To me, being an up-stander means refusing to stay silent when something is wrong. It means choosing to step in, even when it is uncomfortable, and using your voice to create space for others. I try to live by that definition every day. From a young age, I understood the importance of speaking up, whether it was through my art or in real life situations. Art was the first place where I learned to stand up for others. When I was drawing or writing stories under the dining room table, my ideas often centered on people who were struggling or misunderstood. As I got older, that impulse developed into making art about real issues, like police brutality, school shootings, and the struggles faced by marginalized communities. Creating art about these subjects was my way of saying that these stories matter and deserve attention. I also learned to be an up-stander in my personal life. My family has always supported me, but we have also faced hardship, including moving frequently and rebuilding after a house fire. Those experiences gave me empathy for others who feel out of place or overlooked. I know what it feels like to need someone to stand with you, and that is why I try to be that person for others. In high school and college, I have been intentional about encouraging my peers, especially those who feel uncertain about their creative work. Even a small word of encouragement can make a difference in whether someone chooses to keep going. Film has become the strongest tool for my voice. Documentary especially has allowed me to highlight the experiences of others and bring attention to stories that are often ignored. Through film, I can give people the chance to see themselves represented honestly and powerfully. I see this as a direct form of being an up-stander. Instead of speaking for others, I use my skills to amplify their voices and create platforms where they can be heard. In the future, I plan to continue building my community by creating spaces for young people to engage with the arts. I want to teach students from under-resourced backgrounds how to tell their own stories through film, photography, or other visual mediums. These workshops will not just be about technical skills, but also about giving them the confidence to share who they are and what they believe in. If young people see that their stories matter, they are more likely to speak up for themselves and others. That ripple effect can strengthen entire communities. I also see myself contributing through mentorship. I would not be where I am today without the professors and family members who supported me, especially when I doubted myself. Passing that support forward is part of what it means to be an up-stander. It is not only about stepping in when there is a problem but also about actively lifting people up and helping them see their own potential. In my community, I want to be known as someone who uses film and art not just for personal expression but for collective growth. My voice is strongest when I am creating and when I am encouraging others to create. By continuing to focus on social issues in my films and providing opportunities for others to tell their stories, I hope to build a community that values empathy, courage, and creativity. To me, that is what it means to be an up-stander.

Growing up, art was always my way of making sense of the world around me. When I was younger, I would draw, write, and even create books under the dining room table, where my mom would check in and ask what I was working on. Later, I posted drawing videos on YouTube, showing my process and sharing what I was learning. Over time, I explored painting, music, animation, and eventually film. Each form of art gave me a different outlet, and together they built the foundation for my career as a filmmaker. Because art gave me so much direction, I want to give that same sense of possibility back to young people, especially those in under-resourced communities who may not see the arts as something available to them. I know what it feels like to face instability and uncertainty. After a house fire in Baltimore, my family relocated to Virginia, and I moved schools many times until my mom remarried and we found a home in New Kent. During those years of change, art was the one constant I could rely on. It gave me comfort and a sense of identity. I know that many kids in under-resourced communities feel a similar lack of stability, and I believe art can provide them with an outlet that is both healing and empowering. My plan is to use visual arts, especially film and documentary, as a way to open doors for youth to express themselves and tell their stories. Film is a unique medium because it connects so many art forms—drawing, music, writing, and performance—into one practice. That makes it accessible to young people who may have different creative strengths but want to explore them together. I want to create workshops that teach the basics of storytelling, cinematography, and editing while also giving students the chance to explore drawing, photography, and music as part of the process. By keeping the programs hands-on and collaborative, students can see that their creativity has real value and that their stories matter. Another way I want to give back is by mentoring young artists the same way my professors and family supported me. In college, my Time Studio professor encouraged me to keep making films and gave me the confidence to take film seriously. That mentorship changed the direction of my life, and I want to provide that same encouragement to others. Sometimes, all a young person needs is someone to tell them that their voice is important. By offering guidance and creating spaces where youth can experiment with visual arts, I hope to inspire them to keep pushing forward, no matter their circumstances. Ultimately, my goal is to create opportunities for under-resourced youth to see visual arts not only as an outlet but also as a pathway. Whether they continue into creative careers or simply use art as a tool for self-expression, they will gain the confidence that comes from seeing their ideas realized. I want them to walk away knowing that they have the power to shape their own narratives. Giving back in this way feels natural to me because I know firsthand how transformative art can be when someone believes in you and gives you the space to create.

1. How would receiving this scholarship help you achieve your educational goals? Receiving this scholarship would give me the chance to focus completely on my education and my growth as a filmmaker. Coming from a low-income background, I often have to worry about how I am going to cover the cost of classes, supplies, and basic living expenses. On top of tuition, filmmaking requires equipment, software, and production materials, which adds another layer of financial stress. Too often, I find myself splitting my energy between working to make ends meet and trying to put everything I have into my education. This scholarship would ease that burden and allow me to dedicate more time to my courses, creative practice, and hands-on projects. With this support, I would be able to fully invest in my documentary studies and expand my skills in editing, cinematography, and sound. I could afford to purchase or rent equipment, which would make it possible to experiment more freely and create work that better reflects my ideas. Most importantly, it would allow me to focus on my studies without constantly worrying about financial strain. Having that freedom would give me the chance to push my creative voice forward and prepare for a professional career in film. 2. What adversities have you faced in your life? My life has been marked by challenges that taught me how to adapt and remain resilient. I was born in Baltimore, but after a house fire my family moved to Virginia. That moment of loss, followed by moving many times until my mom remarried and we settled in New Kent, left me searching for stability. Art became my way of building that stability. I would draw, read, and write every day, often making up books under the dining room table that I illustrated myself. My mom would always ask what I was working on and encourage me to keep going, and that early support gave me the confidence to stay creative. Even with that encouragement, there were moments when I felt uncertain about my path. Being low-income meant I always had to think about the cost of pursuing higher education and whether it was even possible for me. I worked through those doubts by creating in every form I could. Playing music in band class, posting drawing videos on YouTube, and eventually experimenting with animation. When I entered college, I carried that determination with me. It was during my freshman year in a Time Studio class that I made my first film project, and my professor mentored me and told me I should keep making films. That moment confirmed what I had been building toward my entire life: film was the way to bring all my passions together. 3. Where do you envision yourself in five years? In five years, I see myself working as a filmmaker who specializes in documentary storytelling. Documentary feels natural to me because even before film, my art practice focused on social issues like police brutality, school shootings, and the experiences of minorities. Film gives me the chance to expand those ideas and bring real stories to life in a way that connects with people on a deeper level. I want to use documentary to shed light on overlooked voices and create work that inspires empathy and conversation. I also hope to give back to my community by creating opportunities for younger artists and filmmakers who are just starting out. I know how important support is, both from my family and from the mentors who believed in me, and I want to do the same for others. Personally, I want to keep pushing myself to combine all the forms of art I grew up with drawing, painting, music, and storytelling into films that feel layered and meaningful. My goal is to establish myself as a filmmaker who not only creates powerful documentaries but also builds pathways for others to tell their own stories.

