This Powerful Statement Will Change How You Job Search
Whether you know Bozoma Saint John by her radiant African prints, her voluminous natural 'fro or simply by her position as the Chief Brand Officer for Uber, you have to know she is the popping corporate "IT' girl right now.
She makes it chicly appropriate to thrive in the boardroom while fiercely wearing tribal patterned clothing.
Prior to working at Uber, Bozoma held several senior roles in Marketing for large major companies such as Ashley Stewart, Pepsi-Cola, and Apple Music. For all of my fellow Bey lovers, we have Bozoma's genuis to thank for Pepsi obtaining Beyonce for the halftime performance of Superbowl XLVII.
Bozoma is black girl magic on full display and definitely belongs on your radar. A simple scroll down her Instagram @badassboz will have you like, "Well dayum, I would love a day in her life!" (Well, maybe a little more than a day.)
She dazzles on the red carpets, rubs elbows with A-List celebrities, and then flips it to be fashionably perched on panels for numerous platforms as the resident branding expert. Her social media is full of proof of her black girl magic and her praise of other's magic. But outside of the glitz and the glam is pure substance.
I knew of Bozoma from her days at Apple because of my nerdy self-proclaimed love of business magazines. When she decided to work at Uber, I have to say I gave Bozoma, my mentor in my head, my best side eye, which looked a little like the Cruella Deville botox version of a raised eyebrow. To sum it up, I thought she was too badass to be down with Uber with all their internal turmoil, sexual misconduct allegations, and other shenanigans. But in true Bozoma fashion, she didn't hear my protest. Despite my unheard opposition, I learned a key point from Bozoma.
Who knew that would happen? Not me.
In addition to the way she sparkles and shines in her day-to-day life, Bozoma also sprinkles gems like magic dust in her interviews. My favorite interview of Bozoma's is the one she did with Oprah's bestie, Gayle King for CBS News.
During the interview, of course, the most obvious question was about Bozoma's decision to take the position with Uber. Her reply? Get ready for this gem...
"...It's about trying to be the representation for what I want to see. I want change. I want things to be great for people of color and for women."
That is BIG.
I have been guilty of just showing up to work for the fundamental basics like to feed my family and to have health insurance. I have to be honest, I never really thought of my career working in Human Resources as necessarily a field that was a total gamechanger in the world. I may have a little influence in the confines of our little office world but Bozoma's statement got me all the way straight.
Each little step we make as individuals challenges what the norm is and we all can be that change.
Here's the gamechanger in the spirit of her why. What if during your next job search, you seek out the opportunity to be the representation that you want to see? Say what? Yes, do not pass go from the companies that are doing some rebuilding. Instead, see the opportunities that could lie ahead.
Change Your Mindset
Companies that are in the rebuilding mode are eager to get away from the "sucks to be you" black cloud. They want new talent to change the culture. They want new leaders to lead the change. The opportunities are endless with companies fighting viciously to change, like Uber. And you can't be part of the change if you don't have a seat at the table. Be badass like Bozoma and take the bait, take the money, take the opportunity to see just where it could lead you.
Why should you even consider this? Glad you asked. Well, for starters, you might have the opportunity to build a team that represents who you want to see. You might even have the ear of the change-makers. Hell, you might be able to build liaisons with others that represent.
The opportunity is larger than what meets the eye.
On a smaller note, if Bozoma can do all she does wearing waist-length braids, large hoop earrings, and a bright ethnic print skirt reppin' Uber, she is winning the game. That's a far stretch from the stark white shirts, tailored pants, and clean-shaven faces that I see sitting across from me. Change your mindset to change their minds.
Change Agents Represent
Bozoma has the eyes of the world watching and she is fearless. Most of us don't have that extra type of pressure but, regardless, being the representation that you want to see is challenging, no doubt. Instead of focusing on the challenge, focus on the rewards. There are rewards for your career and for others that are on the ride and seated at the table with you.
