Where do you work?
I am a Chicago-based actor, teaching artist, and arts activist. I hold a B.A. in English and Theatre Arts from Rollins College and an M.F.A. in Acting from Northwestern University, where I was a member of the inaugural cohort. My work allows for me to be part of meaningful stories that ignite important conversations with audiences, while also helping make the arts more safe and accessible for all.

How long have you been involved with Women Unite!?
I just recently began working with WU! What drew me to this organization is its mission to making the world a more just and compassionate place by uplifting voices of the ones who are usually silenced. It aligns so well with my own work in the arts, as I use my talents to help build community.

What do you like most about WU!?
I am loving just how much everyone is dedicated to the work that they do. It’s always nice being around people that are passionate about their work and wanting to use their talents to help make the world a better place. It motivates me to want to continue to do better.

What’s an issue you care deeply about? Why?
Honestly, there isn’t just one. I’m passionate about them all. I am a cis-gendered, heterosexual Southern Black woman that grew up in the state of Florida. I move throughout the world in the fullness of who I am and I do it unapologetically, even though there are parts of my identity give me privileges above others, while other parts of me don’t.

Every issue affects us all whether we know it or not. It is important that we are consistently listening and learning from each other, while also showing up for one another. It’s the only way we are going to make change for the better in our communities.

What’s a hobby you have?
I enjoy reading and writing. It’s my dream to own my own library in my home one day with books surrounding me everywhere. I just love being able to escape to different worlds through literature.

What gives you hope?
The next generation. In my work in theatre I have been fortunate enough to work with the youth (just typing that makes me feel old) in various capacities. I am inspired by their drive and their work ethic. I truly believe that they are going to continue to build on (and change for the better) so many things us millennials (and older generations as well) have been fighting for. And they are doing it in ways that are so creative. It makes me so proud.

Fun/random fact you want to share?
When I was five years old I wrote my first presidential campaign speech. I thought that I could be president of the United States while also being on Broadway at the same time. My best friend, Stephanie (who still is my bestie today) would be my V.P. while she worked as a vet at the same time. And when I would have shows at night she would take over the country, and when she had to take care of someone’s pet I would run the country.

While we both no longer have those political dreams, I am proud to say that we both are doing what we love (with her as a vet and me in theatre). Every time I think of this memory it makes me smile. I’m sure that campaign speech is somewhere in my parents’ home as well.

What’s one of your favorite local businesses?
The Understudy! It’s a drama book store and coffee shop in Andersonville. It’s amazing! I 100% recommend going there. On any given day you can find me sitting there working and enjoying the atmosphere. So if you haven’t, go check them out!