The Power of Rest and Sisterhood at ABFE’s 2024 Black Women in Philanthropy Leadership Retreat

ABFE's 2024 Black Women in Philanthropy Leadership Retreat was not just a gathering; it was a sanctuary. For Black women working in philanthropy, the need for authentic and unapologetic connection cannot be overstated, and coupled with being in a field that often demands so much from us—emotionally, mentally, and physically—having a dedicated space to breathe deeply, let go, and refill our cups is essential for our well-being and effectiveness. 

Black women often carry the weight of personal and professional responsibilities, leaving us depleted, but at this retreat, we found a haven to reconnect with both our purpose and each other. ABFE’s Black Women in Philanthropy Leadership Retreat is an annual reminder that Black women are not alone in our journey; we are part of a powerful sisterhood that deserves to take up space. 
 
Each session, each conversation, each hug shared with sisters I hadn’t seen in what felt like ages was a beautiful reminder of the bonds we share. There is something profoundly special about stepping into a space created just for us, by us—where we can shed the expectations placed upon us and embrace our true selves. 
 
This year, Dr. Katrina Hutchins, Founder and President of Res-Source Solutions and an inspirational figure in our community, delivered a pivotal "Lunch and Love" conversation that resonated deeply as she reframed the concept of rest, emphasizing that it is not merely about sleep or downtime, but rather an intentional act of release—"Releasing Extra Stuff Totally (REST)."  

Her words were a permission slip for many of us: “Maybe you are still in your tough season because you haven’t rested and given time for the next season to come.”  

This perspective is especially powerful, urgently reminding us that just as nature rests, so must we. Her wisdom resonated deeply with many of us, uniting the room in a shared, heartbreaking, yet eye-opening reality: that many of us grew up never truly experiencing a fully rested Black woman.

the stories of how so many of us had grown up without ever seeing a truly rested Black woman—whether it was our mothers, grandmothers, or even ourselves—were both powerful and poignant. 
 
ABFE’s Sister Circles served as another source of strength. In these intimate gatherings, we engaged with one another—sometimes poolside, sometimes around a table, but always in community. Tahira Christmon, Vice President of External Affairs at ABFE, led a session where we reflected on wellness—not just for ourselves, but for the communities we serve. We discussed the importance of advocating for practical everyday wellness, from acupuncture to dental visits, and negotiating wellness tools like Calm and Headspace into HR packages for our teams. 
 
What resonated profoundly was the collective acknowledgment among us: as Black women in leadership, we must model wellness and prioritize rest—not only for ourselves but for the next generation of Black women leaders. We cannot pour from an empty cup. The retreat was a powerful reminder of how critical it is to hold space for ourselves in a world that often does not acknowledge our needs. 
 
Moreover, in light of the current climate—the constant attacks and villainizing of Black women, especially as we approach another election—it becomes increasingly challenging to find soft places to land. Yet, this retreat was that place. Familiar and new faces greeted each other with genuine love, care, hugs, and smiles, creating an atmosphere of warmth and solidarity. 
 
As I left the retreat, I felt inspired, refreshed, and grounded in the sisterhood we share. We, as Black women, carry so much weight, and often forget to take stock of how far we’ve come and what we need to continue. But in spaces like these, we find the strength to persist—not by pushing harder, but by resting, reflecting, and reminding one another of the immense power we hold. 
 
Our power begins with rest. It’s an act of self-care, a revolutionary statement in a world that often demands we do more, be more, give more. I look forward to returning, knowing it will be a time to reconnect with myself, my purpose, and my community—an opportunity to continue the vital work we do in philanthropy, but this time with renewed energy and authentic connections that uplift and empower us all.