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Rooted in Faith, Rising in Purpose: A Story of Resilience and Revelation
In a world where identity is often fragmented across titles and expectations, this multi-hyphenate powerhouse has discovered a way to weave every part of herself — poet, actress, nurse, educator, wife, mother, and advocate — into a single, radiant purpose. With an unwavering faith, a voice rooted in truth, and a heart committed to service, she embodies resilience in motion. Her journey has not been one of ease, but of intentional evolution — each chapter marked by a deepening sense of clarity, divine alignment, and unapologetic authenticity.
From the unforgettable moment she became a mother, to the countless souls she’s uplifted through poetry, performance, and healing, her story is a masterclass in perseverance. She writes from the silence, performs with revelation, teaches with conviction, and leads with love. Her artistry is not performance — it is ministry. Her advocacy is not reaction — it is calling. And her legacy? Already in motion.
In this Sol-Magazine exclusive, she opens her heart and her story, revealing the pivotal moments, divine assignments, and sacred pauses that shaped her into the woman she is today. This is more than an interview — it’s a spiritual unveiling of what it means to L.I.V.E.
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Your journey has been one of resilience and transformation. What pivotal moment in your life solidified your purpose as a poet, actress, nurse, and educator? |
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The pivotal moment in my life that solidified my purpose was the birth of my child. It wasn’t just her first cry, that sharp, delicate sound that pierced the stillness of my heart — it was the shift in my very essence. With her first breath, in that instant, I felt a superpower awaken within me, as if I had stepped into a new realm where the world itself became more vivid, more alive. The air smelled different. We were no longer in a birthing room, surrounded by nurses, with a crash cart at the door, the weight of the world around me felt more tangible, and my senses, once muted, now roared to life. I could hear everything — the hum of nurses’ voices, the rhythm of my family’s hearts, even the unspoken thoughts that danced between people. My awareness expanded, like the sudden opening of a door that had been locked for years.
Then with a desire for that clarity, I looked at Koffi, and our connection deepened. It was as though our spirits fused into one shared purpose, a promise to each other and to our daughter that we would rise together: no matter the obstacle. In the exhaustion and elation of that night, I saw my life in a new light — every dream, every aspiration I had carried for years became more than just a fleeting hope. They were now magnified, etched into the very fiber of my being. I was now a mother!
I had walked a long road already — pregnant during my junior year at Texas Southern University, balancing the intensity of the debate team, academics, performing poetry and holding tight to the opportunities that continued to unfold before me. Yet, it wasn’t until I birthed from my womb, and held Nyra in my arms, that I truly understood the weight of purpose. A NICU baby, mommy’s love and her daddy’s proud Ivorian heritage, she was born to be a fighter, so I asked God to order my steps, and with every trial, every triumph, I could feel the shape of my future taking form.
In that moment, the world no longer seemed like a series of obstacles to overcome, but a canvas to paint, a new poem to write, a stage to perform, a bedside to provide care, and a classroom to teach. The days ahead were filled with joy, determination, and an honest nervousness — but above all, they were filled with a deep, undeniable purpose.
Your poetry is known for its haunting, introspective, and thought-provoking nature. What inspires your writing, and how do you channel personal experiences into your performances?
Whew, haunting, introspective, AND thought-provoking, you’re too kind. Let’s talk inspiration, that elusive muse that dances like a shadow at the edge of my mind! My writing is born from the depths of silence, where words are not merely spoken but felt — a compelling desire to speak that rises like the tide. It is in my quiet, observing, internalizing, moments when the rest of my world sleeps and my heart is left to echo its own secrets. This is when I let the ink flow.
Personal experiences are not mere blips of the past but rather the ghosts that haunt my present. I channel them from the depths of my soul, weaving their sorrow, their joy, their pain into verses that speak not just to the self, but to the collective heart. These experiences are not just for me. When I write, each word becomes a vessel, carrying the weight of these lived moments. It’s a delicate balance — staying true to the ebb and flow of the tides and the cycles of the seasons. Life is a journey.
