1. Noise Canceling Headphones

Hands down, one of the most handy travel gifts is noise-canceling headphones. Crying baby on the airplane? That’s no problem; these headphones will drown out the whining and amp up the music. Too much chatter on a busy train in London? Background noise doesn’t exist with the right set of headphones. 

When shopping for your ideal device, look for foldable, lightweight, and high-quality sound features. 

I suggest the Soundcore Anker life Q20 hybrid active noise canceling headphones.

2. Solar-powered power bank

Have you ever reached a destination with only 10% of your cellphone battery and discovered that your phone charger doesn’t fit any outlets? Every traveler has had that moment of panic when they need to charge their phone but don’t have the means to do so. 

On one trip, I ended up sharing an outlet with an ATM, to charge my phone. Don’t end up in a similar situation; consider purchasing a solar-powered charger. 

Great for charging phones, tablets, and other devices, such as wireless headphones, this device requires only some daylight to get up and running. It makes an excellent gift for yourself or your eco-conscious travel friend. 

Look for lightweight chargers with high charging capacity and the ability to charge various devices, such as USB C or Apple devices. I suggest the LATIMERIA Solar Charger Power Bank.

3. Bug bite zapper

Now, this isn’t the most glamorous gift, but if someone put this in my stocking, I’d be eternally grateful. When I’ve traveled to tropical places, I’ve slathered myself in every cream, spray, and oil possible to repel bugs, but I constantly get bitten.

While I may not be able to prevent bugs from biting me, I can control how long their annoying and itchy bites stay with me. A portable bug bite zapper uses sound or vibrations to reduce swelling and neutralize the itch. 

No more messy creams; this handy device will fix your bug bite problems. 

While many people have positively reviewed these products, everyone’s reactions differ. Whether gifting this to a friend who’s a mosquito magnet or keeping it for yourself, remember to use it cautiously and stop using the product if any irritation occurs.

I recommend trying out the Original electronic bug bite treatment for mosquito bites.

4. Neck Pillow

If you’re shopping for a friend who’s a traveler, chances are they already have a neck pillow. However, theirs is probably a run-of-the-mill and not super comfortable. If this is the case, you can be that good friend who buys them a quality yet affordable neck pillow that is comfortable and durable. 

When shopping for the neck pillow that will wow and ahh, make sure you find one that can easily be attached to luggage or packed in a suitcase or carry-on. Pay attention to the material that is made of. Aim for soft yet firm material such as memory foam. Lastly, notice the shape and whether it supports the neck from the back and sides.

If you’d like to narrow down your options, check out this list of suggestions from Conde Nast. 

5. AirTags

What’s something that every traveler crosses their fingers and hopes doesn’t happen. The dreaded losing of the luggage. It’s such a gut-wrenching feeling knowing that your poor suitcase is lost somewhere on a random airport runway, taken by mistakes, and locked up in some storage closet.

To help you solve the mystery of what happened to your missing luggage, you can use Airtags. These nifty devices can be attached to your luggage and use Bluetooth technology to locate your bag through an application on your phone. 

Airtags are a handy device that every traveler will appreciate. If you’re an Apple user, the tech company has its signature Apple Airtags, but you can also find other brands on Amazon. 

6. Travel Journal

Not every memory can be captured on camera. When I think back to my travel experiences, some of the most memorable moments were the conversations I had with new people, the surprising flavors I tasted, and those nights I spent dancing in the streets and fully living in the moment. 

Even though a picture or video can capture the colors and lights of a space, words can capture the emotions of a given moment in time. That’s why a travel journal is a perfect gift for the adventurer who believes that not every moment needs to be posted online. 

There are a wide variety of travel journals to choose from. Some have blank pages to sketch the scenery, while others have prompts to help you record your favorite moments or plan your itinerary. This travel journal by Duncan & Stone Paper Co. can make a great gift.

7. Experiences

While tangible gifts are lovely, many travelers explore the world for the experiences they can have, not the things they can collect. Therefore, a great gift can be an experience such as tickets to a local wine tasting, food tours, museum entry passes, and local tours.

Gifting an experience is a unique and memorable gift. Make sure you choose an experience that matches the personality of your giftee. Check out Gifting Owl to find experiences in your area and price range. 

Hopefully, this list will help you complete your Christmas shopping. You can also revisit this list throughout the year when you’re looking for a quality and affordable gift for other occasions

The post Travel Gifts Under $50 That Will Enhance Your Adventures appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

Fortunately, the movie Formula 1 has expanded our perception by featuring Damson Idris as a competitive and, at times, overly confident race car driver. The appearance of a Black race car driver on the big screen it reminds us that Black athletes are not limited to mainstream sports like football and basketball.

Let’s explore some parts of that history that are often overlooked and learn about the men who opened doors for people of color aspiring to get behind the wheel. Here are some Black Drivers in motorsports you should know about.

Dewey Gatson / “Rajo Jack”

The name “Rajo Jack” might sound unfamiliar, but it holds great significance in motorsports history.  Dewey Gatson, born on July 28th, 1905, in Tyler, Texas, earned his nickname from selling parts for Rajo Motor Manufacturing.

Gatson was one of the first African American race car drivers in America, despite being barred from competing in sanctioned American Automobile Association (AAA) events. While there was no formal law preventing African Americans from racing in AAA events, racial discrimination at the time excluded many Black drivers from competing.

As a result, Gatson competed in “outlaw circuits” and even pretended to be Portuguese to gain entry into certain racing arenas.

His racing journey began in 1923 with a Model T Ford. In 1936, he celebrated his first victory, winning by two laps at the Los Angeles Speedway.

