About BWEL

At BWEL, we believe leadership starts with who you build with. Our team is made up of visionary Black women who know the journey because they’ve walked it—executives, strategists, and community builders who have turned their lived experiences into a mission to uplift others.

Black Women in Executive Leadership

The Story Behind

It started as a spark in 2017—a vision of something more. A future where Black women in leadership didn’t have to go it alone. A space where we could shine fully, speak freely, and succeed without shrinking.

BWEL was born from the desire to gather—really gather—in a way that made room for both our excellence and our exhaustion, our goals and our growth. A space where hard conversations are welcomed, big wins are celebrated, and no one has to dim their light to belong.

Founded by Christina Raye, a senior executive in the asset management industry, BWEL is the community we wish we had while climbing. Now, we’re building it together—for the women who’ve come this far, and the ones rising behind us.

  • Two black women sitting on a leather couch, one drinking a beverage and the other smiling, in a bright, indoor setting.

    Connect

    Our in-person and virtual programming strives to establish and maintain centers of genuine of connection among black women leaders nationally and internationally.

  • Group of black women laughing and enjoying each other's company outside a building.

    Celebrate

    Through dynamic recognition programs and a culture of honor, we celebrate the achievements and essence of black women leaders.

  • Two black women smiling and talking at a café with large green plants and a brick wall in the background.

    Cultivate

    Multigenerational engagement ensures a passing down of wisdom, knowledge, and expertise as we seek to cultivate the leaders of today and tomorrow.

RSVP To Join

We don’t just talk about representation—we live it, every day.

And we’re honored to lead alongside you.

Meet the Women

behind the movement

Woman in a royal blue sleeveless jumpsuit smiling, standing indoors in front of windows with a blurred living room background.

Christina Raye Hamilton - CEO & Founder

A woman with dark hair, glasses, and hoop earrings smiling at the camera, wearing a white top against a dark background.

Stephanie Penn
Digital Marketing Manager