The people and purpose
behind IBP.

More than networking.
This is community.

IBP is a community of Black professionals in the Indianapolis area dedicated to supporting and empowering one another in our personal and professional lives. We provide a space where Black professionals can connect, learn, and grow together, working toward a more inclusive and equitable future for ourselves and the next generation.

Through networking events, professional development, and social gatherings, we foster a supportive environment where members build meaningful relationships and advance their careers. We recognize the unique challenges Black professionals face and are committed to providing the resources and community to help our members thrive.

IBP Community

Why we exist.

IBP creates community-centered experiences for Black professionals and allies that foster authentic relationships, collective growth, and shared opportunity. By expanding access to leadership, businesses, and networks, we turn connection into coordinated action across local and global communities.

Leadership & Board

IBP is guided by a dedicated team of professionals who are deeply invested in Indianapolis and the people who make it up.

Executive Team
Bunmi Akin
Bunmi Akin
President
Quianna Young
Quianna Young
Vice President
Ariel Relf
Ariel Relf
Membership
Asia Hudson
Asia Hudson
Events
Keri Hughes
Keri Hughes
Events
Simone Walls
Simone Walls
Community Outreach
Rahjá Sharp
Rahjá Sharp
Events
Board of Directors
Breonna Aarons
Breonna Aarons
Chair
LaShaila Spivey
LaShaila Spivey
Vice Chair
Nia Simmons
Nia Simmons
Treasurer
Ninjia Miles
Ninjia Miles
Board Member
Jasmine Black
Jasmine Black
Board Member
Paul Betiku
Paul Betiku
Board Member
Mariah Barber
Mariah Barber
Board Member
Jourdan Ivory
Jourdan Ivory
Board Member
Belinda Drake
Belinda Drake
Board Member

Five core values.

Everything IBP does flows from these five principles. They shape how we show up for each other and for the city.

01
Community First

Every decision starts with what is best for the people we serve.

02
Access & Opportunity

Expanding doors and making sure our people can walk through them.

03
Cultural Respect

Honoring who we are and where we come from in every space we build.

04
Shared Resources

What we have, we share. Collective wealth over individual accumulation.

05
Global Perspective

Our roots are local. Our vision reaches across the diaspora and the world.