Because of Rajo Jack’s presence in the racing scene, he paved the way for others to follow in his footsteps. In recognition of his contributions, he was inducted into the West Coast Stock Car Hall of Fame in 2003 and the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame in 2007.

Charles Wiggins

A four-time winner of the Colored Speedway Association’s Gold and Glory Sweepstakes race, Charles Wiggins was one of the most supportive and influential figures within the race car scene. 

His interest in cars began while he was shining shoes at an auto repair shop, where he worked his way up to become a mechanic’s assistant. When World War I broke out, Wiggins took on managing the auto shop floor due to a shortage of workers.

As his love for cars grew, Wiggins eventually designed his own race car and sought to participate in the Indianapolis 500, known as “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.” Unfortunately, his application was denied, but that didn’t stop him from exploring other avenues.

Wiggins joined the Colored Speedway Association, an organization for Black race car drivers in the Midwest. He was eventually able to compete in races organized by the Association and won four times, driving cars he had designed himself.

Although he never competed in the Indianapolis 500, Wiggins contributed significantly by helping engineers design winning cars. Though not widely known publicly, he was highly praised and honored within the racing community.

Joie Ray

Joie Ray, born Joseph Reynolds Ray Jr., was the first Black driver to break color barriers by participating in a sanctioned sprint car race with the Midwest Dirt Track Racing Association.

He earned the nickname “the Jackie Robinson of racing” because Ray’s and Robinson’s debuts occurred about a week apart.

Ray got his start in racing after placing a bet and winning $500, which was enough to buy a Dodge four-cylinder sprint car priced at $450. This investment enabled him to compete in various racing organizations, including the Central States Racing Association (CSRA) and the International Motor Contest Association (IMCA), where he became the first African American to race.

Throughout his career, Ray secured numerous top-5 and top-10 finishes, racing alongside notable drivers such as Bill Cantrell, Cliff Griffith, and Chick Smith. His contributions to the sport were recognized when he was inducted into the Hoosier Auto Racing Fans (HARF) Hall of Fame in 1995.

Lewis Hamilton

Sir Lewis Carl Davidson Hamilton is the first Black driver to compete in Formula 1. 

Born on January 7, 1985, in Stevenage, England, Hamilton began his racing career in karting at the age of six, winning multiple national and international karting championships.

As a teenager, he was recruited into the McLaren-Mercedes Young Driver Programme, which laid the foundation for his career. Hamilton made his Formula 1 debut in 2007. In his rookie season, he won four races and finished just one point behind the World Champion, Kimi Räikkönen.

Hamilton’s fame continued to grow when he won his first World Drivers’ Championship in 2008, becoming the then-youngest World Champion in Formula One history. 

Throughout his career and alongside teammate Nico Rosberg, Hamilton secured multiple titles, including back-to-back championships in 2014 and 2015. Following Rosberg’s retirement, Hamilton went on to win further titles in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020, reaching a record-tying seven World Championships alongside Michael Schumacher.

In addition to his record-breaking racing achievements, Hamilton has been a prominent advocate for racial justice, diversity, and environmental sustainability, using his platform to influence positive change within and beyond motorsport.

Whether you are a fan of racing or new to the sport, it is important to recognize the pioneers who opened doors for Black drivers, Black athletes, and other people of color. Though many of these individuals may only be well-known within certain circles, their impact has transcended generations.

The post Black Drivers in Motorsports You Should Know About appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

What’s Behind This Exodus?

This departure didn’t happen in isolation. It’s the result of intersecting pressures — inflation, student debt, program cuts, and underrepresentation in high-growth sectors like technology. Compounding the issue is the erosion of professional networks and mentorship opportunities that once served as vital lifelines for Black women navigating the workplace.

According to LinkedIn’s Meg Garlinghouse, 70% of professionals are hired through existing connections, yet many Black women continue to face “network gaps.” The widespread dismantling of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across industries has only deepened these divides, cutting off access to mentorship, sponsorship, and advancement. Meanwhile, the rise of AI-driven hiring has further narrowed pathways to opportunity.

The Cost of Losing Black Women in the Workforce

The backlash against DEI initiatives has sparked a troubling rollback of the very policies that helped Black women gain ground in historically exclusionary environments. Under the current administration, DEI positions were among the first eliminated across federal agencies affecting over 12% of the Black female workforce.

In the private sector, inclusive hiring and mentorship initiatives — often deemed “DEI-adjacent” — have been quietly scaled back or dissolved. Job postings for DEI roles dropped 43% from 2022 to 2024, and many employee resource groups (ERGs) have shuttered, leaving Black workers without crucial support systems. These reversals come at a moment when connection, sponsorship, and advocacy are needed most.

The impact extends far beyond the individual. From February to June 2025, the labor force participation rate for Black women fell 1.8 percentage points, resulting in an estimated $37.2 billion loss to the U.S. GDP. The sharpest decline came in February, when 266,000 Black women left the labor force in a single month.

Why Mentorship Matters More Than Ever

Mentorship remains one of the most powerful tools for professional advancement. For Black women, having a mentor can expand networks, boost confidence, and provide critical guidance for navigating racial and gender bias at work.

For companies, mentorship pays dividends too — reducing turnover, strengthening culture, and preserving institutional knowledge. When mentors pass down experience and leadership values, they help cultivate stronger, more resilient organizations.

Reclaiming Support and Building Back

If you’re a Black woman facing job loss or feeling overlooked in a post-DEI workplace, you’re not alone. There are organizations committed to helping you rebuild and thrive:

• Black Career Women’s Network (BCWN): Provides culturally informed coaching, leadership training, and strategic career development.
• The Sadie Collective: Supports Black women and nonbinary professionals in economics, finance, data, and public policy, fostering mentorship and representation.

