An Interesting Point of View

@fujifilmx_us | 35mm New Orleans, LA - The Crescent City - April 2026 — Recently, my friends, husband, and I spent a whirlwind few days in New Orleans. The city instantly captivated us and left us wanting more. Though our visit was brief, we knew we’d return. Culture, history, and energy fill every street. You can’t experience New Orleans in one trip. I can’t wait to come back, dive deeper, and enjoy even more of this amazing city. One of the trip’s highlights was meeting our tour guide, Nate. He offers many tours each detailed, organized, energetic, genuine, and professional. Nate’s love for the city shines in every story. We enjoyed his tours so much that he’s now our go-to guide. We truly recommend him! @tour.with.nate I’m grateful to travel and experience new cultures. Sharing New Orleans with people I love is something I’ll always treasure. Here’s to more trips, more learning, and continued exploration.

@fujifilmx_us | 35mm Kiawah Island, SC (Touch of Charleston) – March 2026 — I celebrated turning 30 with a trip to my happy place: the beach. This year, I spent my birthday at Kiawah Island, and it has quickly secured its spot as one of my favorite coastlines. There’s something magical about the sand beneath my feet, the steady rhythm of the waves, and the crisp ocean breeze. Turning 30 feels empowering. My 20s were filled with learning, evolving, exploring, and defining my identity. Now, entering this decade, I’m eager to deepen my growth and strive toward my best self. I’m deeply grateful to God for every moment, lesson, and connection that’s shaped my journey. Here’s to discovering new places, embracing fresh experiences, and a decade ahead brimming with growth and joy!

I felt honored to stand in the @charlottemuseumofhistory during the African American Heritage Festival 2026, and share Answered the Call: African American Service, Sacrifice, and Triumph in the Vietnam War Era. This workshop focused on more than just dates and deployments. We honored the courage, resilience, and experiences of Black service members. They served their country while facing racial injustice at home and overseas. One of the most powerful conversations we had was about the Vietnam War itself. By nearly every lived and military standard, it was a war: almost 550,000 U.S. troops deployed, more than 58,000 American lives lost, and years of fighting through 1973. Yet, under the U.S. Constitution, only Congress can declare war, and no such declaration was made against North Vietnam or the Viet Cong. This legal technicality means that, despite the scale and experience, the U.S. government officially refers to it as a conflict, not a war. We also wrestled with the question that still sparks debate today: who won the Vietnam War? Some point to battlefield outcomes and casualty numbers, noting that U.S. forces defeated communist troops in major engagements and suffered significantly fewer losses. Others argue the U.S. ultimately lost because its primary objective — preventing a communist takeover — failed. Vietnam reunified under communism in 1976, and neighboring Laos and Cambodia followed. Domestic unrest and mounting costs forced the U.S. withdrawal. Victory, it turns out, depends on how you define it. What is clear is the legacy of African American service—strength, unity, perseverance, sacrifice. This event raised the voices of those too often left out of mainstream history, giving space to reflect on their enduring legacy. As we remember and honor those who served with determination and courage, may their example continue to inspire us to stand for justice, unity, and the recognition they deserve. I am grateful for every conversation, every question, and every shared moment of remembrance. Source: @britannica Footage: @j.floydstudios

It’s my birthday. 🎉 Thirty feels like a deep breath and a bold step forward. Today I turn 30, a number rooted in creativity, growth, spiritual awakening, and meaningful transitions. It’s an invitation to imagine freely, communicate honestly, and move through life with optimism. I’m leaning into all of that energy as I celebrate not just a birthday, but a season of becoming. As I reflect on my 20s, I can honestly say I lived them to the fullest. Some goals shifted, some lists were rewritten, and many lessons were learned along the way. Some of what I have experienced military life, earned undergraduate and graduate degrees, explored doctoral studies, built a business, curated an exhibition, gave back through nonprofit work, got engaged, got married, welcomed a puppy, purchased a home, and bought my first car. Through it all, I’m proud of myself and deeply grateful for every person who helped me get here. To my parents thank you for always being by my side and to my husband, Antonio, thank you for choosing to be with me forever. Today also marks the release of my first musical project, Juicing & Jamming. This mixtape is a celebration of my quirkiness, my achievements, and the soundtrack of my 20s. Curated with intention, it blends some of my favorite ‘70s and 80s sounds with songs that carried me through my 30s so far. It’s built on collaboration, movement, and positive energy, created to spark reflection while getting bodies moving. It’s also a potential musical extension of The Mimosa Way, carrying forward its mission of community, joy, and intentional living through sound. Thank you @bshingu for being co-producer/DJ on this project. Meant a lot! So press play, dance a little, think a little, and feel a lot. More music is coming, but for now, this one is for celebrating the journey. Go listen to Juicing & Jamming and celebrate with me. 🔗 bio.

