Panel Discussion: ESTRANGEMENT & RECONCILIATION

ESTHER PRODUCTIONS INC.

presents

ESTRANGEMENT & RECONCILIATION: The Wound and The Balm

a conversation during

THE NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK

For Self & Family

June 5, 2023

12:30-1:30 pm

A Virtual Event

The challenges of life can sometimes cause devastating traumas that can lead to personal or familial estrangement. What does estrangement look like? When we separate, losing our way, how do we find the path back to wholeness? How do we reconcile?

Join us for the answers to those and other questions during a provocative, informative and entertaining conversation during a week of live and previously recorded activities.

ESTRANGEMENT & RECONCILIATION features psychotherapist Dr. Nic Hardy, Tasha Smith, LCPC-S, LPC, CCTP-II, CTMH, CMC-1, NCC and Myla Johnson, Trinity University Washington senior whose award-winning research project focuses the impact of father absence and African American boys.

IT'S FREE.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED at https://www.estherproductionsinc.com/events-1/the-national-reconciliation-week-for-self-family-june-5-june-9-2023-2023-06-05-12-30

This and other programs by Esther Productions Inc. are made possible through generous donations from Kerry S. Pearson LLC, Fort Myer Construction Corporation Charitable Foundation, Emmanuel Bailey, Pepco, an Exelon Corporation and Esther's Friends.

Dr. Nic Hardy (June 7) is a psychotherapist in Houston, Texas who operates a popular counseling service. This will be his first appearance at The National Reconciliation Week; he is expected to examine family estrangement with the goal of ending it. In his practice, Dr. Hardy helps adult, individuals and couples improve their relationships and grow as individuals. His authenticity and relatability have allowed him to help people from all walks of life. He has been featured in national publications such as HuffPost, Cosmopolitan, NBC, PsychCentral, AskMen, Fatherly, and many others. Dr. Hardy is married and has a beautiful daughter named Brooklyn.

Tasha Smith, LCPC-S, LPC, CCTP-II, CTMH, CMC-1, NCC established Rejuvenating Hearts & Minds in 2016, a mental health and wellness organization that focuses on strengthening the family unit; she is its CEO. It aims to transform the lives of ethnic families and their approach to financial decision-making. After working 18 years in corporate America, Mrs. Smith recognized her mission was to combat societal norms and systemic challenges that contribute to mental illness and maintain financial inequality in marginalized communities. Mrs. Smith aims to bridge the gap by improving emotional d financial literacy through education, practical skills, application procedures, and support. In her work, Mrs. Smith helps individuals understand the emotional and psychological relationship they have with money. Mrs. Smith's goal is to help create generational wealth that extends beyond finances and assets.

Myla Johnson is a recent graduate from Trinity Washington University with a Bachelor of the Arts in Psychology. During her college career, she was inducted into the International Honor Society in Psychology and Phi Beta Kappa. Myla has also interned at the Child Guidance Clinic in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. Ms. Johnson is a recipient of the Access Path to Psychology and Law Experience (APPLE) Program Award by the American Psychology-Law Society's (AP-LS) Broadening Representation, Inclusion, Diversity, and Global Equity (BRIDGE) Committee for her research on " Predicting Emotional and Behavior Functioning of African American Boys: The Impact of Absentee Father's from the Home." Ms. Johnson is currently preparing to apply for Clinical-Forensic Psychology doctoral programs for 2024.

Empowering Women

"Empowering a woman empowers next generations." - Author Unknown "Empower the Women, Develop the Nation!" - Author Unknown "We rise by lifting others." - Author Unknown "Feminism is the ability to choose what you want to do." - Nancy Reagan Empowering Women. Digital art created on canvas. Afrika Abney

MIDNIGHTROSE: A Reading Series of Poetry and Prose features Mr. Kenneth Carroll, Ms. Elizabeth Bruce and Ms.Sasa Aakil

“MidnightRose serves as a vibrant platform that highlights the diverse voices of multigenerational and multicultural writers from the Washington Metropolitan Region and beyond. This initiative is brought to life by Esther Productions Inc., in collaboration with The Institute for African American Writing and The Black Student Fund. The series aims to celebrate the literary talents within the community, showcasing a variety of poetic and prose works that reflect the rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives that define the region. Attendees of MidnightRose can expect to engage with a dynamic array of award-winning poets and authors, each bringing their unique narratives and artistic expressions to the forefront. The event not only serves as a performance space but also as a gathering that fosters dialogue and connection among writers and audiences alike. By immersing oneself in the powerful words and stories shared during the series, participants are invited to explore themes o...

Gentle Rain

Gentle Rain. Digital art created on canvas. September 28, 2024. Afrika Abney The season of Autumn 2024 commenced just six days ago, and on this rainy Saturday morning, I woke up from my restful sleep a couple of hours ago. The sound of raindrops tapping against the window provided a soothing backdrop as I prepared to embrace the day ahead. This weekend, I have dedicated my time to focusing on my branding and delving into the creation of my digital artwork, both of which are essential components of my creative journey. Have a creative weekend.