Equally important is reconnecting with your personal network former coworkers, college friends, and Black women business owners in your community. These relationships can spark new opportunities and restore confidence. Inspiration can also come from the stories of Black women leaders who’ve paved the way.

There’s immense wisdom within our own communities. To rebuild, we must lean on each other, invest in mentorship, and make sure Black women reclaim and redefine their rightful place in the workforce.

The post The Great Exodus: Why Black Women Are Leaving the Workforce appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

Fashion and travel are like distant cousins, different but still related. They both influence one another in various ways. If you’re curious about the travel side of fashion or want to know more about the fashion involved in travel, keep reading.

Where is the intersection of travel and fashion?

Fashion and travel don’t only intersect when it comes to a stylish Instagram photo, such as the flying dress photoshoot in Santorini, where women pose in front of whitewashed buildings as their five-foot-long dresses blow in the wind.

There are numerous ways travel and fashion blend like flavors in a vegetable soup. 

Culture

One of the most apparent ways fashion is inspired by travel is through culture. From the colorful saris of India to the vibrantly colored prints from Kenya, clothing is a way for cultures to carve out their identity and create traditions. 

Because culture crashes with fashion, it’s important to note that fashion inspired by culture treads the line of cultural appropriation. “Any kind of cultural element — be it an embroidery technique or reference imagery — holds a certain value and a story,” resort wear designer Narresh Kukreja of Shivan & Narresh told Travel & Leisure Magazine. “So, when fashion interprets culture, it has to, in some way, uphold the values of that reference as well.”

So, how do you be inspired by another culture’s fashion without being disrespectful? Here are two different ways to embrace cultural fashion.

One way is to embrace fashion that is already a part of your heritage or culture. If you’ve grown up in the United States, you’ve probably felt the societal pressure to fit into the “American style.” Yet your wardrobe doesn’t have to be limited to blue jeans and cowboy boots.

Many celebrities have taken to the red carpet in garments representing their heritage.

• Tiffany Haddish wore a traditional Eritrean dress to the Oscars in 2018 to honor her father from Eritrea.
• Ali Wong wore a traditional Vietnamese dress, an áo dài, to the Time 100 Gala to honor her Vietnamese heritage. 
• Kumail Nanjiani wore a Pakistani sherwani by the House of Umar Sayeed to the 2021 premiere of Eternals.

Likewise, you can allow your inspiration from other cultures to influence your fashion decisions by: 

• Wearing more bold colors.
• Experimenting with patterns.
• Not abiding by gender-focused fashion.
• Buying clothes from local shops when you travel and supporting local designers. 

Inspiration isn’t limited to imitation. 

Location and Climate

If you live in a warm country and travel to a country with a colder climate, that’s going to influence how you dress. You may find yourself experimenting with new accessories, mixing and matching boots and scarves because you now have the opportunity to do so.

Raise your hand if you’ve bought five new outfits for a ski trip. Vice versa, if you took a tropical vacation, you’ve probably bought a suitcase full of bikinis and swimsuit wraps to show off at your next destination. 

The weather isn’t the only thing that can influence what you wear. Many Muslim countries have laws that restrict women from exposing certain parts of their bodies. While tourists aren’t always expected to abide by these clothing restrictions, following the norm can help you emerge in the culture and try out a new fashion. 

Lee Litumbe recommends on her blog that women visit Muslim countries wearing billowing blouses, loosely fitted shirts with breathable fabric, and maxi dresses. 

If you want to wear more traditional clothing, Trip Savvy has a list of suggestions on what women travelers in Muslim countries might wear. Lee Litumbe recommends on her blog that women visit Muslim countries wearing billowing blouses, loosely fitted shirts with breathable fabric, and maxi dresses. 

If you want to wear more traditional clothing, Trip Savvy suggests items such as a Chador/Burka, Hijab, or a Kamiz.

Remember to check the local laws and cultural norms of the country you’re visiting. Some traditional control is only meant to be worn during certain events or occasions, such as women wearing a Hijab to enter a mosque or Japanese women wearing kimonos for weddings, funerals, and summer events.  Whenever dressing in traditional clothing, make sure you understand the meaning and context of why certain clothes are worn. 

Convenience

Traveling also allows you to be more relaxed about your style. For example, if you’re planning a backpacking trip, you’ll wear loose-fitting, breathable, and practical clothes. You might live in heels during your regular life but commit to flip-flops all day when on vacation.

There is also a growing trend of people traveling to foreign countries for custom-tailored clothing. On Shannon Kircher’s blog, The Wanderlust Effect, she shares her experience and tips on getting tailored clothes in Hội An, Vietnam. Over the years, the country has become a mecca for tailored or custom-designed clothing at reasonable costs. 

Sustainability and going against fast fashion

You’ve probably seen some influencers do these big shopping hauls to prepare for an upcoming trip. While those shopping hauls scream overconsumption, you can be a conscious traveler by intentionally putting together your travel wardrobe. For instance, you can shop for stable pieces if you are trying to pack 20 outfits for a 5-day trip. You can mix and match these articles of clothing with other things. Some staple travel clothing include:

• Breathable T-shirts that are neutral colors such as black, gray, and white.
• Button-down shirts.
• Jeans.
• Leggings.
• Sweatshirt or hoodie.

Why should you care about fashion if you’re a traveler?

