By Carla Thomas

GirlTalk celebrated its seven-year anniversary at Everett and Jones Barbeque Restaurant in Jack London Square on Saturday afternoon, February 18, themed “Forever and Always.”

The women’s empowerment organization hosts monthly gatherings for women to discuss their trials, triumphs, and uplift each other as mothers, wives, professionals, and women of faith. From college students to elders, the women’s forum connects generations that keep the youth informed and mentored, while the seniors are kept up to date in an ever-changing society. Created by Pastor Dr. Doris Limbrick, a licensed counselor and leader at Acts Full Church of God in Christ in East Oakland, the organization was a way of getting women together beyond the church walls.

“I wanted to create a space outside the church that brings together all women,” explained Limbrick. “It’s really important for women to have a place where they can be themselves, relax, learn, and have fun. GirlTalk is also a ministry that gives women a platform to discuss personal issues, some as far back as childhood, issues within that were never resolved.”

The sisterhood meets monthly at a local event space in Oakland, however during the pandemic, like many organizations, GirlTalk found a way to keep the group together virtually. “When we are unable to meet in person, we meet through zoom and through zoom we’re able to include women out of the area expanding our reach.”

While Limbrick has made an impact on many people throughout the community she prays for, she thanked Dr. Mona Scott, CEO of the Black Repertory Theater and a family member, who recently ascended, Mother Mary Butler for their guidance and assistance with structuring the organization. “Mother Butler was always a big help to me and Dr. Scott opened her theater for us,” said Limbrick. “It’s so important for women to support one another and in 2023, I want us to support more of our businesses.” As a community leader, Limbrick also attended a rally in support of Oakland Police Chief LeRonne Armstrong.

Program entertainer Barbara Rhodes Woods performed, “Georgia,” accompanied by keyboardist Paul Wade while about 50 guests dined on a barbecue buffet.

Many guests and members are small business owners offering notary and graphics services to skin care and clothing. In addition to networking, a raffle was held with luxury gift bags presented to 6 lucky winners, featuring all-natural bath and body products by Soapy Faith.

Business owner, Brittney Follings, co-founder and COO of Soapy Faith provided a motivational talk about her life’s challenges and successes. Over a decade ago, she and her sisters created a company and in just a few short years they were out of business. And after suffering the deaths of her parents and two other loved ones in 4 short years, Rollings stood on her faith to push through life and to see the resurgence of her company called Soapy Faith in 2015. For the past few years, her all-natural bath and body line products have been featured in the Grammys swag bags and earned the #10 slot of Esty’s Top 100 products. “Never give up, your trials are seeds for you to reap God’s harvest for you,” said Rollings. “Stand on God’s promises for your life.”

Some members of the GirlTalk leadership team are Dr. Limbrick’s own family including daughter Stephanie Davis and granddaughter Britteny Davis and great granddaughter little three-year-old Brielle, the youngest princess in the house.

“My mom has been an inspiration,” said Stephanie Davis. “It’s nice to see all that she does for others,” said Brittney Davis.

With generations of women from their 20s to 80s, no generation is left behind as knowledge is shared, important issues are raised, and women can be a part of a sisterhood.

For the organization’s communications coordinator, Debra Guillory, GirlTalk has been a way to build friendships. “GirlTalk has meant a lot to me and it’s actually helped me get over my shyness and make friends.”

For more information on GirlTalk or Christian counseling services call 510-381-1401.

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