The extra bonus for you is that being a change agent for a rebuilding company is your own personal gem to keep in your back pocket for your next amazing job offer. Add that to the fact that you get to create the change you wish to see. Talk about a win.
Bozoma's vast accomplishments roll on and on. The final takeaway is she does all of this by just being herself. In our own exclusive with the exec, Bozoma stated:
"People are always going to tell you that you should be something else."
Instead of listening to the naysayers, try using Bozoma's career mantra: be bold, fearless, and never compromise who you are just to please another.
Be yourself and be that change you want to see.
Featured image via Taylor Hill/WireImage
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Kim Turner is a Human Resource Manager. She is chasing knowledge as a serial reader, checking off destinations as avid traveler, and enthusiastically searching for the ultimate red velvet cupcake. Find her sharing positivity on IG @925blueprint and on 925blueprint where she is the CEO and Founder of the website for career women and entrepreneurs seeking down to earth advice.
This article is sponsored by Hulu.
UnPrisonedhas returned for its highly anticipated second season, delving deeper into the complex dynamics of the Alexander family.
The series premiere comes a year after its debut season garnered rave reviews from fans and critics and earned record-breaking ratings for Hulu's Onyx Collective brand. UnPrisoned's success can be attributed to its raw, relatable themes and comedic appeal.
Inspired by creator Tracy McMillan's life, the show follows Paige (Kerry Washington), a therapist and single mother whose life takes an unexpected turn when her father, Edwin (Delroy Lindo) --who was released from prison-- moves in with her and her teenage son, Finn (Faly Rakotohavana).
Throughout UnPrisoned's first season, viewers witnessed how Edwin's incarceration deeply affected Paige's life and relationships. In the series, Paige unpacks her trauma through interactions with her inner child and her online followers. Meanwhile, Edwin is overcoming specific struggles with his own past that led to his life of crime, including a dysfunctional upbringing and his mother's arrest. As the Alexanders attempt to reconcile, new challenges arise.
This new season promises to further explore their unconventional family dynamic. Here are several compelling reasons why season two of UnPrisoned should be on everyone's watchlist.
The Alexander Family Life Is Still In Shambles
UnPrisoned's second season resumes where the series left off, with Paige grappling with the fallout from her troubled therapy practice and Edwin navigating life independently after moving out. Meanwhile, Finn faces his own challenges. The teenager is battling anxiety and seeking information about his father—a topic Paige avoids discussing.
The Alexander Family Are Attending Therapy To Resolve Their Underlying Issues
Amid the chaos in their lives, the Alexander family decides to mend their bond by confronting their past traumas. They seek professional help and attend therapy sessions with a “family radical healing coach,” played by John Stamos, a new cast member. This collective effort aims to unravel the complexities of their shared history and strengthen their relationships.
The process of unraveling each character's internal conflicts and their potential impact on future relationships may clash with Paige's textbook therapy approach. While Paige is used to being in the therapist's seat in both career and family, this forces her into the unfamiliar role of a patient during therapy sessions. This shift would compel her to look in the mirror and try a radically different approach.
The Alexander Family Learned A Big Lesson During A Therapy Session
In therapy, the Alexanders are tasked with addressing their individual traumas to salvage their remaining relationships. One of the family therapist’s eccentric suggestions was an exercise involving a family wrestling match. During this session, Paige faces tough questions about her refusal to share information about Finn's father.
While it's unclear whether this scene is reality or fantasy, the image of the family duking it out in the ring certainly makes for hilarious yet compelling television.
Paige Tries Dating Again Following Failed Relationships
Amid her life's chaos, Paige decides to step back into the dating field. However, her many attempts have left her with mixed results. The dating apps have turned out to be a fail, and an outing with her ex Mal (Marque Richardson), who is also her father's parole officer, doesn’t go quite as expected after he brings an unexpected guest – his new girlfriend.
The situation takes an awkward turn when Mal's new partner learns why the former couple split, partly due to Paige's self-sabotage.