Your travels can impact the fashion industry globally. Consider that your clothes had to come from somewhere. Some clothes are made ethically and sustainably, while others are made in sweatshops. Understanding where your clothing comes from and how the production of clothing affects the country you’re visiting is one of the main reasons you should care.

Additionally, what you wear can help continue cultural practices and traditions. It’s a way to share culture with the world. 

Lastly, what you wear can help you blend in or stand out. One of the easiest ways to spot a tourist is if they are constantly on their phone and by how they dress. Sometimes, standing out is inevitable; however, if you want to integrate more into the culture, you can start by changing your outfit.  

Remember that there are many intersectionalities; travel fashion are among them.

The post Is Travel Fashion a Thing? How to Embrace Your Style While Traveling appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

The holidays don’t have to feel like your life is on repeat, like the department stores playing the same five Christmas songs. To prevent the holidays from feeling mundane, consider trying a travel experience. 

What Are Travel Experiences, and Why Should You Try Them?

Travel experiences are the activities that you do on a trip. Experiences can range from a relaxing massage or spa treatment to more adventurous activities like ATV riding or scuba diving.

Many experiences allow travelers to participate in a destination’s cultural festivities. They are also great for breaking up the holiday monotony or serving as a unique holiday gift.

While traveling abroad or long distances can be challenging over the holiday season, fortunately many festive travel experiences are available in the United States. The company Tinggly has a list of several holiday experiences. Here are some of the most popular ones and how to create your own holiday travel experience. 

1. New York City Cocoa & Carols Holiday Cruise 

If you want something more elegant than your company’s holiday party at the Olive Garden, try a cruise on the Hudson River. A 1920s-style yacht will take you through New York’s most iconic sites, such as the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Battery Park. As you admire the Christmas lights, you’ll be serenaded by a live jazz band playing your favorite holiday jingles.

If you’re worried about getting cold on a cruise in the middle of winter, the yacht has a heated glass-enclosed observation cabin. You can warm yourself up even more with the spiked hot chocolate served on your ride.

2. Festival of Lights Night Tour in Washington, DC

Light displays make the holidays feel magical. If you want to see a light show better than your neighbor’s, you should check out the Festival of Lights Night Tour. A 45-minute tour in a private pedicab will take you around the city and make stops so you can take pictures of the most dazzling light displays. Popular stops include the 50 trees in front of the White House and passing by the Capitol building. 

3. Hands-On Blown Glass Ornament Experience in Naples, Florida

If you’re a fan of hanging Christmas ornaments, the Hands-On Blown Glass Ornament experience during a trip to Naples, Florida, is a must-try. During these top-rated glass-blowing classes, you’ll learn to blow and shape personalized Christmas ornaments.

The best part of this experience is that you get to try something new while making a gift for someone on your Christmas list. 

4. Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Tour from Fairbanks

For those who want to travel and see one of the world’s natural wonders, Alaska has an experience for you. While the infamous aurora borealis or northern lights are notorious for appearing in Iceland, those living in the U.S. can also experience these multi-colored lights.

The tour starts with a visit to the Fairbanks Ice Museum, where you can see unique ice carvings. Afterward, you can warm yourself up at the Chena Hot Springs Resort, relaxing in the outdoor mineral rock pool. Then, later in the evening, a guide will take you to the best viewing location to see the northern lights. 

5. Half-Day Snowshoe Hike in Tahoe National Forest

If you like to experience the outdoors, then a trip to the Tahoe National Forest is something you’ll delight in. During this experience, you’ll have private access to a trail that will take you along a scenic route within the Alpine Meadows, Sierra Crest, and the Olympic Valley. 

A nature hike is a perfect getaway when you’ve become overwhelmed by malls and shopping outlets.

How to Create Your Own Holiday Travel Experience

While pre-planned travel experiences are convenient, you can create special holiday memories with your own holiday travel experience. Here are some other ways to mix things up this holiday season. 

• Look up local events in neighboring cities or states. Sometimes, traveling upstate or just a few hours’ drive away can lead to new discoveries and adventures. Try looking up events in neighboring towns by checking the city’s website of the place you want to visit. 
• Invite people with different cultural backgrounds to partake in your holiday festivities. While Christmas often gets the most attention among the winter holidays, other celebrations and traditions occur during this time. Participating in other cultural practices can give you a different perspective and appreciation for this time of year. 
• Try a bucket list experience. Instead of attending countless holiday parties and lunches, why not do something you’ve always wanted to do? Winter activities such as ice skating or snowboarding can revitalize your holiday spirit. 
• Participate in volunteer work. While it’s easy to get caught up in the consumerism of the holidays, it’s important to remember that not everyone can indulge in holiday shopping. With over 15 million children living below the poverty line in the United States, not every parent has the luxury of buying tons of gifts for their children. 

There are many ways to volunteer, including helping at a soup kitchen, donating to a toy drive, and supporting a family by buying things on their Christmas list. 

Additionally, consider spreading the holiday cheer by visiting a family member out of state. You can also invite someone you know who is spending the holidays alone to join your festivities. 

The post 5 Travel Experiences to Break up the Holiday Monotony appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

Here are 8 Black female doctors you should be following on Instagram for everything related to your physical and mental health. 

Keep in mind action off-screen is still required for optimal health.

1. Dr. Janelle Howell DPT WCS – Pelvic Physical Therapist

@vaginarehabdoctor

Dr. Howell is passionate about creating what she calls Vagina CEOs. These are people who are in charge of their vaginal health. What I love about her page is that she not only talks about the importance of having a healthy pelvic floor and vagina, she gives us practical and useful information. I learn something new from almost every post. She also gives us exercises and nutritional recommendations to keep things below the waist strong and healthy.