I was born in Baltimore, Maryland, but early on my life changed when a house fire forced my family to move to Virginia. After that we moved often until my mom remarried and I settled in at New Kent High School. Growing up with that kind of instability made me adaptable, but what really grounded me was creativity. I was always drawing, reading, or writing. I would sit under the dining room table writing and illustrating my own books, and my mom would always peek in and ask what I was working on. Sharing those little stories with her gave me confidence to keep creating. Music was another outlet for me. I joined the band because I wanted to be like Squidward from SpongeBob, and even though that started as a joke, it opened another side of my imagination. My dad was the person who introduced me to movies. We had our own routine where we would sit together, eat ramen noodles, and watch horror films I was probably too young to see. While we waited for my siblings to come home, I was already learning how powerful movies could be. Later, I carried that same energy into YouTube, where I made art videos showing my drawing process and talking through what I was doing. That was my first experience sharing my creativity with a wider audience, and I loved that connection. When I got to college, I knew I wanted to keep creating, but it was during my freshman year that I realized I wanted to take film seriously. In my Time Studio class I made a project that caught the attention of my professor, who became a mentor. Their encouragement pushed me to see filmmaking not just as a hobby, but as a path I could fully commit to. Documentary spoke to me in a way no other medium did. Even before film, I was making art that engaged with the world around me. I focused on issues like minorities, police brutality, and school shootings. Transitioning to documentary was a natural step. It gave me a way to combine my visual background with storytelling that could hold real lives and real truths at its center. Through all of this, my family has been my support system. They motivated me when I felt uncertain and reminded me to keep working hard. That steady encouragement gave me the confidence to take risks and keep pushing my creative practice forward. This scholarship would mean a lot to me. It would ease the financial strain of balancing school and filmmaking, and it would allow me to spend more time focusing on my projects. More than that, it would be a sign that my voice and perspective matter. I want to continue growing as a filmmaker who uses documentary to highlight human experiences and create work that connects people to each other.

I first became interested in film because of the many creative influences that surrounded me growing up. My dad was the person who first introduced me to movies, and watching them together became a way for us to connect. He showed me the value of paying attention to details, of noticing how stories are built, and of appreciating the feeling a film can leave behind. Alongside that, I was also exploring my own creativity online, making short videos for YouTube and experimenting with what it meant to share something I had made with other people. That combination of watching films closely with my dad and creating my own small projects gave me an early understanding of how moving images can both tell stories and bring people together. Before I ever thought of myself as a filmmaker, I came from a background in the visual arts. Drawing, painting, and animation were all major parts of how I expressed myself. I spent years learning how to translate emotions into images, how to create rhythm through color, and how to guide someone’s eye across a page. Music was another piece of that puzzle. Playing and listening taught me timing, tone, and the emotional weight that sound can carry. All of these influences started to overlap, and eventually it made sense to me that film was the place where I could connect them all. It was a medium that combined visual language, rhythm, performance, sound, and personal expression into one form. When I eventually committed to pursuing film more seriously, documentary was what resonated most with me. I have always been curious about people, about the experiences that shape them, and about how individual stories reflect larger truths. Documentary gives me the chance to explore those questions in ways that feel both artistic and personal. I am drawn to the honesty of it, but also to the creative challenge of presenting real lives with care and intention. For me, documentary is not just about capturing reality, but about finding meaning in the ways people talk about their lives, the objects they hold onto, and the memories they return to. My family has always been a major part of my journey. They have encouraged me at every step and reminded me that working hard at what I love is worth it. There were times when balancing school, creative projects, and personal challenges felt overwhelming, but having a strong support system made it possible to keep going. Their belief in me helped me to believe in myself, and it motivates me to approach each new project with commitment and focus. Looking back, I see a clear line that connects my early experiments in art and music, the films I watched with my dad, and the videos I made online to the work I am pursuing now. Each step taught me something different, but together they led me to film as the place where everything I care about comes together. As I continue to grow as a filmmaker, I want to build on that foundation, using documentary as a way to both explore the world and reflect the experiences that make us who we are.

