Black Thought Leadership: 12 Voices To Connect With on LinkedIn
Adam Thomas
Jewell Fears
Mackenzie Price
Rose Genele
David Robinson-Morris
Stephen Minix
Kason Morris
Amani Roberts
Sheilesha Willis
Venessa Bennett
June Christian
Clement King
Adam Thomas Jewell Fears Mackenzie Price Rose Genele David Robinson-Morris Stephen Minix Kason Morris Amani Roberts Sheilesha Willis Venessa Bennett June Christian Clement King
Excited about expanding your network and gaining insights from diverse perspectives? We’re on a mission to connect you with some remarkable, and badass, thought leaders worldwide.
Throughout this series, we'll introduce you to influential thought leaders from the Badassery community. Our aim is not only to inspire you with their stories but also to create opportunities for collaboration. Whether you're working in Tech, AI, marketing, non-profit, or any other field, there will be ample chances to grow your network and learn from others who can advance your career.
To kick things off, we're shining a spotlight on some inspiring black thought leaders: individuals who have built multiple businesses, generated six-figures from public speaking engagements, and led initiatives championing DEI globally.
Explore their compelling stories and professional milestones, following the journeys that resonate with you. Plus, you can follow or connect with each thought leader below. Time to get to know them!
Adam Thomas is not your average technologist. He’s an experienced Product Strategy expert, diving headfirst into the unknown, creating amidst chaos, and asking big questions. Through his workshops, newsletters, and speaking engagements, he unpacks the secrets of product strategy, management, and leadership, blending tech with culture and psychology.
From teaching AI and Machine Learning at Columbia University to crafting "Survival Metrics," a game-changer that guided over 500 product managers through effective pivoting, Adam's career is defined by innovation and impact. His passion for empowering others shines through his teaching and creations.
Follow Adam on LinkedIn for…
A blend of insightful advice and nuggets of AI and Machine Learning wisdom. His expertise isn't just about staying ahead; it's about thriving in a world of constant change.
Adam would like to connect with…
Learning and Development (L&D) Managers and Product Managers
Amani Roberts, a Washington, DC native and Howard University graduate, has been a DJ since 2008. Currently based in Las Vegas, Nevada, he serves as the Chief Musical Curator for his entertainment company, The Amani Experience. Amani is also renowned for his expertise in the live streaming and music business arenas, where he excels as a partnered Twitch streamer and producer of numerous weekly live-streaming shows.
Amani has achieved notable milestones throughout his career, including departing from Corporate America to launch his own business ventures. This courageous move marked the beginning of a journey that saw him excel as an author and professional speaker, inspiring audiences with his insights and experiences.
Follow Amani on LinkedIn for…
Amani empowers people to break free from apathy by tapping into their creativity through the transformative power of music. With his expertise and passion, Amani guides others on a journey of self-discovery and innovation, leveraging music as a tool for personal and professional growth.
Amani would like to connect with…
Fellow creatives, professional speakers and music industry executives. He’s also got a soft spot for students looking to find their way in the hospitality and music industries.
Clement is a distinguished business leader, problem solver, and change agent known for his expertise in driving business growth, cost reduction, and enhanced risk management. He is recognized as the go-to person for navigating complex challenges and driving impactful change within organizations. Additionally, Clement excels as a career coach, guiding individuals on their professional journeys and empowering them to achieve their goals.
Clement has achieved significant milestones throughout his career, with one notable achievement being his leadership in guiding teams to success and playing a pivotal role in the promotion of numerous individuals. His ability to effectively lead teams and foster growth opportunities for his colleagues underscores his dedication to driving positive outcomes and cultivating talent within the organization.
Follow Clement on LinkedIn for…
Business and career thought leadership. With a wealth of experience and expertise, Clement shares valuable insights and actionable advice on navigating the complexities of the business world and advancing in one's career.
Clement would like to connect with…
Business professionals, entrepreneurs, and job seekers looking for their next career move.
David W. Robinson-Morris, Ph.D., stands at the forefront of intellectual and cultural innovation as the inaugural Executive Director of the Institute for Black Intellectual and Cultural Life at Dartmouth. With a rich background in higher education leadership and a fervent commitment to social justice, Dr. Robinson-Morris serves as a scholar-activist, philosopher, and educator. Additionally, through his strategic consulting firm, The REImaginelution, LLC, David catalyzes the power of imagination to reimagine diversity, equity, and inclusion toward racial justice and systemic transformation.
