Building a Statewide Network for Black Women in New Jersey

BY CANDACE WALLER

While March is designated as Women’s History Month, Shanique Taliaferro believes Black women should be celebrated every day. Through the organization she founded in March 2023, Black Women of New Jersey (BWNJ), Taliaferro has created a thriving community dedicated to connection, support, and empowerment.

A native of Trenton, Taliaferro said the idea for the organization began with a simple online search. She was looking for a space where Black women across the state could connect and celebrate one another. When she couldn’t find such a community, she decided to create one herself. What began as a small, online group quickly grew into something much larger than Taliaferro initially imagined. She expected only a handful of women to join and support one another virtually. Instead, the group has evolved into a statewide network that hosts regular meetups and events across New Jersey.

Members have gathered for social outings, including group trips to see the film The Color Purple, as well as community-centered events designed to strengthen relationships. Two years ago, the organization launched an annual gala celebrating the achievements and contributions of Black women throughout the state. This year’s Black Women of New Jersey Gala will take place on May 8, and tickets are already selling quickly.

At the heart of the organization is its vibrant online community. The BWNJ Facebook group has become a dynamic space where women share achievements, ask questions, network professionally, and offer encouragement.

Today, the BWNJ community includes more than 20,000 women across the state who connect through digital platforms, social networks, and in-person events. Beyond networking, the organization has fostered a culture of mutual support. Members regularly promote one another’s businesses, collaborate professionally, and help open doors to job opportunities for women seeking new career paths.

There is also a strong sense of emotional connection within the community. Members show up for one another during difficult times, offering encouragement and support. The group has helped honor loved ones who have passed away through proclamations and tributes, and it has even led to unexpected family discoveries. “We’ve had beautiful moments where women realized they were actually cousins or relatives through the group,” Taliaferro said. “Others have found lifelong friendships and strong sisterhood connections.”

Above all, BWNJ remains a space where women celebrate one another’s milestones—whether launching a business, earning a promotion, graduating, or reaching a personal goal. Through these moments of celebration and solidarity, Taliaferro’s vision continues to grow into a powerful network of sisterhood across the Garden State.

Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Taliaferro has received several honors for her leadership and community impact, including the Entrepreneurship Award from the Coalition of 100 Black Women and a Rising Star Award in Ocean County. She has also received recognition from the City of Trenton for her community service work.

In addition, Black Women of New Jersey has received proclamations from the City of Orange and the City of Newark, recognizing the impact of its community initiatives. Taliaferro has also been featured on News 12 New Jersey and in several publications highlighting her work.

“What makes me most proud is the relationships that have formed through the community,” she said. “Seeing women build real friendships, collaborate, support each other, and show up for one another is the greatest impact of all. Our long-term vision is to continue expanding the network while building programs focused on mentorship, leadership development, civic engagement, and community service across New Jersey.”

The organization continues to expand its outreach. In April, BWNJ will partner with Black Owned New Jersey for a community clean-up initiative in Newark.

“I hope the next generation sees what’s possible when women support each other,” she said. “I want them to inherit strong networks, mentorship opportunities, and communities that empower them to lead with confidence, purpose, and unity.”

To learn more about Black Women of New Jersey, visit www.blackwomennj.com or email blackwomennj@gmail.com