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The Future Is Equal: A Call For Action & Advocacy

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On International Women’s Day, Rachel Scott Everett and Altimese Nichole point out the importance of acting to create the racial and gender equity we need more of in the world — a movement in which Girls For A Change are at the forefront.

What does leadership look like in our country? What does it look like in our community?

Local nonprofit Girls For A Change knows, and they want what their name states: change. A change in perception. A change in the narrative. A change in who can be a leader. 

Angela Patton, CEO of Girls For A Change, created the youth development organization with the aim of “preparing Black girls for the world and the world for Black girls.”

Why Black girls? 

A recent article in The New York Times reported that Black girls are arguably the most at-risk student group in the United States. Studies found that their actions and appearance are viewed more suspiciously than their white peers. As a result, their behaviors are judged more harshly and they are often subjected to disproportionate discipline.

“There are not many spaces where Black girls are free to express their individuality and develop their gifts and talents,” states Samantha McCoy, CEO of MissionKey Communications, LLC. “Organizations like Girls For A Change provide this opportunity.”

McCoy is one of three Black female entrepreneurs investing in Girls For A Change through multiple scholarship opportunities initiated by Altimese Curry, Founder of The Ezer Agency, a communications agency helping businesses, entrepreneurs and small business owners amplify their voice.

After experiencing the financial challenges of higher education after graduating from Virginia Commonwealth University, Curry made the decision to help other young Black girls like herself. Last summer, she worked with Patton to launch the scholarships at Girls For A Change, which are part of the organization’s Girl Ambassador Program (GAP). GAP is designed to equip Black girls and other girls of color in high school with the tools and skills needed to help them secure professional careers.

“Girls for a Change is a safe haven for young Black girls and their dreams,” says Curry. “It’s a foundation that nurtures the ideas and hearts of one of America’s most vulnerable… young Black girls. It also gives them the confidence to live boldly in the face of adversity while honoring the feelings they have in the process.”

Angela Patton, CEO of Girls For A Change, speaks to girls during a special session at Common House (2020). Photo by Jay Paul, courtesy of Girls For A Change.

Candice Nicole, CEO of Candice Nicole Public Relations, agrees. As another Black business owner supporting Girls For A Change, she believes that “every organization can be intentional about partnering with those working to develop, encourage, and mentor women in leadership.”

In addition to Girls For A Change, McCoy mentions platforms like Her Agenda, Walker’s Legacy, Black Career Women’s Network, and ColorComm as just a few examples of entities who have made it their mission to identify and develop high-achieving Black women.

“As girls of color, moving through the world and most spaces is a very different experience for us in comparison to others,” says Mia Brabham, author of Note to Self, who is also investing in Girls For A Change. 

“We are constantly wondering if we’re being judged for the color of our skin, we have to try harder to get further, and we juggle microaggressions [unintentional discrimination] and other obstacles – whether financially, mentally, and even physically – along the way.”

Brabham adds that Girls For A Change is helpful because it gives Black girls the opportunity to be in a space where they can learn to love themselves and be themselves. 

“That’s special and very important because we know that when a girl has confidence, she can go anywhere and do anything.”

Yet Black women alone helping Black girls can only go so far. 

For the systemic change that needs to be made, it must extend beyond them. All women, especially Black women and women of color, need advocacy. And it must come from the very leaders they’re aspiring to become.

In the United States, Black History Month is celebrated in February and Women’s History Month in March, which may leave you wondering, what happens the rest of the year? Activist artist group Guerrilla Girls has a response: “Discrimination.” 

Statistics back up the statement. According to Catalyst, a global nonprofit working to accelerate women in leadership, the U.S. currently ranks behind Africa, Europe, and Latin America in the percentage of women in senior management. Male CEOs outnumber their female counterparts nearly 13 to 1. Women also face barriers advancing to their first management roles with race deepening the disparity. In 2019, white women held almost a third of all management positions, while women of color held much smaller shares: Latinas (4.3 percent), Black women (4.0 percent), Asian women (2.5 percent).

Nehemiah Jordan and Eva Jones try on their Girls For A Change face shields, created by Richmond artist Hamilton Glass, at the GFAC End of Summer Garden Party (August 2020). Photo courtesy of Girls For A Change.

How do we make a change? 

We decided to reach out to current leaders in our community for insight. Last year, Virginia Business released the inaugural edition of the Virginia 500: The 2020 Power List. The comprehensive guide includes the top 500 business leaders holding the most power and influence in the commonwealth. Unsurprisingly, the list is comprised of mostly white men. 

As a precursor to the list, the media company makes the following statement on their website: 

“Virginia Business is purposefully conscious of the need to highlight the achievements of women and ethnically diverse communities in all our listings. Still, despite the increasing diversity of Virginia’s business community, leadership and power tends to stay a step behind the changing demographics of the commonwealth. The C-suite unfortunately lags somewhat in the diversity of top leadership positions. The good news is that Virginia Business will be here to continue to document such changes.”

But here’s the thing: change cannot be documented unless actual change is made.

Again, how do we make a change? 

For this story, we attempted to connect with many of the Virginia 500 leaders based in Richmond, requesting their thoughts on women in leadership, specifically Black women and women of color. We received only eight responses, and from those responses, two individuals took the opportunity to share their thoughts. 

Michael Bor, CEO of CarLotz, was one of them. 

“Diversity is critical at all levels of an organization for so many reasons,” states Bor, who co-founded the high growth start-up. 

“We have found that having a more diverse workforce helps us to ensure our critical decisions are not blinded, or adversely guided by, subconscious biases that are not representative of the broader population. Our ability to solicit diverse perspectives on key issues ensures that the outcome is the right one for our stakeholders, teams, guests, clients, and investors.”

Bor also believes that diversity at the senior leadership level sends an important message, not just to the internal team, but to the outside world. It visibly shows that opportunities exist for everyone at their organization – regardless of gender, race, or other factors like sexual orientation and physical ability.

“This ensures that we are able to recruit and retain the best talent in the market and show them a clear path to leadership, which helps us accomplish our mission.”

Bor gets it. Not only is diversity in leadership the right thing to do – it’s good for business. He should know: for the third consecutive year, CarLotz made The Inc. 5000, the most prestigious ranking of the nation’s most successful private companies. 

Girl Ambassadors learning digital skills at Richmond coworking space 804 RVA (2018). Photo courtesy of Girls For A Change.

Paige Clay, Senior Partner with asset management firm Mercer, was the other local leader willing to share her insight.

“We need to continually focus on creating a diverse workforce with a culture of inclusivity and belonging,” states Clay. “To realize our full commitment to diversity and inclusion, we need to amplify our focus on gender, race, and ethnicity. Our commitment at Mercer is to create a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities in which we operate, always consistent with recruiting, retaining, and promoting the best qualified talent.”

According to Mercer’s research, only 15-20 percent of the S&P 500 companies have included Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) metrics in their executive incentive plans. Mercer believes those strategically working to develop an inclusive and equitable workforce for women, particularly women of color, must hardwire their organization. The company has published an article addressing the “Say/Do” gap, which outlines critical steps companies can take to transform words into meaningful actions. As stated in the article, “Companies have the power to make this time different. We must use it.”

Specifically, leaders of companies have the power to make a change. 

People like Bor and Clay are showing that true leadership means proactively speaking out, advocating for diverse leaders, and putting in the effort to ensure it becomes a reality.

