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Our Story
Built on Grit and Sisterhood
Joke Sistas™ began as a bold answer to the call for representation for Black women in comedy. Founded by Brooklyn comedian and producer Joanna M. Briley, this movement grew out of her annual Black Women in Comedy Laff Fest.
What started as a self-funded festival is now a touring powerhouse and a national network of 275+ comedians. Bringing swagger, truth, and riotous laughter to stages nationwide, Joke Sistas™ proves that every show is bigger than comedy—it is empowerment in motion. Here, sisterhood is a promise, not a punchline.
Founder, Producer
Joanna Briley
Joke Sistas™ is led by Joanna M. Briley, a powerhouse Brooklyn-based stand-up comedian, producer, and Festival Director whose vision has sparked a national movement in comedy. Joanna's journey began in NYC's vibrant comedy scene, where, over nearly a decade, she founded and grew the Black Women in Comedy Laff Fest - building a self-funded festival into a community of over 275 comedians recognized in national press. Her authentic dedication to empowering Black women comedians goes beyond the stage, creating real opportunities, visibility, and representation where it once did not exist. As the founder and driving force behind Joke Sistas™, Joanna channels her deep roots, bold voice, and unwavering sisterhood spirit into every show, ensuring that cultural authenticity, community impact, and laughter walk hand in hand. Her legacy thrives on building platforms where Black women's humor, joy, and brilliance can shine for audiences nationwide.
Vision and Purpose
Joke Sistas™ exists to elevate, inspire, and unite through unapologetically funny, culturally rooted comedy. Built on a network of over 275 Black women comedians, our signature format - five powerhouse performers, one stage - guarantees every moment centers authenticity and excellence. Beyond the spotlight, our brand ecosystem amplifies impact through advocacy, community partnerships like Compassion & Choices, workshops, and wellness programs. We empower audiences to feel seen, boost venues with vibrant crowds, and open doors for the next generation of talent. Every ticket, show, and booking fuels a movement for greater representation, laughter, and legacy.
