Carmen Jones shares her inspiring story, from exploring the roots of her passion for empowering Black girls, the vision behind The Black Girl Social Club, to the significant impact she’s making in the realms of education, culture and community development.
Share a bit about your journey with The Black Girl Social Club?
To put the last 14 years into perspective: I lost my job as a teacher in northern Virginia. I was working with students on the autism spectrum, but I’ve worked with children of all backgrounds, capabilities, etc., since the age of 14. I have over 20 years of experience working with youth, teaching and mentoring in the community. When I moved to Atlanta, I originally wanted to be a part of the entertainment industry. I graduated from the Appomattox Regional Governor’s School for the Arts in Petersburg, Virginia, and have always been very much into art, theater, music and pop culture. But, when I moved to Atlanta, I didn’t have any friends or family here. Things became pretty lonely for me as time went on, and I had a huge desire have close-knit community here. That is how The Black Girl Social Club was born. Soon I learned that that was a need for many Black women worldwide. We grew to 4,000 members in just a year and half. Black women and girls deserve community and a safe space to learn and grow. I’m glad I’ve been able to provide that space. It means a lot to so many.
Are there specific moments or achievements that you consider particularly significant in your career?
I definitely will always remember our very first conference here in Atlanta with our keynote speaker, Tabitha Brown. We brought members from all over the world to Atlanta and had a ball. We didn’t think it would happen, but we made it happen. Also, when we established our first chapter in the U.K., that was an amazing moment for us. We now have about six chapters overseas, from Bermuda to South Korea.
Are there any upcoming projects that you’re particularly excited about?
Oh yes! I’m excited about our upcoming collaboration with Grown Woman TV. I’m currently hosting the “Dear Aunty” podcast on the network with my girl Koereyelle. In 2024, The Black Girl Social Club will be launching a podcast on the network all about friendships. I think we spend a lot of time talking about dating, marriage and motherhood — but it’s time we talk about adult friendships.