Last summer, we witnessed a national reckoning against systemic racism after the killing of George Floyd and the resurgence of Black Lives Matter. While the protests instigated long overdue conversations on racial injustice in this country, they also revealed that we’ve only begun to earnestly address topics like implicit bias, discrimination, and inequity. 

Companies across the country began taking a hard look at their organizational structures, including here in Richmond, former Capital of the Confederacy. Many released statements declaring support for BLM, as well as a commitment to creating a more racially diverse workforce. But many companies have not followed through, or worse, have remained silent. 

It’s in that silence that we’re coming to terms with what many have always known: that racism is a defining characteristic of America. 

So too, is sexism. 

If the 2016 election taught us anything, it’s that an incompetent, chauvinistic white man with no political qualifications can still come out on top over a vastly more qualified woman with decades of relevant leadership experience. Complicating matters is that a majority of white women helped make it happen.

Microsoft instructor Carol works with Girl Ambassador participants Jayla Banks and Eva Jones on their Microsoft certifications (2019). Photo courtesy of Girls For A Change.

In 2017, the rise of the #MeToo Movement brought awareness to the rampant sexual harassment taking place in our society – everywhere from Hollywood and Corporate America to our communities and our homes. It also shed a light on the blatant pay gap between men and women in the workforce. For Black women and women of color, the disparity is even greater, as they experience both gender and racial discrimination.

Time and time again, history has shown us a consistent narrative that’s hard to ignore: a devaluation of women. 

What’s more troubling is that the devaluation is not just perpetuated by men. Many women choose to ignore, or don’t believe, that gender inequality exists. In some cases, they have relegated themselves, whether consciously or subconsciously, to second-class citizenship. This mindset may not be through any fault of their own, but rather, a byproduct of conditioning over years of living in a patriarchal society. 

The term “patriarchy” is often associated with radical feminism, but its prevalence is actually quite mainstream, particularly in the United States. The definition is straightforward: “a social system in which men hold primary power and predominate in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property.” (Wikipedia)

A quick glance at the distribution of political power and wealth in our country, as well as right here in Virginia, shows it disproportionately favors men, specifically rich white men. While the current federal government reflects more diversity than years past, in general, the U.S. is woefully behind with women in leadership.

Like race, there is an inherent bias with gender. 

But while racism tends to arise outside the inner circle of Black people and people of color, sexism can occur, and often does, among a woman’s own community, colleagues – even friends and family. 

The devaluation of women has become so normalized, it doesn’t even seem to phase most people that the U.S. remains one of just 28 countries worldwide that does not recognize women as equal under the law (World Economic Forum). This is a shameful truth that should anger, sadden, and humiliate all Americans – women and men alike. 

Girl Ambassador participants take part in the Creative Industry Tour in New York City, learning about the wide range of jobs in design (Summer 2018). Photo courtesy of Girls For A Change.

Again, how do we make a change? 

We reached out to additional community leaders to get their thoughts. Despite including men, all responses we received were from women or nonbinary people.

“You simply cannot instigate meaningful, measurable change if there’s zero quantitative accountability. That’s not how business works,” says Dr. Tiffany Jana, Founder & CEO of TMI Consulting, Inc. and author of multiple books, most recently, Subtle Acts of Exclusion: How to Understand, Identify, and Stop Microaggressions.

“Folks need to let go of the polarizing political connotations and recognize that if your commitment to women in leadership and gender pay equity is sincere, then you must set quantitative goals.”

Jana suggests that companies decide on a specific percentage to increase women’s leadership opportunities, then set a designated date. The date provides an initial destination to work towards diligently and intentionally, while also holding the company accountable to its goals.

“Likewise, if your company lacks gender pay equity, decide how much less women are worth than men for the same job – and adjust accordingly. Do you see how ridiculous that sounds? Well, that’s exactly what every company that pays women, transgender, and nonbinary people (of color) less than their male (white) counterparts in similar positions is communicating. It’s measurable, so fix it. Failure to correct these inequities by 2021 reads as intentional because restitution is not rocket science – it’s will.”

Kati Hornung is Co-Founder and Director of VoteEqualityUS (formerly VAratifyERA), a nonpartisan grassroots effort promoting equality for all Americans. Last year, Virginia became the 38th and final state needed to ratify the 28th Amendment (Equal Rights). It’s the closest the United States has ever been to joining the 168 countries that already include gender equality in their constitutions.

“Women’s leadership is important because women’s voices must be present in decision making,” states Hornung. “Social science has proven diverse viewpoints make for better decisions, and it is important for inclusion to be the norm and not the exception.”

Liza Mickens, Co-Founder and Director of Interns of VoteEqualityUS, says that the recent rise of women in politics has been incredibly inspiring to her generation and women of color.

“This level of representation has been nearly a decade in the making since women first got the right to vote, and there is still more to accomplish,” says Mickens. “To this day, my great, great-grandmother, Maggie Walker, has been the only African American woman to make it on a statewide ballot in Virginia. This year, Virginia has the opportunity to make U.S. history by electing the first Black female Governor.”

Girl Ambassador participants learn how the team at Fashion Snoops uses data to predict design trends during the Creative Industry Tour in New York City (Summer 2018). Photo courtesy of Girls For A Change.

And with the recent election of Kamala Harris, our nation has its first female, first Black, and first Asian-American, vice president. 

“That being said, this is not the time to rest,” says Diane Beirne, Executive Director of The Woman’s Club. “There is so much more work to be done promoting women to leadership positions – especially among Black women and women of color.” In May 2021, Marlene Jones will become the first Black president of the club, which is designed to enhance the cultural and intellectual lives of its members.

“When it comes to women of color,” says Jones, “we seek intentionally committed folks desiring to shift their mindsets and behaviors to treat us with equity and inclusion. We can handle the rest.”

The Honorable Viola O. Baskerville adds that while there’s been an increase in Black women and women of color serving as elected officials and in leadership roles, “there must be an ongoing commitment to make sure there are more women in the pipeline ready to assume such roles.” 

As a Virginia lawyer and politician who formerly served in the Virginia House of Delegates, Baskerville believes leadership roles must not only be normalized in the political arena, but in all facets of the workforce, including policy-making boards and corporate boards.

“Companies can ask women what would make a difference in their lives so that they can achieve leadership positions, and then those companies should act upon those responses. Words without action are meaningless.”

Exactly. Action is how we make change. Advocacy is how we ensure it lasts.

Just like the long overdue racial reckoning, the time has come for girls, women, and all people to truly be equal in this country. That means all people – regardless of gender, race, age, ethnicity, class, sexual orientation, ability – as well as transgender and nonbinary people.

But the responsibility must not fall solely on girls and women. Everyone has a role to play in creating a more just and equitable world – especially men in leadership positions whose action and advocacy can have direct, immediate results. And that change can start now, right here in our community, by supporting girls in organizations like Girls For A Change.

“If you are an expert in a certain field or have a skill to share, we are always looking for professionals to provide workshops for the Girl Ambassador Program,” says CEO Angela Patton. 

“Start a scholarship of your own in partnership with Girls For A Change or donate to one that already exists. Donate to help a girl in the program get her dorm ready, or pay for books or supplies, gift cards to Lyft so she can get around, or food delivery services so she can eat. Think about those simple things that college students need. Removing some of the stress helps them take care of their wellness to ensure their basic needs are covered. Little things can make a big difference.” 

