The familiar to many of us – navigating the corporate world as a black woman. It’s a journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and moments of profound self-discovery. And for me, one of those defining moments came in 2019 when I was terminated from my graduate fellowship, not because of plagiarism or poor grades, but due to the agency poor management.

At first, I was devastated – blindsided by the sudden loss of this opportunity and grappling with feelings of frustration, anger, and self-doubt. This termination meant I wasn’t graduating with my masters that summer and as a single mom at the time, every minute counts. But as I reflected on my experience and sought guidance from mentors and peers, I began to see it as an opportunity for growth, resilience, and empowerment.

Here’s what I learned from my experience as a black woman in corporate America, and how you can protect yourself in the face of adversity.

As a black woman in corporate America, it’s important to trust your instincts and speak up when something doesn’t feel right. Whether it’s a toxic work environment, unfair treatment, or microaggressions in the workplace, don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and your well-being.

Surround yourself with a diverse and supportive network of mentors, colleagues, and allies who can offer guidance, encouragement, and perspective. Having a strong support system can help you navigate the challenges of corporate life and provide a sense of community and belonging. I want to stress of building support at work and off work because the truth is, these people ain’t your friends and they will sabotage and talk ill of you.

In the face of discrimination, harassment, or unfair treatment, documentation is key. Keep detailed records of any incidents, conversations, or emails that may be relevant to your situation. This can provide valuable evidence if you ever need to take legal action or file a complaint with HR.

Educate yourself about your rights as an employee, particularly as they pertain to discrimination, harassment, and wrongful termination. Familiarize yourself with company policies, state and federal laws, and resources available to you for seeking recourse in the event of workplace injustice.

Navigating the corporate world as a black woman can be exhausting, emotionally draining, and mentally taxing. Make self-care a priority by setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness and self-compassion, and seeking support from mental health professionals when needed.

Ultimately, my experience of being terminated taught me valuable lessons about resilience, perseverance, and the importance of advocating for myself in the face of adversity. As black women in corporate America, we have the power to challenge the status quo, break down barriers, and pave the way for future generations of trailblazers.

So to my fellow black women navigating the corporate world – remember that your voice matters, your experiences are valid, and your presence is a force to be reckoned with. Stay strong, stay resilient, and never stop fighting for your seat at the table.