The National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs, Inc (NANBPWC, Inc.) was founded in July of 1935. The founders were Emma Odessa Young, Ollie Chinn Porter, and Effie Diton of New York City; Bertha Perry Rhodes, Josephine B. Keene, and Adelaide Flemming of Philadelphia; and Pearl Flippen of Atlantic City. These women were owners, managers, and college graduates, and while they were denied admission in established business clubs, they created their own community, which spread across the country and still exists today. On April 25th, the Metro Atlanta branch of the organization will celebrate the 91st anniversary of its founder’s day. Members Loretta Perry and Pamela Stegall joined us to talk about it.

The ladies share how they came to join the organization. Perry received a college scholarship from the organization and decades later joined. Stegall’s family member encouraged her to join, and after attending her first gathering, she was so impressed with the members that she joined. They speak about the organization’s monthly meetings and activities. They show support for small women business owners in many ways, including flash/cash mobs that descend on businesses and spend money.

Stegall shares some of the highlights from the upcoming gala, including some of the names of some of the women who will be honored at the gala. Fashion designers will showcase fashions that can be purchased by attendees. There will also be a jazz band.

The NANBPWC, Inc., a community of women started in 1935, now has over 140 chapters nationally and internationally. For more information, check their Instagram.