Meet Ari Gibbs | Founder, Organizer at Well Read Sistas Inc.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ari Gibbs and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ari, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Risk-taking is an essential part of growth—both personally and professionally. At Well Read Sistas Inc., we empower Black women to step into spaces that might feel intimidating because we know that the greatest rewards often lie on the other side of fear.
For me as a creator and host, I think about risk as a necessary investment in possibilities. It’s not about being reckless but about recognizing when the potential upside outweighs the fear of failure. I weigh my risks with a mix of intuition and strategy: What’s at stake? What could I gain? What lessons could I learn even if things don’t go as planned?
Taking risks has been a cornerstone of my career. Whether it was stepping into corporate leadership roles before I felt ‘ready’ and excelling or founding Well Read Sistas Inc. to address the needs of our community, each leap has been guided by a vision of something greater than myself. Risks are about trust—not just in the process, but in your ability to navigate challenges as they arise.
Through risk-taking, I’ve learned resilience, creativity, and the power of community. It’s a reminder that we, as Black women, are capable of so much more than we sometimes give ourselves credit for. Taking a risk isn’t just about achieving a goal; it’s about growing into the kind of person who dares to dream and act boldly. I strive to embody the motto “Do things you love and Live Life Happy”. A constant reminder to embrace present joy without fumbling over the “what-ifs”.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Thank you so much for the opportunity to share more about Well Read Sistas Inc. and the journey behind it! At its core, our work is a celebration of Black women’s resilience, brilliance, and creativity. Our “art,” if you will, is the creation of spaces—physical, digital, and emotional—where Black women feel seen, supported, and empowered.
What sets us apart is our dedication to fostering personal and professional development through community. We’re not just about books and workshops; we’re about transformative experiences that uplift and inspire. We amplify voices, connect women to opportunities, and cultivate a culture of excellence and “sistahood”. I’m most proud of the moments when members share how being part of Well Read Sistas has changed their lives—whether it’s finding a mentor, landing a dream job, or simply feeling less alone in their journey.
The path to where we are today has not been easy. Building a nonprofit rooted in advocacy and empowerment requires navigating systemic barriers, limited resources, and the occasional self-doubt. But those challenges have also been our greatest teachers. We’ve learned the value of persistence, the power of collective action, and the importance of self-care in the midst of service.
One of the biggest lessons along the way has been that no dream is too big when you’re anchored in purpose. By leaning into our mission and building genuine relationships, we’ve overcome obstacles and built something truly special.
What I want the world to know about Well Read Sistas Inc. is that we are more than an organization—we are a movement. We are here to uplift, inspire, and remind the world that when Black women thrive, entire communities rise. Our story is a testament to the power of belief, passion, and sisterhood, and we are just getting started.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
* Breakfast: Start the day at Moss Cafe, a farm-to-table spot known for its fresh ingredients and cozy atmosphere.
* Lunch: Dine at Harlem Shake NYC my favorite restaurant in Harlem
* Lunch: Dine at Beatstro, a hip-hop-themed restaurant serving Southern comfort food with a modern twist.
* Afternoon: Visit the New York Botanical Garden, featuring beautiful landscapes and seasonal exhibitions.
* Dinner: Enjoy Italian cuisine at Roberto’s Restaurant, renowned for its authentic dishes and warm ambiance.
* Evening: Sip cocktails at The Honey Well, a retro-inspired bar with a cozy vibe.
* Breakfast: Grab a bite at Jenavie’s Cafe, praised for its delicious breakfast options and friendly service.
* Morning: Explore the Bronx Museum of the Arts, showcasing contemporary art by diverse artists.
* Evening: Enjoy live music at The Bronx Brewery, known for its craft beers and lively events.
* Morning: Visit the Edgar Allan Poe Cottage, the historic home of the famous poet.
* Lunch: Dine at Enzo’s of Williamsbridge, celebrated for its traditional Italian cuisine.
* Dinner: Enjoy a meal at Sammy’s Fish Box, known for its generous seafood platters. (City Island)

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
AriArii LLC for being the sole funding source for Well Read Sistas Inc.

Website: https://wellreadsistas.com

Instagram: @noig_ari @wellreadsistas @newsistafriends

Facebook: @wellreadsistas & https://www.facebook.com/AriAriiGibbs

Image Credits
All pictures are taken by Lavie D. of EyeCraveVisuals. She does an amazing job!