Skip to main content

Cultural awareness



Cultural awareness. Digital art created on canvas. August 3, 2024. Afrika Abney



This exquisite blue abstract painting serves as a profound representation of the intricate tapestry of human diversity and unity. The artwork features a dynamic interplay of blue and black brush strokes, each meticulously applied to create a visual narrative that resonates with viewers on multiple levels. The varying shades of blue, from the deepest navy to the softest sky blue, symbolize the rich spectrum of cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives that coexist within our global society. The artist's deliberate choice of colors and strokes invites contemplation, encouraging observers to reflect on the beauty of diversity and the importance of inclusivity in our interactions.


Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this painting embodies a powerful message about the significance of cultural awareness and understanding. The brush strokes, each unique yet harmoniously blended, illustrate the idea that while individuals may come from different walks of life, they can contribute to a collective identity that is both vibrant and cohesive. This artwork serves as a reminder that embracing diversity is not merely an ideal but a necessity for fostering meaningful connections and promoting a sense of belonging. It challenges viewers to appreciate the unique qualities that each person brings to the table, ultimately advocating for a world where differences are celebrated rather than merely tolerated.


“In a professional context, the themes encapsulated in this painting extend to the workplace, where cultural awareness plays a crucial role in enhancing communication and collaboration. Leaders and managers who cultivate an understanding of diverse cultural expressions can create environments that foster respect and appreciation among team members. This not only improves employee morale and performance but also attracts a diverse talent pool, enriching the organizational culture. By integrating the principles of unity and diversity reflected in this artwork, businesses can achieve better outcomes, make informed decisions, and motivate employees to contribute authentically to their roles, thereby creating a more inclusive and productive workplace.”


My skill set extends to administration, consulting, event hosting, and programming, all aimed at promoting cultural awareness and unity.



Popular posts from this blog

Forever In Your Eyes by Sylvia Dianne Beverly

    “Forever In Your Eyes”  Sylvia Dianne Beverly  ISBN-13:9781546266716 Publisher: AuthorHouse Publication date:11/27/2018 Pages:132 ​Product dimensions:5.00(w) x 8.00(h) x 0.31(d) “Forever In Your Eyes” is an inspirational, uplifting, motivational and delightful book. Each of the poems are insightful, healing and touching such as “Deep In My Heart,” “My Heart Speaks,” and “Bring Back The Holy Spirit.” After reading, “Forever In Your Eyes,” you will find yourself completely energized and refreshed. My favorite poem written by Sylvia Dianne Beverly and is published in “Forever In Your Eyes” is entitled: “It’s Up To Me.”  Reviewed by Afrika Abney July 2007 https://www.amazon.com/Forever-Your-Sylvia-Dianne-Beverly/dp/1546266712   Ms. Sylvia Dianne Beverly, “Ladi Di” is a native of Washington, D.C,  founder/director of  "Girls with Hearts," (youth poetry group),  poet, and author of Forever In Your Eyes (A potpourri o...

IT TAKES TWO…MAYBE MORE: Blended Families

  Join Dr. Rose Shelton, Carmen Haskins, Jacquelyn Smith - Edwards and A. Scott Bolden for IT TAKES TWO…MAYBE MORE: Blended Families on June 9, 2022. Photo found on the Internet Rose Shelton, PhD, NCC, LCPC, C.Ht, holds an MBA in International Relations, a master’s in clinical mental health counseling, and a PhD in counselor education and supervision from Capella University with a focus in multicultural theory and social justice advocacy competency. Photo found on the Internet Carmen E. Haskins, LCSW, CCTP is founder of P.I.N.K Solutions, PLLC. She is a clinical social worker specialist in High Point, North Carolina. She is the author of a trauma focused book, "Secrets Kill: Come out of the Darkness." Haskins has more than 11 years of diverse experiences with a particula...

Receive Free Copy of Fathering Words on October 14th

Free Copy of Fathering Words by Mr. Ethelbert Miller on October 14th as he is the special guest for  Me, Myself & Our Story: The Art of the Memoir, Part 1 scheduled for October 14th from 10 am to 2 pm. It is presented by Esther Productions, Inc and The Institute for African American Writing.  There'll be light refreshments and a prize for the best draft essay as voted by participants. So, you won't want to miss this. REGISTER NOW. (Seating is limited to 10) -  https://www. estherproductionsinc.com/ events-1/me-myself-and-our- story-the-art-of-memoir-part-1 "Moving beyond the loss of both his father and brother, E.Ethelbert Miller tells the story of how love survived in his family. When Miller was about ten years old, his father told him how he considered leaving his mother. Years later, now a writer and a father, Miller looks back on the simple remark and how it shaped him. In Fathering Words, Miller explores his development as an African American writer, the res...

Why Work with Women and Girls?

 " As women, we have been taught to always compete with each other and compare ourselves on the basis of the way we look and act. Working with each other closely kills that way of thinking, empowers us and helps us create together in an environment that we feel safe in." Therefore, working with women and girls not helps me to empower them to feel good about themselves, but to heal themselves from trauma and other experiences that they may encountered. Organizations such as Esther Productions, Inc and the African American Women's Resource Center allowed me to work with a diverse set of women and girls from different backgrounds and sexual orientation beliefs.  In 2004, I began to work with Esther Productions, Inc and from 2017 - 2018, I provided services for the African American Women's Resource Center.  Esther Productions, Inc. is dedicated to using a variety of vehicles—traditional and nontraditional—to develop communities throughout the United States and Europ...

