Magic Happens When Black Women Assemble
When Black women gather to be empowered, you better watch out! Galvanized by the theme, “A Seat at the Table” nearly 300 women gathered on Saturday, April 21 for the 3rd annual “The Power of Her” Brunch at the Hilton Oakland Airport (Oakland, CA). While the event allowed women an opportunity to slay and take perfectly angled selfies, it also served as a platform for economic empowerment which allowed nearly $10,000 to be circulated among Black-women owned businesses. Vendors at the event ranged from estheticians, African apparel, custom garments, organic beauty products, locally sourced tea, and more.
Event curator, Jennifer Hammock, felt it was necessary to have a panel discussion inclusive of
professional women representing different industries to share necessary insights about gaining seats at tables that create lasting change in communities of color. Panelists shared tips on what to do at tables of influence and the necessity to also help others get a seat as well. The Oakland bred line of panelists included Robin Winston, Weather and Traffic Anchor, KRON 4 News representing the “media" table. Candice Elder, Founder, East Oakland Collective representing the “community engagement” table. And Laura Teclemariam, Senior Product Manager, EA Sports representing the “tech” table. Moderated by entrepreneur, Selena Young, the discussion revealed an untapped reservoir of information which included: ways to pursue a career in tech without a traditional tech background, encouragement to prepare yourself for desired “seats” that one may deem themselves unqualified for, and how to leave a lasting legacy. Another eye-opener was a reality check on the state of homelessness in Oakland and how women can easily help address some of those issues by simply keeping extra sanitary products and snacks in your car to give to those in need one may encounter. On a final note, the entire audience identified with the pressure of being a double minority in today’s culture. Strategies to combat the lack of awareness about the Black culture in the workplace was a major take-away.
What made the event spectacular was the sea of melanin, positive vibes, excellent production, and the keynote given by the visionary of the event, Jennifer Hammock. Through her empowering address, Hammock communicated four principles that she described as seats. Each seat represented her enlightening talking points of what one must bring to the table -- your story, being prepared, humility, and the right association. Between her illustration of musical chairs, straightforward demeanor and humorous delivery, Hammock had the room on their feet as she dropped so much inspiration to ensure attendees get a seat at the table.
The teary-eyed moment came when, for the first time in the event’s history, The Power Grant was awarded to Samyel Allen. With her husband they operate Fam Strong, an advocacy support organization for women and families undergoing high-risk pregnancy. Fam Strong was born through the pain the Allen’s managed after enduring multiple miscarriages, losing a child, and finally being able to birth two healthy children. They provide services to help other families who are experiencing the same fertility struggles. Guests were treated to a plated brunch with chicken + waffles + hot sauce...swag! As a special treat everyone walked away with swag bags filled with products from Fit+Joy, Burt Bees, The Mane Choice, and Belvoir lemonade. Sponsoring companies of the event were Felicia Duncan, Realtor, I Do Bridal, Financially Intentional, Dream Chaser Academy, Mosaic Coaching Solutions, Sheila “The Credit Boss”, and Hair Milk.
For more information about the Power of Her Brunch please contact: Jennifer Hammock at 415505-9688 or hello@jenniferhammock.com
*courtesy of Jennifer Hammock
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