2. Dr. Justine Willams Roper DPT-Pelvic floor doctor

@doctorjus and @inherphysiquept 

Dr. Roper’s motto is “Bridging the gap between pelvic education and movement mindset.” That’s exactly what she does on her feed. Her content is great for fitness junkies or people who want to get a little more out of their workouts. Her videos demonstrate simple and accessible exercises for most bodies. 

3. Dr. Kera-Nyemb-Diop-Nutritionist

@black.nutritionist

As a person who loves to eat carbs such as cornbread and other hearty foods, I feel that Dr. Nyemb-Diop speaks directly to me with her content. In reality, she speaks to anyone who has ever felt shame about what they eat. She doesn’t just use her platform to get people to eat healthier, she explores and breaks down how racism can make us think negatively about the cultural foods we eat. 

If you want to learn to eat healthy while honoring and enjoying foods from your culture, follow Nyemb-Diop to learn how.

4. Dr. Sarah G Jamison, MD-Board Certified ER Doctor

Dr. Sarah Jamison makes me look forward to Mondays. Why? Because of her medical myth-busting Mondays. As a person who spent years getting medical advice from family members, friends, and cold medicine commercials, I need the truth from a professional. Dr. Jaminson provides factual information about weight loss fads, medications, manicures, and many more activities that affect your health.

5. Dr. Raquel-Martin- Psychologist-Assistant Professor at Tenn State

@raquelmartinphd

Dr. Martin is a multi-talented psychologist whose superpowers include being a writer, podcast host, researcher, professional speaker, and professor. She speaks directly to the Black community on the importance of mental health. Her direct, informative, and intellectual videos give listeners data-driven information about mental health issues.

Podcast: @mindyourmentalpodcast

6. Dr. Erica Marchand – Sex therapist and Psychologist

@hertherapysecrets

For the intimate side of health, Dr. Erica is a psychologist that helps people have better sexual relationships with themselves and their partners. Much of her content focuses on increasing women’s pleasure and how couples can explore this pleasure together.

Dr. Erica presents this somewhat taboo topic in a way that is accessible and comfortable for viewers to consume.

7. Dr. Adeline Kikam – DO, FAAD Dermatologist

@brownskinderm

Skincare can be complicated, especially for Black women since most of the products on the market aren’t for darker skin tones. Dr. Kikam has fun and informative content on which products are best to use for different skin and which products to avoid. She also talks about serious skin conditions and gives practical tips for treating certain irregularities.

My favorite videos include her testing out sunscreens to show which products lie about not leaving a white residue on the skin.

8. Dr. Aaleeyah Alim, DMD – Dentist

@doctorleeyah

There aren’t many people that like to go to the dentist — I am one of those people. Although I brush my teeth twice a day, I’ve been guilty of not regularly flossing and not thinking about overall oral health. Yet, with Aaleeyah’s gentle and friendly content, she has helped me see that my oral health is just as important as my mental and physical health.

Check out her Tooth Tuesdays videos where she breaks down certain oral habits such as chewing sugar-free gum. She also tackles uncomfortable topics such as gingivitis, bleeding gums, and braces. Her funny and informative videos are honest and make oral care less scary and less of a burden.

After putting together this list, I felt extremely inspired to put down my phone and look at all sides of my health, including mental, physical, oral, and sexual health. I hope this list has inspired you to follow these women and apply some of the information they are sharing to improve your health.

Remember that no matter how good the advice is, it doesn’t substitute seeing your physician and getting care directly from your doctor.

The post 8 Black Female Doctors You Should Be Following on Social Media appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

Now, it’s more than just a haven. Black women are showing that being a geek isn’t only cool, it’s profitable. From comic books to coding bootcamps, they’re proving that imagination can pay off. Check out how these Black women are making nerd money monetizing from their passions.

Shequeta Smith and the Business of Black Comic Books

Like many lifelong nerds, Shequeta L. Smith spent countless hours browsing comic book shops, only to notice something missing. Amid shelves of glossy, art-filled pages of unique and powerful superheroes, she rarely found stories featuring Black women as the protagonists. Sure, there were the token side characters, but no one who looked like her as the main hero.

Rather than accept that gap, Smith set out to create the world she wanted to see. That vision led her to launch Shero Comics, a multimedia company that puts Black women and girls at the center of their own universes.

Smith didn’t limit her creativity to comics. Over the years, she expanded into short films and, more recently, games. “I built my company with comic books that we could eventually adapt into films and games,” she explained. Today, Shero Comics boasts nine titles, five award-winning short films, and a prototype mobile game based on her graphic novel series Rayven Choi. In 2024, she took her storytelling to the next level with the launch of Shero Games.

Through comic con sales, crowdfunding, and now angel investors, Smith has kept her dream alive while steadily growing her business. And she’s never strayed from her mission. “Our powerful ‘sheroes’ of color belong in the comic book world – and they can easily be adapted into television and film projects.”

Smith’s journey is proof that imagination can be monetized and that being a nerd can become big business when built on authenticity and representation.

Katie “PikaChulita” Robinson: Streaming with Purpose

Katie Robinson discovered her love for gaming growing up in Kansas City, spending hours with her GameBoy Color and Nintendo 64. As she grew up, her love for gaming remained steady. She is now a Twitch streamer who uses her platform not only to play games but to spark meaningful conversations about inclusivity and equity.

Better known online as PikaChulita, Robinson refuses to separate her identities or water down her message. She speaks out against racism, sexism, ableism, and homophobia in gaming, even if she gets a few hateful comments from close-minded people. 

