In 2019, I had the opportunity to be a featured speaker at the event titled "How Can Art Meaningfully Contribute to the Social Justice Struggle," which was part of the University of the Streets Cafe series. This event offered a relaxed environment for individuals from diverse backgrounds to attend, ask questions, and engage in discussions with three selected speakers. Salima, Johnny, and I sat scattered in the crowd and had a beautiful conversation, drawing on our various experiences navigating social justice through art.

Five years after joining UCPX, I was asked to teach UCPXI. It was one of the most beautiful experiences I have ever had. Being able to be on the other side of the experience that changed my life was so rewarding. Encouraging the group to venture out of their comfort zones, encouraged me to look at where I was.

Sequence - 2014

se•quence sēkwəns/ -a particular order in which related events, movements, or things follow each other. With overcome being the first step on my road to a fulfilled, meaningful life being complete it is time to move along to the next step. This journey continues now with a focus of growth and developing skills; the next step in this sequence. The series of portraits are based on just a few of the many beautiful women in my life. I built up layers of ink, chalk and charcoal while studying the details unique to each person. Challenging myself to improve my drawing skills, which were lacking. Also to improve my skills of recreation. I hope to continue working in this style, growing and learning as I go. The second series is a group of paintings of women from my imagination, large, vibrant, intense and showcased in different levels of completion. I have always struggled with figuring out when something is done or accepting completion in most things in life, especially my artwork. So I decided to challenge and expand my thoughts of what completion really means.

In May 2012 I had my first solo art show. I painted

In 2010, I got sober and started a journey of healing and learning how to love myself. SCYAP’s Urban Canvas Project played a pivotal role in my healing journey. The Urban Canvas Project was an 8-month program that employed 12 at-risk youth ages 16-30 to create art, build skills, and begin healthy habits.