This week my sister and I were speaking and we both agreed, entrepreneurship is no joke.
Words like guilt, embarrassment, shame, fatigue, confusion twisted between our tongues and we laughed at ourselves, like why do when even do this?
For me, it's the fire. I'm not about to get biblical on you but there's this character in the Bible named Jeremiah. He talks about God's word like a fire being shut up in his bones.
"But if I say, 'I will not mention his word or speak anymore in his name,' his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot." (Jeremiah 20:9, NIV)
Now imagine this as an idea, turn obsession. A vision you can't let loose. So no matter the obstacles and even the mental fruit loops, you keep going to see things through.
This journey often feels like navigating a winding road with no clear destination in sight. Yes, there are moments of doubt, frustration, and uncertainty, but there are also moments of clarity, fire, and victory. This is the story of this little light of mine and how I want to let it shine.
The Uncertain Beginnings
When I first set out on this entrepreneurial path, I had a vision but no roadmap. I knew I wanted to create something impactful, something that would leave a mark on the world. However, the how was a constant question. I dabbled in different ideas, from community events to educational programs, each path teaching me valuable lessons but leaving me feeling unfulfilled.
The entrepreneurial grind is real. Late nights spent brainstorming, endless meetings, countless rejections, and moments of sheer exhaustion. There were times I questioned if I was cut out for this, if my dreams were too big, or if I was just lost in a tunnel of ambition without a compass.
The Turning Point
Everything changed when I broke my ankle in March. Forced to sit still I had time to think, access, imagine, and even cry. I resisted but something deeply personal and meaningful in Sisterhood Sit-In persisted.
On crutches, and in a boot, we facilitated a Gratitude Ride on this year's tour. It was so heart warming. It combined education, with sistership, community, and support. We showed up for our Black Women Entrepreneurs on board and in the shops we visited. The energy was palpable and the love was breathtaking. I knew then.
This wasn't just another business idea; it was a movement. A way to celebrate and uplift Black women entrepreneurs, to create a space where our stories and businesses could shine. But moving around one city wasn't going to be enough. Like the Freedom Riders we are named after, if we're going to be "sitting in" we need to be on the move!
A concept of "Tourism as Activism" resonated with me on a profound level. It combined my personal love for travel, my passion for community empowerment, and my desire to make a tangible difference.
Finding My Passion
When you find your lane, everything starts to make sense. The pieces of the puzzle that once seemed scattered begin to come together. With Sisterhood Sit-In, I wasn't just creating tours; I was creating experiences that educated, empowered, and inspired. I was connecting people to the rich history and vibrant present of Black women-owned businesses. I was turning travel into an act of protest and a statement of love.
The remember the first time I experienced the tour roll through the streets of Philadelphia, I felt it in my bones – this was it. Seeing the smiles on rider's faces, hearing their stories, and witnessing the direct impact on the businesses we supported, I knew I had found my purpose. The roadblocks and challenges suddenly felt worth it. The sleepless nights and the relentless hustle had led me to this moment of clarity.
The Secret Ingredients Tour
As we continue to expand and evolve, I am thrilled to announce our upcoming event:
The Secret Ingredients Tour.
This tour is a celebration of culinary creativity, featuring Black women chefs and food entrepreneurs who are transforming the food scene with their innovative recipes and flavors. Participants will have the opportunity to taste, learn, and be inspired by the secret ingredients that make these businesses unique.
Ahead of Juneteenth, The Secret Ingredients Tour will travel to major cities, showcasing a variety of culinary delights and spotlighting the stories behind each dish. From pop-up kitchens to intimate dining experiences, this tour is all about savoring the richness of Black culinary heritage while supporting the talented sisters (and brothers) behind the scenes.
The Lessons Learned
1. (T)Hug it out: The path of an entrepreneur is rarely linear. You gotta thug it out. Embrace the twists and turns, and learn from each experience. Every setback is a setup for a comeback.
2. Hold tight to Your Vision: It's easy to get swayed by trends or to try and fit into molds. But your unique vision is your strength. Stay true to it, even when the going gets tough.
3. Find Your Fire: Your why is what will keep you going when the challenges seem insurmountable. For me, it was the desire to empower Black women and to create spaces where our voices are heard and celebrated.
4. Build your tribe : Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who support and uplift you. The journey is much easier when you have a tribe that believes in your vision.
5. Savor your victories : No matter how small, celebrate each victory. These moments of success will fuel your passion and keep you motivated.
When It Sparks, It Shines
When you find your lane, there's a sense of alignment that's undeniable. Everything clicks. The doubts fade, and the passion intensifies. You wake up each day with a renewed sense of purpose and excitement. For me, Sisterhood Sit-In is not just a business; it's a manifestation of my dreams, my values, and my love for my community.
This journey has been filled with twists, turns, and challenges, but each step has brought me closer to where I'm meant to be. It’s like Jeremiah said, “His word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones.” That fire drives me every day to push forward, to support my sisters, and to let my light shine.
To every aspiring entrepreneur out there, know that the journey is worth it. The road may be rough, and the destination may seem unclear, but when it sparks, it truly shines. Embrace your journey, thug it out, and find your fire. Your passion and vision are needed in this world.
Remember, sisterhood is the future, and our love is the protest. Together, we can create a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow. Let your light shine and inspire others to do the same.
Welcome to the future of travel. Welcome to Sisterhood Sit-In: Our Love is the Protest.
Stay connected and follow our journey on social media. Share your experiences with #SisterhoodSitIn and be a part of the conversation.
Instagram: @SisterhoodSitIn
Facebook: Sisterhood Sit-In
LinkedIn:
Upcoming Event: The Secret Ingredients Tour
Join us on our latest adventure, The Secret Ingredients Tour, where we celebrate the culinary talents of Black women chefs and food entrepreneurs. Savor the richness of their flavors, learn the stories behind their dishes, and support the businesses that are redefining the culinary landscape. Stay tuned for more details and cities on our website and social media channels.
Comments