Girl Ambassadors Iyanna Hardin, Nadia Frasier, and Asani Ka-Re work on their presentations at a co-working space in Los Angeles (February 2020). Photo courtesy of Girls For A Change.

Ca’Miyah King is a participant in the Girl Ambassador Program and understands that organizations like Girls For A Change matter. “They make the difference. Children in communities need mentors like Sister Angela for that push to go forward in their journey to success.” 

In addition to mentorship, Girl Ambassador Jayla Banks says that perceptions towards women, and women in leadership, must change. 

“One way our society can promote gender equality is by giving a space for women and women of color to represent themselves, speak on their ideas, and remove the bias that women can’t lead,” she says.“We don’t see many women and women of color in leadership roles, so as young girls grow up, they automatically think that they’re not capable of being a leader. Having women in leadership roles today will enrich and prepare the upcoming generation.”

Iyanna Hardin is also a participant in the Girl Ambassador Program. Her parents, Malikah and Timothy Hardin, have seen firsthand how the experience has boosted her confidence.

“Because we live in a society where Black girls are devalued and mistreated,” says Iyanna’s mother, “I believe that programs like Girls For A Change help girls of color see their tremendous value and self worth… there is nothing they cannot accomplish.”

To someone who has never had to experience the complex challenges of gender and racial inequity, Iyanna has a request: empathy.

“Put yourself in the position of those who are facing these issues,” she says. “I didn’t ask to be here. I didn’t ask to be Black. But I love being who I am. I love being Black. I love my curly hair. I love everything about me… Imagine waking up into a life and you’re simply hated on because of your color. Put yourself in our position and recognize how much it hurts us… how much it affects us as a people in our society.”

All three girls spoke of the importance of representation – seeing women, especially Black women and women of color, on shows they watch, in magazines they read, in murals they pass, and yes, as leaders in our country and community.

“People don’t doubt what Black girls and women can do. It’s that they don’t want to accept it,” states Iyanna. “But look at what we’ve done. We have been the minds and the power behind great things. We are scientists, mathematicians, coders, entrepreneurs, doctors. We can do so much. And you’ve seen it.”

“But there are people who believe that if we’re in these positions, we’re looked at as inferior, or as competition. It does not have to be that way. We can be in this position, and you can be in your position, and we can win together.”

And that’s just it. The beauty of equality is that everyone wins. If we treat one another with dignity and respect, take action to create equitable opportunities, and always advocate for equality, then we won’t need a month or a day to celebrate our progress. 

With diversity in leadership, we’ll be living our progress every day. 

If interested in learning more about scholarship opportunities through Girls For A Change or supporting girls enrolled in the Girl Ambassador Program, contact Altimese Curry at [email protected].

Written by Rachel Scott Everett and Altimese Nichole. Top Photo: A mural celebrating Black girls in Jackson Ward in Richmond, Virginia, conceived by girls at Girls For A Change and executed in partnership with Richmond muralists Hamilton Glass and Austin “Auz” Miles. Photo by EVERGIB / Brian Gibson.

Special thanks to Ashley Ray for assisting with photography assets.

Richmond For The Win: From Making Ads To Making Change

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In the midst of an extremely difficult year, increasing recognition for Richmond creative organizations like The Martin Agency, Arts & Letters Creative Co, and VCU Brandcenter have shown the rest of the world what locals have long known — that Richmond is one of the top creative cities the US has to offer.

In a dark year, Richmond’s creative scene is shining bright. 

A triple threat success from The Martin Agency, Arts & Letters, and the VCU Brandcenter has strengthened Richmond’s status as an epicenter for creativity.  

It’s no exaggeration. For the first time in over a decade, The Martin Agency has been awarded Adweek’s U.S. Agency of the Year, one of the highest accolades in the advertising industry. Newcomer Arts & Letters ranked #5 of Fastest Growing Agencies in the World, along with being named one of the Top 50 Best Places to Work in the U.S. And the VCU Brandcenter reported a record 26 alumni who contributed to 18 different Super Bowl commercials this year, solidifying the school’s reputation as the preeminent graduate program for creative problem solving. 

The achievements are remarkable given the backdrop of a global pandemic, a politically divided nation, and a resurgence for social justice. While many have been simply trying to survive, Richmond’s top creative entities have found a way to thrive.

According to Adweek, Martin was the only agency finalist to report double-digit growth this year. The agency won nine new accounts and created work for over 90 percent of their clients, involving 400+ productions. Kristen Cavallo, Martin’s CEO, attributes the success to a conscious decision to invest. 

“We played offense. The choice was intentional and required nerve,” states Cavallo. “In 2020, lots of things were in flux – this was true regardless of your industry or business model. If you didn’t harness the wind, you missed the lesson.”

Their core investment: People. Specifically, people who spanned a wide range of perspectives, backgrounds, beliefs – and yes, genders and races. In total, Martin welcomed 70 new hires, including 50 percent BIPOC talent.

“In nearly every study, diversity in leadership results in higher profits and engagement,” adds Cavallo. “It doesn’t matter whether you are a feminist, equalist, or capitalist, it’s to your benefit to change the way you run your company… Moreover, it’s riskier not to.”

The Martin Agency has been awarded Adweek’s U.S. Agency of the Year, one of the highest accolades in the advertising industry. Above, the agency’s leadership team. Photo courtesy of The Martin Agency.

Martin didn’t waste any time in their efforts to “Fight Invisibility.” Beginning at the top, they comprised their leadership team of 63 percent females and 38 percent people of color. They overhauled their candidate interview and talent onboarding experience to center the individual, rooting out exclusive aspects like language, bias, and hiring manager expectations. And in agency-wide conversations, they consistently spoke up around racial reconciliation, white supremacy, and injustice against Black and Brown Americans. 

“We force ourselves to be honest with ourselves, no matter how much bravery it requires,” states Abu Ngauja, Martin’s Associate Director of Talent & Culture. “Honest in our capabilities, in our weaknesses, in our ambition. We cannot be a place that lies. Our bar is too high.”

In short, Martin has become a living, breathing case study for a commitment to overdue structural change in advertising and beyond. 

“We were not awarded Agency of the Year because we were lucky,” states Cavallo. “We built ourselves for growth. Diversity, by race, gender, and thought is a not-so-secret ingredient. We made it a priority three years ago.”

Indeed, when Cavallo assumed leadership, alongside Karen Costello, the first female Chief Creative Officer in Martin’s 53-year history, the agency’s evolution began. In an industry notoriously known for being a boys’ club, having two women at the helm of Martin’s new chapter was a powerful, visible change. One of the first actions taken was conducting an internal audit of salaries to correct the wage gap and enforce equal pay. 

For me, the transition was personal and poignant – not only because it was taking place in Richmond, but because Costello, a highly accomplished, well-respected industry leader, was my former creative director and mentor at Deutsch LA when I first started out in advertising. Having a big ad star, not to mention one of few female CCOs, in little RVA was proof our humble city was making headway. 

In August, Martin celebrated another milestone with the appointment of Danny Robinson, the agency’s first Black Chief Creative Officer, following Costello’s return to Los Angeles. Having been with the agency for 16 years, Robinson attests to the progress they’ve made. 

