Akina Is The New AI Platform That Wants To Be A “Google For Black Women”

Leigh Higginbotham Butler has a pioneering AI platform and network for Black women, Akina.

Akina, which means “strong family bond” in Swahili, originated from a personal need to create a safe space for discussions and support among Black mothers.

It has since evolved into a Community-as-a-Service (CaaS) app and platform that leverages culturally competent AI and machine learning technology.

From A Social Network To A Movement

Akina was initially started 2020 as a social media platform for Black mothers.

“It came about in the aftermath of the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmuad Arbery, and so many others,” Higginbotham told TechBullion.

“As a wife and mother to 3 handsome Black boys, I knew something had to be done, and Akina was born.”

Akina then rapidly grew into a diverse ecosystem with three main pillars: entrepreneurship, mental health, and maternal healthcare. 

Higginbotham Butler’s vision for the platform aims to be a “Google for Black women,” a go-to source for culturally relevant advice, expert knowledge, and networking opportunities. 

Akina operates as a freemium model and also has a $20 per month offering, which allows full access to the app and website and discounted entry for its in-person events.

A Partnership With The Official Black Wall Street

With Official Black Wall Street becoming Akina’s premier platform partner, Higginbotham believes it will benefit Black-owned businesses.

“Official Black Wall Street boasts one of the largest listings of Black-owned businesses in the country and offers its members a platform for engaging with their customers, additional marketing opportunities, and business education,” she stated.

“Our partnership with Official Black Wall Street is all about enhancing the awareness of Black-owned businesses in their respective categories and encouraging our community to support them.”