David has achieved remarkable milestones throughout his career, including the founding of the Center for Equity, Justice, and the Human Spirit at Xavier University of Louisiana. This groundbreaking initiative served as a catalyst for research, community engagement, and public scholarship aimed at advancing equity and justice. Additionally, David's bold decision to embark on his own journey with The REImaginelution marked a pivotal moment in his career, allowing him to leverage the power of imagination to drive transformative change. A highlight of his recent engagements includes a prestigious invitation to the University of Leeds in the UK, where he lectured and delivered a keynote address on the power of imagination to foster prophetic hope and collective liberation.
Follow David on LinkedIn for…
With a commitment to introducing new ideas, imaginings, and provocations, David promises to ignite conversations around imagination, racial equity, systemic transformation, justice, and collective liberation.
David would like to connect with…
Thought leaders, authors, speakers, academics, and systems leaders.
As a free-spirited advocate for family, diversity, and equality, Jewell Fears is all about celebrating the unique experiences and voices that make us who we are. Through tailored processes, workflows, and unbiased strategies, she strives to humanize, empower, and honor communities while respecting their traditions.
Embarking on a bold journey, Jewell made a significant career pivot, leaving behind 15 years in financial services to pursue her passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Driven by a deep sense of purpose, she became a vocal advocate for underrepresented communities, determined to amplify voices often overlooked in mainstream discourse. Jewell's unwavering commitment to creating space for those who share her experiences propelled her forward, and she has never looked back since making the conscious, focused, and unreserved decision to pursue this path.
Follow Jewell on LinkedIn for…
A community feel, built on honesty and inclusivity. With a unique approach to sharing information, Jewell creates a safe space for authentic expression.
Jewell would like to connect with…
Small- to mid-sized organizations who understand their teams are people first! She works for impact, not to check boxes.
June Cara Christian, PhD, is a distinguished expert in intercultural communication, currently making significant strides at a Fortune 100 coffee retailer. Her academic achievements, including a doctorate focusing on complex systemic issues, trauma, and identity, have positioned her at the forefront of critical research. Dr. June is renowned for her global outreach, delivering lectures worldwide on topics such as dehumanization, intersectionality, and belonging, even receiving an invitation from the US State Department. Her monograph, "Understanding the Black Flame and Multigenerational Education Trauma," solidifies her reputation as a leading authority on societal challenges, emphasizing the transformative power of effective communication.
June has achieved notable professional milestones throughout her career. One significant highlight includes lecturing throughout Germany at the invitation of the US State Department, showcasing her expertise and influence on a global stage. Another milestone is the publication of her book, which was originally her dissertation completed in just weeks, by Lexington Books in 2014.
Follow June on LinkedIn for…
A unique blend of raw insight, unbridled passion, and a proven track record of transforming words into action on her LinkedIn. She is not just another voice in the echo chamber; she's a catalyst for change, a thought leader who delves deep into the intricacies of intercultural communication and societal systems.
June would like to connect with…
Change-makers, trailblazers, and thought leaders who aren't afraid to challenge the status quo. If you’re passionate about dismantling systemic barriers, fostering authentic leadership, and embracing the power of intercultural communication, then you’re exactly who she wants in her corner!
Kason Morris stands as a visionary leader in talent development and the future of work, with nearly two decades of strategic leadership spanning corporate learning environments from Fortune 100 companies to agile startups. His advocacy for life-work design has redefined the traditional notion of work-life balance, fostering a dynamic synergy of growth and fulfillment through design and systems thinking.
Kason has achieved significant milestones in his career, notably as the Global Head of Future of Work and Skills Strategy. In this role, he led the transformation towards a skills-based, inclusive workforce for one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies, positively impacting over 70,000 employees worldwide.
Follow Kason on LinkedIn for…
Inspiration via cutting-edge life design and systemic insights that shape personal growth and the future of work. With his expertise in talent development and future workforce strategies, Kason offers invaluable perspectives on navigating the ever-evolving professional landscape.
Kason would like to connect with…
Innovators, HR leaders, and growth-minded individuals ready to transform the future of work and personal success.
Mackenzie Price is dedicated to fostering inclusive communication practices. Through her research and professional endeavors, she delves into the intricate connections between language and various forms of oppression, including racism, ableism, and sexism. Mackenzie’s expertise extends across strategic communications, brand safety initiatives, and the latest best practices in AI adoption. By unpacking these connections, she aims to equip individuals and organizations with the tools needed to communicate more inclusively and combat systemic biases.
Mackenzie's career hit a milestone when she pioneered a social bias auditing service within the nation's largest digital and print publisher. Tackling bias at such a significant scale required a multifaceted approach, encompassing harm reduction, content integrity, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
Follow Mackenzie on LinkedIn for…
Valuable insights and strategies for promoting inclusivity and combating bias. As a former academic and seasoned linguist, Mackenzie offers a unique perspective on language and bias in media content, along with practical advice on incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) principles into everyday practices, particularly in utilizing AI tools.