“I am so proud of the work we’ve done this year,” states Robinson. “But I am even more proud of the way we did it – with impatience and perseverance, and with support and belief in each other.” 

Arts & Letters ranked #5 of Fastest Growing Agencies in the World and was named one of the Top 50 Best Places to Work in the U.S. Above, the growing portrait wall of current employees. Photo by Mel Calabro.

Like Martin, Arts & Letters credits much of their success to people – employees, as well as client and production partners. 

In 2017, Arts & Letters opened as a small agency in Scott’s Addition. Founder & Executive Creative Director Charles Hodges, once a former Creative Lead at Google, retained the tech titan as a client, and later acquired ESPN and NBC News. With the increased work, the agency grew. This year, it doubled in size, expanding to a second office in Shockoe Bottom, with the majority of people starting remotely. 

“For the most part, we’re really a group of strangers who recently met and have had to come together in a very real way to navigate extremely challenging circumstances and find a way to still move forward,” states Hodges. “Our motto has always been ‘We’ll figure it out,’ from when we were eight people to now 145. As people, as companies, as communities, we’re all a work in progress. We’re excited that we have the chance to build something.”

Hodges believes Richmond plays an integral role in bringing that vision to life. He intentionally chose The River City as the agency’s headquarters for a variety of reasons – among them, the vibrant creative community and incomparable quality of life. 

“People can do major market work with global impact, but not live in a major market,” explains Hodges. “This allows people to really build their career around their life, instead of their life around their career. It’s an important distinction that we think would have been hard to find anywhere else in this part of the country.”

No doubt about it, Richmond is on the radar of top agencies, brands, and tech companies looking to recruit the best graduates coming out of the VCU Brandcenter. In 2018, Richmond native Vann Graves returned to his hometown to serve as the Brandcenter’s fourth Executive Director. 

“Richmond isn’t the same city that it was 20 years ago. The community has really rallied behind its arts district, food scene and the vast array of outdoor activities. It’s a cultural hub and a desirable place to live,” states Graves. “Plus, with the growth of employment opportunities – yes, at top-tier advertising agencies, but also at smaller creative shops, or major companies like Capital One, CarMax, Dominion, and SunTrust — Brandcenter alumni can build a challenging and rewarding career right here.” 

Richmond is garnering attention as a small, affordable city with a high quality of life. Above, locals enjoy the popular happy hour on the lawn at Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in pre-pandemic times. Photo by EVERGIB.

Caley Cantrell, Professor of Strategy and Creative Brand Management, agrees. “I believe RVA is absolutely right up there with what would have once been considered the only places to work: New York, Chicago, San Francisco, and LA. Richmond has a stellar advertising reputation wrapped up in an affordable and enjoyable city.” 

“More and more people are seeing the wisdom of living in a smaller market,” states Tom Scharpf, Professor of Creative and Brandcenter alum. “You don’t need to live in a big city to do big things. Martin has been proving that for decades, but back then, they were the exception. A lot has changed.”

The VCU Brandcenter (formerly the VCU Adcenter) opened its doors in 1996 and quickly gained recognition as one of the leading advertising and design programs in the country. Today, it continues to successfully prepare its students to work for some of the world’s biggest, most influential brands, all while adapting to a constantly evolving industry – even amid a global pandemic.

This year, the school launched three new endowed scholarships in support of a more diverse industry and maintained diversity and out-of-state numbers in its enrollment. Over the past two years, there’s been a 73 percent increase in diverse students, specifically more BIPOC and females.

“I think the Brandcenter has done a great job recruiting strong, diverse candidates,” states Ashley Sommardahl, Director of Student Affairs and Industry Outreach. “We need to work on raising more scholarship funds to help support them because we know that the biggest barrier to attending is the financial commitment.”

In addition to a focus on diversity, VCU Brandcenter Professor and Creative Director KT Schaeffer (also an alum) believes the school’s ongoing success can be attributed to the program’s multi-faceted approach to learning.

“We hold this polymathic view and know, based on experience from our faculty, staff, and alumni, that you don’t wear just one hat in your future job(s),” explains Schaeffer. “There are Strategists who shoot and edit films. Copywriters doing cinema 4D. Creative Brand Managers learning Adobe Illustrator. That crossover learning makes our students better creative problem solvers.”

The Brandcenter is one of 20 colleges, schools, and centers that make up the greater Virginia Commonwealth University, one of the nation’s premier urban, public research universities. Among a host of impressive rankings, VCU, Richmond’s largest employer, reports that 40 percent of its alumni opt to live and work in the city.

The VCU Brandcenter offers a two-year master’s program across five concentrations including art direction, copywriting, strategy, brand management and experience design. Photo by Rocket Pop Media.

Clearly, Richmond is doing something right. 

And yet, we always have been. For years, everyday Richmonders have been working to help this city come into its own. You can see their efforts in our incredible street murals, artisan stores, craft breweries, top-notch restaurants, and buzzing entrepreneurial scene. Creativity abounds.

Like many, I believe Richmond has always been creative, but its potential has yet to be fully realized by the rest of the country – in some cases, not even by the people living here. 

Finally, there is an awakening. Richmond is becoming known, not merely as a backdrop for creativity, but the inspiration for it. Our history less of a burden, and more an impetus for change. Just look to the events this summer. 

Amid BLM protests rising up and Confederate statues coming down, Richmonders got creative. 

One of the highlights was the transformation of the Robert E. Lee Memorial into Marcus-David Peters (MDP) Circle, an extraordinary graffiti-laden sanctuary dedicated to victims of racial violence and police brutality, created by the people of RVA. The reclaimed space received nationwide press and the iconic projections by artists Dustin Klein and Alex Criqui landed on the cover of National Geographic, putting Richmond front and center – no longer the Capital of the Confederacy, but of creativity. 

For Richmond transplant R. Anthony Harris, it’s been a long time coming. He believes we’re seeing the final stages of the city’s 15-year rebrand. He should know. Back in 2005, he instigated Richmond becoming RVA when he founded this publication. 

“RVA Magazine has always been a platform for creative and progressive thought in Richmond,” states Harris. “I am proud of what we have accomplished, with limited resources, for so long by encouraging everyone to be proud of who they are, the way they live, and how they work.” 

Like countless others, Harris has played a significant role in the city’s evolution through tireless work and an aspiration to be part of something greater than himself. That collective desire to shape, influence, and move our city forward, particularly in the face of a complex, fractured past, is exactly why Richmond and its people are so special. 

“There is an opportunity for Richmond to become a model for what a truly great city looks like,” states artist Noah Scalin. “That comes in part by supporting the creative community that already exists within its borders. We have no lack of talented, driven people who are great problem solvers here. They just need to be given the space, trust, and resources to do their thing.”

An image of George Floyd is projected on the statue of Confederate general Robert E. Lee at Marcus-David Peters Circle, a community gathering spot created earlier this summer. Photo by EVERGIB.

This year alone conveys the ambition of Richmonders. Along with the creation of MDP Circle, locals took action in other ways. Nonprofit arts center Studio Two Three led the charge on a variety of programming aimed at uplifting the voices and visions of RVA artists. Among the initiatives, History is Illuminating, a series of recontextualized signs on Black history in Richmond, and For as Long as Such Images are Needed, an exhibition in partnership with the Institute for Contemporary Art (ICA) at VCU. 