I’ve always believed that storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we have to build empathy—and I’ve seen firsthand how film can open hearts, shift perspectives, and spark conversations that lead to real change. As a Black, queer, non-binary filmmaker, I use my unique experiences and lens to highlight the lives, struggles, and resilience of people whose stories too often go untold. My goal is to build a more empathetic and understanding global community by making films that reflect real life in all its complexity and beauty. Growing up in Baltimore, Maryland, I was surrounded by people doing whatever they could to survive—hustling, creating, striving for better. That environment gave me a strong sense of community and a deep desire to amplify the voices of people who are usually left out of mainstream narratives. As I got older and came into my identity, I began to understand just how many layers of my story were connected to systems of injustice, and how much healing could come from being seen and heard. I work primarily in documentary, horror, and screenwriting. That combination might seem unusual, but to me, they all serve the same purpose: helping people feel less alone. In my documentary work, I’ve explored topics like Black hair and loc culture, my own queer relationships, and the dynamics within my family. These stories aren’t just personal—they’re political, emotional, and deeply human. In my horror and thriller writing, I channel real-world fear into metaphor, crafting narratives that speak to what it means to survive, resist, and reclaim power. Throughout my film journey, I’ve had the chance to grow and connect with others through community-based opportunities. I’ve interned with Oakwood Arts, NewViews Agency, and the Richmond International Film Festival—organizations committed to uplifting diverse voices. My work has been screened at Grace Street Theater and exhibited in the Anderson Gallery. Recently, I was awarded the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Undergraduate Fellowship for 2025–2026, which has given me even more space to create work that reflects my values. But my filmmaking isn’t just about representation—it’s about connection. I want viewers from different backgrounds to see my films and feel something, whether it’s understanding, solidarity, or simply the realization that someone else has felt what they’re feeling. I want people who’ve never stepped foot in my world to walk away with a new sense of empathy for those who live it every day. Long-term, I aim to create a body of work that bridges cultures and identities—films that spark dialogue in classrooms, communities, and across borders. I hope to mentor young creatives, especially those from underrepresented groups, and help them tell their own stories with power and pride. This work isn’t just about making movies—it’s about building a future where empathy is the default and not the exception. By using my skills in storytelling, visual art, and lived experience, I plan to keep pushing boundaries and building connections. The world needs more honest stories—and I’m ready to keep telling them.

I’m pursuing directing and screenwriting to uplift marginalized communities and be a voice for the voiceless. I’ve always been drawn to documentaries, art activism, and speaking up for what I believe in—but once I gained the tools to direct and create films, it shifted how I see the world and the people in it. I was born in Baltimore, Maryland, where people who look like me often have to fight just to survive. I’ve seen folks hustle for money on the streets, and now that I’m in college, I see students working just as hard to afford an education. These experiences fuel my work. I want to document these stories in ways that offer support, encouragement, and visibility—not just for them, but for anyone who’s ever felt overlooked. As a Black, queer, non-binary filmmaker, I’m deeply passionate about creating space for voices like mine, as well as those of other underrepresented communities. My documentary work has explored topics like Black hair (locs), queer relationships, and my family dynamics. I’ve interned at Oakwood Arts, NewViews Agency, and the Richmond International Film Festival. I was recently awarded the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Undergraduate Fellowship for 2025–2026, and my work has been screened at Grace Street Theater and exhibited at the Anderson Gallery. Whether I’m making documentaries, writing screenplays, or crafting horror films that reflect real-world fear, my goal remains the same: to help my community thrive and persevere. This scholarship will allow me to keep growing as an artist—and keep telling the stories that matter most.

My passion for filmmaking began very young when I witnessed the creation of the conjuring universe. James Wan was the first director I knew by name and my deep love for the horror genre blossomed from there. I have always been fascinated by how horror films can evoke strong emotions, build suspense, and explore complex psychological themes. Through these films it is less about jumpscares and scaring monsters but about the deep dive into the psychology of the character. Even though I had this passion for film I was originally going to pursue a degree in painting and printmaking. However, during my foundation year at Virginia Commonwealth University, a professor encouraged me to experiment with filmmaking. This pivotal moment changed my trajectory, igniting a passion for visual storytelling and solidifying my decision to obtain a degree in film. Since then, I have actively sought opportunities to grow as a filmmaker. One that really changed my perspective of filmmaking was The Richmond 48 Hour Horror Film Project. Even though my original role on the team was camera operator I was pushed head first into writing and directing my first short film in just 48 hours. The challenge of developing a film under intense time constraints pushed me to think quickly, collaborate effectively, and embrace unconventional storytelling techniques. My team of mostly 40+ year old people I have never talked to before listened and worked as a team with me and helped me through this process. This experience reinforced my love for horror and proved to me that I thrive in high-pressure creative environments. Beyond this project, I have expanded my experience through internships and hands-on work in Richmond’s film community. The NewViews Agency internship connected me with other passionate filmmakers as well as developing production ideas, and editing video content. At the internship with the Richmond International Film Festival, I gained industry insights by prescreening film submissions and while working at the festival I gained networking experience while communicating with other indie filmmakers. Additionally, working as a production assistant on the feature film Bird in Hand provided me with firsthand experience on a professional film set. Each of these roles has strengthened my technical skills and broadened my understanding of media production. My long-term goal is to become a writer and director, creating films with authentic characters and compelling narratives. To achieve this, I am dedicated to mastering every aspect of media production, from script development to cinematography and post-production. I always thought in order to direct effectively you need to know every department, that’s my plan. One of the biggest challenges I have faced is financial access to professional-grade equipment. While my creativity and determination have driven me to continue producing films with limited resources, sometimes achieving high production quality is difficult. The VMFA 2025-2026 Fellowship allowed me to purchase a new camera which is going to greatly improve the visual quality of my work. However, additional equipment, crew payments, and production expenses remain significant barriers. This scholarship would provide the financial support necessary to overcome these challenges, allowing me to focus on refining my craft and elevating the quality of my productions. With better access to equipment and resources, I can create films that truly reflect my artistic vision and continue pushing my creative boundaries. It would also enable me to compensate my crew and actors, ensuring a more professional and collaborative production process. With your help I will be able to tell the amazing stories I have on the page and bring them to your TV Screen.

