At this year’s third annual Black Girl Magic Summit, Theresita Richard, Managing Vice President and Head of Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging at Capital One, spoke about the much-needed moments of sisterhood, community and connection. Seeing Black women come together to support one another and share their personal stories was, in her words, “literally magic.” The partnership between Capital One and Boss Women Media aims to support Black women in the workplace by providing the tools, resources and mentorship needed to propel their careers.
During the summit, Richard participated in a panel with her mentee, Miranda Scott. It was a full circle moment because she also spent time with someone who had been her mentor. With all three women at the summit together, Richard saw the power of mentorship and how it opens doors for women who, in turn, will open doors for the women after them.
“[My past mentor’s] presence at the summit was a demonstration of the lasting power of women supporting women, live and in full effect,” said Richard. “I had no idea that our journeys would lead us to the same stage, but I am grateful for her guidance and lessons that I am passing on to women like Miranda and all who will come through that door behind me.”
“For me, Black Girl Magic means representation, empowerment, community and opening doors for the next generation of magical women who will come behind me,” added Richard.
To the younger generations of women entering the early stages of their career, Richard’s advice is simple:
“Life has taught me that passively waiting for an opportunity to knock will leave you doing just that…waiting,” said Richard. “Go after it. Be intentional about seeking out the opportunities you desire. Be intentional about cultivating a connected community. And be intentional about opening the door so that others can walk through behind you.”
To learn more about Capital One’s commitments to elevating women of color in the workplace, visit Capital One’s Commitments page.
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