Just because Black History Month is over doesn’t mean that we should stop learning, growing, and giving Black culture the deserved recognition. Black history shouldn’t be a one-month celebration, especially not when it’s the shortest month of the year.
So, to keep the BHM momentum going into March, here are some of The 2.0 Collective’s favorite books, businesses, and resources by and/or for Black individuals and professionals.
For the Book Lovers and Growth Seekers
These books will forever be on our “read-again” lists.
Emmanuel Acho’s Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man In this hard-hitting text, Acho breaks down all of the phrases and answers all of the questions you may be too scared to ask, helping each of us grow in our understanding and compassion for one another.
Amanda Gorman’s The Hill We Climb and Other Poems Including her historic poem from President Joe Biden’s inauguration, this collection of the same name features even more works combining her poetry with her passion for activism. It won’t be released until September of this year, so we are definitely sitting in eager anticipation of its arrival.
Michelle Obama’s Becoming Our former First Lady’s inspiring memoir is not only written for adults but is also now adapted for younger readers! We saw, and continue to see, her defy all expectations. In her recounting of her life, we see how this woman of strength, substance, and intelligence came to be the quality person we have known her to be.
For Those Who Go the Extra Mile
Whether you’re in school or trying to start a business, here are some opportunities for a little bit extra in your life.
UNCF’s Scholarship Opportunities UNCF boasts being the nation’s largest private scholarship fund that is solely for minority students. Awarding over $100 million in scholarships each year, UNCF is sure to have a scholarship that is right for you. Be aware, deadlines are fast approaching if not already passed, but there’s also always next year!
Fiserv’s Back2Business Grants for Small Business Program Fiserv, the parent company of Clover, has partnered with Association for Enterprise Opportunity to get minority-led small businesses (in select areas) “Back2Business” with their grant program. They understand how hard these small businesses have been hit due to the pandemic and social unrest, so they are doing what they can to help stabilize and grow the businesses that need them the most.
National Black MBA Association, Inc. One of the largest networks for Black professionals, NBMBAA has it all. Looking for an undergraduate internship? Check out the Undergraduate Case Competition. Searching for funding for your business? The Scale-Up Pitch Challenge is perfect for you. They offer opportunities to learn, connect, and grow with and from other Black professionals and do what they can to support you on that journey.
For Those Who “Need” Something Extra in Their Shopping Carts
We’re still in the middle of a pandemic, so make sure to keep shopping small! All these companies are Black-owned.
Mini Face Mask Trio by Live by Being This cute little sample trio is perfect for the indecisive. All natural, vegan, and cruelty free, these masks are meant to hydrate, nourish, and detox all skin types. Masks aren’t your thing? Check out the rest of the inventory for the beauty, health, and wellness supplies that are the best fit for you.
Ultimate Kinky and Curly Girl Kit by Uncle Funky’s Daughter Meet your new go-to hair products! With products for curl hydration, stretching, growth, bounce, shine, and definition, there’s something for every curl. And if the company and product names weren’t cool enough, check out the fantastic price on this set!
Beard Conditioner by Scotch Porter Made for all skin types, this vegan beard conditioner conditions, softens, and shines so your facial hair receives the care it deserves. It’s the best selling item on their site, so it makes sense that this easy-to-use product should be a must-have for your daily routine.
For Those Who Just Need a Break
Self-care is never a bad thing. It’s an essential part of our routines, so here are some places and businesses to turn to when you need them.
The Nap Ministry A mental health platform dedicated to showing how rest is essential for mental well-being. They understand that naps are healing, and they share the best relaxation tips on how to maximize your rest.
Therapy for Black Girls website and podcast This affordable community is focused on destigmatizing mental health issues for Black womxn in a relevant and accessible way. With a therapist search page, blog, podcast, and so much more, they’ll do what they can to help you find what, and who, you need. Interested in supporting? Sign up as a member, or donate to the organization to keep this resource running.
Shine This mental health app by and for BIPOC is perfect for the professional on-the-go. Shine works on making mental and emotional health resources a little bit easier to access. Offering services such as (but not limited to) daily check-ins, real-time support, and 800+ meditations, it’s perfect for everyone, no matter where you’re at in your mental health journey.
For more Black resources and opportunities, keep an eye out for our social media and look through our Opportunity Pipeline. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Have some other Black books, businesses and resources we should know about? Reach out to us at hey@the20.co, and we will work to find the companies and opportunities that are the best fit for you.