This weekend, Howard University will host the “Transformation to Triumph Black Women’s Summit,” a transformative three-day hybrid event tailored to uplift and empower Black women and those affected by layoffs, furloughs, and significant life changes. The summit promises a series of dynamic workshops designed to equip attendees with new tools, insights, and skills that can facilitate a smooth career transition. In addition, participants will have access to complimentary coaching sessions and the opportunity to earn continuing education credits for social workers, all while engaging in meaningful networking and community-building activities.
The inception of this summit is deeply rooted in the personal experiences of its founder, Geneva Greene, who is both a Howard graduate and the founder of Sprouts Consulting. Greene stated, “Something that’s been my passion, or a common thread along my journey has been supporting marginalized communities, particularly Black women — advocating for our experiences, whether in the workplace or outside of it.” Recognizing the alarming reports regarding the impact on Black women due to recent unemployment trends, Greene felt an urgent need to respond. “So, a colleague said, ‘What can we do?’ And the summit and the community around transformation to triumph came about.”
Each day of the summit is designed around a distinct theme, creating a focused experience for attendees. Day one, aptly named “Evolution,” will take place entirely online and aim to unpack the current challenges faced by Black women while simultaneously fostering new career skills. The discussions will confront narratives shaped by loss and disruption, transforming these into powerful sources of resilience and strength.
Day two will revolve around “Transformation,” inviting participants to reflect on their past experiences and envision a brighter future. This day emphasizes the importance of building networks, both personal and professional. Notable sessions include “From Pivot to Power: A Practical Networking Lab” and “Financial Clarity Is Power: How Black Women Build Businesses and Freedom on Their Own Terms.”
The summit culminates on the final day, themed “Triumph,” in a celebration of Women’s History Month, honoring the resilience, brilliance, and collective power of Black women. The sessions throughout this day are designed to inspire joy, healing, forward momentum, and affirmation, allowing attendees to reconnect with themselves and one another.
We’re encouraging each other, supporting each other, and reimagining a future where we can be successful together.
Central to the summit’s mission is the goal of building a robust community that bridges generations and transcends borders. Greene states, “We are launching a community to demonstrate the power of collective action, the power of community in navigating challenges.” This vision reflects a commitment to mutual support, redefining a future that may be different yet ultimately more fulfilling than what individuals initially envisioned.
There needs to be an opportunity of transparency and also just reciprocity of building this community.
The emphasis on community is palpable, particularly among the summit’s organizers, whose diverse backgrounds range from entrepreneurship to social work and federal service. According to Mewelau Hall, a social work Ph.D. student at Howard, this diversity is crucial for cultivating a mentorship-rich environment. “Coalition building, community building is really important to really put people in a position to want to learn and be mentored,” Hall remarked. This exchange of ideas and inspiration is particularly essential in an era dominated by social media, often distracting from local community connections.
However, Hall warns that the impact of the summit cannot be limited to a single event. She highlights the necessity of establishing clear communication channels for continuous feedback and support, envisioning “Transformation to Triumph” as the beginning of a long-term initiative. “There needs to be an opportunity of transparency and also just reciprocity of building this community,” Hall added, emphasizing the importance of empowering future leaders. “I would one day be proud to see this continue.”
Transformation to Triumph will run from February 27 to March 1. For more details about the summit, visit their Instagram page, learn how to earn professional development credits through the School of Social Work website, and don’t miss your chance to register and attend the summit today!
