In the business world, we thrive on innovation and often celebrate those that dream, imagine and bring new ideas to life. In sports, we hail athleticism, strength, fortitude, and grace. Every now and then, we see a combination of both, like the amazing track star Florence Griffith Joyner (Flo-Jo), who died in 1998 and the incomparable tennis star, Serena Williams, lauded by some as the GOAT and for that we must celebrate.

Serena Williams recently ended her Australian Open run by making it to the semi-finals.  In addition to her impeccable skills on the tennis court, Serena also inspires us with her trend-setting fashions. From the introduction of the black cat-suit, to this year’s asymmetrical one-legged unitard inspired by Flo-Jo. 

After winning her match against Laura Siegemund, Williams shared the sentimental meaning behind her outfit in a postgame interview. “I was inspired by Flo-Jo, who was a wonderful track athlete, amazing athlete, when I was growing up,” she said to The Guardian. “Watching her fashion, just always changing. Her outfits were always amazing.”

In the months of February and March where we highlight and celebrate black history and women’s history, it’s exciting to look at these two black female innovators (past and present), and acknowledge their contributions to their collective sports, to see who they are, to lift them up, to show them love, and to celebrate them, time and time again.

As we acknowledge them, it’s also important to remember that each of us is inspired by someone and each of us can be an inspiration. So sit with these questions for a moment: In what ways are you celebrating and acknowledging the contributions of others? And in what ways are YOU charting new paths for others to follow?