Talking about more than lingerie

Here at beingU we are a bit anal about planning. So for a year we planned how and when we would actually tell everyone about our products. We decide that Black History Month 2011 was a great time and that is what we have done.

In our journey to get a plan together I noticed a pattern. As a black community we had so many groups and organisations aiming to do good things. What did not sit right with me was when I looked into other ethnic groups, yes, there were many organisations but not as large ones with huge followings, duplicating messages and event offerings.

For me who has always talked about fragmentation in our community, it was quite a journey to actually see it.

What is more concerning is the amount of duplication in objectives and what could be achieved if these wonderful people got together and found a way to partner but keep their identities (which seems to be quite important for most).

At the moment if we look at social media alone and the ‘followers’ and ‘likes’ of our many groups, alone they are only a drop in the ocean but together we will be a force to be reckoned with!

We have so many phenomenal people within our community who have succeeded in all walks of life, who have a great network and who together can be very influential more than they are on their own. Together we can actually make a difference not only short term but long term. It is time we decided this is what we need as a community and do it without us giving in to the stereotypes of not working with each other. That is not unique to our community most people have to work at working with others. Just step into most offices to see that daily.

I am only a lone black woman trying to sell bras that make women of colour feel good about themselves. I in no way have the history, the networks or the reputation that some in our community have but what I have is passion, belief, persistence and what many may describe as stubbornness (though I beg to differ!). When I find something that rouses that, no one can really stop me. So from now I am going to hound, beg and probably annoy those who are influential, known and listened to in our community for us to find a different way, for us to show we are valid and for us to come together and show solidarity in Black History Month 2012. So if you are one of them I will be talking a bit more than lingerie with you when I come calling!

Sadia

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