As a member of Black Girl Gamers and the Noir Network, Robinson is a key figure in the Black Twitch community. Along with being featured on Twitch’s front page multiple times, Robinson is committed to uplifting others and promoting visibility for Black women creators. 

Robinson proves that Black women don’t have to shrink themselves to be successful.  She reminds every geek out there that they can make money doing what they love and without compromising their values.

Kimberly Bryant and Black Girls CODE

Sports were once thought to be just for boys. When coding became popular, the same sexist belief followed. However,  Kimberly Bryant believed coding was a skill more Black girls should learn. In 2011, she founded Black Girls CODE, a nonprofit dedicated to teaching girls of color programming, robotics, and emerging technologies. Her vision was clear: expose young Black girls to coding early and empower them to become future tech leaders.

What started as a small initiative has grown into an international movement with 15 chapters and a long-term goal of teaching one million girls to code by 2040. During the pandemic, Black Girls CODE adapted to virtual programs and experienced rapid growth in both reach and revenue.

Kimberly Bryant’s work has changed the landscape of STEM education, inspiring thousands of girls and paving the way for greater diversity in the field.

Jay-Ann Lopez and the Power of Black Girl Gamers 

Have you heard of Black Girl Gamers? It is a community with over 8,000 members worldwide. Black Girl Gamers provides visibility, networking, advocacy, and support for Black women gamers, creating a safe and empowering space in an often exclusive industry. This movement was started by ambitious gamer Jay-Ann Lopez.

What started out as a Facebook group grew into a recognized brand that consults for major gaming companies, hosts influential events, and brokers talent opportunities for its members.

Lopez’s work has gained widespread recognition; she has been featured in Vogue, Dazed, and Forbes, and was named a top innovator by the Institute of Digital Fashion. She is also a BAFTA Games judge, an honorary professor, and a sought-after speaker and consultant for major brands such as Adidas, Google, and PlayStation. 

Lopez’s work also expands through events like Gamer Girls Night In, which blends gaming with beauty and fashion.

Her leadership and advocacy have helped elevate Black women’s voices in gaming, proving that this community is not only powerful but also a driving force in the industry’s future.

Dr. Eve L. Ewing: From Poetry to Marvel Comics

Dr. Eve L. Ewing is the definition of multifaceted. Born and raised in Chicago, Eve is a writer, scholar, and cultural organizer whose work spans poetry, academic research, children’s literature, and comics.

Her acclaimed poetry collections include Electric Arches and 1919, with the latter chronicling the 1919 Chicago race riot and adapted into a play by Steppenwolf Theatre. Her nonfiction work Ghosts in the Schoolyard investigates racism and school closures on Chicago’s South Side, showcasing her commitment to social justice through education. She has also authored Maya and the Robot, a children’s book celebrated for its depiction of self-discovery and belonging.

Ewing’s success doesn’t stop at her literary works. A writer for Marvel’s Ironheart, Black Panther, she is the first Black female author of that series. Her limitless storytelling flows across genres, blending Afrofuturism, education policy, and superhero narratives.  

An associate professor at the University of Chicago, Dr. Ewing calls herself a “professional, paid nerd,” a title that reflects her ability to blend intellectual rigor and creative passion.

Ewing’s career is a testament to how Black women’s creativity is versatile and needed. She is a reminder to all Black women that embracing all parts of ourselves can lead to unstoppable success.

Because these outstanding women don’t fit the norm of what society expects from Black women, their stories aren’t widely told. Yet their careers, their journeys, and who they are are what can inspire this generation and future generations to come. 

They are living proof that Black nerds can thrive in this world.

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While often associated with a children’s holiday, adults often take part by exploring the unknown, following urban legends, and trying to see what’s behind the veil of life and death. While hanging fake cobwebs and carving out endless jack-o-Lanterns is fun, there are many ways to celebrate this dark holiday. 

Check out some of these spooky places and eerie cities to take your Halloween celebrations to the next level. 

6 places to travel to for Halloween

If you’re tired of the typical Halloween parties and want a unique experience, here are some places to explore. Ranked from places that might frighten you to places that will give you nightmares for days. 

6. Independence, Kansas

You’ve probably never heard of Independence; however, if you’re a Halloween fanatic, you’ll want to visit this city. The reason is for Neewollah. It is the town’s annual Halloween festival. Neewollah (Halloween spelled backward) is a festive way to get into the Halloween spirit. The event hosts parades, costume contests, live music, and more. It’s a lively way to celebrate Halloween. 

5. Long Beach, California

On the coast of the sunny state of California is a city full of various attractions, which is guaranteed to have you looking over your shoulder. 

In the port city of Long Beach is the Queen Mary, which was once a luxury ocean liner. However, this ship didn’t remain a place of splendor for long. There have been tales of a sailor dying in the engine room and kids drowning in the pool. These fatal accidents started rumors that the ship may be haunted.

Rumors aside, in the 1960s, Long Beach bought the ship and converted it into a hotel. Yet some say you can still hear the voices of those who died screaming within the ship’s hallways. 

In light of these mysterious allegations, the ship is converted into a Halloween event known as Dark Habor every year during October. Visitors can roam through terrifying mazes and experience other live events during this time. While the event is meant to scare and entertain guests, you may need help to tell the difference between what is an act and what is the paranormal. 

If you’re in for more of a scare, you can visit the Cecil Hotel a few miles away in Los Angeles. Featured in the Netflix documentary Crime Scene: The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel, the hotel is known for being haunted. The place gets its ghostly vibes after the death of Elisa Lam, who was found dead in a sealed water tower on the hotel’s roof. 

