For those unfamiliar with the experience of constantly standing out in the workplace, this article offers a transparent perspective. What is it like to work in places that rarely hires black women? And how has it been for me and other black women in such environments?
You have come to the right place: this article will guide you through how it feels to constantly stand out in a room.
As a bonus, you can find my best fashion ideas for any corporate position whether it is your first day in corporate America (or anywhere around the world), or perhaps for your job interview or work events? Either way, you will get inspired starting your new position in corporate.
Workshops and Events
Events and workshops used to be one of my favorite activities in my early 20s. I love to dress up and get ready for business related workshops. Back then I had a few corporate friends plus I also consumed everything of knowledge around how to run a multi-million-dollar businesses. I used the information given to my advantage trying to learn as much as possible of how these business owners and CEO run behind the scenes.
Then, suddenly, I lost interest after being away from work for a couple of years during COVID-19. I got married, and my ex-husband didn’t expect me to work, he was fine with me quitting and focusing on our life together in Los Angeles. During that time, I traveled a lot between Europe and the United States. When I started working again last year, I was thrilled to be back in the workforce after such a long break.
At the time, I didn’t have much going on for myself work-wise. I was just living my life like any other 21 or 24 year-old. Prior to this, I have had more than 7 years of work experience in offices. Last year I got a part-time job, working from home.
I had less than six hours of training and basically taught myself how to manage all my tasks in the following week. Thankfully, my supervisors were incredibly supportive, even helping me on their days off. Highly appreciated from my end to say the least.
I’m very grateful for people who go out of their way to support you in the workplace. I initially worked only 1-3 days a week, but after a couple of months, I was offered a full-time position. I take great pride in the work I do, so I accepted knowing that I could work from home.
Had it not been for a work-from-home position, I am sure I would have turned it down. I felt as if my corporate life had taken an end around this time last year. However, I am so happy and grateful for the opportunities.
the nitty-gritty of being the only Black woman at the office
A black Muslim woman who worked there before me left, so I was suddenly “alone.” But I’m used to working with ethnic Norwegians, and I saw this as an advantage rather than a discouragement. I believe workplaces that only hire certain types of individuals face more challenges than they realize. We can clearly see this through large labels whom constantly fall short with their inability to produce products or campaigns that are diversified.
Having a diverse set of traits and perspectives in the workplace is crucial, it also plays a huge advantage. For example, I can work with people of any ethnicity and understand their cultures and norms without any issue. However, I can’t say the same for workplaces that are cautious about hiring women of color. Usually (and sadly), they stick with one at a time, as was the case with me. That said, they have the right to hire whomever they choose. Being bothered by this isn’t in my nature, and we must not let it get to us either.
I started writing this article because I realized the changes that workplaces need to consider moving forward in 2025. We live on this planet together, and it’s alarming that some companies refuse to hire women of color. This also applies to a significant other issue around the world. Take for example countries that deny entry to families or individuals from war-torn regions simply because of fixable errors in their paperwork. This land doesn’t belong to us: it’s Allah’s.
Everything is created and owned by Allah. When someone needs a new homeland because theirs has been destroyed, the only right thing to do is to give them a new opportunity. Allah sent them to this land for a reason, and you have the chance to give them a new life. Deciding not to do so—why? Anyway, this is a simple way of thinking, and I assume politically, it’s not that straightforward. All I’m saying is that governments have a responsibility.
Being Black, a woman, and Muslim = triple homicide
This statement comes from a famous TikTok I stumbled across during COVID-19, back when TikTok was the largest up-and-coming entertainment platform. I saw this beautiful black woman saying that being black, a woman, and Muslim is a “triple homicide” in the West.
I laughed, but then I realized how awfully right she was. In every corner a woman of color enters, heads turn, and people watch closely. I’ve grown so accustomed to this that I barely notice it anymore. It wasn’t until people around me started pointing it out that I began to feel a bit anxious. But they reassured me that those who stare often do so with admiration, not necessarily out of hatred.
