Lauren Ash is a multifaceted creative entrepreneur and visionary most-recognized for her leadership prioritizing black women in the wellness and editorial fields. As the Founder and Creative Director of Black Girl In Om, she promotes holistic wellness for women of color through BGIO’s online publication, wellness sessions, podcast, creative agency, and award-winning social media platforms. As co-founder of Lifestyle with Ivory + Ash, Lauren creates inspiring and educational affirmations on lifestyle goods for women of color. And as co-founder of award-winning Party Noire, she celebrates black womanhood through Black Joy centered parties and community gatherings. Lauren currently sits as an artist-in-residence with Arts and Public Life and the Center for the Study of Race, Politics, and Culture at the University of Chicago. She is also a consultant for women of color led startups and guides group and private yoga and meditation. Her dedication and sustained attention to representing and unapologetically centering black women across all of her projects has garnered the attention of Well+Good, Girlboss, NYLON, Saint Heron, Vice’s i-D, Thoughtfully Magazine, ESSENCE, and many other platforms where she is recognized as a trailblazer and creative to watch. Lauren earned an MA in American Studies from Purdue University and a BA in Psychology from the University of St. Thomas.