Niani Tolbert

Niani is a remarkable individual who has made significant strides in her career. She began as a marketer, transitioned into a tech recruiter, and eventually became the founder of the #HIREBLACK initiative. What initially started as a viral LinkedIn post requesting assistance in providing resume feedback to 19 Black womxn on Juneteenth has now evolved into a powerful movement. The primary objective of #HIREBLACK is to assist 10,000 Black womxn in obtaining training, employment, and promotions in corporate roles. Impressively, #HIREBLACK has amassed a network of over 15,000 individuals and has been featured in reputable publications such as Forbes, ESSENCE, CNBC, Business Insider, LinkedIn News, theSkimm, and more. This recognition is a testament to the impact and influence of #HIREBLACK. Throughout its existence, #HIREBLACK has collaborated with prominent companies such as Amazon, Disney, Conde Nast, Niantic, Spotify, Uber, and many others. The resources provided by #HIREBLACK have resulted in a reported increase of over $2 million in total compensation for its members. Niani's expertise and dedication have been acknowledged through various accolades. In 2022, she was awarded the prestigious NAACP Powershift Grant, highlighting her exceptional work with #HIREBLACK. Additionally, in 2021, Niani emerged victorious in the Essence x Pine-Sol Build Your Legacy Contest. Her remarkable achievements continued in 2020, as she secured the Future of Work grant by Create & Cultivate and was honored with the Future is Female award by Advertising Week. Furthermore, Niani received the Diversity and Inclusion Award from the Women's Empowerment Institute in the same year. Niani's impact reaches beyond her role as a founder. She has also served as a workshop leader at esteemed events such as Advertising Week, the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business, and NYU Stern School of Business. Her willingness to share her knowledge and expertise is testament to her commitment to empowering others. Niani's journey is an inspiration to all. Her dedication to creating opportunities for Black womxn in the corporate world through #HIREBLACK is making a tangible difference and reshaping the landscape of diversity and inclusion.