In kindergarten, I put on a piece of paper "I want to be an artist when I grow up." It was hidden in a shoe box full of memories in a time capsule labeled "Do not open until your high school graduation." It was full of little drawings of my friends, family, and even self-portraits. I was allowed to freely express everything I wanted with no judgment from others or even myself. Being a young artist releases you from other people's perception and you do everything you want without regard for other people and what they would like. Looking back at this I felt very proud of the person I had become. Living and manifesting the dream I had for 12 years. Going to college for the very thing I was craving at such a young age. Growing up I had a lot of support from my family. They looked at all my drawing good or mostly bad and cheered me on. If it wasn't for them this dream and passion would have been left on that very piece of paper. I would show them all my "masterpieces" as if they had just gone to the MET. As I have grown more into my art style and continued to dream big their supportive cheers turned into actual love for my work. Except for just my parents supporting me, it turned into my friends and teachers. My middle school art teacher introduced me to an artist named Kehinde Wiley. He painted young black men and women and portrayed them in Renaissance paintings. highlighting them in positions of power and giving them a voice. This intrigued me and even to this day, this is my favorite artist. My art transformed into more political and social commentary. Highlighting the problems in our country and trying to spread awareness of the topic. Seeing his work really allowed me to see that this was something that could be done and done very well. The idea of having a platform for my work in galleries, and shows, and having my art in museums is something I have longed for. I feel like in this life you have to embrace the passions you have. Work with them and around them to force them into your everyday lives. Never do a job for the money but for your own personal pleasure. That is how I feel about art and it will always be apart of my life. To little me you are achieving your dream more and more everyday. Keep working hard, I love you.

In the future I see myself being an art activist. Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, and musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America it sets me apart from the rest of the population. Since my diversity is sometimes frowned upon, I have to speak with a different tone of voice. Having art with me for the ride of my life has helped me get a point across without having a debate or arguing with others. Showing the different sides of a story that can be digested by all parties viewing. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil, it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Art is something that helps me cope, think, relax, and release stress. With the help of this scholarship, I can finally get into the school of my dreams with no loans while also being a full-time artist. Doing so will make me realize that even through all of my struggles I can meet and exceed my goals.

A failure that really impacted me was back in my 7th-grade art class. I was sitting with all my friends while playing a game the teacher had assigned, the game was Pictionary. My job was to draw an alligator and to get all the other students to guess what it was. I wasn't the best artist and knew this before I even picked up the pencil but I was still confident. Once I started drawing the whole class erupted in laughter and my best friend at the time said "I bet you wouldn't even be able to draw a tree right." At that moment I was shocked and confused. Wondering how I could be so bad at something I loved so much. Drawing gave me an outlet to explore and be creative but all of that was being shut down by the second and I just wanted to give up. So I finished the game that day and thought maybe I should draw more instead of quitting. Hearing those words made me want to be the best artist I could be. So from that day forward, I drew every day with no fail. While at home I created cartoon characters, drew my friends and family, and was able to imagine things and put them on paper for the world to see. Even after middle school, this continued for me. My art improved every time I put something on the page just to prove all my friends wrong. As I continued to create during my high school years it went from cartoon characters to figures, Family members to political leaders, and societal impacts on the community. As my mind and body started to grow so did my art which led me to a path of activism and leadership. My art created a platform for me to express my ideals and everything I cared about. For me, Activism and art are entwined. My art seeks validation from the mind to keep going. Everything I have done as far as protests, marches, art galleries, and shows has been because of that one moment in middle school. I am going to VCUARTS in the fall because of the statement "You couldn't even draw a tree right." This realization wasn't something that I realized until this prompt and it teaches me that hard work and dedication pay off when you are doing something you love. Never stop your passions too soon and always follow your path! So the next time someone tells you, you can't. Tell them because of you, I can.

In order to tell you a complete vision and story about myself. I have to first start with my identity and who I am as a human being on this planet. I am a Black Afab Lesbian Person who grew up in rural Virginia in mainly white schools. This already set me apart from the average student in my school. I was often asked, "Why does your hair feel like a sponge?" and "Why can't I see you in the dark?" All of these microaggressions formulated and forced me to conform with the other students in my class. Doing so stripped me of my identity and only being in the 3rd grade it made me feel excluded even though the goal was inclusion. Something that always helped me cope with these situations was my artwork. I needed my art in order to express myself freely in a climate that wasn't so free. I would stay up for hours and just draw little cartoon characters. That slowly evolved into filling many sketchbooks with portraits and painting clay sculptures. My parents supported me every step of the way paving a way for me to continue what I was passionate about. As I got to become a little older and came up to the end of middle school. I came out as a lesbian. This part of me was something I had struggled with since I first started doodling in my sketchbooks in elementary school. Being black in a white town was something that already crept up on me every second of the day so this new minority status wasn't helping me at all. I realized what family members were actually family. Losing some of my extended family members from this announcement probably should have been hard on me but it was actually a wake-up call. Allowing me to finally be me and to let anyone go that didn't truly accept me. As I thought more about these subjects I finally got a set of ideas and beliefs. I got more into politics and understood what was going on in my various communities. This let me take my passion for art and turn it into a political outlet for my ideals and beliefs. With every stroke of the pencil, it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This allows me to create change in my community by highlighting injustice in a digestible way for my audience. Showing how and why we are treated this way inspires change in the world around us. This is how I will serve my community throughout the years and continue to help my people!

In order to tell you a complete vision and story about myself. I have to first start with my identity and who I am as a human being on this planet. I am a Black Afab Lesbian Person who grew up in rural Virginia in mainly white schools. This already set me apart from the average student in my school. I was often asked, "Why does your hair feel like a sponge?" and "Why can't I see you in the dark?" All of these microaggressions formulated and forced me to conform with the other students in my class. Doing so stripped me of my identity and only being in the 3rd grade it made me feel excluded even though the goal was inclusion. Something that always helped me cope with these situations was my artwork. I needed my art in order to express myself freely in a climate that wasn't so free. I would stay up for hours and just draw little cartoon characters. That slowly evolved into filling many sketchbooks with portraits and painting clay sculptures. My parents supported me every step of the way paving a way for me to continue what I was passionate about. As I got to become a little older and came up to the end of middle school. I came out as a lesbian. This part of me was something I had struggled with since I first started doodling in my sketchbooks in elementary school. Being black in a white town was something that already crept up on me every second of the day so this new minority status wasn't helping me at all. I realized what family members were actually family. Losing some of my extended family members from this announcement probably should have been hard on me but it was actually a wake-up call. Allowing me to finally be me and to let anyone go that didn't truly accept me. As I thought more about these subjects I finally got a set of ideas and beliefs. I got more into politics and understood what was going on in my various communities. This let me take my passion for art and turn it into a political outlet for my ideals and beliefs. With every stroke of the pencil, it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This allows me to create change in my community by highlighting injustice in a digestible way for my audience. Showing how and why we are treated this way inspires change in the world around us. This is how I will serve my community throughout the years and continue to help my people!

