Associated Black Charities announced plans on Friday to create The Black Leadership Circle, an initiative to enhance the voice of Black executive, corporate and non-profit leaders in the Baltimore area.
The group will focus on “creating pipelines to executive leadership and career mentorship for Black professionals,” according to a press release.
In addition to working toward elevating Black people into more executive roles, The Black Leadership Circle will work together on driving change within the Baltimore business community.
Chris Simon, co-owner of the BLK Swan restaurant in Harbor East, will chair the advisory council.
“The Black Leadership Circle is not just about gathering professionals; it’s about empowering Black leaders with safe spaces to navigate professional landscapes, leverage their collective voices, and drive meaningful change in our community and workplaces,” said Simon, who is also the founder and CEO of mental health agency BTST Services.
Associated Black Charities, the group launching The Black Leadership Circle, is a racial equity organization founded in 1985 that works to eliminate the barriers fronted by structural racism.
The inaugural Advisory Council has already been formed by different Black leaders throughout Baltimore. Applications to become a member are expected to open in early April.
“The Black Leadership Circle is forging a legacy of empowerment, collaboration, and lasting change. We will focus on increasing opportunity, providing relevant professional development, and will collectively have a strong focus on civic engagement and community impact,” said Robyn Murphy, CEO of JRM Consultancy, in the release.
The Black Leadership Circle hopes that by bringing different voices together, the initiative will “convene, connect, and align Black executive leaders in a new way, amplifying the influence of their collective voice.”
Murphy believes it will have a significant impact on Baltimore.
“It’s going to be a big deal,” she said.
