Signature Program
Tea Talk Series
The Problem
Historical marginalization and systemic oppression have disproportionately affected Black Americans, including those descended from enslaved Africans. These experiences have shaped the unique identity of Black Americans today.
Lack of safe community spaces, cultural arts collections, and economic opportunities have hindered economic competitiveness and life expectancy within Black communities.
The erasure of Black history and the absence of tailored learning resources for Black American youth have impacted learning outcomes.
Advocacy efforts, especially those led by influential Black leaders and individuals (Black overclass), are crucial for improving group socioeconomics. (Anderson, 2018)
Alignment with US National Objectives for Healthy People 2030 [Healthpeople.gov]
Increase the proportion of adolescents who have an adult they can talk to about serious problems — AH‑03.
Our Tea Talk Series provides a safe space for meaningful conversations and connections.
Reduce suicidal thoughts in lesbian, gay, or bisexual high school students — LGBT‑06.
We aim to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels supported. We provide resources for families.
Reduce the proportion of children and adolescents with obesity — NWS‑04.
Through education and wellness initiatives, we contribute to healthier lifestyles.
Increase the proportion of adolescents who had a preventive health care visit in the past year — AH‑01.
Our programs encourage health awareness and wellness. Our long term goals align around building a community center
Increase the proportion of adolescents who do enough aerobic physical activity — PA‑06.
Our initiatives promote physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.
Increase the proportion of high school graduates in college the October after graduating — SDOH‑06.
We provide educational resources to support academic success and college readiness.
Increase the proportion of adolescents who walk or bike to get places — PA‑11.
Our programs aim to encourage active travel and physical activity.
What are "Tea Talks"
A Cup of Tea with a Black Woman serves as a platform for Black Americans to connect and support each other through various means, including community resources/centers, business and political initiatives, and nonprofit program pillars. Our offerings include community collaboration, educational workshops/workbooks, and activities with an aim of providing holistic support.
Our signature program, "Tea Talks," fosters connections and learning. It offers Black youth in K-12 and other community members opportunities to explore Black history, engage in design thinking/hack for justice for improvement, and network with entrepreneurs and business leaders through intimate panel Q&A sessions while enjoying the calming effects of natural and herbal tea.
Our advocacy efforts include partnerships with tech affinity groups, historically Black colleges and universities, and engagement with Black community and political issues.
Impact/Success Stories
Johnson C. Smith University:
Offering opportunities for personal advancement through mock interviews and resume help, JCSU alumni developed seminars to help students get hired with Microsoft.
(Georgia) Newton County Schools:
"Tea Talks" providing opportunities for financial advancement + wellness work sessions.
Washington Bar Association (Instagram: @wba_lsd):
"Tea Talks" offering an opportunity to "Secure the Bag" through financial advancement.
Why focus on Black Americans/ K-12?
Historical systemic oppression has left Black Americans disproportionately affected by poverty, unemployment, and limited educational opportunities.
Improving high school graduation rates is linked to better health outcomes, and we aim to contribute to this goal.
Creating safe community spaces is crucial for individual and community empowerment.
Empowering Black Americans through education, financial literacy, skilling, and entrepreneurship can positively impact communities.
Job placement opportunities and health awareness contribute to self-sufficiency and improved quality of life.
Access to support and mentorship from successful Black Americans can be invaluable.
Historical Challenges We Are Working On:
Employment:
Addressing the disparity in unemployment rates between Black and White Americans.
Representation and Health:
Addressing the racial and gender gaps in STEM fields and promoting mental health and life span improvements.
Social Norms:
Overcoming barriers to access and support for Black tech professionals and businesses.
Access:
Closing the access divide within the Black community and increasing unity.
Strategies
Establish community centers and support Black-owned businesses to provide safe and supportive environments.
Develop educational resources and programs to teach Black American youth about financial awareness and entrepreneurship.
Provide entrepreneurship classes and business plan assistance.
Create job placement programs for Black Americans and ensure support for personal advancement.
Connect support from successful Black Americans for mentorship and resources.
Outcomes
Black Americans have access to safe community spaces, leading to empowered individuals and communities.
Improved access to healthy food options and educational resources enhances life expectancy.
Increased financial literacy and entrepreneurship knowledge among Black American youth fosters economic success and community impact.
Enhanced access to job placement opportunities leads to greater financial stability and community benefits.
Mentorship from successful Black Americans provides valuable resources and empowerment.
Aisha Davis
Founder & Board Member, Visionary