Skip to main content

Successful Journeys



Quote found on the Internet

“Success, says Maya Angelou, is liking what you do, and liking how you do it. Success for you will not be the same as success for me. Success is always uniquely personal. And it has to be. We are all completely unique individuals with unique talents, abilities, interests, circumstances, relationships, and opportunities.”

My professional pursuits encompass a diverse array of creative and consultative endeavors, including art, dance, and poetry. These activities not only serve as my passions but also define my career path, allowing me to express my creativity and engage with various communities. Through these mediums, I strive to inspire and connect with others, fostering a deeper appreciation for the arts while also utilizing my skills in consulting to provide valuable insights and guidance.

In addition to my artistic and professional interests, I am deeply committed to advocating for environmental justice and combating racism and discrimination. These social issues resonate with me on a personal level, motivating me to contribute to initiatives that promote equity and sustainability. I believe that addressing these challenges is essential for creating a more just and inclusive society, and I actively seek opportunities to engage in discussions and actions that further these causes.

Over the years, from the 1980s to 2018, I have been fortunate to encounter numerous opportunities that have enriched my personal and professional journey. These experiences have shaped my understanding of the world and have allowed me to grow both as an artist and as an advocate for social change. Each opportunity has contributed to my development, enabling me to refine my skills and expand my network, ultimately enhancing my ability to make a positive impact in the areas I am passionate about.

Popular posts from this blog

Why I do not like the 4th of July!

I do not like the 4th of July because so many lives have been lost. So many people alarmed by the alarming loud sounds of Fireworks. So many people have been hurt simply by Fireworks. As for myself, year after year, I have become traumatized by Fireworks for various reasons. Yet, some people wonder why as a Black American, I do not like the 4th of July.  I do not like the 4th of July because there really is not anything to celebrate. Racism, corruption, brutality, hatred, discrimination and prejudice floods the streets and destroys society. You spend money on Fireworks to wish America, Happy Independence Day, and Birthday. Really? Is America really happy? The colors red, white, and blue are supposed to have a significant symbolization. Yet, to me, it symbolizes blood, disassociation, and anger.  “You have to find what sparks a light in you so that you in your own way can illuminate the world.”- Oprah Winfrey "Celebrate the little things." – Author Unknown   "Our fl...

FINDING YOUR WAY FORWARD: Creating A Reconciliation Plan for You an interactive workshop with jonetta rose barras

THE NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK For Self & Family June 9, 2023 12:30-1:00 pm A Virtual Event FINDING YOUR WAY FORWARD: Creating A Reconciliation Plan for You an interactive workshop with jonetta rose barras Ms. Barras is the The founder Esther Productions Inc. and The National Reconciliation Week: For Self and Family. She has been leading reconciliation coaching workshops since 2004. Ms. Barras is also an award-winning author of Bridges: Reuniting Daughters and Daddies (Bancroft Press 2005) and Whatever Happened to Daddy's Little Girl: The Impact of Fatherlessness on Black Women (RandomHouse 2000). https://www. estherproductionsinc.com/ events-1/the-national- reconciliation-week-for-self- and-family-june-9-2023-2023- 06-09-12-30   "The National Reconciliation Week advances the concept that leading a healthy centered, balanced life requires being in touch with our emotions and understanding the effects they may have on our physical, mental and spiritual health. The process...

Black Friday Weekend - BZB Gift Show 2022

  30th Annual BZB Shop til Ya Drop! NOV 25-26th Black Friday & Saturday Shiloh Baptist Church 1510 9th Street NW(9th & P Sts) Washington DC 20001 https://bzbinternational.com/ https://www. washingtoninformer.com/d-c-s- busy-bee-to-reopen-holiday- shopping-extravaganza-after- two-year-hiatus/ https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ shop-bzb-black-friday- saturday-tickets-467879559357 Janice Ferebee, MSW,  is an internationally recognized speaker, author, global female empowerment expert, and elected official, with a Master of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania's School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2). She is the founder & Chief Woman Warrior (CWW) of Ferebee Enterprises International, LLC, a global female empowerment social enterprise.  With over 40 years' expertise, Janice has the distinction of being recognized by  BET Teen Summit ,  The Oprah Winfrey Show  and  ESSENCE Magazine ,  for her award-winning GOT IT GOIN' ON® (GIGO...

