Discovering Where Strength Meets Vulnerability

Stories have the power to transport us to new worlds, and from a young age, I was captivated by that magic.

Since I was a child, I’ve always loved great stories. My mom nurtured my passion for reading, often taking me to the library, where I would return home with a stack of books almost as tall as I was. I was captivated by the adventures in “The Magic Tree House” series and tales of princesses who left their families to start anew. These stories whisked me away to different worlds and sparked my imagination.

As I grew as a reader, I eventually developed into a writer. I began crafting my own stories—often melodramatic and reminiscent of soap operas. Writing became a source of joy for me, a way to express myself and explore my creativity.

When I joined the team at CTP, I felt both excited and nervous. I had always kept my stories close to my chest, and now I was faced with the challenge of sharing my personal story with others. What if people didn’t like what I had to say? What if they found it silly or thought I was stupid? These questions swirled in my mind, and I worried about how to be truly honest and vulnerable in my storytelling.

After some reflection, I realized that my work demands authenticity. As a Black queer woman, the topics I engage with in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are deeply personal. My intersecting identities shape my experiences, making it essential for me to share my story, even when it feels uncomfortable. 
So, with that said, this is just a small part of my story..

Writing My Way to ‘Why’

I grew up in a tiny yellow house with a large fenced backyard in Cleveland, Ohio. As a child, there wasn’t much to do but play outside with friends until the streetlights came on, or find entertainment by myself. Being the youngest of four siblings—born much later than my older brother—I often found myself alone. Though at times lonely, this solitude allowed my imagination to flourish. In addition to being a voracious reader, I spent countless hours in our fenced backyard with my little easel, teaching my stuffed animals and grading their imaginary papers. It was something I loved and always found joy in.

As I transitioned into my teenage years, I began writing and sharing my short stories anonymously online, discovering a vibrant community of people who appreciated my work. In this digital space, I found not just an audience, but a supportive network of fellow writers who shared my passion for storytelling. We exchanged feedback, celebrated each other’s victories, and provided encouragement during moments of self-doubt. Through their diverse perspectives, I was exposed to a wealth of experiences and ideas that broadened my understanding of the world.

This community became a safe haven where I could explore the many facets of my identity and creativity without fear of judgment. In fact, in every story I wrote and every piece I read, I found pieces of myself reflected back at me, helping me to understand my own emotions and experiences more deeply. It was a transformative time, as I realized that writing was not just a solitary pastime but a powerful means of connection and growth.

The Journey Continues

Now, as an adult, I find myself reading and writing less frequently, but when I do, I’m drawn to stories that reflect my own journey. I gravitate toward narratives that mirror my experiences and show me the version of myself I aspire to be. These stories often feature protagonists who, though a bit afraid, are ever curious—characters who spread their wings and forge their own paths. I admire protagonists who embrace their queerness, realizing there’s no single right way to navigate sexuality. 

“I resonate with those who wear their Blackness like a shield of strength, refusing to shrink themselves to fit into anyone else’s predetermined narrative.”

As I move forward in my work at Construct the Present, I hope to inspire others to embrace their own stories and identities, stories that bring communities together and foster empathy. My background in crafting narratives will allow me to approach challenges with creativity and resilience, ensuring that our DEI initiatives resonate on a personal level. I aim to transform our projects into compelling stories that engage our audience, inspire change, and highlight the richness of our diverse community. 

Storytelling has always been a powerful tool for connection, healing, and self-discovery, and I believe that by sharing our truths, we create space for others to do the same. Whether you’re a writer, a reader, or someone simply navigating life’s complexities, every story has the power to transform and redefine our own journeys—and potentially those of others.