By Sharday Urtarte, Editor-in-Chief Nefertiti Network (WASHINGTON, D.C. – March 25, 2025) – March Madness is here—a time when college basketball dominates the sports world, showcasing the talent and resilience of student-athletes nationwide. But beyond the on-court spectacle, what does this moment mean for Black student-athletes in today’s evolving NCAA landscape? The Changing NCAA Landscape Recent legislative shifts—ranging from changes in NIL policies to the rollback of affirmative action and the dismantling of DEI programs—are reshaping the experience of Black athletes. These policies don’t just impact recruitment; they influence financial opportunities, mental health, and the overall culture of college sports. The…

By Lauren Dorvil, MPH, Chief Digital Strategist, Nefertiti Network (WASHINGTON, D.C. – March 4, 2025) – Dear Black Women …  It is evident that our voices are under attack. The past 40 days have been an intense cycle of uncertainty, fear, and emotion. America has found itself in a new but familiar chapter of history, with a political, social, and economic climate that is hostile to urban America—specifically to the overall health and wellness of Black women. Our physical, mental, and emotional health are at risk: from the cost of living, senseless attacks on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), and…

Written by Jacqueline Shaulis, White House Correspondent, The Nefertiti Network Edited by Sharday Urtarte, White House Corr/espondent, The Nefertiti Network (WASHINGTON, DC – February 12, 2025) – In the halls of the White House, Rodericka Applewhaite reshaped the narrative of Black media representation. In her time as White House Director of Black Media, the first-generation American of Panamanian and Guyanese descent didn’t just open doors—she reimagined the very structure of access, ensuring that Black voices are heard where they once were muted. “We trust outlets to understand the audiences they serve,” Applewhaite explained, her voice steady and assured. This belief…

By Jacqueline Shaulis, Chief Investigative Journalist, Nefertiti Network (WASHINGTON, DC – February 10, 2025) “When I walk into a new place of employment, you see my brown face first. When we aren’t saying much, when we have a low-key calm demeanor, we are immediately misunderstood,” reflects Dr. Jeri Bingham, host of the HushLoudly podcast and creator of Black Introvert Week. “They can’t figure us out.” But what others mistake for being “hard to read” is actually calculated observation in action. As Black Introvert Week (February 8-15) kicks off, research is revealing what successful Black introverts have always known: that the…