The person who can hold a room still with just one stroke of a paintbrush.

In order to really think about this we need to know the real perpetrators of DUIs. Come to find out it is young adults under the age of 30. This is mostly caused by underage drinking and college parties. Peer pressure and social setting are probably other reasons why this is so prevalent in young adults. I think in order to prevent this we have to get into the minds of these young people. You have to understand what can get them to change and love the idea of doing so. This means getting on social media platforms, fun contests, and more. By doing this we have an interactive way of helping out the community and keeping them sober on the road. These posts can be educational short films, TikTok, artwork, and more. Just by using an engaging medium, you can get people to really understand their actions and how this can affect not only their lives but so many others. This is something I am passionate about because my dad's ex-girlfriend had a very bad problem with drinking. She would come to his apartment with me there and hit on him repeatedly. Experiencing this firsthand made me realize that drinking isn't for me and that drinking can make you do crazy things.

Leadership means friendship but also authority. It means compassion but also control. Leadership is something that you can be taught and learn over time. It's all about learning the balance of love and respect for everyone you are leading. Slowly gain their love so you can have fun together but also their respect so they can listen and let you lead them in the right direction. Leadership has been something that has been in my life for a long time. Being the youngest out of three siblings I should know a lot about the abuse of leadership. Giving the reigns to someone who is hungry for power like a 13-year-old older brother who thinks he can do anything because "mom put him in charge" was crazy for me to understand. One minute you are my brother the next you are acting like my parent. Abusing power isn't only for teenage boys though you can see it a lot at work, in your home environment, and maybe even in yourself. Ever since I first started school you get exposed to how you act in the presence of leadership. You know like being the line leader and leading the clean-up for your class. These are small things but they help you learn what being a leader actually is. However, In Highschool I was put into many leadership positions. The Woodwind Captain for my Marching Band, Vice President of the Senior Class, President of the Diversity Club, Prop Manager, etc. All of these leadership positions made me feel empowered. These weren't just randomly handed in, they were from my years of experience with a certain topic or thing. These have taught me three important things about Leadership. Patience, balance, and Knowledge. These are the three important things in leading anyone and anything. I need to slow down and work at their speed. This is what I learned from the Marching band. You need to teach in order to be followed. The Balance of Friendship and Authority is key to understanding your mission as a group. I learned this from being the Vice President of the Senior Class. And Lastly, Knowledge is essential for the group to understand why they need to respect and follow you. I learned this from being Prop Manger for Threate. Leadership is all about love and connection; respect, and passion. The balance of how we act and controlling human impulses of selfishness. Leadership is one of the most important things in this world. Please learn to lead the right way.

When I think of Domestic Violence I think of my own family. My sister has dealt with domestic violence from a former boyfriend of hers. She was with him for several months and treated her exactly how she wanted to be treated in the beginning. Over time he started to show his true colors. He would decline her calls, stay out all night, and start arguing with her more. Around the 6th month of their being together is when the physical abuse started. He would choke, punch, and slap her anytime she made him angry or slightly bit irritated. During this time I had no idea this was going on. To the outside world, their relationship was something to desire. Something you would never have but want so badly, but as they say "The grass is always greener on the other side." Once we started getting calls from my sister screaming and crying saying that he took her keys and is threatening her if she tries to leave her own house that's when I knew it was serious. This phone call happened two more times before she finally broke up with him. And by break up with, I mean he was in a jail cell. A couple of weeks later she found out she was pregnant with his baby. Being a 23-year-old with a child of her own already and the dad of her expected child being her abuser she made the decision to abort the baby. One of the hardest decisions a mother could make. I was right there with her, being 16 years old myself I was concerned, confused, and corned with the information I had never seen with my own eyes. After this moment in time, I have been more passionate and outspoken with my thoughts and feelings on this topic. My outlet is through the arts. I have been in the arts including Music and Visual arts all of my life but starting in high school I use it as an activist platform. I draw what I feel and show others the perspective of the oppressed and silenced. I want to give minorities and the disadvantaged a platform to speak out on what they believe in and how the world needs to be changed. A pretty painting or drawing can draw a viewer in and help them learn more information than reading a 5-page essay on the topic. This issue means a lot to me and my family and I will continue to use my platform and my voice to speak out for the underdog.

"Okay class so today we will talk about serial killers!" Was a statement that made my eyes light up. Now you might be wondering why that is but I feel like I was always destined to go down this path of enlightenment. From the shows I watched to the people I talked to, I was always interested in the mind and how it works, including the mind of criminals. Ever since I was in middle school I would watch true crime documentaries. Wondering why and how someone would go and commit these heinous acts on other human beings. So when I started taking AP Psychology I knew this was the career for me. Taking AP Psychology in my Junior year of High school, was the hardest but also the most interesting class I have ever taken. It made me rethink all of my life choices because of all the notes I had to take and the information I was learning. During this class, I was challenged with the task of understanding human behavior and how the brain works. Going into how to condition someone and predicting someone's behavior. This class engaged my brain like no other. Asking questions and wanting to gain more knowledge, unlike my second-period English class. After this class ended I wanted more. College was coming up in around a year I knew that this had to be a part of my college experience. I planned to double major in communication arts and psychology and a minor in criminal justice at Virginia Commonwealth University. I got in December of last year to my major and knew that I had completed part one of my dream, but there was much more to go. I want to be a criminologist. For those who don't know what that is, it's a person who studies crime, the criminals themselves, and why they commit the crimes they do. I won't understand and predict the trends of upcoming crimes, Be able to follow leads to solve the next case, and talk with the actual criminals themselves to get a real perspective on the crimes they commit. This will help out community fight off robberies, mass shootings, or even serial killers. With my degree, I will be able to work and fight against the high crime right in America and try to help criminals with rehabilitation and understanding so things like this won't happen again. With the help of this scholarship, I will be able to gain my degree and also gain the knowledge to save the world from crime and give citizens an understanding of why things like this happen.

