How Generationally Women Entrepreneurs Differ on Sexism

Does age change a mindset on reality?

In 2019, I had the pleasure of attending the Women In the Black Who’s the Boss Conference in Harlem. It was my first time to the conference and I randomly learned about it while checking out booths at the Small Business Expo held in June 2019. I was very excited to meet other Black women with successful small businesses and also soak up wisdom and knowledge. I definitely gained in both regards, however something that still plays over in my mind is a moment I shared with an older Black woman during the conference.

Many of the women in attendance were in an age group different from mine. Nearly all had been in Harlem for longer than I have been on this planet. They have seen the ebbs and flows of the community. They have championed for Harlem and worked diligently to maintain the historical area of Blackness, despite the onslaught of gentrification. Most notably, they grew up during a time when societal norms about what men and women are allowed to do now serve as stark contrasts to what are the norms today, and beyond.

Among the various shades, colors, and show-stopping fashions I witnessed at the conference was a different way of communicating, presenting, and discussing business. It was clear to me that a majority of the women knew each…