Support and opportunities are lifelines to growth, but let’s be real—many of us in the colored community don’t always have access to them. We’re often taught to be strong, to push through, to “make it happen” on our own. But the truth is, no one does it alone. Let’s talk about why support matters, why it’s lacking, and how opportunities can change lives when we recognize and share them.

What is Support?

Support isn’t just financial—it’s emotional encouragement, mentorship, resources, or even just a listening ear. Support is someone saying, “I see you. I believe in you.”

But let’s be honest—how often do we see this kind of support in our community? For many of us, survival has been the priority for generations, leaving little room for collective growth. In some cases, systemic racism has taught us to see each other as competition rather than collaborators.

Think about it:

• Have you ever felt like you couldn’t ask for help because it might make you look weak?

• Have you held back from offering support because you weren’t sure you had enough to give?

Let’s change that narrative. 💬 What does support mean to you? Who has supported you in meaningful ways?

Why Do We Lack Support?

There’s no simple answer.

1. Generational Trauma: Many of us come from families that had to “just survive,” leaving little room for vulnerability or building a network of support.

2. Competition Over Collaboration: In a world where opportunities for people of color often feel scarce, we sometimes feel like we have to fight each other for a seat at the table.

3. Systemic Inequalities: Lack of access to education, healthcare, and financial stability makes it harder to create support systems that thrive.

But here’s the thing: We don’t have to keep living like this. We can reimagine support by showing up for each other and building from within.

What Are Opportunities?

Opportunities are moments, resources, or connections that can help us grow. They’re the scholarship you didn’t know about, the mentor who believes in you, or even the chance to speak up in a room where decisions are being made.

But here’s the kicker: opportunities don’t always look obvious. Sometimes, they’re hidden in hard work, uncomfortable changes, or even rejection.

Three Steps to Seize Opportunities

1. Create Them: Can’t find a way? Make one. This could mean reaching out to someone you admire or building your own business.

2. Recognize Them: Stay open-minded. That job you’re hesitant to apply for? That networking event you’re dreading? They might be the start of something big.

3. Share Them: When you have access to an opportunity, pass it on. One connection can change someone’s life.

💡 What’s one opportunity you’ve taken that changed your path? Have you ever shared an opportunity with someone else? How did it feel?

Reimagining Support and Opportunities in Our Community

We can break the cycle. Here’s how:

• Be a Mentor: Share what you know. It might seem small to you, but your knowledge is valuable.

• Celebrate Each Other: Normalize clapping for other people’s wins without feeling like it takes away from your own.

• Collaborate, Don’t Compete: There’s room for all of us. When one of us wins, we all win.

Let’s Talk About It

This isn’t just my story—it’s our story. Let’s make this a conversation. Drop a comment below and share:

1. A time when someone supported you and how it impacted your life.

2. An opportunity you’re currently pursuing or one you’ve created for someone else.

3. How do you think we can build stronger support systems in our community?

Together, we can shift the narrative from scarcity to abundance. Let’s build each other up, one step at a time. 💪🏾✨

What’s your perspective? Let’s grow together!