My performances are not merely acts of recitation, but acts of revelation and oftentimes, confirmation. I stand before the audience as if in the center of a rising platform, exposing not just the words, but the raw pulse beneath them – the rhythm that connects all of us. I allow the vulnerability of my own story to unravel, trusting that in its unraveling, others might find their own threads to follow. It is an invitation, a shared exhale, a reminder that we are all, in the end, only human.
| | Many artists fear being labeled as cliché, but you’ve managed to carve out a distinct voice. How do you ensure that your work remains unique, personal, and impactful? | | |
I often reflect on Nikki Giovanni's words: “If you don’t understand yourself, you don’t understand anyone else.” It is a truth I’ve carried close to my heart, for in that understanding of self, I have found the roots of my art. My voice, my poetry — they are not merely tools of expression, but of discovery. I’ve learned to strip away the layers of pretense and in that rawness, my words are born. The certainty I lacked as a child, when I would stammer in the face of a question, is now replaced by a steadfastness in my purpose. I remember my father’s call to find my words when I could not speak them; he insisted, "If you don't have the words, you better go find them." That challenge still resonates with me.
To answer your question, I ensure my work remains unique by living it, breathing it, and letting it grow with me. I am true to myself in every moment. Would I be able to speak these words in front of my parents, my elders, or my pastor? If I can stand with this truth before them, then I know I am grounded in something real, something unshakable. This isn’t just performance; my poetry is a ministry, a daily walk with God, a commitment to sharing not just my thoughts, but my soul.
I don’t write to please or to echo what’s already been said, but to offer something that feeds the spirit, something that nourishes in ways beyond the obvious. My words are not born of a desire to be fashionable or trendy; they are the outpouring of a life lived — filled with love, with struggle, with joy, and with a deep connection to my faith. My poetry is a reflection of my journey, a vessel carrying the truth of my experiences, always striving to heal, to uplift, to speak life into places of darkness.
So, I ask myself with every line, with every verse: "How does this resonate with the deepest part of me? Will it speak to others in a way that is true and raw, without pretense or judgment?" This is what makes my work personal, unique, and impactful. It is a ministry of truth — unapologetic and unyielding. It doesn’t seek to conform, but to connect. It doesn’t simply entertain; it transforms. And in that transformation, I hope to offer something that sustains, something that nourishes the soul.
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Balancing multiple careers—poetry, acting, nursing, education, and authorship—requires an incredible level of dedication. How do you manage to excel in these different fields while still making time for creativity?
I’ve often heard it said, “You make time for what you WANT to make time for,” but for me, that truth is only a half-reality. Yes, there is dedication, but that dedication is woven with the threads of prayer, fortitude, perseverance, and yes, rest — a delicate balance between ambition and surrender. Life, in all its layers, doesn’t stop. It demands, it calls, it rushes in with urgency, and so time becomes both a gift and a challenge.
When I long for the moments to write, to create, to breathe in the world of poetry, I often find myself navigating a sea of responsibilities. Being a Wife, Mommy scheduling, eldest daughter/big sister duties, a nursing shift, a lesson to teach, choir rehearsal, community service, parent meetings, culture, a role to embody, And yet, amid the busyness, I’ve learned to embrace what I call “precious moments.” These are the intervals — the slow traffic, the pauses in the drive-thru, the time between picking my daughter up from an event and returning to the grind. These are not wasted seconds; they are the quiet spaces where I gather fragments of thought, moments that spark a poem or an insight.
I’ve learned to turn these fleeting instances into fuel for creativity. When my phone doesn’t ring, it’s not just a silence — it’s an invitation to write, to let the words flow. It’s in the stillness of a waiting room or the hum of a busy street that I find the rhythm of my art. Poetry is everywhere, not just in the perfectly curated hours, but in the messy, unpredictable cracks of life.
Balancing multiple careers is not about finding a perfect formula; it’s about making room for the truth that life will always demand. But in those precious moments, when time slows just enough to let my thoughts catch up, I reach for inspiration, much like I would reach for the fruit at the top of a tree — knowing it’s not always easy to grab, but when it’s ripe, it’s perfect and timely. And so, I wake up each day with my husband’s forehead kiss, a prayer for guidance, and my daughter’s hug, knowing that no matter how fleeting the time, there is always space for creativity to bloom.
Your advocacy work, particularly against violence, is deeply meaningful. What experiences have shaped your commitment to this cause, and how do you integrate this message into your art and writing?
