Next up: Naima!

I’m an expert in: Grant proposal writing, social impact communications, not-for-profit development

I want to improve at: Strategic planning/visioning, email marketing/campaign development, a regular creative writing practice, pitching articles

Nicknames: Naima aka Na aka Nya

Favorite Movie: I tend to forget things so I honestly don't know, but I have no problem watching Some Kind of Wonderful and World War Z (2013 version) over and over again.

Favorite Book:. Again, horrible memory here, but Homegoing has to be one of the most beautiful books I've read in a long time.

Deep Ambition: I haven't quite figured this out yet, but full self-acceptance and living a life that's completely on my terms are very high on the list.

Theme song of 2021: Still exploring, but "Gold Teeth" by Blood Orange, Project Pat, and Tinashe is lit! I'm picking at random here, but a couple of ongoing faves are Calion by Anna Meredith and Out of Focus by Ioanna Gika.

Something you should know about me: I'm the oldest of six kids; I grew up in the Caribbean, but I can't swim; I lost 30+ pounds last year; I struggle with social anxiety (but I've come a loooooong way!); I fantasize about living on a nearly deserted island, walking around barefoot, and living a quiet, peaceful life.

My family would say I’m good at: Telling them what to do and reinventing myself.

I like to workout through: Jogging/walking, Peloton, Dance, Weight-lifting

I love: Reading, Listening to podcasts

Want to connect?: 1-to-1 conversation or a shared activity in which both individuals are naturally interested.

It’s important you know: I'm very competitive (about ridiculous things to be honest); I love board games; I'm mildly obsessed with astrology; I'm very into most personality typing systems (e.g., the Enneagram); I love EDM (I am no longer ashamed); if it's supernatural or fantasy, I'll probably watch it; I own 23 plants, and I'm a big kid at heart.

You might not know: The editors allowed Naima to fill out the survey a second time and we are so glad she did. Need an edit for yourself? Want to add a picture? Please, ain’t nobody got time for that. JK- Just ask Laura.