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “i’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, and walkouts, demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind, I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, and musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America it sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil, it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This allows me to create change in my community by highlighting injustice in a digestible way for my audience. Showing how and why we are treated this way inspires change in the world around us. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Without identity, art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art, my identity would not be the same.

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “i’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, walkouts, demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind, I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, and musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil, it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This allows me to create change in my community by highlighting injustice in a digestible way for my audience. Showing how and why we are treated this way inspires change in the world around us. This scholarship will help me achieve my dreams. Let me share my message with the world and gain more knowledge on things I am already passionate about. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Without identity, art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art, my identity would not be the same.

Going to college is something that I have been looking forward to for a long time. Every since 9th grade I have had to know where I wanted to go and how to get there. I was pushed forward by my parents, art teacher, band director, other educators, and of course myself. With this push, I have been able to finally meet this goal and get into the college of my dreams. Now comes all the real work. Once I put in my deposit for VCUarts I understood the real gravity of my situation. I now have what I have been working towards for years now I have to keep moving and make more and more goals. One of them is to keep my mental health above water so I don't burn out in the first week. Another one is to make friends and build a community around me while I'm there. Doing so will help me mentally and physically and I will be less likely to get too overwhelmed. While I'm in college I want to double major and minor. My two majors will be psychology and Communication arts and my minor will be music performance. I know this comes with a lot of work but this is something I am greatly passionate about. The benefits are way better than the cons for me. It allows me to gain more knowledge on topics I already love. Getting a college degree sets you up for professional and high-paying jobs in the future right out of school. Lastly, a college degree will show you what to do after school and how to use the degree to its full potential. With all the information you get in college getting out and finding a job should be something that comes easy with hard work on my part. I am so ready to be in a new environment and experiment with everything I love in education. With this scholarship and so many others, I would be able to start my college education and continue it without loans. Making it easier for me in the future with no student debt. College will leave me free and also wanting more. Hopefully, the drive continues and lives on.

Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America it sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This allows me to create change in my community by highlighting injustice in a digestible way for my audience. Showing how and why we are treated this way in inspire change in the world around us. My goals in my creative practice and in life itself is to create things that are meaningful and that I care about. I want to go to college and double major in communication arts and music performance. In my college life I want to thrive and learn about things I havent even though of. Think outside the box, make new friends, and be a part of the art community in the city. In Richmond, Virginia, where I plan on going to college has a art mixing bowl. With these opportunities and access to professional artist and musicians I can understand what I can do for the community and be the best version of myself before I even graduate. When I step into my career field I want the world to know my name. Ashley Davis the activist, artist, and musician. These things can change the world in a positive way and show how the arts arent something to lay on the back burner. Its something that can create your lifestyle and mold the world around you. I want to make a difference with poetry, stroies, musical forms, and artistic movements. Going into the orchestra in Richmond is going to be one of my main goals. After that trying to fit my art style into a career field or making a totally new one is my next objective. Showing the world in a way that can be considered funny and serious at the same time is what i’m going for. Letting people know they injustice so they can decide for themselves what they want to do and think. In want to create change with my voice, my instrument, and a pencil. If I am able to do this, it will leave me with nothing else to desire.

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “i’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, and walkouts, demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind, I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, and musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America it sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil, it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This allows me to create change in my community by highlighting injustice in a digestible way for my audience. Showing how and why we are treated this way inspires change in the world around us. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Without identity, art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art, my identity would not be the same.

Feminism to me is the introduction to the notion that women and young girls are able to be viewed and considered equal by society and the government. The elevation of standards and understanding of the opposite sex to consider them as such but also not needed an opposing opinion. Knowing that men or young boys will think what they will but women and young girls can do that and more. An inspirational figure in my life is my own mother. She grew up in a very bad neighborhood and wasn't able to fully express all her ideas and passions. She had her first child during her senior year of high school and still graduated with pride. After getting married she picked up and moved her children and husband to a safer environment out of state. She now owns 5 homes, has her own successful business, and works in healthcare management. She lets me know I can overcome adversity and meet my goals even more. Being a woman in this society is hard enough but adding on being black is a whole other ball game. Feminism is something that was first started by white women which included casting out black women because of racism. Seeing that black women around the world are becoming engineers, doctors, and lawyers makes me smile. Now my outlet is art and music to show injustice. Activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil, it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This allows me to create change in my community by highlighting injustice in a digestible way for my audience. Showing how and why we are treated this way inspires change in the world around us. I have shown my art on large scales in museum exhibits or smaller scales like my school art shows. I have also started protests at my school for abortion rights against the governor of my state. All of this shows my dedication to the cause and telling people my positions on different topics. Even though this might not be directly contributing to a specific thing it is all about the bigger picture. The more people know, the more people can understand and learn from past mistakes or actions and learn the right way. With all of this said, I want to tell you that a feminist is something I call myself and am dedicated to. This is something that will never end and will push my career to great heights. Please follow me there!

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “i’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, walkouts, demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America it sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This allows me to create change in my community by highlighting injustice in a digestible way for my audience. Showing how and why we are treated this way in inspire change in the world around us. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Without identity art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art my identity would not be the same.