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with children — young minds caught in the whirlwind of adolescence, trying to navigate the complexities of a world that often overwhelms them. I’ve seen them grow up too quickly, caught between the tension of home life, school pressures, and the conflicting messages they receive from every angle. As a nurse, I understand that their emotional intelligence is still a work in progress, their impulsiveness a reflection of the growing pains of youth. They’re in a tug-of-war, wrestling with what they are told at home, what they see on TV, and what they learn at school. And in this struggle, too many lose their way — succumbing to peer pressure, facing violence, grappling with addiction, taking their own lives and at times, feeling like they have no voice at all.
The violence they face isn’t just physical; it’s emotional, it’s mental, it’s systemic. It’s the pressure to fit into molds they never asked for, to survive a system that doesn’t always see them. I’ve sat with these children, listened to their fears, their confusion, their anger, and their hope. And in that space, I knew I had to speak — with the weight of compassion, with the firmness of someone who refuses to look away. As a charter member of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Houston Metropolitan Chapter, we advocate for women and girls, and with what I’ve experienced, this became the layers of the heartbeat of my advocacy work.
I integrate this message into my art and writing because my poetry is not just an expression, it’s a call to action, a rallying cry for understanding. Whether I’m in a parent conference, delivering the hard truths with love, or in a restorative circle, trying to guide young minds toward resolution, my poetry and my work as an advocate are inseparable. It’s the same voice, the same mission — to bridge the gaps, to offer understanding, and to create space for healing. My words are a plea, not just for change, but for empathy, for recognizing that every action, every struggle, is rooted in a deeper need to be seen, to be heard, to be understood.
Through my poetry, I don’t just speak for myself; I speak for the children who may not yet have found their voice, for the parents who are too often ignored, and for the educators who are in the trenches, trying to make a difference. My advocacy is not just a mission — it is a part of the very fabric of my creative expression, a message woven into every line, every verse, every performance. I speak with the intention to transform, to lead with understanding, and to remind us all that the only way forward is together — with compassion, with grace, and with an unshakable commitment to our youth.
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As a woman of faith, how has your spiritual journey influenced your approach to writing, teaching, and performing?
Let me tell you! My faith, my love for the Lord, is the very foundation of who I am. I can’t be shaken because I’ve seen too much, felt too much, and lived through too much to ever doubt His goodness. My spiritual journey is not just a part of my life; it is the pulse that beats through every word I write, every lesson I teach, and every performance I deliver. My poem "Life is a Journey" is a testament to this. It was birthed in innocence, rooted in promise, and every obstacle I’ve faced in life has been confirmed in the verses of that piece. It’s in those lines that I find the strength to keep going, even when the road gets tough.
Obedience, as I’ve learned, is better than sacrifice. There have been countless times when I’ve felt the pull to take one path, but the Holy Spirit said, “Pause, stop. Not this way.” And I yielded, knowing that each moment of obedience has kept me covered, kept me protected in ways that words cannot express. I’ve been saved, shielded, and led in ways I can’t even afford to repay. God is faithful — He confirms His word in my heart daily, especially when I mentor others. I see the syllables of every stanza resonate within me as God confirms His purpose in my life.
Growing up in a devoted family, I must say, my village is tough. They hold the line, will pray you under a pew, then help you praise on your way back up! Growing up in church, surrounded by a community of faith at the Island of Hope Church of God in Christ, I was raised with the understanding that my work is ministry. Under the leadership of Bishop Prince E.W. Bryant, Sr., who serves on the General Board, I learned that every action, every word, every thought should align with God’s will. Imperfect as I am, I seek God daily, striving for greatness not for myself, but for His glory. I’ve reflected on many decisions, conversations, and opportunities, always mindful of timing and alignment with His plan. I don’t want what’s for someone else — I only want what is meant for me. Anything else would be out of order.
When I write, when I teach, when I perform, I am in ministry. Every word that flows from me is a prayer, a plea for God to speak through me, irrespective of the content. The message, the message is always His. In every moment, I strive to let my light shine, to be a vessel that reflects His glory. It’s not about me; it’s about Him. My faith influences my approach to everything because it reminds me that I am not alone in this journey. And as I walk, I carry the message of His love, His strength, and His grace with me, always.
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As an educator, how do you envision your role in shaping the future of education, and what lasting impact do you hope to have on the educational system?
