SisterTableTalk™

The wave of layoffs impacting thousands of Black women, especially within federal agencies and government-funded organizations, has been an emotional and economic disruption, leaving many to wonder, “What’s next for me?” The SOFEI Group believes that when systems shift, like changes in government policies, organizational restructuring, or technological advancements, this is an opportunity for redirection, not rejection. This season can be your turning point to reinvent yourself professionally to become a federal contractor or consultant for your previous employer. Reframe Your Layoff as a Business Opportunity As an employee, you possess what most business owners dream of: insider knowledge of industry operations. You are intimately familiar with the systems, protocols, and challenges. Your prior work experience is your power. Instead of seeking another job, consider a contracting or consulting opportunity as a 1099 consultant, virtual support provider, trainer, or project specia...

We often have been encouraged to pursue success on our own. However, creating and sustaining wealth is a collective effort. Other ethnic groups thrive in America by creating communities that circulate their dollars, open businesses that hire and serve their own, and establish networks that fund future generations. Meanwhile, too many of us are still striving for personal wins in systems designed to reward collective strategy. It's high time we recognize the immense power of collaboration. Together, we can achieve far more than we could ever do alone. Let's unite and build supportive systems for a brighter, more prosperous future! Economic empowerment doesn't start with a grant or a job; it begins with community. When we support Black businesses, mentor our young sisters, and collaborate instead of compete, we're building a power that transcends generations. It's a journey we're all part of, and one we can all contribute to. It's time we shift our...

When we look at Black women through our own eyes—not through the narrow filters of whiteness, we see stories that can move mountains. Stories of women who have held families together with little more than faith. Women who became leaders despite not being given permission. Women who built entire communities while carrying scars that the world rarely noticed. These stories aren't just inspiring—they're proof that strength, when tested, can break barriers no one thought possible. Black women are innovators. They're builders. They're healers. And when we honor their real contributions, we not only acknowledge their worth but also affirm the depth of their character and the fullness of their humanity. However, the truth is distorted perceptions still cause real harm because implicit and explicit biases create barriers to the actual view of women, which delays deserved career opportunities, creating unnecessary wage gaps that prevent families - especially those led by wom...