“What are your best practices to advocate for yourself”?

  Quote found on the Internet In order to effectively establish my identity as a professional consultant, it is essential to clearly communicate the range of services I offer. My expertise encompasses various areas, including art consultancy, book promotion strategies, and comprehensive digital and email marketing solutions. By articulating these services, I aim to enhance my visibility and attract potential clients who can benefit from my specialized knowledge. A pivotal moment in my branding efforts occurred in November 2021 when I initiated a blog dedicated to showcasing my extensive experience as a professional consultant. With a career that spans more than thirty years, this platform serves as a valuable resource for sharing insights, industry trends, and personal anecdotes that reflect my journey. The blog not only highlights my qualifications but also positions me as a thought leader in my field, allowing me to connect with a broader audience. Through this blog, I strive to ...

Growing up in the Northeast Neighborhood

  Growing up in the Northeast Neighborhood many years ago was not easy. As a child, I saw nothing but people that looked like me, black and beautiful, full of hope, questions, and strength.  Years later, I hear about the tragic news that has been occurring in the Northeast neighborhood and wonder where did all of this hatred, prejudice, biased opinions, and extreme violence begin? Did it begin during slavery? Did it begin within the walls of society covered with war, agony and suffering?  "Black Consciousness seeks to infuse the black community with a new-found pride in themselves, their efforts, their value systems, their culture, their religion and their outlook to life." Steven Biko "I've gotten nothing but warmth from the Black community and positive feedback. " Misty Copeland "The black community is broken up in general." Candace Owens "There are many positive things to say about the black community. No question about it." William Julius...

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...

Reflections of Time, digital art created on canvas

Reflections of Time. Digital art created on canvas. August 10, 2024. Afrika Abney “Red symbolizes the blood of the people that is shed in the ongoing struggle for Black liberation. Black represents the people of Black African ancestry. Green represents the abundance and resilience of the Black community.” Reflections of Time - This name implies that the painting serves as a mirror to the past, with the colors representing different facets of history – red, black and green. To define my past is to understand my past began in the 1970s when Washington, D.C. was filled with African - Americans. The title "Reflections of Time" suggests that the artwork acts as a lens through which the past can be examined, with its vibrant colors symbolizing various elements of historical narratives—specifically, the hues of red, black, and green. Each color carries its own significance, evoking emotions and memories that resonate with the viewer, thereby creating a dialogue between the present ...

Harmony in Green

  Harmony in Green. Digital art created on canvas. August 14, 2024. Afrika Abney  Harmony in Green is a captivating abstract digital artwork that embodies the principles of quality and balance, with a particular emphasis on the myriad shades of green. This color, often associated with tranquility and renewal, serves as a powerful symbol of both harmony and excellence.  “The essence of excellence and balance is often encapsulated in the concepts of quality and harmony. Quality refers to the standard of something as measured against other things of a similar kind, emphasizing the importance of superior craftsmanship, durability, and functionality. It is the hallmark of products and services that stand out in a crowded marketplace, where consumers increasingly seek assurance that their choices are not only reliable but also enriching. Harmony, on the other hand, speaks to the seamless integration of various elements, creating a sense of unity and coherence.”

Accurate and Relevant Information

    It is important to clarify for those who may be misinformed or drawing incorrect conclusions. I do not offer educational services. My last engagement in this capacity occurred in 2018, and since then, I have not provided any educational offerings. I encourage everyone to refer to the content I have shared on my branding blog, as it contains accurate and relevant information regarding my work.It is crucial to rely on verified sources rather than succumbing to misleading claims or assumptions that may circulate. Thank you for your understanding and for taking the time to engage with the correct information. By focusing on the details presented in my branding blog, you can gain a clearer perspective on my work.

Inspire creativity and growth

“Creativity is the ability to think about a problem or task in a new way, or to use imagination to generate new ideas. It can also involve resourcefulness and craft. Inspiration is a sudden and fleeting mental stimulation that can motivate someone to act in a certain way. It can also be synonymous with opportunity. Creativity is work, resourcefulness and the craft itself. Inspiration is the lightbulb, the mental stimulation that instigates a person to move a certain way. Creativity and inspiration often go hand in hand with each other.” Past education services include 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....