Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Suede Williams. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Suede thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

I have had this idea since I was 15 years old. However we recently launched in 2022. We shifted through a few names but ~ Manifesting Light Project (MLP) is a nonprofit dedicated to amplifying the voices of Black entrepreneurs, business owners, artists, and students by creating equitable access to resources and opportunities.

MLP is driven by the belief that talent and ambition within the Black community are abundant but often overlooked. Our mission is to bridge this gap, providing the support and encouragement needed to turn dreams into realities. Our plan is to make strategic partnerships with companies, host events that generate grants, and foster mentorship for Black creatives and entrepreneurs.

Our initiatives include grant programs, workshops, and networking events, offering financial assistance and invaluable connections to industry leaders. MLP is not just a support system but a celebration of Black excellence, highlighting the achievements and stories of those we want to uplift.

For me, this project is deeply personal. I have witnessed the resilience and brilliance within our community, and I am passionate about creating a future where every Black voice I am able to connect with is heard and every dream has a chance to thrive.

The Manifesting Light Project is a testament to our commitment to equity, justice, and the power of collaboration. We want to continue to illuminate pathways for Black excellence and manifest brighter futures for us.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Suede Williams, and I am the founder of the Manifesting Light Project (MLP), a nonprofit dedicated to amplifying the voices of Black entrepreneurs, business owners, artists, and students by creating equitable access to resources and opportunities. My journey into this field is deeply rooted in my personal experiences and the desire to address the disparities I have witnessed within our community.

Growing up, I was surrounded by incredible talent and ambition within the Black community. However, I also saw and experienced firsthand the systemic barriers that often hindered these bright minds from reaching their full potential. This sparked a passion in me to create a platform that not only supports but celebrates Black excellence. I started MLP with the mission to bridge the gap in opportunities and resources, ensuring that every individual we support has the chance to shine.

At MLP, we are working to offer a range of services designed to empower and uplift our community. Our grant programs will provide crucial funding to Black entrepreneurs, business owners, and artists, enabling them to scale their ventures and achieve their goals. We also will organize workshops and networking events that connect individuals with industry leaders, offering invaluable guidance and opportunities for growth.

One of the unique aspects of MLP is our collaborative approach. We are actively seeking partnerships with organizations that share our vision. Through these alliances, we will host dynamic events that not only provide financial assistance but also foster mentorship and professional growth for Black creatives and entrepreneurs.

The problems we plan to tackle go beyond financial support. We are addressing the lack of access to networks, mentorship, and resources that are essential for success. By creating these opportunities, we help people overcome barriers and navigate their paths with confidence and support.

What sets MLP apart is our unwavering commitment to equity and justice. We are not just a support system; we are a celebration of Black excellence. We highlight the achievements and stories of those we uplift, inspiring others and cultivating a culture of pride and accomplishment within our community. I am incredibly proud of the impact we have made so far. But more importantly looking forward to the impact we make next.

The main thing I want people to know about MLP is that we are here to make a lasting difference. There are so many people who promote representation and supporting US, and yet there are so many areas that we are still lacking in. Even more so, I know it will be someone reading this who will probably steal some of these ideas rather than reach out to me to collaborate. It has happened to me and countless others time and time again. Nevertheless, we are dedicated to creating a future where every Black voice is heard, and every dream has the chance to become a reality. Our journey is one of collaboration, celebration, and empowerment, and we really want anyone who is taking the time to read this to join us in illuminating pathways for Black excellence.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

This is a great prompt. A lot of people who read this will probably know that I am actually a photographer. I launched this nonprofit out of frustration from the lack of support. It’s so many people who push representation and serving the underprivileged. Yet, when they get access they get cliquey and start gatekeeping opportunities from the people they built their business saying they supported.

So me founding a nonprofit was my big pivot. I still shoot but I want this nonprofit, this nonprofit will blow up. We will be able to support and create REAL opportunities for people who are like me. Have the heart to serve and want to create. However, just unfortunately lack the resources to do it in the capacity they would really like to.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

I don’t know how many people reading this believe in God. However, literally the Bible has shaped and influenced my entire career. And I am not going to sit here and act like I read it everyday. Literally having the Bible app on your phone where you can see the verse of the day has shifted my life drastically. On days where I feel down and feel like throwing in the towel, a verse pops us that is the answer to my problem. Literally as I am typing this the verse today was:

Jesus looked at them intently and said,
“Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible.” Matthew 19:26 NLT

Like you can’t make this stuff up. God has literally been the source of my success and the fuel I needed for my failures.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/wearemanifestinglight

Image Credits
Included are photos of my non profit mentors: Issac Rowry Faith Ibrahim San Dixon Robert Butler III Nyzeire Aziza And also the brand logo.