We live in the year 2024, and still this world is not equal. Most people in the world who are successful are men. And, those few women who have become successful and run top companies are white. It is very rare to see a black woman running a leading company in the world or reaching the top of their game.
In USA only 35% of workers in the United States are in the top 10 highest-paying occupations. This is an increase of 13% in 1980. In the world only 10% of women run Fortune 500 Companies. This is shocking, but what is more shocking is that only five women of color run Fortune 500 companies. This must change.
One woman who aims to change how many black women become successful in business is Aleida Castillo. She has launched The Royal Woman – Ghana Tour women which invites entrepreneurs, freedom fighters & women leaders in Diversity & Inclusion, space for a transformative exploration of Ghana’s cultural diversity during Black History Month.
I wanted to learn more about Aleida Castillo and her mission to make more black women successful, this is what she had to say.
My name is Aleida Castillo I am originally from the Dominican Republic, I immigrated to the US in the 80s. Culturally, I encountered challenges fitting into spaces where individuals who resemble me gather. However, over seven years ago, my perspective shifted dramatically when I visited Ghana. There, I was welcomed with a loving, warm, royal embrace, in social, professional, and political realms. Since that transformative experience, I’ve been extending invitations to others to discover the beauty of Ghana.
Having established a syndicated radio/TV show in Ghana, I’ve forged meaningful connections and friendships. While the journey has presented its share of challenges, my focus now centers on extending the same warm royal embrace to women in Ghana and around the world. Through my platform, I aim to introduce women to the enriching experiences and connections that Ghana has to offer.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month prompts conversations about the intersectionality of identity, addressing the unique challenges faced by African Americans and it helps Latinos of African descent embrace their blackness and Africa. For me Black History Month serves as a catalyst for discussions on racial equity, social justice, and the ongoing pursuit of an inclusive society but also to embrace and respect the global black experience.
Participating in Black History Month events and activities allows all of us to amplify our voices, share our narratives, and contribute to the broader dialogue on diversity and representation. It becomes a moment to take pride in our shared cultural experiences.
In the media some outspoken people around the world have commented why there should be a Black History Month when there is not a Chinese History Month, or a Spanish History Month, or a White History month, what would you say to those people?
Certainly, there is a dedicated Asian & Pacific Islander Month, a Hispanic Heritage Month, and a National American Indian Heritage Month. As an Afro-Latina continually learning about Black American history, I recognize that my presence here is indebted to the leadership of Black Americans in the Civil Rights Movement. It’s worth noting that the last known survivor of slavery passed away just a year before my birth in 1971. While we have these designated months to highlight the contributions of different ethnicities, it underscores the historical backdrop when every month was essentially considered White History.
The need for specific heritage months reflects the ongoing effort to address historical imbalances in recognition and representation. As a society, it will take time to move beyond the necessity of these dedicated months and fully integrate the diverse contributions of all communities into our collective awareness. In response to a question about celebrating Mother’s Day versus Aunt’s Day, I quickly responded that these distinctions come from recognizing the unique struggles each group has faced throughout history – a sentiment that applies to the broader context of heritage months as well.
You are promoting the Royal Woman Ghana Tour; can you tell me more about that?
What sets this tour apart is the exclusive access to VIP events, providing an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the top leaders in the country. This is more than a tour to popular places; it’s an immersion into 100 + different cultures, Royal experiences designed to empower women, fostering connections that transcend borders and backgrounds.
The Royal Woman Ghana Tour is your invitation for entrepreneurs and leaders in the Diversity & Inclusion space to embrace a deeper sense of self-worth, forge connections with remarkable leaders, and be part of a transformative experience that will resonate long after the journey concludes.
You have said that you want the tour to inspire and empower women, are you talking about women starting their own businesses as well as advancing in their careers?
When you empower women to love themselves better and to love understanding the beauty in in diversity yes you help them advance in every area of their lives.
Do you believe enough is being done in education to encourage young women to succeed in life and to become leaders?
No, not enough is being done and it is why every person who takes advantaging of any our experiences will also be supporting women and girls in their educational journey.
What would you like to see happen to encourage young black women at school to become future business leaders?
I would like to see more travel experiences being sponsored by schools & also real apprenticeship programs.
Who would you say are the top five women leaders in Ghana at the moment that have provided a platform for other women to inspire to and succeed?
Dr. Naomi Adjepong
She runs leadership development programs for teenagers.
Elizabeth Patterson
She is the founder of Girls Education Initiative of Ghana and provides financial support for students with special needs.
Anita Erksine Media presenter & Tv Personality
Meredith Naakia Lamptey – A Philanthropist & Political Influencer who quietly makes a difference in her community every day without fanfare.
Lucy Quist – An international business leader in Tech and passionate about empowering women and young people. Founder of the Executive Women Network
Who are you hoping to attract for The Royal Woman – Ghana Tour?
We have room for one more group of Woman this Feb 2024. So, we are ready to attract woman who want rapid transformation NOW. Women who are willing to take that leap of faith & invest in themselves NOW!
Many people believe that there are still not enough black women in key positions around the world, would you agree with that?
Yes, women are almost 48% of the workforce and lead less than 37%. According to Linkedin less than third of women lead globally so yes, I would agree.
If you could offer one piece of advice for a young black woman at school who wants to succeed in life, what would it be?
Make it your business to always put your dreams to the test! Everyday work on your dream and it’s okay to have more than one dream.
How can people book to go on The Royal Woman GHANA TOUR
CLNEVENTS.com or for future dates and more details visit www.culturallylit.com
About The Royal Woman Tour
The Royal Woman Tour is a transformative cultural journey designed for women leaders, entrepreneurs & women in Diversity & Inclusion. This tour goes beyond the popular tourist attractions and also connects you to the country’s top leaders in corporate & government space. Through immersive experiences in Ghana, the tour aims to provide practical insights and a deeper understanding of cultural diversity, fostering inclusive leadership in corporate environments.
The tour includes major attractions, meals, transportation, accommodations, VIP Banquet & local Black History Royal events you can choose a 5-day trip, 7 day or 10 days trip Reserve for 2024 and beyond!
For inquiries, please contact:
Media Contact
Company Name: Culturally Lit Africa
Contact Person: Media Relations
Email: Send Email
Country: Ghana
Website: https://www.culturallylit.com/