In a World where women are constantly placed in a position to carry it all. Communities First Inc. in Flint Michigan came together with a mission to change this by breaking down barriers of race, age, and even generational gaps. The organization hopes to continue to create space and bridge the gap between these various barriers. For their second annual gathering, the event focuses on this year's theme of “It’s Time To Show Up”. Over the day the women dive deeper into what showing up looks and sounds like for themselves while also being active members of the community. The event begins with a panel discussion co-led by Essence Wilson Co-founder and chief strategy officer And Traci Kim a proud volunteer in administration with Communities First Inc. Marivela Franco states “ I am new to the community and having gatherings like this helps me feel connected and not alone” They are welcomed by various panel speakers within the community that speak to the many hurdles they overcome while showing up. With a transition into breakout sessions with multiple instructors covering yoga sessions, self-care best practices, meditation, and collaborative lunch sessions.
Sevona Brown the Founder and CEO of The Sanctuary for Integrative Medicine and National Director of Black Women's Blueprint. Leads a breakout session on meditation by pairing each guest in two to practice the importance of witnessing with face-to-face eye contact and stillness. Soothing music takes place in the background as each woman gazes into her partner's eyes experiencing various emotions and understanding. Down the hall, a yoga session commences led by yoga instructor Nadia Zerka where presence and connection are welcome with the body and spirit. Each break-out session space is created with a deep intention to mimic the intention of awareness and acknowledgment through various exercises. The panel discussion continues with Nancy a panel speaker expressing her frustration with her generation feeling like they are being erased and no longer being seen and honored the way they once were. Chatter spreads throughout the room as she shares this. The room feels heavy with sadness and anger. As you gaze across the room other older women like Nancy nod in agreement and some even shed tears after the conversation ends. On the other side of the hall life and wellness coach, Sonyita Clemons guides a session on self-care and wellness. Fostering the women to create healthier ways of managing their day-to-day lives they can show up for themselves and their inner circle. Sandra Etherly-Johnson Another panel speaker shares how she witnessed Shanee Johnson bring her child to school and various other events she had. “When you think about how we can support and show up for one another generationally it’s recognizing where you came from, recognizing those opportunities you didn't have, and watching it flourish and grow in someone else putting them in that space. I had to realize I was from an older generation with a mindset where women with children were not allowed in the workplace. But once I put that notion to the side I was able to encourage other women to do the same.”
