaboration—not competition—is the real key to sustainable growth. Their counterintuitive strategy? Lifting others as they climb.
Instead of gatekeeping opportunities, these women focus on mentorship, community-building, and empowerment, showing that real success isn’t just personal—it’s collective.
Building networks that support you
For Ogaga Johnson, founder of Verisult Training & Consulting Inc., creating an inclusive support network has been a game-changer. She actively connects with underrepresented entrepreneurs, knowing that a strong community leads to stronger businesses.
Her philosophy is simple: “True advancement comes when you lift others as you climb.” Instead of navigating the business world alone, Johnson fosters collaboration, ensuring that success isn’t just about her—it’s about the entire ecosystem.
Mentorship as a growth multiplier
Alicia White of Blue SKYIE and LaKeasha Brown of 1987 Juices have both leveraged mentorship as a way to scale their impact.
Brown doesn’t just hire a team—she invests in them. By prioritizing professional development, she has improved retention and created a brand that represents her mission authentically.
The long-term success for visibility and influence
Catharine Montgomery, founder of Better Together, built her company around amplifying underrepresented voices. Similarly, Kimone Napier, CEO of Hire Breakthrough, prioritizes human growth over financial gains. She helps entrepreneurs build teams that reflect diverse perspectives, leading to more innovation and long-term success.
In marketing, visibility is power. That’s why Leah Dergachev, founder of Austley, is dedicated to elevating Black women in the industry. By pushing for more representation and influence, she’s setting new standards for inclusivity across professional fields.
Her mission? Make sure Black women aren’t just in the room—but that they own the space.
Key takeaways
Impact:
Black entrepreneurs often face systemic barriers that make success an uphill battle. By choosing collaboration over competition, these women are creating alternative pathways to wealth and influence.
Action:
– Find or build a support network of like-minded entrepreneurs.
– Invest in mentorship—both giving and receiving.
– Prioritize people over short-term financial gains. The right team and community will help you scale.
Empowerment:
We own our success by lifting others with us. The more we collaborate, the more power we build. Supporting and amplifying Black voices in business isn’t just good ethics—it’s a blueprint for generational success.