I have never in my life been insecure about my complexion, Alhamdulillah. I’ve never felt the need to take up extra space or announce my arrival because my presence speaks for itself. My father instilled in me from an early age how special I was.
After we moved to Norway, he used to tell me that I wasn’t like my peers, because I attended a predominantly white school and lived in a town with no other black girls my age. He knew what he was doing trying his best to protect me, and I made sure to let my father know that I saw everyone as equal, regardless of how they might look at me. We had such a strong bond when I was a little girl.
My first day of school in Norway was an eye-opener. It was a Monday, and I was shocked to see children with such light complexions. In Sudan (my homeland), I wasn’t used to this. I remember feeling both amazed and a little scared because everything was so unfamiliar to a 6- or 7-year-old. But I never judged them based on their skin color.
I treated everyone with kindness, and they treated me the same. Children benefit from being exposed to different cultures and identities. Growing up, my parents made sure we had the best childhood. We were well cared for, loved, and exposed to what I believe is healthy for children. We were extremely well-protected and nurtured.
Some of my black friends have also commented on how confident I appear, saying that my energy comes across as very secure. One friend often sends me random videos, telling me how she wants to learn to be as confident as I am, but she does so in such way that it uplifts one another creating a positive energy with hope. If she ever gives me permission to share them, I will, ha-ha. Her words are empowering.
Nonetheless, I keep myself grounded in remembrance of Allah and avoid expressing superiority, unlike how some workplaces I’ve been in have behaved.
Being a black woman triggers people – Understand How 👇
Being the only Black woman in the workplace has its ups and downs. For example, my colleagues aren’t used to working with women of color. They have no clue about our cultures, traditions, identity or religions. This reflects in their behavior toward us.
Black women are different because the world has tried to oppress us for centuries, making us more resilient than ever. We are more aware and in tune with energies without having to say a word.
Women of color are some of the most intelligent people I know—not because others aren’t intelligent, but because we’ve had to be the best. We have no choice: we’ve been forced to work 5 times as hard as white women to get ahead. We’ve been forced to grow for eons.
If you have a black female friend, I guarantee you she is either spiritual, intelligent, or a calm soul with so much knowledge and charisma that it might make you a little uncomfortable.
Women of color are needed in the workplace, not just for labor but because your company will benefit from our contributions. Black women in general are very creative and have the power to help your company grow in ways you never imagined. Include us, treat us with respect, and value us, and watch how well we can help your business thrive.
In my case, I believe we all have a responsibility. I want to see more black Muslim women thrive and succeed. I, therefore, urge black Muslim women to take up more space by being available for opportunities and taking chances. I would love for businesses, brands, and workplaces to dare to include women of color in their endeavors.
Hiring more than one black woman in the field is better for your business. Yes, I mean it—hire more black Muslim women in your workplace, initiate more brand deals with black influencers, and create business opportunities that include women of color generally. We often have the solutions you need, and most of us are up for the challenge.
Women of color will help you thrive if you give her the opportunity to be herself without making her feel displaced or odd for just being who she is.
Knowing your worth in the workplace – Relying on Allah (SWT)
Many of us fear not being recognized for the contributions we make in our day jobs, whether in corporate, customer service, or hospitality. It’s common to want acknowledgment for your worth, and although we don’t always get the recognition we deserve, knowing your own worth can be life changing.
First, with the trait of knowing your worth: you won’t need validation from your supervisors or managers because you can simply let your work speak for itself.
If you are a black Muslim woman reading this, remember that Allah sees your efforts and contributions. Asking for rewards from Allah for your efforts is better than seeking them from your managers.
Allah will grant you success in your private life or through better work relations in the future. He (SWT) will replace it for something even better than you could imagine! It will come from a place you did not expect. All you must do is perform your work tasks professionally, to never miss your five daily prayers, and lastly: make supplications through your Duá.
Allah knows best, and He (SWT) can make the impossible possible. Have so much tawakkul (trust) in Allah that you never act out of character in the workplace.
