Meet Dr Leanne Levers | Political Scientist, Human Rights Advocate, Co-Founder of Dope Black Women, and Womanist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr Leanne Levers and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr Leanne, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
“When my heart is no longer, I hope I die for a principle for which I had lived”

This quote definitely reflects how I try to live my life. I am deeply invested in my politics and convictions and I hope that is reflected, not just in what I say, but my actions as well. I have dedicated every aspect of my life- both personal and professional to my beliefs. I think it is that kind of approach to activism and advocacy that will effect meaningful change. You have to be willing to die for what you believe in.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am the co-founder of Dope Black Women- a platform that provides safe spaces for Black and Black mixed women and non-binary across the globe to educate, inspire, celebrate & heal. We do this through events, a weekly podcast, WhatsApp groups, and more. We are a young organisation (3 years), but we have certainly had challenges along the way. My co-founder Roshan and I have worked together and formed a strong sisterhood based on trust, loyalty, and honesty that has seen us through difficult times. Our shared vision and dedication has allowed us to persevere and be successful in supporting others and broadening the representation of Black women. I think the most important thing that I want to share about Dope Black Women is that we are genuinely dedicated to listening to and empowering other Black women. We do our best to listen to the needs of our community and provide resources that respond to those needs- whether it is access to therapy, financial support, or just a safe space to be themselves without judgment

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
It depends 🙂 If we were in London, I would take them to Borough Market, rooftop bars in Shoreditch, boating on Stratford-upon-avon, the West End to see some of my favourite plays, New Beacon Books, Brixton for music and drinks, Hyde Park, and Harrods for a bit of (window) shopping.

If we were in Jamaica – rafting in Port Antonio, jumping off the cliffs in Negril, tanning in Silver Sands, Boston Jerk and Danny’s Marina for food, drinks at Strawberry Hill, a massage in Bath, St Thomas, hiking in Hollywell, and a dance in Tivoli, West Kingston.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Black Women. I would definitely not be where I am without the advice and support of other Black women. Black women ride for each other and that is so important, especially in a world where we are rarely ever celebrated or supported. My community of Black women are always on hand to give me advice, celebrate my achievements, share opportunities, and support the work that I am doing.

Website: leannelevers.com

Instagram: @leebeeja / @dopeblackwomen1

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leanne-levers-707913a/?originalSubdomain=uk

Twitter: @lealevers or @dopeblackwomen

Facebook: Dope Black Women

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC76BUg4e4r1KgA2HvuDmAew

Other: https://open.spotify.com/show/0RDuMYuVp6Ol7VEvu81D0d – Dope Black Women Podcast.

Image Credits
Henry Robinson – Photographer (for some but not all pictures- 1,2,3, 7)