ABOUT BOOK BLACK WOMEN, INC.
Book Black Women, Inc. is a cultural production company and nonprofit organization creating curated live experiences, signature programming, and artist-centered events. Through original productions, partnerships, and community-based programming, BBW amplifies Black women’s creativity, leadership, and storytelling.
Our work is rooted in artist-first practices, cultural integrity, and intentional collaboration. BBW develops original programming, provides full-scope creative direction, and partners with institutions and communities to produce experiences that honor both artistic excellence and community impact.
OUR APPROACH
What We Create
Book Black Women, Inc. develops and produces multi-disciplinary programming for live audiences, institutions, and community spaces. Our portfolio includes original productions, recurring performance series, touring programs, and custom collaborative events. Each project is shaped by creative direction, cultural context, and the needs of both artists and audiences.
Meet the Founder
Ayana Washington is a multidisciplinary creative leader and the Founder and Creative Director of Book Black Women, Inc., a cultural production company and nonprofit organization dedicated to amplifying Black women in the arts through original programming, immersive live experiences, and strategic partnerships. Her work centers on creating platforms that honor artistic excellence, cultural storytelling, and meaningful community engagement.
With a background spanning acting, directing, vocal performance, costume design, and producing, Ayana brings a rare ability to blend artistic vision with operational execution. She has led and contributed to theatrical and live event productions across the region, shaping experiences that are both culturally grounded and creatively bold. As a director, her work includes acclaimed productions such as In the Blood and Frankenstein, where her storytelling approach centers marginalized narratives with care and intention.
Ayana’s contributions to the arts have been widely recognized. She was named Broadway World’s Vocalist of the Decade in 2020 and received Broadway World’s Best Costume Design honor in 2025. In 2024, she was recognized as one of The Fayetteville Observer’s 40 Under 40 for her leadership, innovation, and impact within the cultural sector. Following the success of that year’s ceremony, she was entrusted with leading the 40 Under 40 program moving forward.
Beyond Book Black Women, Inc., Ayana collaborates with municipalities, arts institutions, and community-based organizations to design and produce culturally significant programming. Her partnerships include work with Cape Fear Regional Theatre, No Longer Bound Entertainment, and other regional collaborators committed to inclusive storytelling and equitable access to creative spaces.
At the core of Ayana’s work is a commitment to building intentional, artist-centered environments where Black women can create, lead, and be fully seen. Through Book Black Women, Inc., she continues to cultivate community, foster collaboration, and produce experiences that resonate far beyond the stage.