I was born and raised in Newark’s South Ward—a community rich with history, culture, and resilience. Growing up, I saw firsthand the challenges our city faced, but I also witnessed the unyielding strength of its people. As a Black, queer youth navigating these spaces, I often felt unseen, unheard, and unsure of where I fit. The safe spaces I needed didn’t always exist, and it wasn’t until others believed in me—affirming my voice and my value—that I began to discover my potential.That journey shaped the work I do today. I’ve dedicated my career to creating spaces and opportunities for others to feel seen, heard, and empowered. As the founder of Five Wards Media, I’ve built a platform that amplifies Newark’s stories, connects communities, and addresses information gaps that often leave residents uninformed or unheard. Through this work, I’ve raised funding, empowered local storytellers, and created pathways for Newark residents to take control of their own narratives.As co-founder of the Newark News & Story Collaborative, I’ve trained more than 75 residents in media-making, developed programs that center community voices, and facilitated spaces where people can come together to share their truths. Whether it’s hosting listening sessions, producing community-led projects, or celebrating the lived experiences of our city’s youth, my focus remains on building with the community, not just for it.My journey started with Newark’s youth. I’ve spent over a decade mentoring and working with young people—first as a volunteer, then as a director, and now as an advocate for equitable opportunities. I believe in meeting young people where they are and ensuring they’re not just participants but active collaborators in shaping the initiatives & programs that impact their lives. My own experiences as a Newark youth inform everything I do, from the programs I design to the conversations I lead.I do this work because I believe in Newark—its brilliance, its resilience, and our collective history. I believe in centering the voices of those too often overlooked and in creating opportunities where none existed before. I believe that we get there together, through collective action and a shared commitment to equity.