As an educator, I see myself not just as a teacher, but as a transformational leader — a guide, a mentor, a change agent. My vision for the future of education is one that is rooted in understanding the diverse needs of our students, meeting them where they are, and helping them rise to where they’re destined to be. I’m on the path to becoming a principal, a professor, and one day, to opening my own school, where I can shape a learning environment that takes into account the cultural needs, social development, and academic demands of every student.
I’ve been blessed to cross paths with some of the best educators, both as a student and as a teacher, and these experiences have shaped the leader I strive to be. My role is not just to lead, but to inspire, to cultivate, and to uplift the aspirations of those who work alongside me. I believe that education, when placed in the right hands, is the foundation of success — and it’s through that foundation that we build brighter futures.
I’ve heard the saying, "Those who can, do, and those who can’t, teach." Side eye! This notion couldn’t be further from the truth. Teaching is an art, a science, and a calling. It requires resilience, vision, and a passion to impact lives in ways that extend beyond the classroom. My impact on the educational system will be one that supports teachers — because when we nurture our educators, we nurture our students. I aim to amplify student voices, because they are the heart of education. I will collaborate with parents and community leaders to ensure that the education we provide is not just academic, but holistic — addressing every aspect of the child’s growth.
I want to create a system that promotes structure while also allowing room for flexibility and creativity. A system that demands accountability and responsibility from everyone involved, but does so with respect, integrity, and transparency. I want to lead by example, showing that leadership is not about authority, but about service — serving the needs of our students, educators, and community.
My lasting impact will be one that transcends policies and programs. It will be seen in the hearts and minds of those I’ve mentored, the classrooms I’ve transformed, and the lives I’ve touched. I envision an educational system where every child is seen, heard, and valued, and where every educator is empowered to be the change they wish to see in the world. This is the legacy I aim to leave — one of empowerment, equity, and excellence.
You are a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. How has being part of this sisterhood influenced your personal and professional journey?
Being a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated has been a transformative force in both my personal and professional journey. Since joining the Flight 41 Line as #9 Poetic Justice in Spring 2017, I have been immersed in a journey of growth, commitment, and service that I hold close to my heart. Delta has provided me with a profound sense of sisterhood, one built on the pillars of service, scholarship, and social action. Through the deep bonds we share in prayer, support, and learning from each other’s life goals, I’ve come to value relationships more than ever before.
There’s a strength that comes from being part of this sisterhood — an unwavering support system that reminds me of my worth, even when I’ve been told otherwise. I remember being told I wasn’t a good friend in my past, and those words lingered in my mind for a long time. But now, I use them as a reminder of how far I’ve come — how much I’ve grown as a woman, and how much I am capable of giving and receiving in true friendship. Delta has shown me how to pour into others in meaningful ways, how to serve with heart, and how to build real connections that transcend time and space.
In my chapter, NHCAC, I’ve had the honor of serving on various committees and am currently part of a leadership cohort where we are actively learning and building our capacity to lead with integrity, purpose, and love. Under the guidance of our president, we are being empowered to go the right way, to elevate each other, and to meet the needs of our communities with genuine service. Sisterhood isn’t just a word in Delta — it’s a living, breathing movement. Scholarship isn’t just a program — it’s a lifestyle that shapes the way we approach everything. This is heart work, and it has profoundly influenced the way I approach my personal life and professional endeavors.
Through Delta, I’ve learned to lead with humility, to serve with passion, and to never underestimate the power of women standing together with a shared purpose. My journey as a Soror has shaped me into a stronger, more compassionate leader and has reaffirmed the importance of living a life of service, empowerment, and action. It has influenced every aspect of my journey, from the way I connect with others, to how I approach my work, and the impact I strive to make in the world.
You’ve also authored a book. Can you tell us about your writing journey, what inspired your book, and what message you hope readers take away from it?
My writing journey has been a lifelong evolution, deeply rooted in the foundation my parents set for me. From the time I was a Brownie Scout, I’ve been writing to find my voice — a voice that was shaped and nurtured by my parents, who used writing as a tool for self-expression and understanding. It was through their guidance that I discovered the power of words, and that early encouragement set the course for the writer I am today.
