Today we’d like to introduce you to Angela Young.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Angela. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I was born and raised in Dallas, Texas. I moved to Atlanta, GA to attend college at Clark Atlanta University where I received my Bachelor’s degree in Mass Media Arts, with a concentration in TV, radio, and film. Upon graduation, I was immediately offered a job as a manager at the renowned Patchwerk Recording Studios. During my tenure there, I had the opportunity to work with some of the most prominent Hip Hop and R&B artists in the industry. It was there that I came into my own and learned how to be a businesswoman. My love for music runs deep. Like poetry, I feel music gives a voice to our emotions. I went on to self-publish my first book of poetry for young women in 2014. The book is entitled Pieces of Me. This inspiring book of poetry covers sensitive and universal topics with a gentle, honest approach that invites the reader into a conversation with the poet. Pieces of Me is available online at Amazon, Barnes, and Noble, and autographed copies can be purchased on my website iamangelayoung.com. You can also find it at several physical locations such as the Richardson Public Library, Clark Atlanta University bookstore, Woodruff Library, and Brown Mackie College.
I understand my purpose is to be of service to others. A couple of years, ago I turned my passion into reality with the ‘Little Black Box Project’. The goal of this annual project is to give hope during the holiday season to women and children in need; by providing personal items in a loving and compassionate way. In the past few years, I have donated over a hundred gift boxes to shelters such as the Women’s Resource Center to End Domestic Violence, Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support, Covenant House Georgia, and Solomon’s Temple Foundation. The passion that drives me is my desire to make women feel empowered, beautiful, and confident. This passion serves as the motivating force behind her beNAKED Campaign. The beNAKED Campaign seeks to empower, inspire, and enlighten women and girls of all ages to know that no matter how the world defines beauty, true beauty comes from our heart and soul.
I am passionate about my purpose, life, and paying it forward. I believe that women can rise above fear and limitation and discover a whole new way of living that is full of freedom, deep connections, and true authentic happiness-the kind that comes from within. My desire is to create a space that is centered on the art of connection and hopes to use my voice and platform to cultivate experiences through various channels that will allow women to connect on a deeper level with each other, but most importantly themselves. I want women to reconnect with themselves, embody more love, live unapologetically, and embrace their imperfections, creating a mindset that empowers them to truly accept and value themselves. I want women to understand the magic they hold within but also discover the magic in uplifting each other. This passion is what led me to start my own lifestyle brand the iAM Angela Young Brand. I’m able to thrive because my morals and core values are rooted in self-respect, self-worth, professionalism, and integrity. But it is my unwavering faith which keeps me grounded and humble.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No! A few years ago I was in such a dark place. I sank to the depths of depression which I didn’t know existed. Months went by and it was all a blur. I became a victim of my circumstance. Depression had me so weighed down I didn’t even know who I was. I was ashamed, though I didn’t know why. I learned humility. It was at that time I learned who I truly was and the magnitude of my strength. I had to learn how to find peace and joy in the midst of my storm. I learned to look pass my tears for they were cleansing my soul. I realized that rainy days were more than okay, they were necessary. So I learned to dance in the rain. I allowed my tears to flow freely. I learned to be resilient. For resilient people thrive and grow in the face of adversity. I learned happiness comes from within. I learned to live not merely exist. I learned to finally walk in my truth, and not let my circumstances define who I am, Believe it or not during that time I created the beNAKED Campaign. It was an amazing accomplishment for me. Depression is no joke!
Please tell us about iAM Angela Young Brand.
iAMAngelaYoung is a lifestyle brand committed to empowering and uplifting women. We advocate confidence and positive self-image in women through a variety of programs. Networking events, community service opportunities, and enlightening web content are all aimed at helping women achieve the life they desire while walking in their truth. Our goal is to give women a platform to connect with other like-minded women, share their stories, and learn from the stories of others. We are striving to make a positive impact on society, one woman at a time!
I curate impactful events, apparel with a purpose, and I’m also an author.
I am most proud of everything I’ve created under my brand. For example, self-publishing my first book, the beNAKED Campaign, Little Black Box Project, and the More Than Music Benefit Concert.
I think my story, working from a place on integrity, and my being transparent sets me apart.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
I love spending the holidays with my family. I come from a big family on both sides.
Contact Info:
- Website: iamangelayoung.com
- Instagram: iam_angelayoung
Image Credit:
Aysha Nicole, Lets Get Relle
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