Non-profit Organization

Three women smiling and holding glasses of orange juice at a formal event, with a group of people talking in the background in a brightly lit banquet hall.

Sistah Soul Brunch & Mixer is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization committed to fostering an inclusive and thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem for Black women-owned businesses in the Sacramento Region to the Bay Area. Our annual signature event connects Black women entrepreneurs with potential clients, mentors, and investors, providing a platform for them to showcase their offerings and forge valuable relationships within the community.

What We Offer

A lively networking event with groups of people sitting at round tables.

Signature Annual Brunch & Mixer

The annual in-person event is aimed at Black women professionals to create an opportunity for networking and engagement while providing a space that uplifts women through shared cultural experiences. SSBM has successfully provided networking and business opportunities to women-led business owners, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals in the Sacramento Region, Central Valley, and Bay Area.

Two men engaging in a conversation and paintings are displayed in the background.

Business Educational Workshops

We partner with various organizations to offer workshops related to financial literacy, banking, loans, credit and other topics to support accessing a  variety of funding opportunities to help your business thrive

A group of people sitting at a table staring straight ahead.

Donate to SSBM

 Your support makes a difference! By donating to Sistah Soul Brunch & Mixer, you contribute to our mission with empowering Black women entrepreneurs through curated events, workshops, and networking opportunities that promote business growth and success. Please make a tax-deductible donation today and join us in empowering the sisterhood!

Who We Are

Our Mission

As a non-profit organization, our mission is to empower Black women entrepreneurs through curated events, workshops, and networking opportunities that promote business growth and success. By creating strategic partnerships with local businesses, sponsors, and community organizations, we provide essential resources, education, and support to help these entrepreneurs overcome barriers and achieve their goals.

Our Goals

Promote and Amplify Black Women-Owned Businesses

Support New Business Owners and Entrepreneurs

Facilitate Intentional Networking and Connection

Celebrate Culture and Community

Enhance Guest Experience with Interactive Activities

Our Values

Empowerment

Collaboration

Education

Accountability

Board of Directors

  • Shayla Walker in an orange dress

    Shayla Walker | Founder & CEO

    A pioneering leader focused on empowering Black women entrepreneurs and business owners across the Sacramento Region and the Bay Area. With a passion for creating opportunities and fostering connections with organizations of all sizes, she aims to strengthen the ecosystem of Black-owned businesses and drive positive change within the community. Through her relentless pursuit of progress and inclusivity in the entrepreneurial landscape, Shayla aspires to inspire others to support and elevate Black women in business.

  • Mishae in a black dress sitting down

    Mishae Parker | Co-founder/Event Coordinator

    She is a Visionary, Strategist, and Maximizer. She supports by bringing her  professional training and background in Project Management and Event Planning to SSBM. Mishae is also the Owner of Experience M86, an event planning company that supports businesses from ideation to fruition. She is a valued asset to any partner, client, or company.

  • Nyieko headshot in a yellow cardigan

    Nyuieko Bansah | President

    She currently serves as Board President for Sistah Soul Brunch. Nyuieko has a background in grant writing, clinical and program management with a focus on women's and children's health. As a social worker, she joins us with a strong passion for community building and development. 

  • Headshot of GaNeane in a black turtleneck sweater

    GaNeane Lewis | Secretary

    Founder of GL Custom Designs, supported by an academic background that includes a BS in Business Administration, a BS in UX Design, and an MS in Management and Leadership. I use design as a tool for clarity, connection, and storytelling — transforming ideas into visuals that are intentional, accessible, and rooted in purpose. My work blends strategy with creativity to help organizations communicate with authenticity and impact.

  • Angelique headshot in a black shirt

    Angelique Keys | Treasurer

    She holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Sociology and brings more than 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience to her work. Her career includes senior roles in fundraising, grant strategy, community engagement, marketing, and strategic planning across nonprofits, higher education, and philanthropic organizations. She has led multimillion dollar fundraising initiatives, managed complex grant portfolios, and supported organizations through periods of growth, transition, and increased impact.

  • Headshot of Erin in a black blazer

    Erinn Brooks | Board Member

    Erinn is an accomplished strategic storyteller with a focus on communications and marketing. With a profound commitment to effecting positive change, Erinn specializes in collaborating with impact organizations dedicated to social and environmental justice causes. A Bay Area native, Erinn is passionate about empowering local entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, leveraging her expertise as a communicator and educator.

Upcoming Events