UnPrisoned Is A Perfect Balance Of Comedy And Drama
As a dramedy, UnPrisoned takes a comedic approach to its heavy subjects. The show takes us on a ride with Paige's dating misadventures and navigating a friendship with her ex.
Other lighthearted moments include Edwin's attempts at CPR based on online videos and, of course, the antics of the Alexander family's unconventional new healing coach.
The second season of UnPrisoned is now available on Hulu.
UnPrisoned | Season 2 Trailer | Hulu
Feature image courtesy
Summer Travel Guide: 9 Safest Vacation Spots For Black Women
When it comes to planning and choosing our international travels, there’s one question that is bound to come up: “Is it safe for Black women?”
At times, our travel plans can be halted by whether or not our desired destination is safe not only for solo travel but for overall protection as women of color. We want to have fun, go on excursions, taste the food, and let our hair down, so the last thing we need on our minds is navigating microaggressions and worrying about our safety.
According to a report by The Mandala Research Firm, 17% of Black Americans take one or more international trips and travel locally more than six times per year. Even more exciting, 42% of Black Americans said they would spend more in 2020 on travel than in 2019 (pre-Covid), and 50% of Black adults (16% more than the general population) are more likely to travel to locations associated with their ethnic or cultural heritage. All of this goes to show that we’re not afraid to pack our bags and book flights to our heart's desire.
Our passion for travel and exploration highlights a growing desire to connect with a wide range of cultures while discovering new fresh locales. By choosing destinations with positive reputations for safety and belonging, you can enjoy your next adventure with peace of mind. And to help, we’ve provided a list of the best vacation spots to add to our travel bucket list.
1.Havana, Cuba
Known for its vibrant culture and welcoming locals, Havana offers a unique travel experience for you and your girlfriends. Stroll through the historic streets of Old Havana and immerse yourself in the lively music and dance scenes that make this city unforgettable.
2.Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Famous for its Carnival, stunning beaches, and warm hospitality, Rio de Janeiro is a lively and safe city to explore all year long. Don't miss a visit to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and the bustling Copacabana Beach for a true taste of Rio's energetic spirit.
3.Belize
With its beautiful beaches, diverse wildlife, and laid-back Caribbean vibe, Belize is a safe and adventurous destination for travelers. Discover the underwater wonders of the Belize Barrier Reef and explore ancient Lamanai Maya Ruins.
4.Paris, France
Who doesn’t have Paris, the city of lights, on their travel list? Renowned for its art, fashion, and iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Paris offers a blend of romance and safety for travelers. Wander through the charming neighborhoods of Montmartre and Le Marais, explore the Louvre, and indulge in the city's exquisite culinary delights.
5.Lisbon, Portugal
Portugal's capital city, Lisbon, charms visitors with its historic architecture, delicious cuisine, and welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy breathtaking views from São Jorge Castle and savor traditional pastries at the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery.
6.Bali, Indonesia
We’ve all seen the viral photos off the Bali coast and Gates of Heaven, so why not make it a reality? Famous for its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and serene temples, Bali offers a safe and enriching travel experience in Southeast Asia.
7.Tokyo, Japan
Recently, the value of the Japanese Yen has seen a significant drop, making it the lowest it has been against the dollar since 1986, which also means that there’s no better time than now to make your travel plans to the renowned cultural hub.
8.Accra, Ghana
There’s no FOMO like the kind felt from seeing all the beautiful faces enjoying their holiday at Ghana’s Afrochella Festival, so let this be your sign to start planning the trip now. Often referred to as a welcoming home for the African diaspora, Ghana offers rich cultural experiences and a sense of belonging. Explore the vibrant markets of Accra and visit the historic Cape Coast Castle to connect with the nation's poignant past.
9.Seoul, South Korea
You may be surprised to find this city on the list, but for Black travelers, Seoul is said to be one of the safest and most exciting cities to travel to. There will be plenty to eat, buy, and experience from this city’s rich history and culture.
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Featured image by Klaus Vedfelt/Getty Images