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Who We Are
BEL By the Numbers
Founded: 2014
IRS 501(c)(3): 2024
Headquartered: Metro Atlanta
Local Chapters: 30+
Conference: Annual
Events: Monthly
Programs: 5
Research Initiatives: Growing
Community Reach: National
Our Mission Statement
Black Educated Lesbians (BEL) is a national nonprofit dedicated to connecting Black lesbians with the community, opportunities, resources, and support needed to thrive. Through wellness initiatives, leadership development, education, research, workforce development, and economic empowerment, we are building a stronger future where Black lesbians are healthy, connected, visible, and equipped to lead.
Our Vision
We envision a world where Black lesbians thrive—deeply connected, economically empowered, holistically well, and boldly leading across every sector while shaping culture, influencing systems, and building lasting legacies for generations to come.
Our Values
At Black Educated Lesbians (BEL), our values shape every program, partnership, conversation, and community we build. They reflect our commitment to creating affirming spaces where Black lesbians and Black queer women can heal, lead, connect, and thrive.
Board of Directors
Rev. Nadine Rawls-Secretary
Sheresa Gladden, MSW-Member at Large
Sheresa Gladden, MSW-Member at Large
Rev. NaDine Rawls is a licensed and ordained minister under the Unity Fellowship Church Movement. She was the Founder of Unity Fellowship North Texas and served as Assistant Pastor of Unity Fellowship Church, Baltimore and Co-Pastor of Unity Fellowship Church -DC
Rev. Rawls has been a spiritual leader for the LGBTQ community for over 35 y
Rev. NaDine Rawls is a licensed and ordained minister under the Unity Fellowship Church Movement. She was the Founder of Unity Fellowship North Texas and served as Assistant Pastor of Unity Fellowship Church, Baltimore and Co-Pastor of Unity Fellowship Church -DC
Rev. Rawls has been a spiritual leader for the LGBTQ community for over 35 years, emphasizing that one's sexuality is not a prerequisite for love of Jesus. Currently. Rev. Rawls graduated in May 2025 with a Master of Theological Studies from Eden Theological Seminary in St. Louis, Mo.
Sheresa Gladden, MSW-Member at Large
Sheresa Gladden, MSW-Member at Large
Sheresa Gladden, MSW-Member at Large
Sheresa Gladden from Northern, VA, currently residing in Baltimore, MD works in the field of social work. Entrepreneur, and advocate for holistic well-being in the Black LGBTQIA+ community. She holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work and is currently expanding her expertise as a financial consultant and property managem
Sheresa Gladden from Northern, VA, currently residing in Baltimore, MD works in the field of social work. Entrepreneur, and advocate for holistic well-being in the Black LGBTQIA+ community. She holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work and is currently expanding her expertise as a financial consultant and property management. Sheresa is also the Chief Marketing Officer of SwimQ, a swimwear brand created for masculine-presenting women in the LGBTQIA+ community.
With a strong background in serving diverse populations—ranging from veterans and youth to seniors, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those overcoming substance use—Sheresa brings compassion, insight, and a solutions-oriented mindset to every space she enters. Her work is grounded in the belief that a fulfilling life includes goal achievement, self-care, meaningful relationships, and joyful experiences.
In her free time, Sheresa enjoys dancing, traveling, reading, exploring festivals, and embracing life’s moments. She is deeply committed to creating spaces where others can learn, connect, and thrive. Her mission is to build the life she deserves—and help others do the same.
Help BEL Thrive
Your donation helps create wellness programs, leadership opportunities, scholarships, research initiatives, and community spaces for Black lesbians.