Saturday, November 18 • Noon–2pm
Robinson Theater Community Arts Center

Join Us and “Take Your Cape Off”

Developed by the HER Collective in 2019, the HERoes Bruncheon was created after acknowledging a need to celebrate Black women—the everyday HERoes who are working to create real change within the Richmond community.

This year’s theme is “Take Your Cape Off: Redefining HERoism.” We invite you to step into a space of authenticity and unity. Shed the cape of everyday responsibilities and immerse yourself in a few hours of self-discovery and genuine engagement. This is your time to be fully present, to connect with yourself, and to celebrate the strength of the remarkable community around you.

Come, take off your cape, and join us for an unforgettable journey of empowerment, inspiration, and shared growth.

Our Speakers

  • Keonna Knight

    Keonna Knight

    Liberation & Healing Coach

    Keonna Knight is a liberation and healing coach, certified yoga instructor and counselor. Through her business, Heal with Keonna, she offers coaching programs, community classes and trainings that teach Black women, helping professionals and community leaders how to heal and radically care for themselves while caring for others. 

    Learn more: www.healwithkeonna.com


  • Sheila Battle

    Sheila E. Battle MHS, CNM

    TEDx Speaker, Author and Executive Coach

    Sheila E. Battle, is a transformational leader, change agent, and human services advocate. Her passion is to see people grow from the inside out, through practical teaching and application of basic principles. Sheila and her husband, Frank, host a podcast called Soulful Conversations with Frank & Sheila, and are the visionaries of The BattleStation and 15 Minutes of Grace.

    Learn more: www.thebattlestation.org

  • Mariah Williams

    Mariah Williams

    Urban planner, Storyteller, and Researcher

    Born and raised in Harlem, New York, Mariah Williams is an urban planner, storyteller, and researcher dedicated to highlighting the experiences of black people and spaces in cities. She is the founder of Finding Homeplace, a platform that highlights the work of black women in community development, discusses the history and legacy of inequity in black communities, and reflects on black expression and resilience in urban landscapes.

    Learn more: www.mariahlwilliams.com

Award Descriptions:

  • The Gamechanger Award celebrates the HERo who fearlessly navigates uncharted territories, recognizing that extraordinary achievements lie just beyond the boundaries of our comfort zones. Fueled by an unwavering commitment, she fearlessly embarks on unconventional paths, unveiling new approaches and charting a course towards greatness.

    The Gamechanger Award honors those who revolutionize their fields, leaving an indelible mark on the world around them.

  • The Small Deeds, Big Impact Award honors the HERo who exemplifies the essence of sacrifice, empowerment, and love through their genuine acts of kindness. This award celebrates an individual whose compassionate endeavors, though seemingly modest in scale or scope, generate unexpected and significant transformations within their community.

    Whether it's equipping a handful of neighborhood children with essential school supplies or providing transportation to routine appointments for a community member in need, these seemingly small ripples create profound waves of positive change.

  • The Life As You Climb Award is presented to the extraordinary woman who utilizes her privileges, resources, and wisdom to empower and equip the next generation of trailblazing women. In her selfless pursuit, she dismantles the notion of competition and rejects the idea of a race to the top. Instead, she creates an inclusive environment where there are ample seats at the table for all.

  • The Money Moves Award celebrates the HERo who not only speaks of change but actively invests in it. By leveraging her financial resources strategically, she creates opportunities, breaks barriers, and fosters sustainable progress. Her commitment to funding transformative initiatives solidifies her as a true trailblazer, leaving an enduring impact on the advancement and inclusion of the next generation of Black women leaders and business owners.

  • Driven by a genuine care for others, the Sister's KeepHer Award celebrate the HERo who embodies the essence of selfless service, support and sisterhood.

    She consistently offers a comforting shoulder to lean on, a compassionate ear to listen, and an accountability partner who lovingly keeps everyone in check. Her unwavering commitment to uplifting and empowering others is an intrinsic part of her character, and her impact is immeasurable.

Vendor Market

The 2023 HERoes Bruncheon will feature a Vendor Market which is a microcosm of the event's spirit—authentic, powerful, and united. This unique experience isn't just about shopping—it's an opportunity to connect, engage, and uplift. Browse through a curated selection of offerings, each representing the passion and dedication of talented, Black-woman-owned businesses.


Our Sponsors + Partners

Interested in being a sponsor or volunteer?