Skip to main content

East of the Anacostia River

  ““East of the River” was simply a geographical description without particular significance. But, it later became how some describe the neighborhoods east of the Anacostia River — often with a negative connotation. During the 1930s and 1940s, land development of the area continued alongside increased racial diversification of the region. At the end of World War II, white flight into suburban Maryland and Virginia resulted in a majority-Black Anacostia. The Anacostia River watershed in the District of Columbia and Maryland is home to more than 800,000 people, 43 species of fish and some 200 species of birds. The watershed has been heavily urbanized over time, losing 6,500 acres of wetlands and 70% of its forest cover. Over the past four centuries the Anacostia has been given many names: the Eastern Branch of the Potomac, the other national river, the dirtiest river in the nation, the forgotten river.”


I am dedicated to making a difference in the lives of individuals and families in underserved communities east of the Anacostia River. As a program administrator with a commitment to empowerment, I have experience in hosting events, recruiting participants, and creating impactful experiences.


 Mission: My mission is to break down barriers and create opportunities for growth and success in communities that are often overlooked or stigmatized. I believe in the power of community and the potential for positive change.


 Expertise & Skills: With a background in program administration, event planning, and photography, I bring a unique set of skills to the table. I am dedicated to creating inclusive and engaging experiences that uplift and empower those around me.


Accomplishments: I have successfully provided program administration and photography services for events that have sparked meaningful conversations and brought people together. 


Past Services: On June 1, 2016, I provided program administration and photography services for an event that was presented by Francis Gregory and Esther Productions, Inc. and took place at the Francis Gregory Neighborhood Library (3660 Alabama Ave. SE.) from 2 PM to 4 PM which was an informative and provocative moderated conversation about the state of family in 21st Century America and what can be done to build that critical unit in American society and featured national and regional leaders Brittany Nicole Adams, MS Resident in Counseling and co-director Fatherless Daughter Reconciliation Project co-director of Esther Productions Inc.’s Fatherless Daughter Reconciliation Project; HyeSook Chung, director of D.C. Action for Children;, Darryl C. Green, Deep Forgiveness, and Frank Love (Yao Tyus), Host Frank Love Relationships Radio Show and author of “How to Gracefully Exit a Relationship.” Brother Yao (Hoke) Glover, assistant professor at Bowie State University.


Popular posts from this blog

MidnightRose: A Reading Series of Poetry & Prose

“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 of iden...

Nature's Brushstroke

  Nature's Brushstroke. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney 

Blogs for marketing and strategy purposes

    " A blogger is  someone who runs and controls a blog . He or she shares his or her opinion and knowledge on different topics for a target audience. Many bloggers feel strongly about an issue or topic, and they are motivated to write about it to bring attention to a need. This might be a social issue or cause, a problem that needs to be fixed, a belief or value that they hold strongly, or just a desire to help people. Blogging  enables you to reach the billions of people that use the Internet . Blogging can help you promote yourself or your business. Blogging works as a method for attracting an audience because it provides something of value to them before asking for anything in return. Blogs are often used to promote a business or company, though some blogs have become business in and of themselves." I created this blog to inform viewers about various topics that is connected to my work and services that I offer and provide as a consultant. This is not a per...

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...

Golden Orb of Inspiration

  Golden Orb of Inspiration. Digital art created on canvas. August 15, 2024. Afrika Abney  Last night, as I gazed up at the sky, the moon captured my attention with its luminous glow. It was a sight that stirred my imagination and inspired me to create. I decided to channel that inspiration into my digital abstract painting, where I chose to incorporate various shades of yellow. The warmth of the color seemed to echo the moon's gentle radiance, allowing me to express the beauty I felt in that moment.

The exploration of human experiences within the context of abstract art

    Quote found on the Internet “The exploration of human experiences within the context of abstract art reveals a profound interplay between emotion and perception. Abstract art, characterized by its departure from representational forms, invites viewers to engage with their own feelings and interpretations. This genre transcends traditional boundaries, allowing individuals to connect with the artwork on a personal level, often evoking a range of responses that are deeply rooted in their own life experiences. The absence of recognizable subjects encourages a more introspective approach, prompting viewers to reflect on their emotions and thoughts as they navigate the vibrant colors, shapes, and textures presented before them.”

Artful Humanity

      Quote found on the Internet  According to my research, “National Arts and Humanities Month (NAHM) originated in 1985 as a celebration known as National Arts Week. This initiative was designed to promote the importance of the arts and humanities in American culture, encouraging communities to engage with and appreciate various forms of artistic expression. The establishment of this month-long observance has since evolved into a significant annual event that highlights the contributions of artists, writers, and cultural organizations across the nation. In the same year, 1985, a notable development in the realm of technology occurred with the release of a paint application.  Together, these developments reflect the dynamic relationship between the arts and the tools that facilitate their creation and dissemination.” In 1985, I was 9 years old and a student at NationHouse.

Abstract brushstrokes of nature

  Abstract brushstrokes of nature. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney 

Narrative Layers

    Narrative Layers. Digital art created on canvas. October 2, 2024. Afrika Abney  I created Narrative Layers, a digital abstract painting, using layered brushstrokes and vibrant colors with the focal color - red. Red represents determination, courage, resilience, and creativity.  According to my research, “layered brushstrokes serve as a powerful representation of the different phases of artistic expression and emotional depth. Each stroke adds a unique texture and dimension, reflecting my evolving thoughts and feelings throughout the creative process. This technique not only enhances the visual appeal of the piece but also invites viewers to engage with the underlying story that unfolds within the layers.  Ultimately, the culmination of these layered brushstrokes results in a finished piece that resonates with a profound narrative.”

Cross Bridges

I have crossed over many bridges. I have seen many bridges. I have been under many bridges and at the end of each bridge, there is hope and light.                                            Cross Bridges. Digital art created on canvas. Afrika Abney