The Birth

I am so excited to re-introduce, Ninalem. A love project that came to me in 2017, and was birthed in 2018. I wanted to nurture my love for my people and celebrate with literature and art — in the rawest form. I had to take some time off. To explore the why and purpose. In hours of discouragement and during the disconnect, I loosened my grip. Holding on to this idea of perfection made my hand cramp. After emptying my mind and laying out all that I lugged around: my truth, ego, my why, and perceptions — fully exposed.

I realized that for far too long, I was carrying things that would not make it through security. Exceeding the weight limit to board. I found confirmation, in the power of storytelling. Finally giving myself the space to begin speaking my truth and being seen. I felt propelled to open the door to space for others to do the same. Finding liberation through vulnerability. Feeling naked. Suitcase emptied and analyzed. A space for black men and women to gather around; like a family during the holidays. Exploring one other thought. Challenging and celebrating connections, and criticizing the world. Emptying themselves of all the things they carry around, to begin dissecting the narrative and creating their own. Allowing one another to be heard, seen and valued — our stories, languages, art, bodies, culture, history and melanin. Ready to take flight.

Welcome home to Ninalem.