…melanin magic ✨
Before we dive into this week’s blog, just a quick check in…
How are things going with me?
I’m good and can’t complain! I’m back in the gym regularly and feeling great 💪🏾. I’m also considering getting back into teaching at the gym (part-time).
Wait…teaching at the gym? Yes — for many years!
For those who don’t know, I used to teach total body strength-training, spinning (indoor cycle) classes, a lower body circuit class named VIDA assets and 15-min core (abs) classes!
It was so much fun and ya boy can put a playlist together and I make a great hype man — always pushing my students to go for it! I thrived on helping others achieve their fitness goals and I kind of liked being a drill sergeant in my head — lol.
I taught at Bally Total Fitness (acquired by LA Fitness) and various VIDA Fitness locations in Washington DC.
How’s the job hunt going?
I’m just getting started. I took some time off to reset and I’m starting the process with a few companies and I’m really excited. Product interviews require a lot of preparation and hard work. I’ve done it before while working a full time job and it can be intense, so I’m glad that I have a lot more time to focus, prep and do a lot of self study. I’m putting my best foot forward.
Now let’s get to this week’s blog post!
There’s a major influence to almost every industry — whether education, entertainment, fashion, transportation, and so many more. A melanin influence or as I like to call it — melanin magic✨
I’m dedicating this week’s post to shine a spotlight on a few amazing Black people who’ve had an influence on my life. Of course — my entire family, and I plan on dedicating a future post to introduce you to my amazing support system.
EDUCATION
William Edward Burghardt Du Bois (aka W. E. B. Du Bois)
W. E. B. Du Bois was the first African American to receive a doctoral degree from Harvard University in 1895— I remember learning this as a young lad and thought wow…what an accomplishment especially during those times!
He used his voice to protest against injustices and discrimination especially in education and the workplace. He advocated for all people of color and has left a lasting legacy.
On a recent family trip to Ghana (last September) I was able to visit the W. E. B. Du Bois museum.
He arrived in Ghana in 1961 at the invitation of President Kwame Nkrumah to start the Africana Encyclopedia. At the time Dubois was at the tender age of 93. He passed away soon after and was buried in Ghana.
Touring his home (now a museum) was such a powerful moment, its almost hard to find words to describe the feeling. I suppose powerful is the word…
His writings, advocacy and impact is felt all around the world — even to this day.
FASHION
Let’s talk about something I love! Fashionnnnn. Again, I promise it sounds better when I say it out loud lol.
Innovator, visionary, barrier-breaker are a few words to describe the late Virgil Abloh.
Virgil was an architect by trade who had a love of fashion. His creativity was unparalleled and you can see it an every collectiin and collaboration (e.g. Nike and Off-white — I’m a sneaker head/shoe lover and have few pairs from this epic collab).
He made history as the FIRST Black artistic director of Louis Vuitton’s menswear line.
He truly transcended all boundaries not only as an architect and designer but also as an artist, DJ, and philanthropist.
What inspired me about Virgil was listening to the masterclass he gave at Harvard’s Graduate School of Design, where he talked about his inspirations, approach to design and so much more. As a product manager, I was so inspired. Often times, we underestimate the power of good design and how it solves business problems and can drive real impact.
MUSIC
In 1990 Kathleen Battle and Jessye Norman performed a live (recorded) concert of spirituals at THE Carnegie Hall — yes you read that right!! Not sure who they are? Lemme tell you about these phenomenal women! (PS. did you catch the Maya Angelou reference?)
In 1985, Time Magazine referred to Kathleen as the best lyric coloratura soprano in the world. A bit of context…a coloratura soprano has the highest voice of ALL sopranos! Her repertoire is extensive, and she’s worldwide! Having had major debuts at Opera houses all over the world.
Jessye Norman, another phenomenal soprano was known for her beautiful tone. She commanded every stage she graced! When she was 16 she entered a vocal competition and lost…despite losing she got a full ride to Howard University (HU!) She knew she was destined for greatness and put in the work! She’s left a lasting legacy — one of which is the her foundation which was founded to provide quality training and mentorship for talented and gifted children who want to pursue the arts but aren’t able to afford it.
Now, on to their epic performance at Carnegie Hall in 1990.
It was one for the history books. Why?
The path to get here took time…just 51 years prior, legendary singer Marian Anderson was not allowed to sing at the Constitution Hall in Washington, DC.
Secondly it was a concert of spirituals — which have a great significance in Black history and culture. Often referred to as songs of faith, hope or struggle. Presenting these songs at Carnegie Hall was a major, full-circle moment.
Finally, two phenomenal women shared the stage. Some though they might compete, but they SANG together, in what is now referred to as a beautiful moment in history where they are both celebrated.
W.E.B Du Bois, Virgil Abloh, Kathleen Battle and Jessye Norman — you’ve inspired and will continue to inspire countless generations to come. Melanin magic ✨
Thank you for reading my blog this week — and Happy Black History month!