We’re proud to celebrate Pittsburgh Black History Month 2026! Steel City is known for bridges and black-and-gold pride, but I think the real heartbeat of our community lies in passion and creativity of our people, local entrepreneurs and business owners.
This February, we aren’t just looking back at Black History —we’re honoring the women making it right now. As a woman-owned business in Pittsburgh, we know that success is built on community, resilience, and a whole lot of determination (and shampoo!). That’s why we’re shining the light on two incredible Black female business leaders who are transforming their professions and uplifting our very own neighborhoods. They’re also Kindred Curl clients. I can’t wait for you to meet Taylor and Tara! Here’s our Q and A:
Meet Taylor Whaley: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Play Therapist
Why is it important for Black-owned practitioners to have a seat at the table in your profession?
Historically, Black individuals are more likely to seek therapy with a Black clinician for many reasons — one being the reduced need to explain racial trauma or cultural experiences. There can be a shared sense of safety, understanding, and validation that comes from working with someone who holds similar lived experiences. This can also be true for bi-racial clients.
As a biracial therapist, I understand firsthand how complex and nuanced that experience can be. Navigating the world as a biracial person can feel like a completely different ballgame and, at times, deeply confusing. While those experiences are not always easy, there can be comfort in knowing that someone else “gets it.” Representation in this field matters — not only for access to care, but for fostering spaces where clients feel seen, understood, and safe.
Were there barriers on your journey?
I am the first person in my family to attend and graduate from a four-year university. I graduated early, and I was also the first to go on to graduate school. Navigating spaces that were completely new to me, without a roadmap was both empowering and overwhelming at times.
I am also biracial, which comes with its own unique set of challenges. I remember being in professional settings where I was the only person of color. When something happened in the news involving a person of color, people would often look to me as if I had all the answers. That expectation can feel incredibly heavy. Carrying both your own emotions and others’ curiosity or discomfort is not easy.
One of the ways I’ve navigated these barriers is through my own personal therapy. Having a space to process has been invaluable. I’ve also learned to set boundaries, sometimes that means sharing resources so others can educate themselves rather than placing that responsibility on me.
My advice to others facing obstacles: find your people. Build a community where you feel seen, heard and understood. Invest in your own support. And remember you do not have to have everything figured out to move forward, you just have to take that first step no matter how small!
What is one habit or ritual that keeps you grounded?
Movement. I’m a very active person, and I’ve built a few rituals into my week that help me reset and reconnect. On Sundays, I take figure skating lessons. On Saturdays, I go to a yoga class, and I’m also a runner. Each of these habits gives me space to release stress, clear my mind, and get back into my body.
What is one thing you wish you knew when you first started that you know now?
Nobody knows with 100 percent certainty what they’re doing — even if they look like they do. No one has all the answers, and everything comes with a learning curve. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Play Therapist, I have had extensive clinical training. However, I had very little training on how to actually run and own a private practice, and that was a huge learning curve. After connecting with other therapists that I trust, I realized that just because someone does something one way doesn’t make it the “right” way — and vice versa. There isn’t one perfect formula. It’s okay to step into something new without having it all figured out. The most important thing you can do is try your best, stay grounded in your values, and be willing to learn as you go.
Meet Tara O’Connor: General Counsel, Populus Group
What does Black History Month mean to you right NOW, in this exact moment in time?
Black history is American History. I try to learn about Black individuals who were inventors, or great scholars and teachers. I am a lifelong learner and I love reading autobiographies of notable Black Americans both past and present. I use Black History Month to really focus and plan my learning for the rest of the year.
Was there an “aha!” moment that led you to law as a profession? And how does your heritage influence you as an attorney?
I always thought I was going to be a doctor, but near the end of my freshman year I finally admitted that I didn’t want to pursue medicine, rather I had a love of reading and researching, two skills that are used all of the time as a lawyer.
Why do you think it’s important for Black attorneys to have a seat at the table in your profession?
I think it is very important as a Black woman to have a seat at any table where rules are being made. It is important to understand how laws are created and are used.
Were there barriers you had to hurdle on your journey?
Being a Black woman in America is a hurdle. The best thing you can do for your career is to find a mentor. I have had several mentors, and I have mentored several people. It doesn’t have to be a formal mentoring system, it can be as simple as talking to people who have been where you want to go.
Were there mentors or community figures who helped inspire you, or cleared the path for you?
My parents were very much involved in the business and social ecosystems of Pittsburgh. They started a company (American Micrographics Company) in 1977 and were members of many social and business groups. Community building was very important to them and they passed the appreciation of diverse communities to me and my brother.
In the context of Black History Month, what do you hope you represent to the next generation?
I want the next generation to think “if she can do it so can I.”
How has your connection to the community shaped the way you do business and/or serve your clients?
I have always worked for companies, never in private practice. I work for companies that fit within my belief system and that I am proud to represent. When I decided to do employment law I determined that I wouldn’t represent companies where they required me to sweep problems under the rug, and I have not ever had to do that.
Which Black-owned businesses are you currently obsessed with or supporting?
I love makeup, so these are all beauty brands. Pattern Beauty, Fenty Beauty and Pound Cake.
What is one habit or ritual that keeps you grounded?
Spending time with my lifelong friends, women I have known since grade school. They are not afraid to be honest and tell me the truth about anything and everything.
What is one thing you wish you knew when you first started that you know now?
That there are many paths you can take to get where you want to be. Also I wish I would have taken more chances professionally.
We Celebrate Pittsburgh Black History Month 2026!
Both Taylor and Tarah are community-first, mission-first, Black female business leaders. We’re proud they headline our community and we’re honored to call them clients. The future of Pittsburgh’s Black female business leaders is brighter and bolder than ever. Thank you for celebrating Taylor and Tara with us for Pittsburgh Black History Month 2026.
Is there a local Black business leader or business you want to celebrate? Please tell us in the comments!