NOT ON YOUR TERMS
Highlighting the versatility and beauty of black womanhood.
PHOTOGRAPHY: CARMEN DANESHMANDI
CREATIVE DIRECTOR: BIANCA JEAN-Pierre
MAKE UP: ALEXIS CANAII BARROW
JEWELRY: JOROCCO
“I am a multifaceted strong black womAn. My willpower to love lightens the darkness of this world…
Individuality is about being free and accepting yourself. There are no boundaries to your greatness, so continue self-loving!”
“Discovering that there IS an infinite number of ways of being black is SO important and SO beautiful...
I try to be very aware of who I say I am, who I really am and who I want to be. For me, it’s about taking pride in the work which is a big challenge.”
“I have always done things my way when it comes to personal style. I learned at an early age to not worry about what other people think…
I'm constantly breaking out of my shell and living life more each day.”
“As a black woman in America, I am consistenTly receiving messages to constantly conform myself TO whiteNESS…
I am fortunate enough to witness the rise in representation of black women- whether it’s a powerhouse like Rihanna reshaping the beauty industry with Fenty Beauty, Viola Davis dominating acting, or Issa Rae prevailing in production and writing. I am constantly reminded that black women are truly magic.”
“People will always be cruel and hate on black women, but I've learned that I can prosper and overcome that hatred and cruelty by remaining carefree…
I don't let any stereotypes or agendas stop me from doing what I want to do.”
“It’s powerful to see people who look like you who are deputy editors, ceo’s, executives, attorneys,etc. it’s a reminder that I am able to do anything…
My core values keep me sane and my love for the Black woman is unconditional.”