Afrokia: From Then to Now
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When Afrokia was created, the intent was to share my love for Caribbean countries. I still have this love, but it has evolved into something more.
Afrokia is an artistic expression of my exploration of my cultural and ethnic identity. It's the manifestation of my creativity and the hope that we, as a people, can unite on common ground.
I'm more than just Haitian—I'm also American, maybe Taíno, and also from somewhere in West Africa. Yes, my cultural background is part of my identity, but not the whole of it.
Thus, I find that although we are diverse people, we are more alike than different, which I love.
I love artistic expression through wordplay and graphic design. This passion comes alive through Afrokia's collections—from statement pieces that spark conversations about heritage to designs that blend traditional symbols with contemporary style. Each creation is a bridge between where we come from and where we're going.
As I've explored my own identity through these creative outlets, I've realized something powerful: my personal journey of self-discovery has given me tools and insights that can help others on their own paths.
While I am on this journey, I find myself growing in purpose and becoming grounded in power. My purpose is to give, encourage, and support those seeking to be the best version of themselves. This power comes from the Creator of this amazing reality we live in, the Breath of Life, YHWH.
We are all born to break the barriers of self-doubt and live out our dreams—dreams that will not only help the people around us but nourish the soul within us. There is greatness in our DNA, and it's what connects us to one another. Let this greatness thrive and shine as it was created to.
Afrokia is not exactly a person, place, or thing, but an idea—an idea where we are all connected and different at the same time, like small parts of a bigger picture. What began as love for Caribbean countries has grown into love for all our interconnected stories and shared humanity.
As I breathe, walk, and live out this idea, I hope that you, the one who took the time to read this post, are striving to make yourself and the people around you better than they were yesterday.