4. Sleepy Hollow, New York

Yes, Sleepy Hollow is an authentic village of about 10,000 residents, similar to Washington Irving’s story, The Legend of Sleep Hollow. During October, the area embraces its spooky association with various events.

You can experience cemetery tours, ghost tours, and the Great Jack-O-Lantern Blaze, a spectacular with over 7,000 lit-up jack-o-lanterns. Within all of the Halloween celebrations, you may even spot the headless horseman during your visit. 

3. New Orleans, Louisiana

A city known for jazz and Mardi Gras can also be a fun Halloween getaway. Besides the booze and food, New Orleans has mysteries and stories that can send a chill down your spine. 

During this time of year, the Big Easy hosts various events and festivals, including Voodoo Music + Arts Experience, ghost city tours, haunted pub crawl, New Orleans vampire ball, cemetery tours, and more. 

If you want to be scared or at least be frightened, you must visit the LaLaurie Mansion. You may have seen the place on the Coven Season of American Horror Story. The mansion has a dark history of abuse and scandal. For years, people have admitted to seeing paranormal sightings. In fact, Viator.com listed New Orleans as one of the top haunted destinations in the world. 

2. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah has a reputation for being America’s most haunted city, a reputation that comes from the city’s history tangled with numerous deaths from the Civil War. Thus, you can find many haunting attractions every year during the month of All Hallow’s Eve. 

Visitors can try to scare themselves by joining a ghost hunt and investigating the most haunted places in Savannah using actual ghost-hunting equipment. 

You’ll want to visit the Marshall House when seeking a good scare. It was once a Civil War hospital, where human remains were discovered during the renovations. 

Savannah is not for the weak at heart. However, if you don’t want to enter the paranormal realm, you can enjoy other events, such as a film festival.

1. Salem, Massachusetts

You can’t help but think of witch trials when you hear of the town of Salem. 

And the people of Salem probably wouldn’t want you to think differently. During October, this historic town fully embraces its connection to all things spooky and scary. Not only do they host an annual Festival of the Dead, but there are also parades, haunted houses, costume parties, and more. You can even attend ghost tours and a Salem Witch Trials walking tour. 

However, the main attraction is the Witch House. It has been named one of the country’s most haunting places because it’s the last remaining house connected to the Witch Trials. With a location related to a dark past, it is no wonder people have commented on seeing paranormal activity. 

It’s everything you need to feel like you’re in a scary movie.

The post 6 Spooky Places in the US to Visit for Halloween appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

Even with the never-ending battle of which is better, East Coast or West Coast rap, many Blacks in the United States have this unspoken connection. 

However, this unity among Blackness can be limited to US borders. This limitation became more apparent while listening to a podcast Black Stories Black Truths, which gave me a new perspective on identity and Black culture. I became more aware that the commonalities that many Black Americans share don’t always exist with Black immigrants within the United States. 

In the podcast, several Black immigrants spoke about their transition into America and their abrupt introduction to Black American culture. After listening to the episode titled “I didn’t know I was Black until I came to this country,” I questioned how the concept of Blackness has been used to divide and unite Black people throughout the diaspora. In addition, it made me see the importance of Black people coming together despite cultural differences. 

Learning from the perspective of African immigrants in the United States

When I think of Black people in the United States, thoughts of Southern hospitality and hip-hop culture come to mind. Likewise, when I think of immigrants, I don’t necessarily think of Africans coming to the United States. Yet a Pew Research study showed that 1 out of 10 Black Americans are African immigrants.

Unlike immigrants from other cultures, Africans who have immigrated to the United States face a unique experience. Because of Africans’ dark skin color, there is a double layer of expectation and assumption. 

African immigrants are often expected to assimilate into Black American culture without knowing much about Black American lingo and social norms and little about Black history. For instance, one immigrant on the podcast admitted not knowing who Martin Luther King Jr. was simply because it wasn’t taught in her African schools.

Every immigrant coming to the United States carries the expectation to in some way assimilate into the larger American culture. African immigrants face the uncomfortable choice of trying to assimilate to Black culture or not assimilating and identifying more with their African culture to separate themselves from Black American culture.

Why would an African immigrant create this separation of culture? The simple answer is racism. Being a Black American means there is a higher chance you will receive more mistreatment because you are Black.

The divide between African immigrants and Black Americans

On social media, I have occasionally come across what is known as the diaspora wars. According to the National Black Cultural Information Trust, the diaspora wars can be described as cross-cultural arguments in which different people of African heritage or background dislike one another for various reasons. 

These wars, although rooted in white supremacy, have caused great misunderstanding and misperceptions of a variety of Black cultures across the world. For instance, due to limited media coverage, Black Americans often know little about the recent conflicts in countries such as Sudan or South Africa. The same could be said for the Africans not knowing about the water crisis in Michigan and Mississippi.

Because of the misinformation and lack of information in the mainstream media, social media can often spread false narratives that further divide Black Americans from Africans or other people of African descent worldwide. Thus, Black people worldwide must focus on what connects and strengthens us. 

Bridging our cultural gaps

I believe three main things connect Black Americans with Africans and those of African descent. The three things are food, music, and dance.

Our food

As highlighted in an article on Feathers and Whiskey, no matter the dish’s name, there are common ingredients between Southern Black American cuisine and African cuisine. When brought to the United States, enslavers stripped enslaved Africans of their African culture. Yet their culture was reborn through food. Many Southern dishes use staple African ingredients such as black-eyed peas, collard greens, watermelon, okra, and yams. 

Our music 

Black Americans held onto their music despite threats of having their hands cut off if they played traditional African instruments. They created spirituals, music with their hands, and jazz music. Music has often been this unspoken language of influence between Africans and Black Americans — something very evident in the new African music craze Amapiano, which is heavily influenced by jazz music.  

