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Black women have accomplished so much over the last year: Kamala Harris, as the first Black and South Asian woman to become Vice President of the United States; Viola Davis as the most-nominated Black actress in Oscars history; Stacey Abrams, as the voting rights activist who turned Georgia blue; and now Thashunda Brown Duckett and Rosalind Brewer, as Black women CEOs of Fortune 500 companies. The list goes on and on.

While victorious nevertheless, these successes emerge, despite systemic gender and racial inequities within our society. And the numbers remain scant with Black women only representing less than 1% of top seats in the Fortune 500. Studies indicate that Black women are not only qualified but highly effective as leaders in both the C-Suite and in business. Yet, the data from inside these companies does not reflect this reality.

As the U.S. continues to boil in its divisiveness and unrest, it’s important (now more than ever) that Black women take the charge of their leadership aspirations and secure their rightful place as rockstar leaders in corporate America.

I’ve learned quite a bit over my last 25 years as a leader in global agencies, a leader at a Fortune 10 company, a serial small business boss, and as a certified executive and personal coach to high-performing executive women who work at some of the world’s most respected companies. Despite chaotic times, I’ve learned how to empower and affirm myself, overcome biases, flip white privilege and excel as a global leader.

As the window of opportunity remains open for Black women, here are a few of my thoughts on how to assertively propel into the C-suite and beyond, in the midst of today’s “perfect storm.” Now is your opportunity to look deep down inside of yourself and to step into your power — despite what these companies may or may not be doing in your favor.

L. Michelle Smith

Writing since March 2022 · 1 story contributed