#BGFAcademyAlumni — Tianna Johnson
Black Girl Fest Academy is a seven-month community-focused creative programme, created by Black Girl Festival, in association with Today at Apple and The Mayor of London.
Over the past few months, we’ve supported 30 Black women aged 17–25, equipping them with the tools to create events for their local communities. We’re excited to introduce our Academy Alumni sharing more about their event ideas.
Meet Tianna Johnson, founder of Black Girls Camping Trip — an outdoor retreat for Black women in the UK.
Tell us more about your event, How did you come up with it? What impact do you hope it makes for your community?
After struggling with mental health problems, I decided to curate a space where the healing nature of the outdoors could support others the way that the outdoors has helped me.
What advice would you give to anyone who wants to sign up to the Black Girl Fest Academy programme?
It doesn’t matter what stage you’re at. I felt so embarrassed needing this space initially because I had already been operating for over a year and I was alongside those who had event ideas. But this is the space for you!
Tianna Johnson
What have you learnt whilst being on the programme?
My self-esteem has been boosted hugely since the programme. I would also say the next best thing I learned is pitching and crowdfunding, because through this I have learned my businesses potential and have secured funding through this.
Could you give a piece of advice you would give to someone who wants to run events for their community?
Have a close network of supportive friends near you. 2. When creating a budget, put in the REAL numbers even if the numbers are scary. 3. Connect with others doing work adjacently because they can support you.