Mackenzie would like to connect with…
AI policy experts, DEI leaders in the communications and PR spaces, and Media leaders.
Rose Genele is founder of The Opening Door, a revenue and transformation consultancy, and the driving force behind The New Face of Inclusion Summit. Her forward-thinking approach combines inclusive leadership, data-driven insights, and AI solutions to propel organizations towards sustainable growth. Serving as Co-Chairperson of the Canadian Centre for Ethics & Corporate Policy, Rose is also dedicated to fostering ethical business practices and driving positive change in the industry.
Rose reached a significant milestone in her career by assuming the role of co-chair at a prestigious ethics charity. Her leadership in this capacity underscores her commitment to fostering ethical business practices and driving positive change within the industry. Additionally, Rose's founding of an inclusive leadership non-profit, now entering its third year, highlights her dedication to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in leadership roles.
Follow Rose on LinkedIn for…
Fresh insights into inclusive leadership. With a deep commitment to diversity and equity, Rose offers a unique perspective that challenges norms and inspires positive change.
Rose would like to connect with…
Leaders interested in transforming their leadership to be more inclusive, and business owners and leaders that want an informed perspective on AI, responsible AI, and revenue growth.
Dr. Sheilesha Willis, BCC, is a certified leadership coach renowned for her expertise in scaling leadership development and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across various tech and Fortune 500 companies over the past 12 years. With an impressive track record at companies like AECOM, Robinhood, Gem, and Aurora Solar, she has coached executives on building high-performing cultures and overcoming limiting beliefs.
Sheilesha has achieved remarkable milestones in her career, notably in building DEIB functions from the ground up in high-growth companies. One of her most notable achievements includes establishing coaching programs designed to support the development of early-career talent from underrepresented identities, accelerating their growth and success. Additionally, she spearheaded the creation of a holistic inclusive leadership series aimed at fostering inclusion across the talent lifecycle.
Follow Sheilesha on LinkedIn for…
Actionable content that amplifies unwritten rules in organizations, challenges the status quo, and has the potential to drive deep systemic change when adopted. With her expertise and insights, she sheds light on hidden dynamics within organizations, empowering individuals and leaders to enact meaningful transformation.
Sheilesha would like to connect with…
Leaders seeking an executive coach, talent from underrepresented identities who require mentorship or coaching, and business professionals seeking to acquire knowledge about how to access and lead inclusive, effective organizations.
Stephen Minix is a devoted girl-dad on a mission to make a difference in the world. With a simple yet powerful mantra of "how can I help?" Stephen leverages his talents to inspire collaboration and drive positive change. In his role as Senior Director, Community Strategy for UpMetrics, he empowers partners to utilize data effectively to advance their impact and tell their stories to a wider audience. Stephen is deeply passionate about building capacity at impact organizations and is dedicated to creating a better world for all.
Stephen has achieved notable professional milestones measured in real-life impact. One significant achievement includes mentoring a young brother for years, who has recently been appointed as the Director of Programs for the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation. Stephen's dedication to teaching, coaching, and mentoring has not only transformed individual lives but has also contributed to the success of impactful organizations like the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation. His commitment to fostering growth and empowering others underscores his passion for making a tangible difference in the world.
Follow Stephen on LinkedIn for…
an authentic voice and unique perspective to the table. As a Black man in America, his lived experience, coupled with his professional expertise, allows him to speak with conviction and grace. Stephen is unapologetically himself.
Stephen would like to connect with…
Impact leaders (philanthropy, NPO, government) aka those who are interested in shifting power.
People who would like to have an innovative facilitator/thought leader in the mix.
Venessa is a distinguished designer, leader, speaker, and problem solver whose talks and writings delve beyond the usual fluff, offering real, actionable advice that sparks immediate change. She is not merely a commentator on the industry but an active shaper of it, collaborating with other trailblazers to create waves that transcend trends, influencing business strategies, and setting the stage for a design revolution.
Venessa has achieved notable milestones in her career, most notably joining her last job, which marked a significant leap from her previous roles. In this new position, she managed a sizable team and navigated various people dynamics for the first time, all within a role that was entirely new to her.
Follow Venessa on LinkedIn for…
No-nonsense, practical advice gleaned from her extensive career experience. Venessa offers invaluable insights and strategies that can elevate your design leadership skills and propel your career forward.
Venessa would like to connect with…
Design leaders, emerging leaders, education providers, and designers.
