Social Group BlkPrnt CLT aims to bring Black women in Charlotte closer together

“Even if you don’t walk away with a best friend you can at least walk away knowing you were able to connect with some people who were like minded as you,” she tells Axios.

Why it matters: It’s hard making friends as an adult, whether you’re new to a city or a local and UNC Charlotte graduate like Clyburn. 

• She is also using her organization for more than a means to connect, but as a way to fight against the stigmas of Black women. 
• Some of the conversations during gatherings touch on the pressures of the pandemic and issues facing the Black community.

What’s happening: Clyburn, Nakayla Harris and Samantha Sim schedule monthly events across Charlotte. “A safe space is so important. Especially when women come by themselves, they can walk away with a connection that could last a lifetime,” Clyburn shared. 

Context: BlkPrnt originated from a TikTok video Clyburn made with a call out to ladies looking to meet up for brunch in February. 

• Within a month, the video raked in thousands of likes and hundreds of comments.
• Clyburn tells us the overwhelming amount of support from women in Charlotte and surrounding areas pushed the vision to foster connections.
• The first meet up started with about 10 women and has grown into an event with more than 30 people. 

Zoom out: Social groups have become more popular in Charlotte, as more people are looking for community coming out of the pandemic. And TikTok has been a popular way to make that happen. 

• Another Charlotte local started a social group through TikTok to bring people together. 

Zoom in: Most events are designed to be social, but Clyburn admits she wasn’t exactly a social butterfly before Black Print. 

• “Social anxiety is relatable for a lot of Black women. I remind people who attend our events that this is for me, too, and it helps them feel more comfortable,” Cylburn said.

• Some events focus on pushing people outside of their comfort zone and promoting mental health.

How to get involved: Anyone interested can find their events on social media and Eventbrite twice a month.

• Past activities have included a hike, pilates and a social hour at Artisan’s Palate. An outdoor movie at Camp North End is their latest event to be held.
• Some events are free but she does encourage everyone interested to still register online.
• Clyburn has worked with local Black-owned businesses like Hip Hop Smoothies and plans to work with more to create experiences for the community.  
• Women of all ages are welcome. 

 What’s next: There are plans to expand Black Print’s reach to the Triad area. 

• Some women have traveled from Greensboro and Winston-Salem so Clyburn says she’s currently working to take what she’s created and plant it in a neighboring city.