The Black Women Behind The Technology Who Need More Recognition

In today’s times, there’s noticeably a growing habit of not supporting new technology. Moreover, there is little to no support or acknowledgment when it comes to the creators/founders of said technology. Ultimately, Black women behind some of the latest tech brands that are making huge strides and convenience in the market are not only underrepresented but also unseen and rejected.

Her Agenda has listed a few Black women who are leading major companies and holding technical roles for major businesses that are contributing to our technological futures. By learning about these imprints, more voices can possibly shape how tech gets used.

Tekedra is a Black woman and the Co-CEO of Waymo. Waymo is the world’s first autonomous ride-hailing service. Many people are skeptical about supporting this invention, as the ride is operated by technology rather than a human. However, Tekedra has over two decades of experience advising consumer technology companies on how to advance their business interests around the world. Tekedra is an expert in navigating complex high-profile issues. She began her career working with regulated technology and telecom industries and leading global technology transactions. 

Naza is a Black woman and the Founder and CEO of CarpeDM. CarpeDM is elevated online dating for Black women, with an 86% success rate. You are given a personal matchmaker to support you every step of the way, a required 5-10 minute video chat requirement within 72 hours of matching, and a portion of every membership is donated to a Black organization in the community

Julia is a Black woman and Co-Founder of Zume Pizza. Not your regular pizza joint, as the business utilized automated robotic food-prep technology. Unfortunately, Zume Pizza was shut down in 2023 after facing high costs and low demand; this is an example of the technology going unnoticed and unsupported. The technological advances and innovations still stand for the business, as millions of dollars were generated by the company. Julia is the first Black woman to co-found a billion-dollar unicorn startup, which later founded the regenerative climate startup Planet FWD.

Mandy is a Black woman and CEO of Official Black Wall Street (OBWS). OBWS is the largest app and digital platform that connects consumers to Black-owned businesses. This software was created after Mandy studied entrepreneurship and Global Business Management at Babson College. Her drive and determination stemmed from creating help for the Black community as an opportunity to thrive through economic empowerment and ownership. Mandy has essentially created a hub for Black skincare, streetwear, art, home goods, and more.

Kimberly is a Black woman and CEO of Villie. Villie is a parent tech and consumer company. The company is designed to conveniently connect expecting parents with financial and emotional support from their community, highlighting the importance of a village, especially for parenting. Kimberly has received investments from esteemed investors such as Fearless Fund, XRC Ventures, and TxO by a16z.

The main thing these Black women CEO/Founders have in common is innovative technological insights. These businesses resonate by taking ideas and creating impactful and helpful contributions to the world. The most significant aspect of it all is that most go without recognition. They are intrinsically rejected, in most cases, by their own people, while the root of the majority of Black women’s intentions is for the Black community. Historically, to the present day, it is impossible to pour into a community that doesn’t receive or reciprocate.