BWLL | The Framework


The Liberatory Leadership Model Inspired by Black Women’s Praxis

The BWLL leadership framework draws on the lived experiences and leadership praxis of Black women, offering a universal model applicable to leaders from diverse backgrounds and contexts. 

The Double-Dutch/double helix metaphor anchors this framework, reflecting a dynamic, relational, and communal approach that combines love, resilience, and strategic adaptability to advance collective goals.

Core Principles

  1. Legacy and Inheritance: Leadership as an Act of Resistance and Continuity

    • Leadership is grounded in the lived experiences of marginalized communities, carried forward through intergenerational knowledge and cultural practices.

    • Leaders honor the wisdom and resilience of their ancestors while crafting pathways for future generations.

  2. Relational and Communal Leadership: Leading Together

    • Leadership is a shared, cooperative act where individuals synchronize their efforts in solidarity to achieve common goals.

    • Support systems—mentors, allies, and communities—function as the "rope turners" who sustain and encourage leaders in their pursuits.

  3. Dynamic and Adaptive Praxis: Navigating Complexity with Grace

    • Effective leadership thrives on flexibility, innovation, and the ability to navigate structural barriers without losing sight of personal and collective integrity.