Today we’d like to introduce you to Latoya Watson.
Latoya, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Although I’m originally from Columbus and went to the University of Cincinnati for undergrad, I spent the majority of my twenties in Washington, D.C., growing up and witnessing Black queer women living their authentic lives, both professionally and personally.
Living in D.C. gave me a deep sense of belonging. Whether it was a day party, brunch, or a professional group, there was always a vibrant community of Black queer people. Everywhere you looked, there was space, joy, and connection.
When I moved back to Cincinnati, I quickly noticed the absence of spaces specifically for Black queer women – places where we could build community, let our hair down, and show up as our full selves. I felt it was important to recreate the kind of atmosphere that made me feel safe, welcomed, and connected in D.C. I wanted to offer that same sense of “you are not alone” here in Cincinnati. Because the truth is… sometimes you do feel like the only Black person in the room, or the only woman at the bar.
That loneliness is what moved me to make a change. I began creating events that reimagined joy, community, and belonging. Today, I’m leading Black Wonderland, a platform rooted in curiosity, culture, and connection, building spaces where people feel seen, celebrated, and free.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Black Wonderland is actually born from the ashes of my first concept, The Black Pearl Experience. What started as a simple idea to bring Black queer folks together in Cincinnati grew into something bigger than I ever imagined. We had hundreds of supporters traveling from all over – Louisville, Cleveland, Columbus, even L.A. The energy was magnetic and very needed for our community.
But behind the scenes, not everything aligned. My former business partner and I had different visions, and as the work deepened, those differences became impossible to ignore. It was heartbreaking to walk away from something I helped build and was something so deeply tied to my identity and joy.
One of my favorite quotes is: “Don’t fight back, fight forward.” And that’s exactly what I did. I poured everything I learned… the joy, the missteps, the magic… into something new. Black Wonderland was born as both a love letter and a fresh start: a space rooted in curiosity, culture, and connection. A place where we’re not just throwing parties – we’re creating an ecosystem of wonder for Black queer folks and beyond.
And what’s wild? It’s already working. After just one event, we welcomed 125 beautiful souls – after two years of silence. The response has been overwhelming in the best way. People are showing up. They’re curious. They’re ready. Black Wonderland is already becoming what I dreamed: proof that when you move with heart, your people will find you.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Professionally, I work as an IT Consultant at one of the Big Four accounting firms, with a background in Information Technology from the University of Cincinnati. (But don’t worry, I won’t bore you with the tech talk.)
Outside of work, I’m best known as someone who’s deeply plugged into the culture. I’m a community curator who loves connecting people to each other, to experiences, to joy. Whether it’s a hidden gem restaurant, the perfect day party, or a fun local event, I’m your go-to guide for all things food, fun, and community in Cincinnati.
What sets me apart is how deeply I care. You’ll never feel like a stranger in my presence. I believe in making people feel welcomed, seen, and like they belong. That’s what I’m most proud of: building spaces where people feel held. Whether I’m curating an event or just giving a dinner recommendation, it all comes from the same place: The love for my people and a desire to make every moment feel special.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
Support looks different in different ways.
Sponsorships/Grants/Donations:
We love to discuss partnerships and donations that helps us serve more content to our community.
Co-hosting w/ us at your venue:
Part of Black Wonderland is discovering hidden gems with our community. We’re open to discussing potential locations with you.
Social Media Advertising:
Share our posts, our events, and our stories. Social Media is the main driver of communication to our community.
I really want to hear from the community and hear what type of events they want to see. I’m so open to the possibility of doing anything – If there’s a need or want, let’s do it!
Contact Info:
- Email: www.blackwonderlandgroup@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/black.wonder.land
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackwonderlandgroup
- Other: https://linktr.ee/blackwonderland