How to survive corporate life as a Woman of Color
To be completely transparent with you, no matter how much you like your job, know that your colleagues are never your friends. Understand that they are just that—colleagues. Perform your tasks, review your contract to see if you’re required to attend after-work events, and if not, guess what? You don’t have to go. Your time is valuable, and it is understandable if you don’t want to join after-work related activities with your colleagues.
Another important element to note is to never bring work home. When you clock out, make sure you are not available. Unless you are a doctor or work in hospitality where it might be required for you to be available in cases of extreme emergencies, allow yourself to completely log out and leave your work life at the office.
If you work from home, like I do most of the time, make sure to log out of any communication apps such as Slack or Teams. I used to fall into the trap of constantly being available after work hours until I realized that I don’t have the time to communicate with colleagues outside of necessary work hours. It became such a distraction that I turned off notifications on my phone and logged out, if necessary, on my days off.
This is why it’s important to perform your tasks as expected and to read your contract to understand what your position requires from you. If you are unsure about your role, politely consult with your supervisor or manager. While going the extra mile during work hours is great, setting boundaries for yourself is just as important.
Corporate Office Outfit Ideas for Fall and Winter
Each day felt like a fashion show. I have been in the corporate environment for a while now, and I dare to say that the best part of a position like this is the fashion. In most places I’ve worked, our dress code has always been formal or business casual. I even had a job where loose clothing like gym or loungewear was not allowed.
If you’ve followed me through my articles so far, you already know that I love fashion, so I had no issue dressing up for business casual now and then. It gave me inspiration to experiment with some labels. As Muslim women, we don’t always have the best options for office wear, which is why we sometimes have to be more creative with our shopping, whether online or at the mall.
Here are my best fashion tips for starting a corporate position
In the first few weeks, opt for casual looks like those listed below. Keep in mind to minimize jewelry. Wear your watch, but don’t overdo it with accessories, as it can “make too much noise.”
You might encounter someone who cannot stand the sound of dangling earrings or layers of bracelets or necklaces. These are small details that people often overlook, but always be mindful of your co-workers. This also applies to the overuse of perfumes.
When it comes to perfumes, choose mild and fresh scents for the office. I recommend eau de toilette version of any of your favorite perfumes. Please don’t overdo the sprays for your co-workers’ sake.
Personally, I love a good scent and don’t mind if you spray ten times, but I know some people are more sensitive to strong fragrances. A good cologne that suits your natural body odor might not be noticeable to you, but believe me, others will notice when they pass by you.
Corporate Fashion Idea No.1 – formal
Corporate Fashion Idea No.2 – casual
Here are my best Fashion Ideas for Corporate Events
As you get the hang of your outfits a few months in, you’ll likely find your personal style fitting in at the office. The next list of fashion ideas will be dedicated to after-work activities, like in person meetings, work get-togethers, promotions, and gatherings such as holiday events, which I know some people must attend, especially during their first year.
These events are usually held at a restaurant or at the office where colleagues meet for dinner to celebrate end-of-year accomplishments.
There will come times in your corporate office job where you will need finer outfits whether you like it or not. These are great fashion ideas for your endeavors:
Corporate events fashion idea No.1
Corporate events fashion idea no.2
None of these links are affiliate or commission based. They are all just recommendations for your convenience (of shops that I love). Hope you got inspired to rock your next office outfits! Share with us your best fashion tips or where you like to shop modest clothing in the comments to help the girlies out.
Feel free to update us in the comments on how your corporate position is like or if you have ever been in similar situation before. If you need tips and advice along your journey, email us through our contact form with your concerns.
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Naima A. Brown says
Empowering Black Muslim women is crucial in our pursuit of equality and inclusion. Your unique experiences, shaped by both racial and religious identity, highlight the intersectionality of oppression and resilience. By amplifying your voices, addressing the specific challenges, and celebrating your contributions, we can create a more equitable society that honors the diversity within the women’s empowerment movement