I am a changemaker because my mission in life is to use my gifts and abilities to make a difference in the lives of others.
It is in a park or by an ocean with just the sound of the wind and water as my soundtrack while I write down my thoughts and dreams in my journal. Whenever I write, I feel connected to the earth. When I dream, I can go anyplace I want.
I always tell people that if I had a magic wand, with one swoop, I would first eliminate drugs, poverty and HIV. For people of color living in poor, urban neighborhoods in America, the drug game has literally destroyed their communities. Addicted mothers are neglecting their children because of it. Fathers are jailed for using or selling it. As a result, unsupervised teens are killing each and destroying their lives. Also, this population is more likely to contract HIV through either needle sharing or unwise sexual choices. Guns and AIDS are wiping out a certain segment of the black population. I hope my magazine at least makes a dent in these issues.
In June, started emPower magazine. An online publication that not only discusses issues and disparities facing people of African descent, but also promotes social change by challenging readers to give back to their communities through volunteerism and activism. I am also a freelance writer for a local newspaper and national magazine. I have worked previously for daily and weekly newspapers. I am a former AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer, and I currently sit on a social services board for the city in which I live.
