What challenges have you faced as a woman of color in your field and how did you overcome them? 

As a professional nurse, I faced the challenge of either being a patient advocate, providing decent and compassionate nursing care or just being complicit in misdirection and overt racist treatment. Some doctors complained repeatedly that after talking to me the patients would have too many questions and the doctors did not appreciate the questions nor my advocating for the patients. 

Needless to say, eventually I made the decision to leave allopathic medicine and to utilize my nursing skills through exploring natural healing modules commonly referred to as alternative and complementary wellness. I have survived two near death experiences, serious illnesses, divorce, death of sibling, death of a parent and close friends, relocation blues, depression and disappointments in business. In order to pursue my passion for writing and helping others, I had to overcome the aforementioned challenges. 

I had to get real still and do some self-assessment, inner soul searching, reexamining my life, my goals and yes, begin to appreciate all the ups and downs, all the perceived losses. Out of a series of self-assessments, guided visualizations and regular meditation came a new awareness. That awareness helped me to be more open to new horizons and opportunities I had not previously imagined. 

What woman inspires you and why? 

My mother Izona S. Fripp, a spirit-filled, courageous, kind, and intelligent woman continues to inspire me. She loved reading, walking, being active in the community and was deeply devoted to family and maintaining good health. My mother was able to overcome challenges and still maintain a loving and caring attitude.

What is your advice to the younger generation of women coming after you?

With a RACE FIRST mindset learn as much as you can about our global culture, be caring first to yourself and then others. Interact with love, truth, and integrity. Realize your life is an ever-evolving classroom full of beautiful and yet sometimes painful lessons. Remember to be fearless, focused, unapologetically Black, breathe deeply, relax often, laugh out loud, be more grateful, cherish liberty and life.

What does being a part of the African Diaspora mean to you? 

I believe Dr. Khalid Abdul Muhammad taught that Africa is our throne and our heart; however, the planet is our home. So, for me no matter where Black folks are on earth we are connected and are duty bound to be concerned for each other and to actively promote communication and African Sovereignty.