About Us
Black Career Women’s Network (BCWN) is a professional development agency that empowers Black women in the workplace through culturally relevant coaching, leadership training, and strategic career development solutions.
What we do
At Black Career Women’s Network (BCWN), we provide career and leadership development solutions that help Black women professionals grow, lead, and thrive in today’s workplace.
As a professional development agency, we offer culturally attuned coaching, skill-building programs, and strategic support to help individuals navigate workplace challenges, position themselves for growth, and advance with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, building your leadership presence, or launching a side hustle, we deliver the tools and strategy you need to succeed on your terms.
Additionally, we partner with companies to support the retention, development, and advancement of Black women talent through customized training, coaching cohorts, and leadership programs that create meaningful impact.
Why We Do This Work
We are grounded in cultural awareness and understand that many black women still face systemic barriers such as bias, isolation, and limited access to influential networks that can hinder their visibility and advancement. Though they represent one of the most educated and driven demographics in the workforce, —education and ambition alone are not enough to guarantee success. To truly thrive, success requires more than credentials. It requires strategic navigation, professional development, and a supportive network that understands the unique experiences of Black women in corporate and professional settings. BCWN addresses these challenges head-on and helps Black women see their careers through a different lens—one that empowers them to not just survive, but thrive and to lead, advocate for themselves, and make intentional power moves.
Why It Matters—for Black Women
For Black women, navigating the workplace often means balancing ambition with resilience in environments that weren’t built with them in mind. Despite being one of the most educated and driven groups in the workforce, Black women continue to face systemic barriers—ranging from pay inequity and lack of representation to microaggressions and limited access to mentorship.
Black Career Women’s Network (BCWN) exists to shift that narrative. We provide Black women with the tools, strategies, and community they need to elevate their careers with confidence and clarity. Our programs help participants:
- Reclaim their power by learning how to advocate for themselves, lead with authenticity. No more code-switching!
- Gain strategic insight into how to navigate workplace dynamics and position themselves for advancement.
- Build a network and community with other Black women who understand their journey and offer support, encouragement, and accountability.
- See their careers through a new lens—one that centers their lived experience and empowers them to thrive, not just survive.
When Black women are equipped with culturally attuned development and a strong network, they don’t just grow—they lead, influence, and transform the spaces they occupy.
Our Values
Resilience
We face challenges with confidence, equipped with the right tools, strategies, and a positive mindset.
Advocacy
We advocate for ourselves by speaking up clearly and truthfully about our professional worth.
Transparency
When we share our successes, failures, and challenges, we inspire others with confidence.
Strategic
We are confident in achieving our goals through action, strategic planning, and execution.
Community - Together
We cultivate a strong feeling of belonging, sisterhood, and connection within our community.
Our Guiding Principles
We Believe in....
- Career empowerment starts with gaining clarity about your professional self and recognizing your worth.
- It's about changing perceptions and stereotypes of how black women are viewed in and out of the workplace.
- By peeling back layers of fear and crushing negative self-beliefs, you can build confidence and believe in yourself.
- Talking about the challenging workplace issues that can delay you from reaching your full potential.
Whether you’re starting an entry-level position, aspiring for a C-suite role, venturing into entrepreneurship, or shining in the spotlight as a celebrity, we all have a shared bond as Black Career Women navigating our unique paths with strength and purpose.
How We Support - Black Women
Coaching
Professional Development
“Career Smarts 365” is our Group Coaching program comprised of Micro Lessons, Smart Guides, Strategy Calls, and Private Tribe to help you gain clarity, strategy, and solutions to Grow Smart and Work Smart!
Mentoring
Mentoring for us by us
We know mentors can be hard to find! That is why our national Mentoring program is comprised of carefully selected professionals, coaches, and entrepreneurs from all industries and career levels to offer professional advice and support.
Professional Development
Learn, Grow & Network
Our events, workshops, and training for professional growth, expanding your network, and career management so you can make better career decisions, and handle any challenges no matter what stage in your career.
Share Experiences
A "safe" place to be heard!
Our “No Judgment Safe Zone” platform, both online and offline, fosters an environment for sharing experiences and receiving support. We curate discussions designed to act as a “sounding board,” where everyone can connect and learn from one another.
Job Search
Recruitment & Referrals
Our network includes talent from various career levels and industries, making us a valuable resource for organizations nationwide seeking diverse talent. We provide support with job search resources, recruitment, and referrals, fostering meaningful partnerships and opportunities.
Community
Belonging & Connection
Networking with a purpose? Absolutely! Building a strong network is crucial for your career. Engage in social and business interactions to establish new, purposeful, and lasting professional relationships. Engaging with a community of like-minded women keeps you connected, motivated and supported.
Interactive Conversations
Speak up & Be Heard
Curated discussions designed to be a “sounding board“. As Black Women, we have different experiences in the workplace, and these conversations allow women to talk openly and gain career insight and advice.
Curated Resources
Career Management Support
Our resources offer a wide range of career tools that you can access easily from your work or home office, providing a convenient way for you to advance professionally.
Stay Connected On The Go!
Career Access in your pocket!
Accessible anytime, anywhere! Download our mobile App on the app store or Google Play.
Why Partnering with Companies & Organizations Matters
At BCWN, we believe that real change happens when individuals and companies collaborate and work together. Partnering with organizations allows us to expand our impact, reach more Black women, and help companies build inclusive cultures from the inside out.
These partnerships matter because:
- They amplify our mission. Collaborating with companies and institutions gives us the platform to deliver culturally attuned development programs that directly address the challenges Black women face in the workplace.
- They create systemic change. By working with organizations, we help shift workplace culture, influence leadership practices, and build equity into the fabric of professional environments.