Don’t get me wrong I love the cold but @cityofphoenixaz during the summer is quite enjoyable. Went with the love of my life @antoniojrob Necklace & Sunglasses: @j.reid_ I post my disposable camera stuff on @32_96

On December 1st, we come together to honor the millions impacted by HIV and AIDS and to raise awareness about its impact on our communities. In 2025, it’s still crucial for everyone to be tested for HIV at least once. If you’re at higher risk, please make testing a routine part of your healthcare. The Mimosa Way is committed to supporting HIV research and prevention efforts, as well as connecting those living with HIV to the care and resources they need. At The Drop Resource Center (@thedropclt ), they offer a wide range of services including full panel testing, laundry services, weekly support groups, shower services, food pantry, practice and conference space, job fairs and resume building, counseling, computer and media access, clothing closet, and connect individuals with PrEP/Doxy and other prevention/care options. Our goal is to ensure every person has access to the support and care necessary to live healthy, empowered lives. Your health matters, and you’re not alone in this journey. If you’re seeking testing options and resources, including PrEP and connection to care, visit The Drop Resource Center, RAIN, Inc., or any local clinic that offers STI/STD testing. Together, we can continue to support each other and fight against the stigma surrounding HIV. Let’s prioritize our health and the health of those we love. And as always... let’s end stigma. @thedropclt @carolinas_respond @rainclt

@kodak | 35mm Washington, D.C. (touch of ATL) - June 2022 — Hey there, my friend. I know life can feel overwhelming sometimes, and it's easy to stay cozy in our comfort zones. But I truly believe that stepping out, even just a little, can help us find something meaningful. It might be hard to pinpoint exactly what that is, but I promise it's worth it. I understand the urge to snuggle up in bed and scroll through your phone—I've been there too. But maybe, just maybe, you could consider taking a moment to go outside and soak up some fresh air. If you're more of an indoor person, find a cozy spot with a beautiful view and take it all in. Embracing the newness around you, no matter how small, can make a difference. Remember, life moves quickly, and with just a gentle shift, things can improve. Take care of yourself, and know that it's okay to seek out those little moments of change.

A mix of nightlife, ballroom, and Pride. — Hey friend, remember that life is a journey full of possibilities. Set inspiring goals and trust that each step brings you closer to your dreams. Embrace challenges as opportunities to grow and celebrate every bit of progress. Stay hopeful, stay positive, and believe in your potential. You are capable of amazing things. Wishing you all the best on your journey.

So it’s not Christmas? — Hey there, my friend! If you're feeling it might be time to reflect on your surroundings, trust that feeling—it's important. Just remember, this reflection can go both ways, and being open to how others see you is a part of that process too, and that’s completely okay. If you’re moving through life with a genuine spirit, those potential disconnects might actually be necessary. It’s perfectly natural for some people to come and go in our lives, and that doesn’t diminish your worth. Embrace who you are, and if it feels right, it’s okay to let go of those who no longer serve your journey. Take care of yourself!

#FlashBackFriday I believe this is FOMO which lead to The Local! Know em? Tag em! @mickiblendz @gabby.myers14 @themintmuseum @makaylabinter_ @iiaminfamous_2 — Hey there, my friend. As you take some time to reflect on your past, try to focus on how you can fully embrace your future and claim what is rightfully yours. I understand that looking back can be challenging, and it’s natural to want to avoid the rearview mirror. However, considering what went well and what didn’t can provide valuable insights that help you grow and evolve moving forward. Remember, it’s important not to SIT on the past, beloved. You have so much potential ahead of you.

Hey friends! Just had the best time in DC, checking out @broccolicity Block Party! For the raw, unfiltered moments, head over to @32_96 . Big shoutout to @zay.cation , @antoniojrob , @shawnlikecarter , and @ivoryraymond_v for being part of this adventure! Need someone to capture your special event? DM me and let's create some magic with my trusty camera!

@broccolicity via @kodak @zay.cation @_thet_ @shawnlikecarter @antoniojrob @ivoryraymond_v — Hey friend! You look good!