The college experience is something that is a talked about topic among the media world. Seeing people on tv getting drunk, join faternites, and all the parties make you a little nervous. When thinking about college hollywood hasn’t helped me in my jounrey of discovery and enjoyment. My college experience is probably gonna be a whole lot different. Going to college for art and music is probably gonna lead to burnout, all nighters, and being broke. I know all that sounds like a bad thing but the idea of having a career in something I love the most, greatly overpowers it. I have been waiting for the moment I get to creative, thrive, and completely immerse my self in the arts. My experience with highschool has been work work work on things I will never do outside of school or “In the real world”. College is the idea that what you do here, you take with you to the next level and job you intend to pursue but one thing I have to learn is interaction with other people. I have to get out of my comfort zone, make new friends, and completely push myself into something new. This is gonna be a tough thing to get over. I have had the same friends for 5 years of my life. Nothing changing, the same schedule, and the same routine for 4 years of highschool. Getting out of the cycle will take some hard work and dedication. One thing that can help me not burnout in the cycle will be my creativity. I have to let myself rest and relax in my creation. This will help my mind, body, and soul heal from the hardwork I have put it through. Music and art will relax and challenge me to push myself. It will push me down and pick me up. This means a balance is necessary in my life. Turning my hobbies and passions into work and stress is a hard transition. Learning to have time to work and have time to relax with the same thing is necessary. Enough of the bad I want to talk about everything I love. College gives me freedom and space to be myself. I need a way to express myself without the pressure of family breathing down my back. It allows me my own space in a creative and personal space. College will give me an experience I can never forget or ever get back. So in order for me enjoy it I have to keep myself health. Both mentally and physically and continue to elevate my passion to the next level.

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “i’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, walkouts, demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America it sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This allows me to create change in my community by highlighting injustice in a digestible way for my audience. Showing how and why we are treated this way in inspire change in the world around us. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Without identity art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art my identity would not be the same.

Generational wealth is such an interesting phrase. Most people see it as acquiring money and passing it down to the next generation. In simple terms becoming rich and giving it to your children. I see money as a gate way to freedom and a comfortable life but with freedom come responsibility. Seeing that generational weath is mostly in the hands of the white people in our population because of 400 years of slavery and segragation. Its hard for BIPOC individuals to pass on weatlh to our children and this is what I want to speak on. Personally, I am predisposed to a lot of disadvantages in this world. Growing up as a Black Queer girl in America was something that came with a lot of hardships. I used my writing, art, and music to carry me through the rough patches of my life. Doing so made me a stronger and more determined person for my values and passions. My version of paying it forward for future generations is through my artwork. Living with so many adversities I learned what I support and what I don't. Doing so made me very outspoken and loud about what needs to change in our nation. One of my outlets is my art. I protest, speak on issues, and understand opposing opinions all with the stroke of a pencil. I speak for the people with no voice all of the minorities who are too afraid to speak up for themselves or others. I carry this mentality with me and show others how they can help this nation and this world with their voice, writing, and artwork. In my everyday life, I make sure I call out any discrimination, wrongdoing, or injustice I witness. This will slowly make people aware of the problems people outside of themselves face. Get people out of their own bubbles and understand the struggles of friends, family, and strangers. This is what I want my carrer to be. I want it to be inderstadning, political, and worthy of justice. With this I plan to also be apart of a orchestra with a music performance degree. This will help me become no just rich in succes and money but also in ecpereince and creative desire. I want that to be my legacy and what my children can have a create from their own lives and experiences. That is my definition of generational weath. Not just the physical but the ability to learn, create, and change the world around you.

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “i’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, walkouts, demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America it sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This allows me to create change in my community by highlighting injustice in a digestible way for my audience. Showing how and why we are treated this way in inspire change in the world around us. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Without identity art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art my identity would not be the same.

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “i’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, walkouts, demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America it sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This allows me to create change in my community by highlighting injustice in a digestible way for my audience. Showing how and why we are treated this way in inspire change in the world around us. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Without identity art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art my identity would not be the same.

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “i’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, walkouts, demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America it sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This allows me to create change in my community by highlighting injustice in a digestible way for my audience. Showing how and why we are treated this way in inspire change in the world around us. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Without identity art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art my identity would not be the same.

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “i’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, walkouts, demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America it sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This allows me to create change in my community by highlighting injustice in a digestible way for my audience. Showing how and why we are treated this way in inspire change in the world around us. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Without identity art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art my identity would not be the same.

The everyday world is something that inspires me daily. It is the root of all of my work and how I connect with others. Political subjects and social issues it what drive me forward and give me a purpose to create. I look at the news, social media, or actually participate in protests to understand what, why, and how something is happening and how I stand on it. I express myself with full-on colored pencil drawings to even digital cartoons. I have done things like black lives matter, trump rallies, and even abortion. These things let me speak my voice and the voice of the minorities around me and let other people know how we get treated in the everyday world.

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school, I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “I’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words, I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, and walkouts, demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind, I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is a human expression in a visual, spiritual, and musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil, it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Without identity, art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art, my identity would not be the same.

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “i’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, and walkouts, demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind, I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is a human expression in a visual, spiritual, and musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil, it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. Digital art gives me a more illustrative voice and I can express my opinions in a more cartoonish format. It makes hard topics more digestable for the viewer and the audience. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Without identity, art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art, my identity would not be the same.

My perception of alcohol is based on one really late night or very early morning. I was at my dad's apartment to stay the weekend when I woke up to a very loud knock on the front door. I got up and went to the door and wondering who could be knocking on the door at this time of the night. I went first sneaking my eye through the peephole of the door to see my dad's girlfriend. Even through a small hole, you can see she was disoriented, leaning over, and very much intoxicated. I called my dad up out of bed while opening the door to let her in. She walked in with two large and uncoordinated steps yelling "I can't see! I can't see!" Mind you she had her eyes closed while doing this. My dad say the same thing I did and told her "well open your eyes then." She informed him that her eyes were in fact opened and they were burning as she tried to pry them open. I sat back on the couch watching them walk to the bathroom and wash their eyes out. Then she became violent in a quick switch of emotion. She started hitting, punching, and kicking my dad wildly. Saying he wasn't helping her and he was making it worse. My dad tried to restrain her but before he was able to she broke his glasses and smashed them on the ground. My dad yelled at me to go in the bedroom while they wrestled for dominance in what was supposed to be the family room. I ran to the room and locked the door behind me. My heart was beating faster than it ever has before and I was scared that my dad was being injured or even worse killed. All the noises weren't helping my thoughts either. The yelling, stomping, banging, and insults I was hearing were the worst part of this whole situation. After most of the noises stopped I heard my dad's voice call to me and tell me to come out of the room. With all of my stuff, I walked out and followed him to the door. While walking down the steps of the apartment complex I saw my dad's stuff laying there. His clothes, DVDs, and other belongings are being stepped on by the people residing there. I was shocked and scared when my dad told me to call my grandma to come to pick me up. As I sat there waiting for her my dad called his brother in Maryland. Telling him he was on the way. Because of this situation, I wasn't able to see my father for 5 months. He was without a place to live and a car to drive and this affected the way I see relationships in the future. I feel like she took some time away from me that I could've spent with my dad and my siblings. Every day I think back on this situation and drinking is not something that appeals to me. Something that will always send me back to this time in my life. Continuing on through my life this will always be something that is very traumatic to think about but I think of it as a learning experience. Drinking is just not for me and hopefully, people will find that out for themselves.