Artist Hamilton Glass developed Mending Walls, a public art project bringing together RVA artists from different cultures and backgrounds to create murals around racial and social justice. VCU Alum and digital strategist Altimese Nichole, partnered with nonprofit Girls For A Change to launch a scholarship opportunity for local African American youth. Photographer Tania del Carmen created #OnHoldAtHome, a photo series raising awareness on community challenges during the pandemic. And Tim and Lauren Barry turned their home into the Billboard House, featuring dynamic projections that reminded Richmonders, even those in suburbia, to get into good trouble. 

“Richmond is a creative hub,” says Lauren Barry, who works as an art director with event management firm, Markham. “The city has always been buzzing with creative energy – it’s one of the reasons we decided to put down roots here. You can’t escape art and creativity in Richmond.”

It’s true. And when Richmond’s creative worlds collide, amazing things happen. Such is the case when Martin tapped Scalin earlier this year to collaborate on an initiative to promote their client Old Navy. The national retailer planned to donate $30 million worth of clothing to families affected by COVID-19. The end result was a time-lapse video featuring Scalin in action, applying one of his signature techniques to create a large-scale portrait of an American family made entirely out of Old Navy clothing.

“It drew a ton of national attention not only to Scalin’s work, but to The Martin Agency and [innovation studio] SuperJoy,” states Amanda Russell, Co-Founder and Creative Director of motion graphics studio, Cream. “I love that they are choosing to highlight our city and the talent within, rather than hide from it.”

Director Adam Dorland of Quirk Gallery believes that Richmond is gaining attention by companies embracing and encouraging local artists. “Having organizations like The Martin Agency, Arts & Letters, and VCU’s Brandcenter based in Richmond promotes the idea that artists and creatives can make a life for themselves here.” 

“Richmond is exploding,” says Jason St. Peter, Founder & Creative Director of Think branding and creative agency. “And much of the credit is due to the creative minds here who influence positive change every day.” Cabell Harris, Founder & Creative Director of WORK Labs, agrees. “I always say create work you love, with people you like, in a place you want to be.” 

“The Journey Forward” is part of Mending Walls, a community project created by local artist Hamilton Glass that aims to facilitate dialogue and foster empathy through public art. Photo by Katrina Boone.

Richmond is definitely a place people want to be – and return to. 

“I spent six years with Martin and fell in love with the city,” states Executive Producer Scott Friske of animation studio Hue & Cry, who recently moved back, having spent over 20 years of his career in Los Angeles. “The success of these three organizations puts Richmond in the conversation with towns like Portland, Oregon and Austin, Texas, where you see a concentration of creative output.” Additionally, Richmond has retained its unique identity – an asset that has helped, rather than hinder, its growth. 

“Richmond truly seems to be experiencing a turning point in creativity,” says Macy West, Partner & Executive Producer at Mad Box Made. “There is a grit that has always run through RVA’s veins, but it is coming to the forefront, rather than only being the ‘underground’ movement.”

Executive Producer Melanie Cox says her company, Spang, was purposely built around working with agencies like Martin and Arts & Letters, as well as the innumerable other creative shops in town. “We designed our studio and edit suites to be an extension of creative agencies, a place where they can work, enjoy creature comforts and continue to churn out strong ideas,” she states. “The fact that Martin was founded in RVA and has chosen to stay in RVA has spawned work for an entire production community to flourish.”

J.L. Hodges, Partner & Creative Director of Overcoast Music + Sound says that people know they don’t need to leave Richmond to get extremely high quality work. His company applies a “locals first” approach as well. “Although we work with a global network of writers and composers, a large part of our talent pool is based right here in Richmond,” states Hodges. “We love that we are in a position to provide opportunities for the ‘home team,’ so to speak. We have always been proud ambassadors for Richmond.”

Danny MacNelly, partner at ARCHITECTUREFIRM, the local team behind the design of Arts & Letters’ new office space, states, “As a small business trying to do work in Richmond, we are amazed at what these groups are doing. Not amazed that the talent is here, but just in awe of their ability to create and communicate and attract some of the biggest clients anywhere to our town and keep them coming back. They are driving this city forward.”

After all we’ve endured in 2020, the concept of moving ahead – making progress, as well as an impact – feels strangely promising. Because let’s be honest, not everyone can look back on this year and feel successful. For many Richmonders, especially artists, entrepreneurs and small, minority- and women-owned businesses, this year has been a serious challenge.

Virginia Repertory Theatre is just one of countless creative organizations, along with local artists, entrepreneurs and small businesses, that will be relying on community support in the coming year. Photo by EVERGIB.

“My hope is that Richmond continues to work and thrive from within,” states Jolinda Smithson, Owner of Shapes & Colors and host of CreativeMornings Richmond. “That people decide to work, live and play here… found businesses, rent or buy their houses here, send their kids to local schools, and participate in local organizations.” She admits that Richmond is not always the easiest place to live, but feels optimistic seeing it grow and shift in positive ways. 

Unlike major cities, Richmond’s relatively low cost of living also allows people freedom and opportunity to take more risks. But for the success to continue, “Richmond needs governance and economic development that preempts, promotes, and supports this growth with smart planning strategies,” states Kristin O’Connor, Owner & Executive Producer of RainMaker Studios. She wants to see responsible development and the right support from local government to further advance the community in its many diverse districts, small businesses, and large corporations.

Justin Bajan, Co-Founder & Creative Director of ad agency Familiar Creatures, believes Richmond has become a viable and respectable spot to continue or start a career. “My hope for the future is that the growth and success of Martin and Arts & Letters is just the beginning of what’s to come here. That the great talent within those walls don’t use this town as a stepping stone, but instead stays in town and builds more agencies with individual flavors and capabilities. Agencies that reflect the independence and boldness you see all throughout Richmond.”

Having grown up in Richmond myself, I was pleasantly surprised to see how much it had changed after being away for 12 years. When my husband and I moved back in 2014 to start our creative studio, EVERGIB, what stood out most to us were the people – other local entrepreneurs and organizations who took time to offer us guidance and advice; who became allies, colleagues, and friends. After living in big cities like New York and LA, it reminded us about the importance of community. Looking out for your neighbors, as well as lifting them up.

The recent achievements of The Martin Agency, Arts & Letters, and the VCU Brandcenter are undoubtedly a collective win for our city, as are their efforts behind increased diversity, equity, and inclusion. But critical to the city’s ongoing evolution is a commitment to continued investment in Richmond and its people.

As we enter a new year of possibilities, let’s remember that we’re all working to build something special here. 

Together, we can make it happen.

Top Photo: The Martin Agency leadership team. Photo courtesy of The Martin Agency.

A Shield And A Crown

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Local entrepreneur Larkin Garbee teamed up with Girls For a Change and artist Hamilton Glass to create face shields that double as flower crowns: keeping the community safe, and teaching innovation along the way. 

A year ago, personal protective equipment (PPE) would not have been on many people’s fall accessory lists. But the coronavirus pandemic has made widespread use of face shields, masks, and other safety items critical to public health. With kids returning to virtual and in-person learning, entrepreneur Larkin Garbee paired up with Girls for a Change CEO Angela Patton and artist Hamilton Glass to design and produce a flower-adorned face shield that could raise funds — and save lives. 

