Who We Are

Who We Are

Rooted in purpose. Powered by connection.

Black Women in Asset Management (BWAM) was founded to ensure that no one navigating this industry feels like the only one in the room. What began as a small circle of finance professionals searching for community has evolved into a global network of influence. We exist to elevate visibility, opportunity, and leadership across the investment sector because representation isn’t just good for culture, it’s essential for performance. Our work is grounded in the belief that when more perspectives are at the table, capital flows smarter, leadership gets stronger, and outcomes improve for everyone.

Our mission is simple but ambitious: create a world where professionals in asset management, especially those historically overlooked, can grow, connect, and lead with confidence.

A group of women standing in front of the BWAM conference backdrop.

What We Do

Watch Conference Highlights

We bring people together and that changes everything.

From our flagship Finance & Investment Conference to our 40 Under 40 Awards Gala, BWAM curates experiences that move the industry forward. We design events where conversations spark collaboration and relationships lead to real opportunities. Our gatherings are more than professional development—they’re fuel for ambition, strategy, and momentum. Whether we’re unpacking global market trends, hosting private roundtables, or celebrating rising leaders, BWAM events offer an unmatched environment for connection, insight, and growth.

We don’t just host events. We build ecosystems of belonging.

Meet Our Managing Director

Aligning passion and purpose.

Jacqueline James founded Black Women in Asset Management to create the space she once needed. Where professionals navigating the finance industry could find both connection and affirmation. With a career that began in law and deepened in private equity, she understands firsthand the isolation that can come with being one of the few in the room. BWAM was born out of that lived experience and has since grown into a trusted platform for insight, leadership, and community.

Jackie brings clarity, warmth, and vision to her work. Whether she’s curating programming, mentoring the next generation, or building partnerships, her focus remains on creating spaces where ambition is supported, stories are shared, and people feel seen.

A headshot of Jackie James

Join Us

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Contribute to a shared vision.

Our network is growing, and you don’t need a formal invitation to get involved. Sign up for our community newsletter to stay updated on upcoming events, stories, and opportunities. Interested in contributing behind the scenes? Apply to volunteer at our next conference or gala and help shape the experience from the inside out. If you’re a firm looking to partner with BWAM, reach out to explore how we can collaborate to expand access, elevate talent, and create meaningful impact together.

Let’s build a powerful ecosystem together.