Self-introspection

“Self-introspection, or self-reflection, can be an important part of a professional life. It can help people understand their abilities, improve their performance, and develop self-awareness.” Reflective Blues. Digital art created on canvas. August 8, 2024. Afrika Abney Introducing a captivating piece of art that invites viewers into a realm of deep contemplation and self-introspection. This blue abstract painting, characterized by its rich and varied shades of blue, serves as a visual representation of tranquility and depth. Each stroke is meticulously applied, creating a sense of movement and depth that draws the eye and engages the viewer in a dialogue about their inner self. In my capacity as a consultant, I leverage my formal education and training in the arts to offer specialized consulting services tailored for small businesses and nonprofit organizations. My confidence in my creative abilities empowers me to deliver innovative solutions and services that meet the unique needs ...

Welcome

The above photos portrays Ms. Afrika Abney at Zenebech Restaurant after she disseminated some flyers in the Adams Morgan area on September 8, 2019.     The purpose of this blog is to share information regarding the consulting services and work that Ms. Afrika Abney offers and provides since 1992. She has over 17 years of professional experience in designing and implementing media campaigns for individuals, small businesses, and nonprofit organizations. Ms. Abney has worked with a variety of clients in the arts and entertainment, media, and non-profit industries. "Afrika Abney is an awesome marketing consultant. As president of Esther Productions Inc., I have worked with her for nearly a decade on various projects. She has helped us define and target our audiences for each event or program. She has helped us brainstorm effective and creative ways to audiences, and she has been one of the critical elements of our success. If you want marketing, promotions and all around ha...

The power of speaking up

Quote found on the Internet “The power of speaking up is an open culture where people feel empowered to express opinion, debate issues, provide insight and perspective, and is the starting point for an organization to grow and succeed.” Dedicated to creating a culture where every voice is heard and valued, I believe in the power of speaking up to drive organizational growth and success. My mission is to promote honesty, respect, and influence through transparent and constructive dialogues. With a robust background in communication and problem-solving, I bring a unique perspective to discussions and decision-making processes. I actively engage in debates, providing insight and perspective to contribute to effective solutions. Throughout my career, I have successfully raised concerns about workplace safety, ethical issues, and harassment, leading to tangible improvements in organizational processes and outcomes. I have a proven track record of driving positive change through open and ho...

INSIDE JOB WRITING INSTITUTE: The Art of Personal Essay Writing Workshops

  INSIDE JOB WRITING INSTITUTE: The Art of Personal Essay Writing WORKSHOP Oct 01, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM EDT CHANGE OF LOCATION  - 1629 K St NW Suite 300 About the event Everyone, even teen girls-- or maybe especially teen girls--have stories to tell. Esther Productions Inc. and The Black Student Fund, nonprofit organizations based in Washington, DC, are presenting a four-week writing institute designed to help each participant discover her inner story while learning how to present it using the personal essay. Award-winning journalist and author Jonetta Rose Barras will lead the workshop. She has expertly used the art of personal essay to take readers inside her world, helping them understand and assess important local and national issues. Her writings have appeared in the Washington Post, The Hillrag, The Washington City Paper, Essence Magazine, The DC Line. She has written three nonfiction books and two collections of poetry. Her fiction and essays  have appeared in numer...

Father/Daughter Relationships

  Father and daughter is a "complex one, and all the more so given that it has perhaps been explored less than other relationships."  Unfortunately, the kind of relationship that I have had with my father is the disappointed daughter. I feel as though that my father was a stranger that I met on the street because of the type of relationship that I had with him. It's a chilly relationship between the pair of us, and I am quite aware of this. I became distanced with him when I was 13 which was in the Summer of 1989.  I grieved for the father that I could not have for many years. When I was growing up, I experienced all of the symptoms of father-shaped gap. Yet this has also made me slightly distant with other people, especially men, who I always fear will disappoint me. I feel persistent regret at the fact that I missed the opportunity to know my father because he divorced my mother and remarried when I was 13. This creat...

The AACL Tour presented by Esther Productions Inc. in partnership with The Black Student Fund and The Institute for African American Writing

 The AACL Tour opened on March 16th and took place at Francis Gregory. The next AACL Tour is scheduled to take place on April 20, 2024. Please see details below:  (Photo credit from Esther Productions, Inc's programs)- https://www.estherproductionsinc.com/aachildrensliterature   Esther Productions Inc., in partnership with The Black Student Fund and The Institute for African American Writing presents two authors Ms. Joy Jones and Mr. E.Ethelbert Miller on April 20th. Info:  aachildrenslit2023 @gmail.com . " Joy Jones has taught creative writing and public speaking to middle school students and coached poetry slam teams. Her children’s book Tambourine Moon (Simon & Schuster) was chosen in 2000 as a Kid’s Pick of the Lists by the American Booksellers Association, selected as one of the best books for children by the black caucus of the ALA, and seen on Fox TV’s hit show The Bernie Mac Show. She is also the author of Private Lessons:A Book of Meditations for Te...