- They foster mutual growth. Our partners benefit from stronger leadership pipelines, improved retention, and deeper employee engagement—while Black women gain access to tools, networks, and opportunities that accelerate their careers.
- They build bridges. We serve as a connector between talent and opportunity, helping organizations see, support, and elevate Black women in meaningful ways.
When organizations invest in the development of Black women, they’re not just supporting individuals—they’re strengthening their teams, their culture, and their future.
Why it matters - For Companies
Supporting the advancement of Black women isn’t merely ethical; it’s a strategic business decision. Companies that collaborate with BCWN have a workforce of Black women with essential skills for leadership success, fostering an ecosystem where both individuals and organizations flourish. By empowering Black women to lead, organizations gain valuable perspectives and transformative leadership.
We helps organizations:
- Strengthen leadership pipelines by developing high-potential Black women into confident, strategic leaders.
- Improve retention by creating environments where Black women feel seen, supported, and valued.
Advance Inclusion goals through:
Culturally attuned Coaching: One-on-one and group coaching that centers the lived experiences of Black women, helping them navigate workplace dynamics with confidence and clarity.
- Workshops: Interactive sessions that foster dialogue, build awareness, and equip women with tools to thrive in any environment.
- Leadership Development programs that go beyond surface-level:Customized programs that prepare Black women for leadership roles, strengthen internal pipelines, and drive long-term equity and representation.
- Career resources and app: A robust suite of career resources designed to help Black women navigate their professional journeys with clarity, confidence, and strategy. Can access via mobile app anytime and anywhere.
- Enhance team performance by fostering psychological safety, authenticity, self-advocacy and collaboration.
Our work bridges the gap between talent and opportunity—helping companies unlock the full potential of their workforce while building a culture where Black women can thrive.
How We Support Companies
Diverse Talent Pool
The network provides access to a pool of talented Black women professionals, enriching the company’s diversity and inclusion efforts.
Recruitment Assistance
Assisting companies in recruiting and retaining Black female talent by providing connections and referrals through the network.
Professional Development
Offering a mentorship program, Cultural attuned Coaching, workshops, and webinars tailored to the needs and challenges faced by Black women in the workplace, thus enhancing their skills and advancing their careers.
Networking Opportunities
Facilitating networking events where Black female professionals can connect with each other and with industry leaders, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Advocacy and Representation
Advocating for equity, policies and initiatives within companies that promote equity, representation, and equal opportunities for Black women in leadership positions.
Cultural Competency Training
Providing resources and training to help companies understand and navigate issues related to race, gender, and intersectionality in the workplace.
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
Supporting ERGs within companies to provide a supportive community for Black women employees, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment.
Leadership Pipeline Development
Identifying and nurturing talented Black women within the company to prepare them for leadership roles through targeted development programs and opportunities.
Community Engagment
Engaging with local communities and organizations to promote education, career opportunities, and empowerment for Black women, thus enhancing the company’s corporate social responsibility efforts.
What Our Members and Clients Say
Erin Jackson, MBA – Business Leader, Human Resources
“Sherry Sims is an accomplished career coach and facilitator for the WE Ascend program, which is part of the Cincinnati Regional Chamber’s Leadership Center. Her work focuses on helping professionals—especially Black women—advance in their careers through coaching, mentoring, and leadership development. If you’re looking for a career strategist with a strong track record, she could be a great choice!”Taren Kinebrew – Business Consultant
“I just completed Class 8 of the WE Ascend program facilitated by Sherry Sims. Sherry led us through a series of topics that were empowering and specific to Black women, especially in today’s corporate climate. She created a safe space for us to have real conversations about what we endure in the workplace. Her guidance and expertise were top notch.”Lavonya Leonard, MPA – Senior Leader
“Sherry provided the grounding and strategic perspective I desperately needed. Her mantra, ‘strategy over emotion,’ became a guiding principle for me. She helped me reframe my experience and show up with intention. I highly recommend Sherry to anyone at a crossroad or needing help mapping out their next professional move.”Kelly D. Robinson, CMP – Event Designer
“Sherry is a consummate professional who came to each session focused, prepared, and energized. Her thoughtful assignments helped me gain clarity and develop concrete strategies. She made me feel seen, heard, and empowered.”Domonique Broomfield – Award-Winning Community Architect
“Working with Sherry Sims has been nothing short of transformative. Her coaching gave me the language, perspective, and tools to stand firm in my values while protecting my peace. She reminded me that my voice and well-being mattered—even in environments where that was being challenged.”Meredith Dixie – Director, Strategic Consulting, Kroger Brands
“I had the pleasure of working with Sherry as a coach with Queen City Game Changers. Her corporate experience and insight left me inspired and motivated after every session. I’m grateful for her guidance—she’s one of the best!”
Sherry Sims - BCWN Founder and CEO
Sherry Sims is a trailblazing career strategist, leadership coach, and founder of Black Career Women’s Network (BCWN), a national community helping Black women achieve professional success. With over 20 years of experience as a Human Resources professional, she has led in Talent Acquisition and DEI, using her expertise to champion equity and inclusive advancement.
A recognized thought leader, Sherry’s insights have been featured in The New York Times, Essence, and more. She is also a regular FOX19 career expert, sharing practical advice on workplace culture and career growth.
Through BCWN, she provides mentorship, leadership development, and resources to close career gaps for Black women at every stage. In 2023, she was inducted into the Business Hall of Fame by the African American Chamber of Commerce in Cincinnati for her impact and service.
Sherry continues to inspire and guide professionals and organizations to reach their full potential through coaching, strategy, and intentional leadership.
Featured in
