OUR STORY
FINDING INSPIRATION ON & OFF THE COURT
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OUR HUMBLE BEGINNINGS​
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Founded in 2021, Black Tennis Connect emerged from a simple idea: to take the thriving black tennis community we had cultivated in Charlotte and expand its reach. What began as a modest meet-up soon blossomed into a movement that deeply resonated with tennis enthusiasts, those eager to learn, and ardent supporters alike.
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OUR EVOLUTION
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Over the years, Black Tennis Connect has evolved into tennis safe haven for people of color. From curating events in underserved communities to partnering with U.S. Open , each step forward has brought us closer to realizing our vision of connect more players & coaches of color to help grow the game of tennis.
OUR TEAM
KENYATA SENU
Founder & President
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Born and raised in Detroit, Kenyata's journey took an unexpected turn when she established a non-profit tennis organization in Charlotte. After moving to Charlotte, she used the pandemic as a chance to learn tennis. Uncovering a glaring diversity gap in the sport, she was compelled to take action. As a novice player, she faced limited opportunities to connect and unwelcoming courts. Determined to change this, she launched a Meet-up to create a black tennis community, initially expecting a handful of participants. To her surprise, nearly thirty people joined, prompting the birth of the Charlotte Black Tennis Club and Black Tennis Connect. Kenyata currently resides in Indianapolis, IN where she is focusing her efforts on growing tennis in the Mid-West.
Raven Johnson
Vice President
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Originally from Queens, New York, Raven now calls Charlotte, NC, home. Inspired by Venus and Serena's tennis prowess in the early 2000s, she first picked up a racket at 11, engaging in city-sponsored tennis camps and local junior doubles tournaments.
After moving to Charlotte, Raven's interest in tennis was rekindled through the Charlotte Black Tennis Club's inaugural meet-up. Recognizing the chance to combine her childhood hobby with community organizing, she aims to leverage the spirit of black communal movements to enhance equity and tennis access for marginalized communities.