The 2022 Contestants for The Discovering Me…Scholarship Essay Contest

On Dec 10, 2022 from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM EST at The Woman's National Democratic Club, 1526 New Hampshire Ave. NW, Esther Productions, Inc and Black Student Fund presented THE DISCOVERY SUMMIT AND SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS CEREMONY. The 2022 Contestants for The Discovering Me…Scholarship Essay Contest include:

Taijah Alexander

Da’Niya Allison

Roza Ayele

Raine Badua

Michaela Banu

Dominique Barksdale

Joelle Barksdale

Laray Byrd

Chanylle Danqua

Janiya Drayton

Jayla Edwards

Fatou Gaye

Kiarra James

Tahjiani Jones

Simaya Hammond

Eva Holley

Diya Jha

Raea Jordan

Jemiah Lee*

Jo’Laea Lee

Madelynn Martin

Hiba Mohammed

Blessing Nkop

Amari Norris

Khloe-Rose Owens

Sanaa Stringfield

Laura Tapia

Rahel Belay-Tseganeh

Each year since 2019, Esther Productions Inc. has presented a unique scholarship essay contest that invites young ladies aged 13 through 18 to submit essays that tell their stories about growing up without their fathers and building their resilience as they face that challenge.

Esther Productions, Inc. is dedicated to using a variety of vehicles—traditional and nontraditional—to develop communities throughout the United States and Europe. It was created in 2004 by Jonetta Rose Barras, award-winning journalist and author of Whatever Happened to Daddy’s Little Girl? - estherproductionsinc.com

"The Black Student Fund (BSF) provides essential advocacy, academic and retention support to academically motivated African American and other underserved students to facilitate their access, admission and successful matriculation and graduation from member schools. BSF partners with member schools to provide financial assistance, as well as instruction, evaluations, feedback and monitoring necessary to facilitate the creation and maintenance of a supportive and responsive environment." - https://blackstudentfund.org/

The exploration of human experiences within the context of abstract art

Quote found on the Internet “The exploration of human experiences within the context of abstract art reveals a profound interplay between emotion and perception. Abstract art, characterized by its departure from representational forms, invites viewers to engage with their own feelings and interpretations. This genre transcends traditional boundaries, allowing individuals to connect with the artwork on a personal level, often evoking a range of responses that are deeply rooted in their own life experiences. The absence of recognizable subjects encourages a more introspective approach, prompting viewers to reflect on their emotions and thoughts as they navigate the vibrant colors, shapes, and textures presented before them.”

Nature’s Twirl

Nature’s Twirl. Digital art created on canvas. December 3, 2024. Afrika Abney

Multicultural literature

Quote found on the Internet “Multicultural literature encompasses a diverse range of literary works that reflect the varied cultural backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of different ethnic and social groups. This genre serves as a vital platform for voices that have historically been marginalized or underrepresented in mainstream literature. By exploring themes such as identity, belonging, and cultural conflict, multicultural literature invites readers to engage with the complexities of human experience across different societies and traditions. The significance of multicultural literature lies in its ability to foster understanding and empathy among readers from different backgrounds. Through rich narratives and authentic character portrayals, these works challenge stereotypes and promote a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity. They often highlight the struggles and triumphs of individuals navigating their identities within the context of their cultural herita...

Dance

Quote found on the Internet Ms. Afrika Abney specializes in West African dance, having honed her skills at NationHouse in D.C. With a unique style that blends traditional and contemporary elements, she inspires individuals of all abilities to embrace movement. Committed to fostering confidence, self-esteem, and personal expression through dance, Ms. Abney actively engages the community and empowers others to discover the transformative power of dance. When she went to Dance Place, years later, she studied Dunham Technique from Dr. Sherrill Berryman Johnson. DR. SHERRILL BERRYMAN JOHNSON "DR. J." "Dr. Sherrill Berryman Johnson was the Founder/Artistic Director of the first HBCU B.F.A. Dance Program at Howard University in Washington, DC. Dr. J, as we all fondly called her, was Dance. She was a woman of verve, grace, and intelligence; many academic achievements and an advocate of service. Dr. Sherrill Berryman Johnson, who, for many, many years taught, choreographed, adv...

Vibrant Visions of Faith

Vibrant Visions of Faith. Digital art created on canvas. November 26, 2024. Afrika Abney With the principle of faith, I am fortunate that I graduated from Bell Multicultural High School in 1993 because I felt alone, depressed, traumatized, isolated and discriminated against every time that I stepped inside the school from 1991 - 1993. The colors gold and shades of yellow are deliberately selected to depict optimism, while black represents faith.

Meditative Essence

Meditative Essence. Mix Media Digital art created on canvas. December 17, 2024. Afrika Abney For over three decades, I have practiced meditation and spiritual wellness. The colors selected reflect the experiences and scenes that I have frequented before the pandemic.

Brown Abstractions

Brown Abstractions. Digital art created on canvas. August 10, 2024. Afrika Abney This artwork stands as a testament to my exploration of identity and self-expression through the medium of digital artistry. The choice of brown as the primary color palette not only reflects a personal connection to my heritage but also serves to celebrate the richness and diversity of skin tones. The artwork is characterized by its intricate layering of various shades of brown, which are skillfully applied using bold and dynamic brushstrokes. This technique not only adds a sense of depth to the composition but also evokes a feeling of pride and strength associated with the color of my skin. Each stroke contributes to a visual narrative that invites viewers to engage with the emotional resonance of the piece, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the complexities of identity and culture. Through Brown Abstractions, I have successfully merged traditional artistic techniques with contemporary digital pract...

Cultural bridging

Quote found on the Internet “Cultural bridging in the workplace can help create a cognitive connection between people from different cultures, allowing them to understand each other's similarities and differences. This can lead to productive dialogue and learning. Here are some ways to bridge cultural gaps in the workplace: Develop cultural awareness: Take time to learn about your colleagues' and business partners' cultural backgrounds. Recognize differences: Acknowledge cultural and individual differences, as well as your own behaviors. Be respectful: Show respect and speak clearly. Adapt communication styles: Consider how your communication style might differ from others. Build relationships: Involve the whole group and seek feedback. Be transparent: Clarify things and ask for clarification when needed. Use technology wisely: Consider how technology can be used to help.” Quote found on the Internet Passionate and dedicated arts professional with deep roots in Washingto...

Come Immerse Yourself in Afternoon of Poetry and Baseball with Mr. Miller

Join Esther Productions, Inc, The Institute for African American Writing, and The Black Student Fund for an enriching afternoon of poetry and baseball with Mr. Miller. This event, titled MidnightRose, is a celebration of the diverse voices from the Washington Metropolitan Region and beyond. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the vibrant literary community through the works of award-winning poets and authors, allowing their words to inspire and uplift. MidnightRose is a showcase of the multigenerational, multicultural writers in the Washington Metropolitan Region and beyond presented by Esther Productions Inc., The Institute for African American Writing & The Black Student Fund. Experience the richness of the community through the presentations of award-winning poets and authors. Come allow the words to inspire and empower you. E. ETHELBERT MILLER is a literary activist and author of two memoirs and several poetry collections including his baseball trilogy: If God I...

Holiday Harmony

Holiday Harmony. Digital art created on canvas. November 25, 2024. Afrika Abney When I was a kid, I was interested in boys and surrounded by men. As an African-American woman, I am surrounded by numerous people. However, I am only interested in single men over the age of 30 born between the 1960s - 1980. During the holiday season in the past, I have had the opportunity to develop my skills and career.

Ms. Afrika Abney - Consultant Branding Blog

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