The power of literature lies in its ability to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard, stories that speak to the human condition, and stories that reflect the lived experiences of people from all walks of life. For me, literature has always been about more than just crafting narratives—it has been about representing voices that have been systematically silenced, particularly within African American and disenfranchised communities. Through my work, I aim to amplify those voices, providing a platform for stories of resilience, survival, and empowerment.
Telling Our Stories, Our Way
From the very beginning of my career, I made it a point to root my stories in the realities of the African American experience. Growing up in Mt. Vernon, New York, I was surrounded by the unfiltered truths of urban life—the struggles, the triumphs, and the complexities of navigating a world that wasn’t designed for us to succeed. These are the stories I’ve dedicated my career to telling: stories that reflect the harsh realities of systemic racism, economic disparity, and social marginalization, but also stories that celebrate the strength, ingenuity, and perseverance of our people.
In a publishing industry that often overlooks African American voices or reduces them to stereotypes, I’ve made it my mission to tell stories that are authentic, nuanced, and unapologetically Black. The characters in my novels are not caricatures—they are fully realized individuals whose experiences are rooted in the truth of what it means to be Black in America. My goal has always been to provide representation that goes beyond the surface, to show the depth of our experiences and the diversity of our voices.
The Power of Representation
One of the most powerful tools in any form of storytelling is representation. When people from disenfranchised communities see themselves reflected in literature, it not only validates their experiences but also empowers them to believe in their own potential. Literature becomes a mirror, allowing readers to see that their struggles, hopes, and dreams are not isolated—they are shared by many.
In my work, I strive to ensure that African American readers, especially young people, can find themselves in the pages of my books. Whether it’s the ambitious street hustler fighting for a better life, the young woman overcoming adversity, or the entrepreneur building something from nothing, my characters represent the resilience and resourcefulness of our community. These stories matter because they challenge the negative narratives that have historically been imposed on us and replace them with stories of empowerment, achievement, and self-determination.
Empowerment Through Knowledge
Beyond just telling our stories, literature has the potential to educate and inspire. One of the ways I aim to empower disenfranchised communities is by using my platform to share knowledge about financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. In my upcoming graphic novels and non-fiction projects, I focus on teaching people how to leverage their personal credit and business acumen to build generational wealth. This is especially critical for African Americans, who have long been excluded from traditional pathways to economic success.
Incorporating themes of financial empowerment into my stories serves a dual purpose. On one hand, it provides entertainment and inspiration, showing characters who overcome obstacles and achieve success. On the other hand, it offers practical tools and knowledge that readers can apply in their own lives. Empowerment is not just about representation—it’s also about providing access to information that has historically been withheld from us.
From Novels to Graphic Novels: Reaching New Audiences
As I’ve transitioned from traditional novels to graphic novels and comics, my goal has remained the same: to empower African American voices. Graphic novels offer a unique opportunity to engage younger audiences and those who might not typically pick up a book. By blending storytelling with visual art, I’m able to present narratives in a way that is accessible, engaging, and impactful.
This shift into visual storytelling has also allowed me to explore new ways of addressing important issues within our community. From systemic injustice to personal empowerment, the stories in my graphic novels are meant to resonate with readers of all ages. By presenting these themes in a visually compelling format, I hope to inspire conversations, foster understanding, and continue empowering the next generation of Black creators and leaders.
Breaking Barriers and Building Legacy
Throughout my career, I’ve faced many challenges—not just as a writer, but as an African American entrepreneur navigating a system that wasn’t built for me. But these challenges have only fueled my determination to succeed and to help others do the same. My journey, from self-publishing on the streets of New York to signing major publishing deals, has been a testament to the power of relentless determination and self-belief.
In building my personal brand, I’ve always had one eye on the future. It’s not just about my own success—it’s about breaking down barriers for the next generation of African American writers, entrepreneurs, and creatives. The work I do today is part of a larger legacy of empowerment, one that I hope will continue long after I’m gone.
The Road Ahead
As I continue to evolve as a writer and creator, my focus remains on uplifting and empowering the African American community. Whether through novels, graphic novels, or digital projects, my goal is to use my platform to tell stories that matter, educate those who need it most, and provide representation that reflects the diversity and richness of our experiences.
The future of African American literature is bright, and I’m committed to being a part of that future. Through my work, I will continue to amplify our voices, tell our stories, and empower our communities—one book, one comic, one project at a time.
Relentless
