undeniable: if you want progress, you have to create it yourself.
For decades, we’ ve sought validation and opportunity within systems that were never designed for our success. DEI offered the hope that these systems could be reformed, but the recent abandonment of these programs tells a different story. The path forward isn’ t in waiting for inclusion or equity to be handed to us. It’ s in building our own tables, owning our own narratives, and driving our own economic prosperity.
The Imperative of Economic Independence
Economic power has always been the cornerstone of real change. Black communities have historically been at the forefront of innovation, resilience, and enterprise, often creating wealth and opportunities despite systemic barriers. From the success of Black Wall Street to the rise of Black-owned tech startups today, our history is rich with examples of self-determination.
The successes of Black-led ventures like Rihanna’ s Fenty Beauty, which disrupted the beauty industry by prioritizing inclusivity, and Robert F. Smith’ s Vista Equity Partners, one of the largest private equity firms globally, demonstrate what happens when we reclaim control of our narratives and resources. Fenty Beauty reached $ 600 million in revenue within its first year, highlighting the value of addressing overlooked markets.
DYOT challenges us to double down on this legacy. Instead of relying on external validation or waiting for corporations to prioritize our inclusion, we must focus on building businesses, supporting Black entrepreneurs, and fostering networks of mutual aid and investment within our communities.
For decades, we’ ve sought validation and opportunity within systems that were never designed for our success. DEI offered the hope that these systems could be reformed, but the recent abandonment of these programs tells a different story. The path forward isn’ t in waiting for inclusion or equity to be handed to us. It’ s in building our own tables, owning our own narratives, and driving our own economic prosperity.
- it’ s an act of revolution. Turning DYOT into a Movement
To transform“ Do Your Own Thing” from a survival mechanism into a thriving movement, we need a deliberate and collective strategy.
Invest in Black Businesses
Support Black-owned businesses by being intentional about where you spend your money. Advocate for greater investment in Black startups and entrepreneurs. This includes building and sustaining community funds and cooperatives to pool resources for collective prosperity.
Leverage Technology
The digital age has lowered barriers to entry in many industries. Use technology to create platforms, share resources, and connect with global markets. Black innovators have the power to lead in emerging fields like fintech, AI, and renewable energy.
Reclaim the Narrative
Representation in media, arts, and culture matters. We must own our stories and challenge stereotypes that undermine our value. Highlighting Black excellence, resilience, and innovation helps shift perceptions and inspires future generations.
Moving Beyond DEI
The unraveling of DEI initiatives isn’ t the end of the story- it’ s a call to action. For too long, we’ ve sought change within systems designed to exclude us. DYOT isn’ t just a resignation to this reality; it’ s a reclamation of power. It’ s a reminder that our strength lies in our ability to build, create, and thrive on our own terms.
Black prosperity has never been a gift bestowed by others- it has always been the product of our resilience, ingenuity, and determination. The path forward demands that we embrace this truth, step into our power, and shape a future that reflects our vision, values, and potential.
This isn’ t about abandoning the fight for justice or equity in larger systems. It’ s about recognizing that our power to effect change grows exponentially when we control the levers of our own economic destiny. Owning businesses, creating wealth, and reinvesting in our communities is not just an act of survival
Educate and Empower
Education is a critical tool for empowerment. Create mentorship programs, invest in financial literacy, and support educational initiatives that prepare the next generation of Black leaders and entrepreneurs.
Build Coalitions
Collaboration amplifies impact. Form alliances across industries, geographies, and movements to share knowledge, resources, and opportunities. Strengthen networks that enable collective action and mutual support.
As DEI fades into the background, DYOT rises as a rallying cry for Black communities around the globe to harness their collective strength and chart their own path to economic and social liberation. The time to act is now, and the responsibility is ours.
Yannick Lefang is the Founder of Kasi Insight, Africa’ s leading decision intelligence company empowering business leaders and entrepreneurs to make crucial decisions with confidence. You can commune with him via email at: Info @ kasiinsight. com.