About Us
Black Career Women’s Network (BCWN) is a national career development organization dedicated to fostering the professional growth of Black women in the workplace.
What we do
Since 2012, we have been dedicated to providing support and empowerment for Black career women. Our goal is to empower them to take control of their professional destinies, advocate for themselves, and lead with distinction. We achieve this through coaching, professional development training, mentoring, events, and career resources. Our unwavering commitment to breaking down barriers and amplifying opportunities ensures that Black women are fully equipped to excel in the workplace and beyond.
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.
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.
The BCWN Way (Manifesto)
Where Black Career Women Grow Smart, Work Smart, and Lead Boldly.
It’s a mindset. A way of navigating the workplace that centers Confidence, Self Awareness, Advocacy and strategy.
We’re not here to play by outdated rules. We’re rewriting the whole playbook.
We don’t just climb ladders—we build our own platforms, create paths and make room for our gifts.
This is the BCWN Way:
Grow Smart, Work Smart.
We move with intention—guided by clarity, courage, and confidence.
Our careers aren’t left to chance—they’re built with strategy and make smart career decisions.Unapologetic Self-Advocacy.
We speak up. We ask for the raise. We demand the respect. Because silence has never served us.
Career With Culture.
We show up fully—bold voices, and lived experiences included.
Community Over Competition.
We lift as we climb. We share the blueprint. We celebrate each other’s wins—because success is more powerful when it’s shared.
Strategic Moves Over Stress.
We play chess, not checkers —we align, plan, and position ourselves for growth and elevation.
Leadership On Our Terms.
Whether we lead in the C-suite or as an individual contributor, we lead with resilience, authenticity, and purpose.
Healing While Leveling up.
We protect our peace. We set boundaries. Rest isn’t optional—it’s required.
The BCWN Way is how we grow—at every level, in every space, and on our own terms.
- This is career elevation.
- This is sisterhood.
- This is legacy.
- This is The BCWN Way.
How We Support
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.
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, Career 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 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.
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.
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion
Collaborating with company leadership to develop and implement strategies for creating an inclusive workplace culture that celebrates diversity and values the contributions of Black women.
Community Engagement
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.
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.
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