Celebrating Black innovators in tech, agriculture, education, and more

This Black History Month, 1Password proudly spotlights some extraordinary figures who have made significant contributions to technology, agriculture, education, media, culinary arts, and other important fields. Join us in acknowledging these trailblazers, as we believe their stories are integral to a more inclusive and enlightened narrative.

Computer hardware and software

Now: Mark E. Dean

Mark E. Dean, an American computer scientist and engineer, played a pivotal role in developing the original IBM PC and color PC monitor. His contributions extend to the invention of the first gigahertz chip, showcasing his pioneering work in computer technology.

Now: Tope Awotona

Tope Awotona, a Nigerian-born entrepreneur, founded Calendly, a widely-used scheduling tool that simplifies appointment management. Awotona’s background in software development and entrepreneurship led to the creation of this user-friendly platform.

Now: Frederick Hutson

Frederick Hutson, an American businessman, founded Pigeonly, a company that connects people with incarcerated loved ones. Hutson’s entrepreneurial spirit took flight early, having launched and sold his first business while on active duty in the United States Air Force.

Now: Lisa Carter

Lisa Carter, award-winning Tech Entrepreneur and CEO of Discussion Box, leads a virtual events platform for culture-shifting brands.

Agricultural science

Then: George Washington Carver

Renowned for his groundbreaking research on peanuts, sweet potatoes, and soybeans, George Washington Carver had a huge impact on American agriculture. His work promoted crop diversification and sustainable farming practices.

Now: Tinia Pina

Tinia Pina, founder and CEO of Re-Nuble, focuses on sustainable waste management and regenerative agriculture. Advocating for climate-smart agriculture, Pina leads a social enterprise that uses unique technologies to upcycle organic waste.

Now: Jasmine Crowe-Houston

Jasmine Crowe-Houston, founder and CEO of Goodr, addresses food waste and hunger by connecting surplus food from businesses to communities in need.

Education

Then: Mary McLeod Bethune

Mary McLeod Bethune, an advocate for racial and gender equality, founded a boarding school for African American girls in 1904. Her contributions extended to advising U.S. presidents on minority affairs.

Now: Dr. Johnetta MacCalla

Dr. Johnetta MacCalla, CEO of Zyrobotics, pioneers inclusive STEM-related educational technologies that address the diverse needs of children, especially those with differing abilities.

Now: Gori Yahaya

Gori Yahaya, founder and CEO of UpSkill Digital, focuses on providing digital skills training and consultancy.

Media

Now: Bob Johnson

Bob Johnson is an entrepreneur, media magnate, and investor. He is the co-founder of Black Entertainment Television (BET) and made history in 2002 by becoming the first African American majority owner of a major professional sports team in the United States.

Now: DeShuna Spencer

DeShuna Spencer, founder and CEO of kweliTV, promotes diversity and inclusion in the media industry through a streaming platform that showcases independent films and documentaries.

Culinary Arts

Then: Joseph Lee

Joseph Lee, an African American chef and inventor, credited with inventing the bread crumb machine, revolutionized food waste reduction.

Now: Riana Lynn

Riana Lynn, founder of Journey Foods, leverages artificial intelligence and data analytics to deliver personalized and healthier food products.

Now: Dr. Lisa Dyson

Dr. Lisa Dyson, CEO and co-founder of Air Protein, pioneers sustainable protein production by transforming carbon dioxide into protein using innovative microbial technology.

These trailblazers have not only shaped the present but are influencing and inspiring the next generation. By highlighting the remarkable contributions of Black visionaries we hope to weave a new narrative in society that enriches our collective understanding of history and paves the way for a more inclusive future.

Celebrating Black History Month at 1Password

Now, as we shift our focus to celebrating Black History Month at 1Password, we carry forward this commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the amplification of voices that have, for too long, been underrepresented. Black History Month provides a meaningful opportunity to amplify and celebrate the rich contributions of Black people.

Here’s how we’re striving to create a more inclusive narrative inside 1Password:

• Real Talk Panel. We’re putting on a panel with four of our Black Caucus ERG (employee resource group) members who will share the profound impact of art, music, dance, and literature on their lives.

• Black Caucus-led Book Club. We’re excited to offer a book club to our ERG members to create a space that celebrates the diverse voices of Black authors across genres. This isn’t just about reading; it’s a powerful way to support Black creatives and contribute to a more inclusive literary landscape.

• Virtual Celebration with DJ K-Love. We’re excited to present DJ K-Love who will guide our employees through an hour of music by Black artists across all genres, accompanied by engaging and fun music facts.

And here’s what we’re doing externally to make a positive impact:

• Donating 1Password memberships. In the spirit of giving back, we’re donating 100 subscriptions to a Canadian-based organization that supports Black youth. By providing resources and tools, we aim to contribute to the growth and development of future leaders.

• Supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters. We’re encouraging our employees to volunteer at Big Brothers Big Sisters, a charity that provides mentorship to young people and, in the process, strengthens local communities. Through conscious choices, we can collectively contribute to a more vibrant world.

Let’s build a more inclusive future together

We hope you join us in honoring the past, celebrating the present, and working towards a more inclusive future. Your participation and support make a difference not just this month but throughout the year. Let’s continue building a community that values and uplifts diverse voices.

Rozalynd Gaubault & Anthony Morgan