I'm at my most creative when I’m deeply connected to the routines that serve me great self-preservation while also being in tune and having a quality connection with my community. My creativity flows like the Nile River when I am aligned physically, mentally, and emotionally.  For better understanding, I explore all the intersections that equal the unique combination of who I am and what interests me. I honor and incorporate my identities by experimenting and building a visual language that sources energy from the people, history, & places that define my roots. Whether photographing moments through my photo booth project at community events, bringing a creative photoshoot vision to life, or blending the different mediums I love, I thrive in environments where I can fully show up without hiding or shrinking myself. I’m especially inspired by the rich diversity, art, and history of Black culture in America and the African diaspora. In my work, I love to explore this through visual storytelling, whether still or moving images. There’s something powerful about image making, whether posed or candid. These moments fuel my creativity and drive me to tell stories that often go untold, preserving our narratives in personal and impactful ways. As a first-generation student, I navigate life with one foot in the culture that raised me and another in new spaces, balancing responsibilities and ambitions that often feel worlds apart. My background shapes my art deeply; it gives me a distinct lens to examine resilience, identity, and heritage in my work. The strength and beauty within my community constantly inspires me. In my art and photography, I incorporate themes of heritage and connection, using symbols and visual elements that are meaningful to me, like traditional patterns, historical references, or familiar colors from my upbringing. Each piece I create is a tribute to my community, portraying stories of unity and perseverance. I hope my work can inspire others to feel a sense of pride in their own identities, much like I am inspired by those who came before me. My creative journey aligns closely with Bayli’s dedication to her craft. Art for me is more than just a form of expression; it’s a way to honor my heritage and the people who shaped me. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue creating work that reflects the beauty and complexity of my community and heritage, supporting me in carrying Bayli’s legacy forward in my unique way. Through this scholarship, I’d have the opportunity to expand my work and deepen my dedication to preserving and sharing our stories with pride.

Transmuting Struggle to Strength: How Creativity Paved My Way When I moved from Atlanta, to the small town of Fort Pierce, Florida, I felt like I didn’t belong. As a young black girl with bold style and an accent that’s “too proper", I struggled to fit in. My creativity and my love for fashion paired with my introverted ways and unconventional ideas were often seen as “too much” for the small-town environment. It wasn’t easy trying to navigate my new surroundings while holding onto the uniqueness that set me apart. However, it was my camera that helped me break through these barriers. Photography became my bridge to understanding and connection. Through my lens, I began documenting the world around me and telling stories visually. Slowly, I began to build relationships, using art as my tool to bridge the gap and build my own world. While finding my creative voice, I faced significant financial struggles. Many encouraged me to attend a prestigious school, but without family support, that path seemed distant. Instead, I worked hard, explored alternative options, and found my way to Arizona State University to pursue a degree in the Arts. This journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s taught me resilience and the power of resourcefulness. I learned that creativity doesn’t care about race, wealth, or status—it only cares that you honor it and express yourself. Unfortunately, in today’s world, the ability to express your creativity seems like more of a privilege than a natural instinct. So many youths have the potential to be artists or simply create freely but lack access to the tools, support, and encouragement they need. This is why I’m passionate about giving back to my community. I have been and plan to continue to do this through guerrilla marketing, engaging with local art groups, and volunteering. My goal is to introduce youth to the many creative opportunities available to them, encouraging them to pursue their artistic passions, no matter their circumstances. Last year, I volunteered with the St. Lucie Sheriff’s Police Athletic League non-profit, working with children from ages 5 to 18. Not only did I help them with physical training, but I also brought my camera along to introduce them to photography and filmmaking. Watching their faces light up as they learned how to use a camera and express themselves visually was an incredibly rewarding experience. I’ve learned that by giving youth creative tools and showing them new pathways, you expand their minds and open doors they didn’t know existed. Here's a peak at some of what we made: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1_AxBv9vaabLSzzC3_-ZqSVrIbcxw7fdJ?usp=sharing. I wouldn’t be the artist I am today without the support I received. Whether it was my art teacher who pushed me to create pottery in 5th grade or my mom, who scrapbooked with me and encouraged my early artistic efforts, these experiences shaped who I am. My stepdad’s decision to trust me with his DSLR camera at ten years old set me on the path I’m on now. It’s because of their influence that I believe in the importance of supporting and uplifting young creatives. In the future, I hope to expand my art newsletter "Kreation Space", not just as a creative outlet for myself but as a platform for others. Eventually, I'd like to create a grant that will support young creatives who, like me, may not have all the resources they need but have the passion and drive to pursue their artistic impulses. Creativity has transformed my life. Now, I want to use it to transform the lives of others, helping the next generation find their way.