top of page
Speaking

The Full Story

ABOUT US 

Woman with Freckles

Our

Vision

Our vision is the guiding force that drives our initiatives and energizes our projects. We are steadfast in our commitment to building a future where Black women are empowered, uplifted, and celebrated, enabling them not only to survive but to truly excel in all areas of life. Aiming to empower black women through health & wellness initiatives, focusing on representation in mental health, and western health spaces acknowledging the importance of understanding their experiences and challenges. This is achieved through shared experiences, community. 

We envision a world where Black women thrive in every aspect, empowered through education, supported by community, and uplifted by advocacy.

Our Story

 Founded by Yanni Profit in 2019, dedicated to uplifting and supporting the mental health and well-being of Black women. Our journey began with the establishment of Soulful Beginnings Coaching and Counseling, a grassroots initiative born out of a profound understanding of the unique challenges faced by Black women in navigating mental health spaces.

​

Yanni recognized the pervasive mental health biases and stigmas that often hinder access to care for Black women. With a vision to create a safe and empowering environment, she assembled a team of coaches and counselors who shared their experiences and expertise, fostering a sense of representation and belonging. Through this initiative, we have provided invaluable support systems that help combat the lack of access to African American mental health providers.

 

Over the past four years, our commitment to mental health advocacy has grown exponentially. What started as a volunteer group of passionate women has now blossomed into a community institution, officially recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in Illinois in 2023. This transition marks a significant step in our mission as we aim to move upstream, addressing systemic issues and healthcare policies that affect the mental health of Black women.

 

At BWWB, we believe that every Black woman deserves to bloom, and we are dedicated to creating a brave space where healing, empowerment, and community thrive. Join us as we continue to advocate for mental health equity and provide the support that Black women need to flourish. Together, we can break down barriers and cultivate a future where every Black woman can thrive in her mental health journey.

yppic.jpg
bwwb.PNG

Communities We Serve

BWWB works in Cook County Illinois where over FIVE million of all Illinois residents live. In addition, BWWB services Northern and Southern Cook County.

​

Cook County  has the largest number of African Americans in Illinois. (Lhttps://datausa.io/profile/geo/cook-county-il 2024 )

​

In addition, more than half of 51.1% of the population of Cook County, Illinois is female, and of that 22.4% Black or African American  (Per IDES file )

Women residing in cook county are disproportionately impacted by health disparities that impact the African American community, including obesity and lack of health insurance, lack of access to mental health services.

​

Through various Black Women for Wellness programming, we serve youth ages 12 – 17,  young adults ages 18 – 24, adults ages 25 – 65, and seniors ages 65+. 

Happy Family

“A wise woman wishes to be no one’s enemy; a wise woman refuses to be anyone’s victim.” ― Maya Angelou 

bottom of page