Happy (My) New Year 2025

Starting Fresh: Why My Q2 Reset is Exactly What I Needed! As we move into Q2, I’m stepping into this new chapter with a renewed mindset and a sense of purpose that only comes from embracing who I truly am.

But why now?

Well, the end of Q4 was a whirlwind, and Q1? It felt like a rollercoaster—a bit of a loss and grief sandwich, to be honest. A pause. We all have those moments that throw us off course, but it's in those moments we learn the most. For me, this season of reflection was essential to let go of the noise and expectations I had placed on myself..

And that has been, liberating.

So here I am, entering Q2 with clarity and a fresh perspective. It’s a shift—both personally and professionally. And I’m excited to share that shift with you as I move forward, fully aligned with my values and ready to make an impact.

This reset is more than a moment; it’s the start of something bigger—and it’s something I believe will resonate with many.

I’m absolutely itching to create.

Something about this shift, this reset, has lit a fire inside me. And there are a few things that have been fueling that spark.

First up, let’s talk about Kendrick Lamar— the epitome of artistic mastery and creative evolution. At the 2025 Grammys, Kendrick’s clean-sweep was nothing short of inspiring. With 57 nominations and 22 wins under his belt, Kendrick, the Pulitzer Prize-winning creator of iconic albums like Good Kid, M.A.A.D City, To Pimp a Butterfly, and DAMN, added five more Grammys to his collection for the hit "Not Like Us." The dynamic duo of Dave Free and Kendrick Lamar is a force to be reckoned with . That’s the kind of creative energy I’m all about right now.

Then there’s Doechii—this 26-year-old Grammy winner has taken the industry by storm. Named Billboard’s 2025 Woman of the Year, Doechii’s success is a testament to her unparalleled talent and influence. From her lyrical prowess to her versatile delivery, she’s not just a rapper; she’s an icon. Her journey from YouTube creator to industry leader has been nothing short of inspiring. In fact, she’s been open about how she used moments of introspection and reset to fuel her creative growth. Pushing boundaries of self expression, her way. She is, without a doubt, that girl.

I made it to the Laura  Halsey exhibition : emajendat, the artist’s first solo exhibition in the UK, at The Serpentine. This was amazing - bold, loud, black distinct visual language hailing from her roots in South Central Los Angeles. The installation stopped me in my tracks, pulled me inward making me focus on signs and symbols in my environment that represent me. Halsey’s interest in iconography connected to the African diaspora, also resonated with me. Art, this was a real spark for me, the boundlessness on her expression.

‘She makes a space that reflects the pride and power in her community and her place, magnifying them both.’ – The Times.

And let’s not forget the incredible Black Travel Alliance—a group that continues to make waves in the travel industry by pushing for representation and equity. In a time when diversity and inclusion efforts are being targeted, the Black Travel Alliance remains steadfast in its mission to empower Black travel professionals. From providing essential training and research to connecting brands with Black travel media, they are changing the travel narrative, ensuring that Black travelers are not only represented but celebrated. Their consistent impact over the past five years is a true testament to what happens when purpose and community drive an industry forward (Proud Board Member)!

This picture was taken on Houston earlier on the week our board meeting. A great reminder to do things that spark joy & creativity - most importantly, pour in to others.

I’m also excited by what’s to come from  Pg Lang, Tyler, the Creator, and Sinead O’Dwyer, Issa Rae, Collabs, tech in the creative space & brands bringing new energy a la NIKE to name but a few… all from the POV of the importance of community at their core. The way they seamlessly blend culture and creativity, connecting with audiences on a deeper level, is something I’m drawing inspiration from as I dive into Q2.

So, as I step into this new year, I’m not just thinking about the work ahead—I’m thinking about how to approach it with, a renewed energy, and a commitment to creating something that truly resonates.

Happy (my) New Year!

Let’s work.