Our dance

From music, dance naturally evolved. Dance is an art form that plays ping pong between African culture and Black American culture. Thanks to pioneers such as Pearl Primus, who brought African dances back to the United States, and the streaming of dance craves worldwide, Black dance has evolved into a collective work of art. 

When Black people, whether African or Afro-Latina, stay open and curious, we can all strengthen our connections and become stronger as a collective. 

The post How Blackness Divides and Unites Black Immigrants and Black Americans appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.

Yet the purpose of life isn’t to work. That’s not to say you can’t find fulfillment in work, but a career shouldn’t be all-consuming. For those who believe in taking time off work and breaking away from the grind, taking a travel sabbatical might be your next career move. 

Especially if you’re a Black woman.

What is a travel sabbatical?

A typical sabbatical is common with educational institutes such as universities when a professor takes an extended time away to travel, do research, or teach at a university abroad. A travel sabbatical is the same concept; an employee takes a break from work to pursue other interests such as travel.

Unlike quitting your job to travel, during a sabbatical, you are still employed, but you’re not expected to come into the office or fulfill your regular duties. Remember those pupil-free days you had when you were a kid? A sabbatical is like that but for a longer time, usually around 3 to 6 months, but the length depends on the person. 

Five reasons to take a sabbatical

There are certain benefits that Black women can gain from packing a suitcase and catching a flight. Let’s get into it. 

1. Freedom

Kathy Hampton, founder and creator of WellSide Retreats, took a four-month sabbatical and said that her number one reason was for freedom. 

The concept of freedom is a strong theme in the Black community. Our ancestors fought for it, and now we have the power to reshape what freedom means to us as Black women. In this case, freedom can mean breaking away from the restraints of a job, waking up when you want, setting your schedule, being spontaneous, and going through life a little lighter.

2. Experience life without the societal pressures and tension of the United States

While I haven’t taken a travel sabbatical, I did move abroad to Spain and learned something about the work culture in the States. It can be toxic. People from other areas, such as Latin America and Europe, fully disconnect when they finish their work day — a sense of liberation I never felt in the States because I was constantly taking my work home with me. This is something I saw my mother do as well. It’s like the concept of homework continued after graduating. 

This is the toxic aspect of work culture in the United States, as it can be all-consuming. A constant focus on work can lead to burnout. Long-term burnout can lead to insomnia, depression, or other illnesses. Taking a travel sabbatical can take you out of a toxic work environment. 

Shar Wynter, founder, and CEO of Xpat, Inc., wrote to BGN and accurately expressed the need for Black women to take a sabbatical. She stated, “You can’t heal in the same environment that made you sick, so I think for many Black women, traveling is an essential part of our sabbatical process as it allows us to unplug from toxic environments and decompress in a safe space.”

3. Witness another way of life

Although the United States is a melting pot of different cultures, many people have assimilated into the American way of life regardless of their cultural background. This means that the cultures we see in America are a small window into the cultures and people around the world.  

Hampton mentioned that she took a sabbatical from her job and career to understand what she was missing. “I traveled and visited a small part of the world. I also got to see where I might want to live before retiring.”

4. An opportunity  to explore other passions 

I’m not sure about you, but I become more adventurous whenever I travel. I want to try different foods, climb mountains, dance with strangers, etc. Being in a new environment, surrounded by new people, can help you bring out different sides of your personality. It allows you to try new things and discover interesting parts of life because the opportunity is readily available. 

As someone who danced while growing up in the States, I can confidently say that my experience dancing while traveling and being abroad has completely changed how I feel in my body. While traveling, I’ve taken salsa, bachata, kizomba, flamenco, and champeta dance classes. Discovering different styles of dance opened me up to new rhythms and cultures. 

5. You can come back recharged or set your life on a new path

If you’re not quite happy with your job, you’re probably thinking about jumping on a plane tomorrow. But what if you like your job but are feeling a little burnt out? You might be wondering if a sabbatical is right for you. The answer is yes. 

There are two main benefits of travel sabbatical. One is the opportunity for rest. If you take a sabbatical focused on rest, you can return to your job refreshed and refocused. 

The second benefit of a travel sabbatical is the cultural emergence or exploration. You’re bound to learn something you can take back and apply to your career. Maybe you learn a different language, understand different management styles, or even explore how to work and collaborate across different cultures. 

Tips for going on a sabbatical 

Now, let’s take this article from theory into practice. Here are some steps you can take to start your sabbatical process.

• Check employee handbooks, manuals, or other material to see if your job has a policy on sabbaticals.
• Talk to others who have been on a sabbatical. Perhaps you know someone at your job who took a sabbatical; if not, you can reach out to people online.
• Be prepared: Before asking your boss, make sure you have a solid reason why they should grant you a sabbatical. Ultimately, you should show that your time away benefits not only you but also the company.
• Have a plan to cover your responsibilities. If you have a plan for how your work can be covered in your absence, your boss might be more inclined to grant you the time off.
• A closed mouth doesn’t get fed. At the end of the day, having a conversation can lead to a yes. Keep in mind that these conversations don’t have to be one-and-done; they can happen over a period of time. 
• Get support. If you feel completely overwhelmed by starting the process, there is a whole network of women you can reach out to for support. The Exodus Summit is one example of an event where you can find other women who have taken or are about to start their sabbatical.

I will end this article with the cliche saying that life is short, and most people don’t regret not working enough but regret working too much. Taking a sabbatical may be the right thing to do for your career and life.  

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