Professional Fusions

Professional Fusions. Digital art created on canvas. September 10, 2024. Afrika Abney “Professional Fusions a blend of both colors orange and blue, representing a unique combination of professionalism and creativity. Orange, often associated with enthusiasm and creativity, brings a vibrant energy to the professional environment, encouraging innovation and dynamic thinking. Meanwhile, blue is widely recognized for its connotations of trust, reliability, and calmness, making it an ideal choice for fostering a sense of security and stability in professional settings.”

Luminous Moon

Luminous Moon. Digital art created on canvas. September 15, 2024. Afrika Abney Last night before going to sleep, I took a moment to gaze at the moon, its luminous presence casting a serene glow across the evening sky. In addition to this, I read thought-provoking quotes, which not only stimulates my mind but also enriches my creative process. Additionally, since August 8, 2024, I have been using paintapp to create my digital art before going to sleep or upon waking up from my restful sleep. Selected Expertise & Skills: Proficient in using paintapp, Freshpaint, and Medibang for digital art creation Strong eye for detail and composition Ability to convey emotions through art Constantly seeking inspiration from nature and literature

Past Educational Services

I provided educational consulting services from 1995 - 2018 for numerous schools and organizations. Among them include Edlavitch Jewish Community Center of Washington, DC (2018), DC International School (subbed for Ms. Mireya Goni Camejo (Spanish Art Teacher) – 2016 - 2017), Higher Achievement (2003 - 2004;2013) Washington, DC - Metro, Mundo Verde Public Charter Schools (2013 - 2014), Young Playwrights' Theatre (YPT) (2012 - 2013), Roda Movements (2015),M.O.M.I.E.S TLC (2015), YWDEP (2015), Kingdom Kids Care (2013), Joy of Motion Dance Center (2013 - 2015), Dance Institute of Washington (DIW) (2010 - 2012), and many others. I no longer provide educational services. https://msafrikaabney.weebly.com/educational-services.html

Respect Spectrum

Respect Spectrum. Digital art created on canvas. September 18, 2024. Afrika Abney “The concept of Respect Spectrum encompasses a diverse array of colors, specifically shades of pink, purple, and blue. The Respect Spectrum is a multifaceted concept that incorporates a variety of colors, particularly emphasizing shades of pink, purple, and blue. Each of these colors is imbued with distinct meanings and cultural associations that contribute to the overarching theme of respect. Pink is often seen as a gentle and nurturing color, evoking feelings of compassion and understanding, which can foster an atmosphere of respect in interpersonal relationships. Purple, historically associated with royalty and nobility, conveys a sense of dignity and honor, making it a powerful color in contexts where respect is paramount. Blue, on the other hand, is commonly associated with trust and reliability, qualities that are essential in establishing and maintaining respectful interactions.”

Enthusiasm in Color

Enthusiasm in Color. Digital art created on canvas. September 21, 2024. Afrika Abney “Enthusiasm in Color is beautifully captured in the lively shades of red-orange and pink. These colors are not just visually striking; they embody a sense of energy and excitement that can invigorate the spirit. The red-orange hue, in particular, is a powerful representation of passion and drive, igniting a spark of motivation that encourages individuals to pursue their creative endeavors with fervor. It serves as a reminder of the dynamic force that enthusiasm can bring into our lives, pushing us to take action and embrace new challenges. On the other hand, enthusiasm for pink lies in its gentle yet uplifting nature. This color radiates a sense of warmth and joy, creating an inviting atmosphere that fosters happiness and positivity. Pink has a unique ability to evoke feelings of comfort and connection, making it an ideal representation of the softer side of enthusiasm. It encourages a sense of communi...

ClearHonesty

My journey into the world of consulting began during my high school years at Bell Multicultural High School, where I participated in the Congressional Art Competition between 1992 and 1993. At that time, I was just a teenager, navigating the complexities of adolescence while immersing myself in the vibrant world of art. This experience not only honed my artistic skills but also opened doors to new opportunities, allowing me to explore the intersection of creativity and professional development. Drawing from my formal education in the visual arts, I have developed a unique approach to consulting that emphasizes creativity and innovation. My background enables me to devise strategies that are not only effective but also visually compelling. For instance, I often use the color white in my presentations and materials, as it symbolizes purity and honesty. Ultimately, my experiences as a young artist have shaped my professional identity, driving me to create impactful and meanin...

2016 Color Chronicles

2016 Color Chronicles. Digital art created on canvas. September 5, 2024. Afrika Abney The concept of the 2016 Color Chronicles introduces a narrative framework that emphasizes the importance of specific colors—namely blue, pink, and dark pink—in relation to the events of that year. This approach not only serves to illustrate the emotional landscape of 2016 but also invites a deeper exploration of how these colors can encapsulate personal experiences and collective sentiments. By focusing on these particular hues, the narrative seeks to convey a rich tapestry of feelings and memories that were prevalent during that time. Upon reflection, the colors that best represent the essence of 2016, a year that has since passed, are primarily blue and pink. These colors were deliberately selected for their emotional depth and their capacity to articulate the diverse experiences I navigated throughout that year. The choice of these specific shades is rooted in a profound connection to ...

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