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “i’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, walkouts, demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America it sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Without identity art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art my identity would not be the same.

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “i’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, walkouts, demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America it sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Without identity art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art my identity would not be the same.

Life is like a lazy river Slowly floating around the curves Water splashing you in the face Kids keep bumping into you But you still push on Even when it pushes you too hard Coming up to the exit You want to get off .. It becomes too much to handle But something pushes you forward If its your family, friends, and even the little kids that splashed you You slowly find the fun of the rough waters The energy of the people around you And the freedom of floating The ride you always wanted to be on Making you smile with each bump of the water The buckets that pour water on your head make you giggle Instead of making you want to rush off The rushing water steaming you ahead to the exit doesn’t make you sad anymore It makes you look back with admiration This time you’re prepared to get off Happy with how the ride ended and Understanding your ride is over for good

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “i’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words, I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, and walkouts, demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind, I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, and musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America it sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil, it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. Leaving space for a more open society with fewer adversities for black and brown people to face in their lives. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Without identity, art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art my identity would not be the same.

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “i’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, walkouts, demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America it sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed.I've read many books on the introduction of activism. How they have changed the nation they live in and slowly but surely adopt new values and traditions into their countries. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Without identity art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art my identity would not be the same.

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “i’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, walkouts, demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America it sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed.I've read many books on the introduction of activism. How they have changed the nation they live in and slowly but surely adopt new values and traditions into their countries. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Without identity art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art my identity would not be the same.

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “i’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, walkouts, demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind, I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, and musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil, it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. I helped myself realize that my identity isn't something I should be afraid of or look down upon its something I should embrace. Without identity, art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art, my identity would not be the same.

My Art journey has always been in the background. Slowly peeking its head when critical times came by. These sparks of color molded who I am today. So let me paint the picture for you. I'll start way back in elementary school. During 2nd grade I received negative comments about my hair. Kids would ask, “Why does your hair feel like a sponge?” When saying this they were touching my hair up and down like a trampoline. While it didn’t bother me as much back then, reflecting on these words makes me feel less than my peers. These moments of my life shaped how I viewed my hair. Now skipping ahead to 8th grade. I moved to a new area around 30 minutes away. While at the new school I realized something. I realized that I am gay. This did not come easy. It was a lot of questioning and figuring out attraction and relationships. Slowing learning what I like and don’t like. My family has always been very supportive of me since I was a little tomboy back in Elementary school. While I knew they were supportive, some part of me didn’t want to take the risk yet. Once I was “ready” I texted my mom that “i’m bisexual.” which was a lie … that I didn’t know was a lie yet. Like an ordinary coming out, she waited for me to say the words she already knew were coming. Later that day I finally said the word lesbian. With these words I shaped how I viewed myself. Now entering High School in a rural area you see the different mindsets and opinions people have. Hearing from peers, parents, and siblings about racism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, etc. I stepped out of my box and started to speak out. Started holding protests, and walkouts demonstrating how you should act in the face of diversity. Forcing change when we needed it the most. This shaped how I viewed activism. Now with all this in mind, I wanted to pose a question to you. Can your identity shape your art and creativity? Art itself is human expression in a visual, spiritual, musical form that represents a powerful statement of life, imagination, and fulfillment. Knowing how you fit into society can change how you express yourself. Being a Queer black Afab person in America sets me apart from the rest of the population. Because of this, activism has always been something that is ingrained into my hand. With every stroke of the pencil, it shows the life of a minority on the page and slowly gives a voice to the oppressed. This is a passion I have had ever since I knew I had different hair from the rest of my classmates Or when I knew that I had different crushes than the rest of my friends. Without identity, art would be a shallow remembrance of ideas. And without Art, my identity would not be the same.

Pay it forward is such an interesting phrase. Many people see pay it forward as related to charity or rich people giving money to the less fortunate. I see paying it forward as a statement for black families and parents who struggled growing up finally have a life they can be proud of. Handing their opportunities and growth to their children so they can have the life they always wanted. I see paying it forward as our ancestors giving us a platform and changing the country that gave them so much turmoil so we can build and grow our nation for the better. Lastly, I see paying it forward as our young people protesting and trying to change laws and legislation to help form our world, values, and legacies for the newer generations. Personally, I am predisposed to a lot of disadvantages in this world. Growing up as a Black Queer girl in America was something that came with a lot of hardships. I used my writing, art, and music to carry me through the rough patches of my life. Doing so made me a stronger and more determined person for my values and passions. My version of paying it forward for future generations is through my artwork. Living with so many adversities I learned what I support and what I don't. Doing so made me very outspoken and loud about what needs to change in our nation. One of my outlets is my art. I protest, speak on issues, and understand opposing opinions all with the stroke of a pencil. I speak for the people with no voice all of the minorities who are too afraid to speak up for themselves or others. I carry this mentality with me and show others how they can help this nation and this world with their voice, writing, and artwork. In my everyday life, I make sure I call out any discrimination, wrongdoing, or injustice I witness. This will slowly make people aware of the problems people outside of themselves face. Get people out of their own bubbles and understand the struggles of friends, family, and strangers. With the work of everyone reading this, we can pay it forward to make sure people in the newer generations don't have to face the same bigotry that we grew up with and understand the problems with that mindset. In this world paying it forward is necessary and something I work towards every day, maybe you should too.