PHOTO: Jay Paul

When Garbee started making face shields in March, it was to support hospitals that were running low on gear in critical times. Her sister and brother-in-law, both employed in medical fields, shared concerns about being completely out of face shields. So Garbee, using her background in entrepreneurship, started a “Buy One, Give One” program to cover the cost of producing the masks. For every mask purchased, one would be donated to an essential employee or healthcare worker. 

“It was important to us because we’re not in the business to make all the profit,” Garbee said. “It’s about [serving] the community and making sure the impact is there.” 

But making face shields for kids comes with different considerations. PPE can be intimidating, restrictive, or just not fashionable. Garbee thought kids might be more interested in a fun-looking shield that still met industry standards. 

“I’d wanted for quite some time to create a more user-friendly version of [face shields]. Early on, I reached out to Angela with Girls for a Change based on the relationship I have with her as friends. We’ve done projects together in the past,” Garbee said. “I thought it would be a really great opportunity to launch the first art shield, specifically with Angela and her program.” 

PHOTO: Jay Paul

Enter Hamilton Glass: artist and frequent collaborator with Girls for a Change. After working with Patton on several projects, including a mural in Jackson Ward, Glass was approached by Garbee to design a shield the girls would want to wear. 

“The premise behind the design was making a crown out of flowers,” Glass said. “I’ve done a lot of work with Girls for a Change, and flowers are pretty much always a part of it.” 

The mission at Girls for a Change has long been about growth and empowerment. The youth development organization was designed to help Black girls, and other girls of color, to see their goals and innovations come to life. Glass reflected on the symbolism, which he described as frequent, but unintentional. 

“I was trying to find a way for the girls to make [the shields] cool, and expressions of themselves,” Glass said. “To bring out their personality through not just having a normal face shield.” 

PHOTO: Jay Paul

Glass finished a few designs for the shields before the final idea was chosen. It was revealed at the Girls for a Change garden party, where girls in the nonprofit’s summer programs gathered in a safe, socially-distant atmosphere. At the party, all the girls received a free shield, and could learn about production as well as try their hands at designing their own. 

“I wanted the girls to see how they can take a creative skill and apply it — and have some kind of outlet for understanding small-batch manufacturing,” Garbee said. “I was thinking it would be a fun exercise, but it was almost more fun to see them creating their own shields.” 

The need for PPE is not going away anytime soon. Garbee wants to support more nonprofits, and she has a plan to do it. 

“We just got a printer that arrived this week. It will allow us to locally source our own printing, and do it in-house,” Garbee said. “If we do them locally, it means we don’t have to do 5000 at a time. We can do small batches — 100, 200, or 300 — that could be meaningful for small organizations that don’t have the budget to commit to thousands of these.” 

PHOTO: Jay Paul

While more partnerships may be coming in the future, Garbee expressed the importance of working with Patton and Glass for their first art shields.

“For me, it was important to specifically work with Angela. I was very excited that Hamilton was willing to work with us as a collaborator,” Garbee said. “We intend to create more of these, but to make our first splash through this partnership was really exciting.” 

Their flower crown face shields are available on the GOOD WORK Society website. For every shield purchased, a donation will be made to Girls for a Change. 

From Pandemic to Protests: Chronicling Our Community During COVID-19

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As the COVID-19 pandemic upended all of our lives this spring, Rachel Everett got together with photographer Tania del Carmen Fernandez to document how well Richmond is holding up. Their multimedia project is called #OnHoldAtHome.

In March 2020, COVID-19 disrupted the lives of people all over the world. From the fear of falling ill to the awkwardness of social distancing to the adjustment of working from home or losing a job, our normal routines were upended on many levels. 

As a creative director, my business, like that of countless other non-essential workers, felt an immediate impact from the pandemic. Despite the downturn, or perhaps inspired by it, the desire to create was stronger than ever. My neighbor, fine art photographer Tania del Carmen Fernández, felt the same way. After a year’s worth of previously scheduled shoots was canceled, she was determined to find a meaningful way to remain productive.

At a social distancing gathering in our Fan neighborhood, it became clear the pandemic was affecting people differently. As a parent, Tania had the additional layer of complexity of trying to figure out childcare, while an immuno-compromised neighbor worried about exposure at the grocery store. We were all weathering the same storm, but we were definitely not in the same boat.

COVID-19 affects everyone, everywhere. But it affects different groups of people differently, deepening existing inequalities.

–Angela
“I think we can truly grow as a society from this experience,” states Noah Scalin (pictured here with his family.) Scalin is one of many local artists collaborating with Hamilton Glass, creator of the public art project Mending Walls. Photo by Tania del Carmen.

Given the varied situations just in our neighborhood, we knew more stories were out there. Therefore, Tania and I joined forces to create #OnHoldAtHome, a photo series documenting the hopes, fears, and lessons of Richmonders during COVID-19. As weeks turned into months, we expanded the project to feature people in other neighborhoods to better reflect our diverse community.

In May, the challenges of the pandemic were then met with the rise of protests over George Floyd’s killing, bringing the topic of racial and social inequality front and center. Richmond, former capital of the Confederacy, soon found itself in the national spotlight with public demands for removal of Confederate memorials, amidst the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement. On July 1, Mayor Levar Stoney ordered the removal of all city-owned Confederate statues, stating, “Richmond is no longer the Capital of the Confederacy – it is filled with diversity and love for all – and we need to demonstrate that.”

What began as a project to unite people through shared experiences of sheltering in place has now transformed into a powerful documentation of this historic time in Richmond. #OnHoldAtHome aims to provide a platform to help amplify voices and foster open, honest discussions on race, politics, and systemic inequality. It is our hope that by sharing stories, we have an opportunity to learn and grow with one another and ultimately, cultivate a kinder, more compassionate, and more empathetic society.

It turns out that community, human connection, companionship… that is what keeps me sane.

— Christina
Christina Marie is a graphic designer and founder/bandleader of Turkish pop band Yeni Nostalji. She admits she’s struggled with the amount of time she’s spent alone, and feeling like she’s not doing enough to help. Photo by Tania del Carmen.

#OnHoldAtHome is currently made up of three distinct chapters:

Chapter 1: The Lockdown Begins (March 15-April 19)

The first of many COVID-19 cases is reported in Virginia. Governor Northam declares a state of emergency and extensive closures of schools and businesses begin. As we witness the number of cases exponentially increase each week, the dangers of the virus become evident. Face masks and social distancing become the norm, and residents are urged to stay at home as much as possible.

When times are tough, it’s important to help and be open minded to those around you.

— Nick
While martial arts specialist Master Lorenzo Gibson (left) is focused on financial and health concerns, his son Nick worries about social implications as people forget how to interact with others who have different beliefs and values. Photo by Tania del Carmen.

Chapter 2: Time Loses Meaning (April 19-May 24)

Days blur into weeks. Weeks into months. By the end of April, the U.S. reports over 1 million COVID-19 cases. The U.S. economy shrinks by nearly 5 percent (the steepest drop since the Great Recession in 2008) and unemployment is at nearly 15 percent. While there’s a general restlessness, people also try to make the most of this rare time when the entire world is paused.

Having had COVID-19, I’m living proof that the virus is brutal and can harm very healthy people.

— Anna
“I’m not sure my lungs will ever be the same,” states Anna Laughlin (pictured here with her husband and three children). Laughlin contracted the virus earlier this year and says the experience has been “very isolating and terrifying.” Photo by Tania del Carmen.

