Castor oil, castor oil, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. Anyone who knows me knows that I am big on oils. I have a nice little collection that I cannot go without. Since I have always had hereditary dry skin, I have always sought out natural methods to moisturize throughout the seasons. It was hard choosing one, but castor oil is officially my favorite oil of all.
Who’s Shining? Janelle Monae is
Janelle Monae is “Shining.” A relatively new artist, she is most known for her first single “Tightrope” released in 2010. But, she took the airwaves by storm and impressed her varied audiences with her unique style and signature pompadour. The beautiful Ms. Monae will be gracing the cover of the May 2013 issue of Essence Magazine. And, her Cover Girl campaigns have encouraged many young women of color to be true to themselves. She is a prime example of what The Worth Campaign is all about. [Read more…]
Do You Have Grit?

What is “grit”? Well, it is similar to ambition, perseverance, or drive. But “grit” is a little different. Many people may be driven to succeed or have the ambition to win an important championship game. But “grit” is the ability to do those things even when the obstacles before you make said success seem virtually impossible. The Huffington Post recently published a piece on “grit” and its impact on young black men’s graduation rates. I can personally attest that “grit” is equally, if not more, important for young women of color. [Read more…]
I Stopped Being Normal & Started Being Me
File this post away in your “Confessions of an Ex-Poser” file cabinet. Have you ever been or met a poser? You know, those people who claim to have been born in some exotic locale so they can sound well-bred. Or, a young lady who claims all her hair is her own but she might “clip a little something in sometimes.” Or, one of my favorites, black folks who claim that they are “part Indian” but they have no idea what tribe, province, or “part” they are. These are the hallmarks of a poser. And, I am no different. I have been a poser at different points in my life. I was afraid that if people knew who I really was, they wouldn’t be impressed enough. I was trying so hard to be normal that I wasn’t being myself. [Read more…]
Becoming a California 501c3, Step One: Name and Mission Statement
The Worth Campaign is dedicated to becoming a California 501(c)(3). What does this mean? Well, it means that the intention of this organization will be to distribute charitable dollars and services to those most in need of them. Additionally, this will not be a for-profit business. But, this also means that I have a lot of work ahead of me.
I set this blog up so that you could follow along as I take The Worth Campaign to nonprofit status. Hopefully, documenting my process will inspire some of you to do the same because there are so many groups of people out there in need. It will be a long journey, but, through your support, we will certainly get there! [Read more…]
Worthy Products: Shea Butter
Shea butter is definitely a worthy product. Coming from the Karite Nut tree native to West Africa, it is truly one of God’s great gifts to man. This natural moisturizer and emollient (softening or soothing agent) can be used for a host of personal care needs. It is the first natural product we will spotlight here because it has become a staple in my household since starting my worth campaign. I certainly would not be as well-equipped on my journey to authenticity if I did not have it in my cabinet. So, let’s get into the nitty gritty.
Shea Butter for Hair
You have probably heard about it before but Shea butter has everything one needs for hair care. It is a moisturizer, sealant, emollient, and general dryness solver. I have been using it on my natural tresses for almost a year now and have noticed a major difference in the texture, feel, and suppleness of my twist-outs and flat twists. Here are a few things that work for me. [Read more…]