Introduction

Sisterhood transcends the bond of friendship, offering a sacred space of support, empowerment, and mutual growth. It’s a commitment to the collective flourishing of women, particularly in Black communities where kinship holds historical and transformative power.

"The 12 Principles of Practicing Sisterhood" are designed to ignite a deeper connection, accountability, and healing within our circles. These principles guide us in fostering environments where every woman feels valued, understood, and empowered to rise into her fullest potential.

Sisterhood transcends the bond of friendship, offering a sacred space of support, empowerment, and mutual growth. It’s a commitment to the collective flourishing of women, particularly in Black communities where kinship holds a historical and transformative power.

The 12 Principles of Practicing Sisterhood are designed to ignite a deeper connection of self-friendship, accountability, care/healing {I think what we need is care. Softer spaces where we can land softly, no matter how open our wounds, whether we see it or not}  and ingenuity within our circles. These principles guide us in fostering environments where every woman feels valued, understood, and empowered to rise into her fullest potential.

Principle 1: Embracing Vulnerability: Addressing The Elephant In The Room(s) - the Rooted Mind Practice 

I think alot about healing. Is is healing or do we needmore care? Openness and vulnerability are the foundations of trust and understanding in sisterhood. By sharing our true selves, we break down barriers of isolation and create strong bonds built on empathy and genuine connection.

Principle 2: The Power of Being Seen: Celebrating Self-Friendship

In a true sisterhood, the achievements of one are celebrated by all. We uplift and rejoice in each other’s successes, recognizing that one woman’s victory contributes to the elevation of the entire community.

 Principle 3: The Language of Accountability- Naming The Systems - allyship 

Accountability is a language of love in sisterhood. It involves expressing concerns and missteps not as criticism but as constructive feedback that fosters growth and learning. This principle encourages us to hold each other accountable in ways that are respectful, kind, and supportive, ensuring that everyone in the circle evolves together.SPEC Framework

 Principle 4: Supporting Through Adversity -The Transformative Power of Knowledge Systems

Sisterhood provides a reliable haven during times of trouble. It’s about standing by each other through life’s trials, offering a shoulder to lean on and the resources to get through tough times.

 Principle 5: Acts of Betrayal - The Many Faces of Betrayal

Recognizing and addressing acts of betrayal within the sisterhood is crucial for maintaining its sanctity. This principle involves understanding the impact of betrayal, whether through breach of trust or support, and actively working towards reconciliation and healing.

 Principle 6: Mutual Respect - Judgement and The Colour of Emotions

Respect is the currency of effective sisterhood. This principle underscores the importance of respecting each other’s time, boundaries, opinions, and differences as a form of profound love and acceptance.

Principle 7: The Power of Listening - Bodytalks and the Self-Determination

Listening is an act of love. Giving our full attention in conversations, acknowledging each other's feelings without judgment, and offering empathy enables deeper connections and mutual respect.

Principle 8: Be a Cultural Insider: Encouraging Personal and Community Growth

A sisterhood that values personal growth encourages each member to pursue her dreams and potentials. This principle is about inspiring each other to stretch beyond comfort zones and embrace all possibilities of what one can become.

Principle 9: Sharing Wisdom - The Power of Ancestral Leadership

The collective wisdom of the sisterhood is a powerful tool for personal and communal growth. Sharing experiences, knowledge, and life lessons helps each member navigate their own paths more effectively.

Principle 10: Conflict Resolution and the Transformative Healing of Elemental Intelligence 

Handling disagreements with grace and maturity ensures the health and longevity of sisterly bonds. This principle focuses on resolving conflicts through open communication, honesty, and a commitment to finding common ground.

Principle 11: Collective Action - EQ ClarityCoaching

Uniting for a common cause or action not only strengthens bonds but also amplifies the impact that a group of committed women can have in their communities and beyond.

Principle 12: Celebrating Heritage,Identity and Sisterhood 

Roots and heritage are a significant part of identity. Celebrating the diverse backgrounds and histories in a sisterhood enriches the group, providing a deeper appreciation and understanding of each other’s unique stories.

 Conclusion

These 12 Principles of Practicing Sisterhood are not merely guidelines but are the essence of building a robust and supportive sisterhood. By integrating these principles into our daily interactions, we cultivate a community of women who are empowered, resilient, and united in the pursuit of their collective and individual aspirations.

ABOUT KARLYN: 

Karlyn Percil is a renowned advocate for women's empowerment, particularly within the Black and Caribbean communities. As the founder of SisterTalk Group, she focuses on advancing the brilliance, presence, and recognition of Black women in various spheres, including corporate environments and leadership positions. Through initiatives like SisterTalk and the #AMPLIFYHER2020 campaign, Karlyn has worked tirelessly to amplify the voices of Black, Indigenous, and Women of Color (BIWOC), providing platforms to share their stories, resilience, and successes. Her efforts aim to create inclusive and equitable spaces, both professionally and personally, for these women.