Faith At Work

Why is faith important? 

We stand on the shoulders of many. For a great number of us, we are reaping the harvest for that which we didn’t sow but rather what others before us weathered through so that we have a seat at the table today. Faith very much guides us in this posture of humility and reverence. It has been relegated for religious observations for a certain day of the week. I am here to tell you that that is not how faith works. Faith works through continuous activation. It works in knowing your identity in this very moment and in the absence of that, by seeking the Kingdom first. Faith works by prayer and stillness. Faith works in a community of spiritually-aligned believers. Faith works, when you work it and when you are exercising it when you feel like you’re at your last. It is indeed, believing in that which is not seen; yet pressing forward. 

What current need does this academy address?

This year, while unique in history, is not the first moment of its kind. It has caused many to reflect and reckon with truth. Many set forth 2020 goals, following the trend of “perfect vision” for it to be shaken, tested, and tried. This shaking happens in life and in the world of work, with or without civil unrest and a pandemic. Faith is key to holding steadfast when the trials come. It is key to walking into your true identity and walking away from people, places and things that no longer serve, the vision.

What is in the data? Why women of color/BIPOC women?

Dr. Aisha Holder conducted research  on the experiences of Black women in corporate America. One of the key factors that the women in her research found to be crucial to their balance, was spirituality. Additionally, Larry S. Julian, consultant, speaker and author of God Is My CEO, offers up experiences of highly successful business leaders who have managed to create impressive bottom-line results while upholding God's principles. 

Women of color/BIPOC women hold and possess history in our temples. The history includes trauma, centuries of racism, personal and professional experiences of microagressions and the like. It is not as easy for us to turn off the switch of generations past in our work, especially when our identities are tied to the work at hand. Whether in the private or nonprofit sector, there is a disparity in the representation of our excellence in the C-Suite. That has not stopped us from creating and becoming entrepreneurs, especially, Black and Latinx/Latina women. It is my hope that as you journey through the academy, you’ll begin to take the steps towards breaking free from that bondage and walking into your victory.