Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Khalil and Dr. Nicole LaBeach.
On Saturday, August 1st, more than 10,000 women of color, ages 18 – 25, representing over 40 countries came together for a 24-hour 2D virtual experience like no other. The purpose was to celebrate their leadership, brilliance, and personal purpose. Our theme, “Don’t Sleep,” was a bold declaration of our commitment to live with intention, celebrate our unique beauty, and always strive to unlock greatness.
Inspired by the nostalgia of a sleepover, the ISP successfully empowered, engaged, and cultivated what we call “Sister Diamonds” – a diverse mix of student leaders, recent grads, aspiring entrepreneurs, and early careerists – all of whom are on a mission to change the world.
C0-created by Crystal Khalil and Dr. Nicole LaBeach, Sister Diamonds LLC embraces the unique experience of women globally and provides unparalleled, extraordinary opportunities to develop the future talent for the corporate and small business landscape. The ISP was its first global initiative.
Their commitment to young women of color shines bright through their values to: Provide sustainable tools and resources through sponsorship, mentorship, and access to invaluable content. Reinforce their leadership and help them manifest their personal purpose. Be the brand ambassador for her practice of greater self-confidence, self-compassion, self-love, and self- acceptance.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The vision was for ISP was clear and the women committed to its success were on a mission. As such, we were able to produce a virtual event in less than 60 days. Young women of color from more than 4o countries participated. They represented countries such as S. Africa, Nigeria, Trinidad, Jamaica, London and, of course, the US.
The ISP mentees (mostly young women from HBCUs such as Spelman and CAU) pushed us to do things differently. Instead of the traditional “convention” set-up, participants logged into a virtual mansion that was fashioned after The Princess Diaries – complete with networking rooms and a poolside DJ experience with virtual mocktails. It was challenging building a tech-driven experience like this because it’s never been done before. In the end, we are proud to have brought the vision to life. The unique look and feel generated lots of excitement and the ISP ladies loved it!
Sister Diamonds – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
We call ourselves the Wonder Twins! Together, Zan and Jayna were sibling super friend superheroes from the Justice League in the 1970s. When they activated their powers, they did extraordinary supernatural things. It’s worth a laugh every time we say it, but the sentiment is true. We are sister friends with superpowers that once combined shine forth undeniable brilliance.
To our tribe, we’re executives, businesswomen, great huggers, and ambassadors of service. It’s no surprise, our faith and fierce commitment to empowering the human spirit brought us together. Similar paths, life lessons, and calls to action, we were two diamonds cultivated by fire and pressure.
In 2020, during one of the most tumultuous times our world has ever seen, we decided our collectivism could not only change lives but also be our greatest decision and contribution yet. Together, we would create a brand that empowered others through love, light and experiences likened to salve for the soul. We created Sister Diamonds, LLC. It’s been proven, only a diamond can cut another diamond, and that’s what we do.
We create a space for women to celebrate, support, elevate, cultivate, and honor themselves and others. When we look in the eyes of a sister woman, we see futures so bright it makes us want to wear shades. And, we figured out our greatest joy is being in service to honoring the purpose, presence, power, and leadership of sister women from all walks of life. As Sister Diamonds, we’ve embarked on a journey of a lifetime and all other Sister Diamonds are welcomed to join us!
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
ISP was driven by mentees (young WOCs ages 18-25) and mentors from a variety of professional industries ranging from finance and business to art, entertainment, beauty, and wellness. More than 100 speakers and panelists covered topics such as health and wellness, social justice, financial planning and entrepreneurship, among others.
Every step of the way, ISPs success hinged on their commitment to creating a new experience that uplifts women around the world. A few participants included Lisa Nichols, best-selling author and motivational speaker, the Honorable Mayor Shirley Franklin, the first female mayor of the City of Atlanta, Mikki Taylor, editor-at-large, Essence Magazine, Mary Schmidt Campbell, president of Spelman College, Shanti Das, mental health expert, Cynthia Bailey, supermodel and a host of influencers.
Contact Info:
- Address: Sister Diamonds LLC
570 Nickajack Rd
Mableton GA 30126 - Website: https://internationalslumberparty.com/
- Email: ckhalil@sisterdiamonds.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/internationalslumberparty/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/internationalslumberparty/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/intslumberparty
- Other: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nXQR2y5sAFo
Image Credit:
Nick Nelson, Brandprenuer
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