The inspiration for my book, 30 Reasons to L.I.V.E. (Love, Inspire, Vivify, Evolve), came from the very essence of living — from the highs, the lows, the moments of clarity, and the moments of confusion. I was surrounded by authors who shared their stories with such bravery and authenticity, and their resolve in staying true to their experiences motivated me to step into my own. I wanted to share my journey with the world, to speak my truth, and to show others that they too could find their own way through life’s twists and turns.
As a writer, a poet, and a person whose rhyme has reason, I believe there is something for everyone within the pages of 30 Reasons to L.I.V.E.. The message I hope readers take away is simple but profound: Life is a journey worth living. We all walk our paths alone, but we are never truly alone. God is with us every step of the way, whether we’re walking on soft sand or trudging through rough terrain. We may encounter intersections and crossroads, but each experience, whether it’s filled with joy or tears, is part of the process that shapes us.
In the book, I encourage readers to embrace the simple moments, to thrive in the breathtaking days, to learn from the tear-filled nights, and to grow through the confusion. The essence of L.I.V.E. — Love, Inspire, Vivify, and Evolve — is to enliven ourselves, to give life a renewed sense of purpose, and to grow with every experience. I want readers to understand that they are capable of overcoming whatever challenges come their way, and that each day is an opportunity to evolve into the person they are meant to be. It’s about taking one day at a time and trusting that the journey, no matter how difficult, is worth it.
When people ask me about the meaning of L.I.V.E., I explain it as a reminder to not just exist, but to truly live. To love, to inspire, to vivify (to give life and energy), and to evolve into something greater than we were yesterday. And when they say, “Okay, okay, I get it,” and dive into the pages, I pray they find solace, inspiration, and a renewed sense of purpose to continue their own journey — one step at a time.
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No barrier too great, no obstacle too profound—your story embodies perseverance. What advice do you have for those struggling to overcome their own challenges?
To those struggling to overcome their challenges, I say: Don’t quit. My poem Affirm is a constant reminder that you must speak life into your situation. You must believe in yourself, even when everything around you seems to say "no." Your ability to overcome is rooted in your decision to keep going, no matter what. I was taught by one of the mothers at my church that everyone has a light inside of them — but you decide whether or not to let it shine. That God-given light is within you, and only you have the power, the will to ignite it.
I don’t dwell on problems; I’ve always been a problem solver. That’s probably why I gravitate toward subjects like math and science — I see challenges as opportunities to find solutions. Whether it’s through prayer, thinking things through, or pushing yourself forward, you will find a way. Seek and you’ll find, that’s the Word. And if you know, you know!! Even in the moments when you’re weary, when you feel drained, your faith doesn’t have to waver. It’s in those moments of weariness where faith is tested, but it’s also where you discover how resilient you truly are.
There are scriptures I’ve been taught to stand on, and although life is far from easy, I know that sometimes, just taking that first step of faith is the hardest yet most important thing you can do. I carry with me the words of DJ TNT: "Everyone has a dream, and it’s okay to live it. We just have to know that we are better than the worst decision we’ve ever made." Her words remind me that no matter what mistakes or setbacks you’ve encountered, you are not, we are not defined by them. We are defined by our determination to rise above them.
Remember, not everyone has a support system or people who believe in them. Some have to fight through jealousy, sabotage, and doubt from others. But even then, you must find the strength to forgive yourself first! Put one foot in front of the other, press "go," and trust the process. The road won’t always be easy, but the perseverance you show today will pave the way for the success of tomorrow. So, keep pushing. Your breakthrough is closer than you think.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
Yes, thank you so much for this spotlight. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to share my poetry and love with the world. It’s an honor to have a platform that allows artists to shine and expose their gifts in a way that touches lives. This journey is one of passion, purpose, and growth, and I’m excited to continue walking it.
Right now, I’m working on several new projects, with book 2, “Earning 21” set to release later this year. This is truly a "press forward" season, and I can feel the momentum building. To everyone striving to become better versions of themselves — keep pushing, keep growing. You are powerful beyond measure, and your potential is limitless.
As I continue to share my work, I want to speak hope over everyone reading this. May you be fortified in your relationships, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually healthy, and may your finances, stability, and prosperity flourish. Above all, I pray you find a renewed sense of self, embracing every part of your journey. L.I.V.E. — Love, Inspire, Vivify, Evolve — and know that every step you take brings you closer to your greatest version. The world is waiting for you to shine.
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