DBW

For over 1.6 billion people of African descent worldwide, the next ten years offer an opportunity to move beyond awareness toward measurable equity. The recognition of this second decade invites governments, institutions, and communities to actively redress the ongoing legacies of slavery, colonialism, and structural racism that continue to shape economic, social, and political life across continents.

This is not just a public health issue—it is a global justice issue. Whether in a modern hospital in New York or a rural clinic in Nigeria, Black women are asking the same question: Why are we not being heard? The crisis reveals a deep structural failure that spans continents. But it also highlights the strength of communities fighting for change—from grassroots doulas in Detroit to mobile clinics in Ghana.

Brazil has one of the highest rates of racial inequality in the world, and the favelas—informal settlements housing over 11 million people—are at the center of this crisis. Dominated by poor infrastructure, state abandonment, and militarized policing, these communities have long been written off. But within them, Black women are building networks, redefining leadership, and making visible the invisible work of care, resistance, and justice.

Though divided by geography, they are united by a shared burden: environmental racism. This systemic pattern places polluting industries near communities of color, threatening health, dignity, and human rights. Yet, these communities are not passive recipients—they are challenging, resisting, and reimagining their futures.

Daniella’s story begins not with a publishing house, but with a dream to be a writer. From as early as age four, she knew she wanted to be an author. That childhood dream eventually produced her first book, Mr. Wrong, a blend of personal narrative, fiction, and reflective storytelling. Yet the road to publication was anything but smooth. Like many authors of color, Daniella encountered systemic barriers in traditional publishing.

Dear Black Women, When I was in the sixth grade I won an award for perseverance. I smiled when they handed me the trophy – but when no...

You are seen, you are valued, and you are loved. In times of adversity, you stand tall, embodying a resilience that is nothing short of remarkable. Your spirit is unbreakable, and your contributions immeasurable. You are a beacon of hope and a source of strength for so many.

I challenge you to be the one that loves you the most, that’s true sees you at your darkest and your brightest and still loves you just the same. I challenge you to set boundaries with those who play with your mental and your emotions.

I see you, but do you see yourself? Do you know the amazing beings we are? Do you know all we are capable of. You are seen, you are loved. From the crown of your head, the copper color of your skin, to the soles of your feet! Our light shines so bright we get overshadowed or dimmed!

It’s okay to grieve and not be okay. It takes time to heal which could be days, months, or years to recover from the pain. It starts with wanting to do for You, Prayer, and a relationship with God, surrounded by spiritual guidance. Love yourself and all will follow you through this journey. For you are not alone in this battle.

Satonya’s journey into the world of storytelling began in 2009, during a difficult professional transition. When the mortgage industry collapsed, she turned inward and discovered writing as a new outlet. That creative spark eventually evolved into screenwriting, directing, and producing.

Nikki’s creative voice is both bold and restorative. Her stories frequently explore themes of social justice, cultural identity, personal transformation, and the weight of silence. She’s committed to showing readers how speaking up, especially in the face of adversity, is a powerful act of reclaiming one’s narrative.

A Virginia native, Hall began writing stories as a child. By the time she graduated from college, she decided to take a chance on herself and self-published her first book. What followed was years of trial, error, and eventually mastery. Her dedication to learning the business side of publishing led to the creation of her Booked & Busy™ course, which helps aspiring authors turn their passion into published works and profit.

Each design starts with a spark of inspiration—whether it’s a scripture, a nature walk, or a conversation with a customer. Tonya prays over her workspace and believes that creative energy flows through spiritual alignment. “God is my creative partner,” she says. “Everything I make starts with intention and ends with purpose.”

Monique Fisher is a rom-com writer with a superhero origin story. A lifelong theater and comic book geek, Monique’s creative journey took her from playwriting and television scripts to building an entire romantic universe—one hilarious and heartfelt novel at a time. With her pen firmly planted in the indie romance space, she creates cozy, character-driven stories that put Black women at the center of love, laughter, and modern real-life relationships.

Cam’s inspiration comes from everyday experiences. Product packaging, 2000s web aesthetics, even wine bottle labels spark ideas. “Most concepts come to me in my sleep,” they say. “I wake up, grab my phone, and put it in Google Keep.”

Jasmine officially launched her brand in October 2021. With little guidance available for designing clothes for people with dwarfism, she had to create her own framework—sizing, fit, construction, and fabrication—all from scratch. Manufacturers couldn’t support her needs. Industry mentors didn’t exist for her niche. So she taught herself how to produce everything.

Raised in a world where books were refuge and imagination was survival, Phylisha discovered her gift for storytelling early. As a child on the autism spectrum, she found safety in solitude and power in creativity. “I just was who I was,” she says. “I didn’t realize I was different until others told me I was.” Rather than retreating, she leaned into her uniqueness. “I lived in my own world,” she says. “But that world became my strength.”

Angela’s journey began early. Encouraged by her grandparents and teachers, she was writing by elementary school, often assigned extra essays just to keep her busy. She was nurtured in a household that valued reading, writing, and independent thought—skills that would become her lifeline and launching pad. Her love of penmanship—something she honors by writing many drafts by hand—was passed down from her grandfather, a writer and orator who modeled intellectual power and quiet

She used her project management background to piece together the business infrastructure, combining strategy with divine alignment. Though fear still arises, she centers herself in prayer and continues to show up. “If I’m being honest,” she shares, “I still worry if folks will support. But I pray and keep working.”