SheWorks Initiative: Empowering Black Women in Southern California
In a significant step towards economic mobility, the California Black Women's Collective Empowerment Institute has introduced SheWorks, a groundbreaking workforce development program aimed at helping Black women in Los Angeles attain secure and well-compensated employment. Scheduled to commence on January 24, 2026, this initiative offers training, mentorship, and crucial partnerships with employers committed to equitable hiring practices.
With applications opening this fall, the program prioritizes women residing in Southern California, particularly those from Los Angeles County. Through no-cost training and comprehensive career development support, SheWorks addresses the challenges faced by unemployed, underemployed, and system-impacted women. According to recent figures, over 300,000 Black women nationwide have lost their jobs this year, emphasizing the urgent need for programs like SheWorks that facilitate pathways to stable employment.
Kellie Todd Griffin, President and CEO of the California Black Women's Collective Empowerment Institute, emphasizes, “When Black women work, families and communities rise.” The initiative is not merely focused on providing jobs; it aims to foster an environment where Black women can build sustainable careers, access opportunities, and thrive with dignity and purpose.
Participants in SheWorks will benefit from a comprehensive suite of resources designed to prepare them for success in today's competitive job market. The program includes:
- - Career Coaching: Personalized guidance to help women navigate their career paths effectively.
- - Resume Development: Skills to create compelling resumes that highlight individual experiences and strengths.
- - Interview Preparation: Mock interviews and tips to boost confidence during actual job interviews.
- - Skill Training: Workshops focusing on essential skills, including digital technologies and leadership.
- - Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to connect with Black women professionals who can provide valuable insights and support.
- - Financial Literacy Resources: Programs aimed at promoting fiscal responsibility and long-term financial health.
Moreover, SheWorks will provide access to a network of employers committed to fair hiring and advancement opportunities. By collaborating with community partners and organizations, the program will further connect participants to additional training and social services, paving the way for enhanced employment prospects.
The primary cohort will kick off at the L.A. Care/Blue Shield Promise Community Resource Center in Long Beach, with partial funding supplemented by The LA Fed. This initiative seeks not only to strengthen California's workforce but also to confront and dismantle the barriers hindering economic security for Black women.
The California Black Women's Collective Empowerment Institute is dedicated to advocating for the social, political, and economic enhancement of Black women and girls statewide. Through initiatives like SheWorks, the organization aims to dismantle systemic obstacles, providing avenues for success across all sectors. This program stands as a beacon of hope and a practical solution in the fight for equity in the workforce.
To learn more about SheWorks or to explore partnership opportunities, visit their website or reach out via email.