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Deep-rooted connection to Washington, D.C

“On September 9, 1791, three commissioners overseeing the capital's construction named the city in honor of President Washington. The same day, the federal district was named Columbia, a feminine form of Columbus, which was a poetic name for the United States commonly used at that time.”

A dynamic and driven professional with over 24 years of comprehensive experience in contracting and consulting, I have a deep-rooted connection to Washington, D.C., where I was born and raised. From 1995 to 2019, I worked across every Ward of the city, honing my skills as a self-employed contractor dedicated to delivering high-quality, client-tailored products and services. My expertise as an independent consultant allows me to leverage in-depth industry knowledge, providing strategic insights that empower clients to effectively achieve their goals. My commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction drives me to consistently exceed expectations while navigating diverse challenges in contract-based environments.



My educational background includes attendance at NationHouse and Bell Multicultural High School, culminating in a high school diploma in 1993, followed by my studies at the Corcoran School of the Arts, where I graduated in 1997.


My artistic pursuits have been recognized through participation in the Congressional Art Competition and multiple grants from the D.C. Commission of the Arts and Humanities, reflecting my engagement with the arts and community. My work has been showcased in numerous exhibitions in Washington, D.C., and New York City, underscoring my multifaceted talents and dedication to both my craft and community involvement.

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Djimo Kouyate

  Commissioned Photography for Baba Djimo Kouyate Smithsonian Folklife Festival, 1997, Washington, DC Photograph by Ms. Afrika Abney   "Djimo Kouyaté (August 16, 1946 - August 1, 2004). Djimo Kouyate was from the Malinké tribe, a sub-group of the Mandingo people. Born in Tambacounda, Senegal, he was from a distinguished family of griots who trace their ancestry back to the thirteenth century. A master kora player and a fine singer and dancer, Djimo also played a variety of other instruments including balafon (wooden xylophone), drums, and other string instruments. He worked with the Senegalese National Ballet as a singer and dancer since 1960, and was a founding member of the National Instrumental Ensemble of Senegal."

Me, Myself and Our Story: A Creative Writing Institute in Poetry,Short Story and Memoir Writing

Me, Myself and Our Story: A Creative Writing Institute in Poetry,Short Story and Memoir Writing Feb 10, 2024, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM EST 901 G St. NW, Washington, DC -Room 401-E Esther Productions Inc. is presenting a professional creative writing institute providing instruction in poetry, fiction and memoir writing. Course of study will provide six weeks of focus and instruction on each topic. That is six weeks of poetry, six weeks of fiction and six weeks of memoir writing. The Institute is for young ladies 15-19 years old who have an interest in creative writing. The first session will be in poetry. Students should be prepared to attend all six sessions. Registration is required; seating is limited. So register now! - www.estherproductionsinc.com/events-1/me-myself-and-our-story-a-creative-writing-institute-in-poetry-short-story-and-memoir-writing For more information: write to estherproductionsinc@gmail.com Please note these workshops are only for young ladies aged 15-19.

Nature's Prelude

    Nature's Prelude. Digital art created on canvas. September 23, 2024. Afrika Abney  “Nature's Prelude embodies the serene condition of the sky that heralds the arrival of rain, symbolizing a product that honors the exquisite rhythms of the natural world. This tranquil moment in the atmosphere serves as a precursor to the impending rainfall, which is poised to rejuvenate the landscape. The calmness that envelops the sky acts as a gentle reminder of the continuous cycles inherent in weather patterns.”

