Amplifying Black Women’s Voices Through Art and Representation
About Us
Book Black Women, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering Black women in the arts and creative industries. We create platforms where their voices, stories, and talents are celebrated and given the visibility they deserve. Through our programming and partnerships, we help Black women thrive as leaders, creators, and changemakers.
While our focus is on uplifting Black women, we believe in the power of art and culture to unite people from all walks of life. By supporting Black women in the arts, we create opportunities for everyone to learn, grow, and contribute to a more inclusive, creative, and equitable world.
why we exist
Amplifying Black Women in the Arts
Our Why
At Book Black Women, Inc., we exist to create spaces where Black women’s voices, creativity, and stories are valued and visible. We believe that when Black women thrive in the arts, it enriches culture, challenges the status quo, and paves the way for a more inclusive and equitable future. Our work is rooted in the belief that representation matters—because when one group rises, we all rise together.
Our Mission
Book Black Women, Inc. is dedicated to creating opportunities for Black women in the arts. We provide resources, platforms, and support that empower them to showcase their talents, influence culture, and lead the creative industries. Our mission is to dismantle barriers, champion representation, and ensure Black women are seen and heard in the artistic world.
meet the founder
The Creative
Ayana Washington is a multifaceted creative leader and the founder of Book Black Women, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering and amplifying Black women in the arts. As an accomplished actor, director, vocalist, costume designer, and producer, Ayana has made significant contributions across multiple disciplines in the arts.
In 2024, she was named Broadway World's Costume Designer of the Year and Vocalist of the Decade in 2020, acknowledging her excellence in both music and design. As a director, Ayana has led numerous productions, including In The Blood and Frankenstein, where her creative vision has shaped captivating theatrical experiences.
In addition to her artistic endeavors, Ayana was honored in The Fayetteville Observer’s 40 Under 40 in 2024, and she was chosen to head the 40 Under 40 initiative each year, cementing her status as a prominent leader in the community. Her influence extends beyond her own projects through collaborations with various organizations, including No Longer Bound Entertainment and Cape Fear Regional Theatre, where she continues to advocate for diverse voices and creative expression.
Ayana’s passion for breaking barriers and creating inclusive platforms for Black women in the arts fuels her work at Book Black Women, Inc., where she strives to inspire and uplift future generations of artists.