Chapter 3: Revolution In The Air (May 24-present)

After Memorial Day weekend, the country learns of the senseless killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis police. Protests erupt, and the Black Lives Matter movement sweeps the nation as well as abroad. In Richmond, Confederate statues are defaced and, eventually, most of them are removed. The pandemic remains, but the larger issues of racial and social inequality take precedence.

Racial and social inequality has always existed, but not many people (including those in power) were willing to discuss it…

— Shayy
Shayy Winn (right) stands with her mother and sister. The aspiring singer, who has a neurological condition causing vision impairment, competed in American Idol last year. She says the pandemic has helped her appreciate life more. Photo by Tania del Carmen.

Yes, we argue, but we also laugh more now.

— Alicia
“The depth of the inequities in this country and the world are alarming,” states Alicia Diaz (pictured here with her daughters). Originally from Puerto Rico, Diaz is a dance artist and educator who is the process of reimagining her livelihood. Photo by Tania del Carmen.

The pandemic has given us a certain amount of appreciation for routine and our home.

— Crixell
“Part of me hopes that we’ll see some positive change… but I’m also fairly pessimistic when it comes to humans,” states Crixell Matthews (pictured here with her fiancée, Morgan). Matthews, a photojournalist at VPM, has been documenting the RVA protests. Photo by Tania del Carmen.

This is an opportunity for us to search within ourselves and check for our own privileges.

— Daniel
Daniel Davis, who is pursuing a career in music production, recently produced a socially distanced collaboration – all proceeds are being donated to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and the Color of Change organizations. Photo by Tania del Carmen.

Black lives have mattered for centuries, and will continue to matter in the future.

— Liza
Liza Mickens (left), great-great granddaughter of Maggie L. Walker, is encouraged by the real, honest conversations that are happening around the inequalities of our health and financial systems, as well as police brutality. Photo by Tania del Carmen.

I do not think we will ever return to normal, but we are trying to live each day guided by hope and gratefulness.

— Laura
Laura Pho’s family is one of many who have chosen to self-isolate together. Laura (pictured above) is flanked by her two daughters, her mother (left) and mother-in-law (right). Not long after this photo was taken, Laura’s mother, Lucy Le, died unexpectedly. As part of their Buddhist faith, the family is honoring her in a 49-day mourning ritual. Photo by Tania del Carmen.

The world has been at a standstill, with clear minds and hearts – the truth rises.

— Carol
Carol Adams, an essential worker for 30 years, acknowledges the difficulty in communicating and educating the deadliness of the virus. “Surviving this new norm is going to require a lot of patience from everyone,” states Adams. Photo by Tania del Carmen.

According to The New York Times, the U.S. has the highest number of reported COVID-19 cases in the world, now surpassing five million. As we make our way through the first wave of this pandemic, it’s clear the world has shifted and will never be the same. While no one knows what chapter is coming next, one thing’s for certain: there are stories that still need to be told.

To learn more about the photo project or to nominate someone to be featured, visit #OnHoldAtHome and follow the stories on Instagram at @OnHoldAtHome.

Top Photo: Angela Patton in a moment of quiet reflection outside her home. Patton is CEO of Girls For A Change, a non-profit youth development organization aimed at empowering Black girls and other girls of color. Photo by Tania del Carmen. All photos were taken with the necessary precautions and from a distance of 6+ feet.

Pandemic or No Pandemic, Angela Patton Believes in the Futures of Black Girls

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For 20 years, Girls For a Change has helped girls of color find success in a world still plagued with inequality. Angela Patton refuses to let a pandemic get the way of their futures.

Angela Patton, Chief Executive Officer for Girls For A Change, got an email notification. It was from a Camp Diva camper — an organization that empowers teen girls — thanking her for putting her picture on the Camp Diva flyer. “That’s a victory today!” she said. 

Right now, the venue where Camp Diva meets is empty. Patton and her staff make regular visits to maintain the mural-covered building, which is located in North Chesterfield. The space, equipped with a garden and meditation rooms, is designed to be a safe escape for girls who need it. 

Patton knows how important it is to have a safe space. She knows what it’s like to move to the suburbs and experience racism from neighbors, and later, colleagues. At Girls For A Change, Patton leads a variety of programs that give young girls, especially Black girls and other girls of color, the tools they need to break through the glass ceiling — or more accurately, concrete ceiling — and make space for themselves. 95 percent of the girls who participate in GFAC are Black. 

“That’s why they need these spaces,” Patton said. “To build that muscle, so that when they do have to face a principle, or face that boss, or the person who’s gonna give you the loan for your first entrepreneurial endeavor… you know how to advocate for yourself better than anyone else in this world. That’s the goal.” 

Two of GFAC’s programs are now virtual. The Girl Action Teams, an opportunity for girls to collaborate and create policy change of their own, now exist in a “one and done” format. GFAC publishes individual video sessions via newsletter, each with different themes. In a recent session, “It’s My Hair and That’s Why You Should Care,” the discussion centered on the evolution of what Black people have had to endure with their hair, and what girls would like to change about it. 

PHOTO: Girls For A Change on Facebook

“What’s really fun is sometimes boys hop on there!” said Patton. “We’re not pulling them away, because he probably could learn something that day, too.” 

The Girl Ambassador Program is also continuing virtually. Patton started it when she noticed that driven, talented GFAC alumni were struggling to find work. 

“I would have girls who had just graduated from college, followed all the rules, did all the stuff the book said to do. They followed a lot of white feminist movements, right? But for them as Black girls, it wasn’t working,” Patton explained. When they spoke up for themselves at work, they were accused of being loud and disrespectful, denied raises, and left out of conversations with colleagues. 

According to a 2018 Harvard Business Review article, some Black women say they have to “dampen aspects of their personality” in order to feel accepted by white colleagues. And while many companies claim to prioritize gender and racial diversity, they often fail to treat Black women with respect. In a Forbes Magazine survey, 42 percent of Black women had their judgement questioned in their area of expertise.

To combat the double standard, Girl Ambassadors attend four years of weekly training sessions, starting in the ninth grade. The program is designed to build “the whole girl,” from helping them discover their passions to learning how to navigate the professional world. They graduate high school with a paid internship, already way ahead of the game. 

For those without internet access — 15 percent of households with school-aged children (many of whom come from low-income, non-white families) — GFAC is prepared. Courtesy of equipment donors, each Girl Ambassador gets a laptop and her own virtual hotspot to use throughout the pandemic. 

PHOTO: Girls For A Change on Facebook

The real obstacle has been securing internships. When businesses closed, many of GFAC’s usual partners could not afford to pay interns. Through their “Support a Black Girl, Lift up a Small Business” fundraiser, which is still live, GFAC raised enough to secure an internship for each Girl Ambassador this year. Interns may not get paid the full amount, but they will still be able to learn from valuable mentors.

It’s important to Patton that her Girl Ambassadors keep moving. “I don’t want them to be a Covid Kid,” she said, concerned future employers will frown upon an empty work history. 

The Girl Ambassador program isn’t easy. Imagine trying to get an Instagram-obsessed teenager to show up for virtual coding classes on a Saturday. Of the 30 that enter the program each year, less than half go through with it. 

“Most of the time,” Patton said, “it’s like, ‘I didn’t believe I could do it, I didn’t understand it.’”

