Social Influence

 In each of us, there is an inner influencer; a voice that is meant to be heard and inspire the people around us. My mission is to bring forth that inner voice in you. The women around me have shown me what it means to be an influencer - to be defiant against oppressive systems, to push forth meaningful conversations, and to lead with a level of poise that is indispensable.


Now, more than ever, I have realized the power of representation and leadership. Being a young black woman, I have always struggled with finding role models that looked like me. I was accustomed to seeing what society wanted younger girls to look up to. That being the "stereotypical white girl" that was plastered as every main character on Disney Channel, or in clothing ads, or even music videos. If it wasn't for the reassuring words of my family, envisioning myself as being a leader or influencer would have been extremely hard.


All over social media, I've seen young black women using their platform to emphasize the importance of being educated amid a racial pandemic. From leading protests to starting fundraisers, these young women have become influencers. They didn't need an insane amount of followers on Instagram to be "effective", all they needed was the willingness to be fearless.


Influencers are people who lead with a purpose. Who intentionally work to inspire and uplift those around them. Who form relationships with others to create a community. Who learn and grow every day so they can be the best version of themselves. Who believe in something bigger than themselves.


When I think of the women who have influenced me, I think of my mother, who always taught me to move through this world with kindness and compassion. I think of my grandmother, who has as much spunk as Madea herself, who taught me to never take crap from anyone. I think of my Aunt, whose kind energy radiates through everyone around her, who taught me to appreciate the joys of life. I think of the influencers I know through social media. Like Yara Shahidi who showed me the beauty of books written by black authors, like the literary genius James Baldwin. I think of Marsai Martin who produced her own movie at 14 years old. I think of Gabby Thomas, a Harvard track alum and 200-meter collegiate record holder who made all of the dreams I was too afraid to say out loud, seem like a reality.


These women have influenced who I am today, as I am here to influence the young girl reading these words. Influence can be something as simple as telling someone they look pretty today or ranting about your favorite book to your friends. There is an inner influencer in all of us, my dream is to let her shine.