These days I find inspiration and insight anywhere. On my weekly Nike video binge I came across this 11 min video on the Nike App FM Broadcast- Episode 3. There were so many quotable moments throughout this broadcast. In the conversation the host, Janaya Future Khan is interviewing a variety of young people and they are speaking on how they are owning their identities and their advice to the future first. One statement gave me chills.
Ramla Ali stated “ It’s okay to be the first!” This is something I heard before but just hit different today.
Where are you after pushing yourself to have a positive mindset last week? This week I’m back at school and my work life chaos is from 0-100000000! I am a planner, a perfectionist, and someone who runs when inspiration strikes and this broadcast was just what I needed to jump start my 6th year as a teacher!
Black educators have such a unique perspective to bring to the table but also an unseen burden of showing up as our “true” self. I just want to BE me sometimes and the education workforce isn’t always receptive. And in the past I’ve cared wayyy more than I should have. But this year I am going to be the first. I am going to do the creative over the top lesson, join in conversations I’ve stayed silent in, and build the foundation to tackle my next career goal. I am going to be the first! Where can you show up first this week? This is the invitation to be yourself this week!
XX Ande Mari
Being AB 