While Patton exhibits a tough facade, she responds with open arms. Girls who aren’t able to commit to the Girl Ambassador program can participate in one of GFAC’s many career-building activities, or can just hang out in the garden. “It’s all about staying in it with them for the long haul,” she said. “And when you see all the magical things she has to offer, making sure that she has an opportunity to show her tricks.” 

Patton, who grew up hearing “Because I said so,” has spent her time at Girls For A Change learning how to listen to girls. In the beginning, not all of her ideas were well-received. “They were like, ‘I don’t wanna do this!’” Patton laughed. She’s ready to negotiate. 

“Black girls have always been in a situation where we are seen and not heard,” Patton said. “We switched it to say, ‘I need you to be protective and listen, not discounting that, but I also need to hear what you’re feeling, too. And what do you think? And what do you think that has shifted and changed? And what are you still fearful of? And what do you want to celebrate today?’”

PHOTO: Girls For A Change on Facebook

A turning point for her was when she decided to ask the girls what they wanted to do. 

“I thought that I had the answers, and the girls actually ended up having the answers. I ended up learning to be a more active listener,” Patton said. 

In line with this philosophy, GFAC offers “Sister Circles,” a chance for girls to speak their mind to a supportive audience of individuals who can relate to their experience.  

Early on, Patton received some advice. “When I started [at Girls For A Change], so many people told me ‘You just need to do the programs and get a white woman to be the face,’” she said. “I will not lie to you, it has been a different struggle [from those of] white women I know that run and operate organizations. But guess what? I know what I signed up for, and I refuse for someone to turn me into something that I’m not.” 

To keep GFAC running successfully, Patton has a few strategies that work for her. “For one, I don’t have a problem telling people what Black girls have told me they needed,” she said. “I also surround myself with people that are on the moving train to make sure our girls get to victory. And if you’re not on that train to victory with me, then get the hell off!” 

“I’m not here to fix people,” she continued. “There are going to be some people who believe in this, and there are going to be some people who don’t. So let’s go in the direction of the people who do believe in this!” 

PHOTO: Girls For A Change on Facebook

The Martin Agency, a company that has employed GFAC alum, hired Talent Experience and Belonging manager Abu Ngauja in 2019 to ensure that every employee feels welcomed. Commitment to change, Patton believes, is the only way majority-white companies will make real connections with people of color. 

Referring to companies she’s observed, Patton said, “They spent thousands of dollars in workshops, and still don’t have access to Black people! I’m not saying they’re bad, I’m just saying, ‘What are the action steps that you’re going to take to be creative, and make sure that it is successful?’” 

With or without a pandemic, GFAC will continue to provide education and opportunities beyond what many girls could have imagined. The organization has helped over 30,000 girls learn about themselves and the world. You can read about some of their experiences flying for the first time, running a fundraiser, and the struggles of being a perfectionist on the website’s blog. 

To hear advice from highly accomplished Black men and women, tune into GFAC’s Lunch and Learn sessions on Facebook.

Top Photo via Girls For A Change on Facebook

Activism At 16: Stephanie Younger Shows The Way

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When people look at iconic activists like Audre Lorde, Maya Angelou, Huey P. Newton or Malcolm X, they must remember that they, at one point, were inexperienced, young, starry-eyed and hungry for change. Many don’t get to see the birth of an activist, but I’ve had the pleasure of watching one blossom into their own. 

Most 16-year-olds aren’t writing articles for the ACLU of Virginia, planning to help lead a parade centered around juvenile justice, or interviewing Black Lives Matter (BLM) co-founder Patrisse Khan-Cullors. 16-year-old Stephanie Younger is: and this is only the beginning.

Originally from New York, Younger defines herself as a womanist, youth-prison abolitionist, and a girl who loves to code. Younger first got involved in activism when she saw news coverage of unarmed black men experiencing police brutality. She wanted to speak out about issues like this, and other forms of violence that affect the black community at disproportionate rates.

“I became involved in the Richmond Peace Education Center [RPEC] and I help other young people apply non-violent conflict resolution to reduce gun violence in Central Virginia,” said Younger.

It is difficult to be outspoken about controversial topics during this political climate, and especially so at a young age. Protecting youth and combating racism are important issues to Younger, who has encountered racism herself in school.

PHOTO: Stephanie Younger, Facebook

“I’ve been called the N-word and a monkey. My peers would touch my hair without my permission, and exclaim how gross and ugly it was,” Younger told me. “In the fourth grade, three teachers accused me of threatening a white girl simply because we didn’t get along. On that school’s robotics team, I would obtain negative attention — or no attention at all — from my coaches. When I shared these experiences with other people, I was told that they’re no longer valid because ‘it was in the past,’ even though those experiences influenced my identity and my advocacy for black folks.”  

Despite these painful experiences, Younger has channeled her energy into positive means to uplift her community.

Younger created a project, Angela Davis’ Black Girl Coalition, inspired by Davis’ advocacy for prison abolition. The coalition is based at Girls For A Change, a non-profit organization whose mission statement is “to empower black girls and other girls of color visualize their bright futures and potential through discovery, development, and social change innovation in their communities.”

Younger’s project aims to work with school districts in Virginia to provide alternatives to the school push-out and school-to-prison-pipeline, such as mindfulness and conflict resolution.

The Civil Rights Data Collection showed black students are four times as likely as their white classmates to be suspended from school. In a report done by the Urban Institute in 2017, black youth make up less than 20 percent of Virginia’s youth population but account for 43 percent of juvenile intakes, 56 percent of detainments and 71 percent of admissions to direct care.

Through her project, Younger connected with RISE For Youth which is a nonpartisan campaign in support of community alternatives to youth incarceration.

Younger believes that youth incarceration and the school-to-prison pipeline must be taken seriously since at one point Virginia led the nation in referring students to the police.

“America was built on the foundation of the enslavement of youth, specifically black youth. We are often taught that slavery against black youth ended after the Civil War, when it actually evolved into youth incarceration,” Younger said.

PHOTO: Stephanie Younger, Facebook

Younger has created her own blog, called the Black Feminist Collective, inspired by Kimberle Crenshaw’s Theory of Intersectionality and Alice Walker’s Definition of Womanism. Younger has written many articles on her own website, has an article published on Afropunk, and has been interviewed by NBC12 and Community Idea Stations.

After speaking at a March For Our Lives demonstration in Richmond, and writing an essay on black girls’ voices in the fight against gun violence, the ACLU of Virginia invited Younger to the ACLU National Membership Conference. It was there that Younger had the opportunity to interview one of the founders of BLM, Patrisse Khan-Cullors.

For Younger, the passion for being an activist is rooted in making the world a better place: by challenging racism, sexism, homophobia and other forms of oppression.

Although high-school graduation and college are a few years away for the teen, she has specific goals in mind. Younger wants to become a software engineer, involve more young black girls in STEM, and eventually write for a publication like Teen Vogue.

The state of America’s political climate seems bleak at times but there are beacons of light like Younger who are striving to push back against the oppression in this world.

“Even though we can’t vote, young people — especially young black people — have been leading the fight to end gun violence, LGBTQ+ liberation, voters’ rights, and feminism. Black youth are the catalysts of social and political change.” To keep up with Younger visit her websites, The Black Girl Coalition and Black Feminist Collective.