Embracing Softness and Community: A Conversation with Cnanah Ransom on Black Girl Day Off 2024
As we celebrate Black Girl Day Off 2024, it's crucial to reflect on the importance of self-care, community support, and mental health awareness in the Black community. Black Girl Day Off is an annual observance dedicated to encouraging Black women and girls to prioritize rest and rejuvenation.
This year, we're honored to share insights from a powerful conversation with Cnanah Ransom, CEO of Empower Her LLC, who opens about her journey through depression and the importance of community in healing.
The Power of Rest and Community
Black Girl Day Off reminds us that taking time for ourselves is not a luxury—it's a necessity. As Black women, we often carry the weight of the world on our shoulders, juggling careers, families, and societal expectations. Cnanah's story resonates deeply with this experience.
"Sometimes you put our identity in our titles and our income," Cnanah reflects. "I was a very strong African American female who worked her way up the ladder." But when faced with depression, she realized the importance of stepping back and prioritizing her mental health.
Breaking the Silence Around Mental Health
One of the most powerful aspects of Cnanah's journey is her willingness to speak openly about her struggles with depression. In the Black community, mental health issues are often stigmatized or swept under the rug. By sharing her story, Cnanah is helping to break down these barriers.
"Depression is like an autoimmune disease that kills you silently, that no one knows about," she says. "How can we be more vocal about something that we have going on to make other people aware, to see that we have the support and love that we need?"
The Importance of Softness and Vulnerability
A key takeaway from our conversation with Cnanah is the importance of allowing ourselves to be soft and vulnerable. In a world that often demands strength and resilience from Black women, it's crucial to create spaces where we can let our guards down.
Cnanah's husband played a pivotal role in her healing journey, providing a safe space for her to express her emotions. This underscores the importance of having supportive relationships where we can be our authentic selves.
Empowering Through Shared Stories
Inspired by her own experiences, Cnanah founded Empower Her LLC, a shirt company that partners with women and organizations to share their stories and provide hope to others. This initiative embodies the spirit of Black Girl Rest Day by creating a community of support and understanding.
"How can I build a community around multiple different stories that can support people in different ways?" Cnanah asks. Her work reminds us that our stories have power, and sharing them can be a source of healing for ourselves and others.
Looking Forward: Celebrating Community and Self-Care
As we observe Black Girl Girl Day Off 2024, let's take inspiration from Cnanah's journey and the mission of this important day. Here are some ways to celebrate:
- Prioritize rest and self-care
- Connect with your community
- Share your story
- Support Black-owned businesses like Empower Her LLC
- Attend local events that focus on rest and rejuvenation
Remember, as Cnanah says, "You are not alone. You deserve community. You deserve softness." On this Black Girl Day Off and beyond, let's embrace these truths and continue to support and uplift one another.
Join a Community That Understands and Uplifts You
Are you ready to be part of a solution that addresses the unique challenges faced by Black women in business and life? We invite you to join the Inclusive Business Lab-The Collective as a founding member.
The Collective is more than just a community—it's a movement. Our tagline, "A community built by the community," reflects our commitment to hearing and implementing the voices of our members. Here, your experiences, challenges, and triumphs aren't just acknowledged—they're celebrated and used to shape our collective future.
As a founding member, you'll have the opportunity to:
- Connect with like-minded Black women entrepreneurs and professionals
- Access resources tailored to your unique needs and experiences
- Contribute to shaping the community's direction and initiatives
- Participate in exclusive events and workshops focused on rest, self-care, and business growth
- Be part of a supportive network that understands the importance of softness and vulnerability in leadership
Don't miss this chance to be at the forefront of a community that's redefining success and support for Black women. Join The Inclusive Business Lab-The Collective today and be part of the change you want to see.
To connect with Cnanah head over to their Facebook page