DC Public Charter School Board

"DC PCSB is an independent government agency of the District of Columbia, created in 1996, led by a volunteer seven-member board. DC PCSB provides oversight to 135 public charter schools, which are managed by 69 independently run nonprofit organizations called local education agencies" The DC Public Charter School Board has listed several workshops,The Discovery Summit and Scholarship Awards Ceremony, and Discovering Me...Without You: An Annual Personal Essay Contest which were all launched by Esther Productions, Inc in their bulletin in the past. 10-26 - 22  https://mailchi.mp/3dd58c7b5cc2/wednesday-bulletin-795754?e=4ae2bafe99 11-22 - 22  https://mailchi.mp/6b8b007a5b05/wednesday-bulletin-795758?e=4ae2bafe99 11-23-22  https://mailchi.mp/a3197817a7ab/wednesday-bulletin-795770?e=4ae2bafe99 11-30 - 22  https://mailchi.mp/7498c107cc56/wednesday-bulletin-795774?e=4ae2bafe99 12-7-22  https://mailchi.mp/70cf4b50e59c/wednesday-bulletin-795782?e=4ae2bafe99 9 - 20 ...

Professional Positivity

  Professional Positivity. Digital art created on canvas. September 23, 2024. Afrika Abney “Humor that is intended to lighten the atmosphere during work can often miss the mark for me. Instead of providing a welcome distraction, such jokes can come across as disrespectful and inappropriate in a professional setting. I believe that humor should enhance the workplace experience, not detract from it or undermine the seriousness of my work. When jokes are presented in a way that seems to trivialize the work environment, they fail to resonate with me. I find that humor should foster camaraderie and positivity, but when it crosses the line into disrespect, it loses its appeal. It is essential to maintain a level of professionalism. Ultimately, I do not appreciate humor that is veiled as lightheartedness if it carries an undertone of disrespect.”

Brain Gilmore at Francis Gregory - This Saturday

  Award-winning poet Brian Gilmore will read excerpts from his upcoming book " No More Worlds To Conquer: The Black Poet in Washington DC Since Paul Laurence Dunba r" on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at Francis Gregory. " BRIAN GILMORE  is a native of Washington D.C., a poet and long-time public interest attorney. He is also the author of four books of poetry and numerous essays for The Progressive Magazine.  Brian has won numerous awards, including the 2020 Michigan Notable Book Award for his book, come see about me marvin (Wayne State University Press). He is Senior Lecturer in the Law and Society Program at the University of Maryland - College Park." Register at  https://www. estherproductionsinc.com/ events-1/african-americans- and-childrens-literature-on- tour Please join him along with Ms. Mathis on Saturday. Info:  aachildrenslit2023@ gmail.com

Courage

  Courage. Digital art created on canvas. August 2, 2024. Afrika Abney  The essence of courage comes to life with vibrant shades of red hues. The rich palette and innovative use of color evoke feelings of strength and bravery, making it a striking representation of resilience and passion. “Courage in the workplace can involve acting with integrity, conviction, and a sense of purpose. It can also mean creating an environment that supports and rewards courageous behavior. Speaking up: Sharing concerns, offering criticism, or challenging the status quo Risk-taking: Trying new ideas, approaches, or responsibilities Standing up for what's right: Advocating for ethical behavior, reporting wrongdoing, or addressing misconduct.”

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...

Perceptual Harmony

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The 4th Annual Teach Truth Day of Action with Author Carolivia Herron

​ "Carolivia Herron is a retired professor of comparative literature who directs the ​  EpicCentering the National Mall creative writing program for at risk youth. She is best ​  known as the author of the children’s book Nappy Hair. She is a speaker with the Pen ​  Faulkner Writers in Schools program, an African American Jew, and an active member ​  of Tifereth Israel of Washington, DC." About the event: Jun 08, 2024, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Washington, 3660 Alabama Ave SE, Washington, DC 20020, USA Join Esther Productions Inc., The Spoken Word and Francis Gregory Neighborhood Library as we co-sponsor the 4th Annual Teach Truth Day of Action, a Zinn Education Project, coordinated by Rethinking Schools and Teaching for Change. Come stand with Esther Productions Inc. The Spoken Word and the Francis Gregory against banning books and preventing the teaching of history. Come hear Author Carolivia Herron read and discuss her book "Nappy Hair," which is banned in New Yor...