9:36 Magazine May/Mother's Day Issue 2024

FASHION

ARTISTS BUSINESS

May 2024

MODEL LIFESTYLE

SELF-LOVE

BLACK HISTORY

Loquacious Conversations

with Benjamin Barnes Branch YMCA Director LaKeda Smith

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MAGAZINE

Bosses Entrepreneur of the month: Meka Carey

Cream of the Crop Zharia Simmons

The Called Educator of the month: Tamar Wilson

And more...

The Editor’s Note “Mother’s Day Edition”

Photo by Shamikka Dudley

My favorite job, and best accomplishment, is motherhood. I never knew I could love these girls so much. SN: We need a new pic because y’all don’t look like this anymore.

Truth be told, if it hadn’t been for my mother’s prayers, I would probably be a messed up woman. But she has shown me how to be a woman of God. Did I adjust it some to fit me? Of course I did! But my mommy laid the foundation. I love you Mommy! photo by Gazelle Productions

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s e s s oEntrepreneur of the Month B

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What's your name?

Meka Carey

What's the name of your company?

My company is named Love, Sharon. I am also a stand-up comedian.

What products/services do you offer?

Natural products and giggles.

I provide natural products that cater to individuals with sensitive skin and allergies, including myself. My tagline, straightforward yet impactful, reflects how Love, Sharon addresses various concerns effectively. Our product range addresses issues like hair growth, dry hair, dandruff, dry skin, body pain, and more.

Meka Carey Photo by Peter HD Boy Parker

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9:36 When did you decide to start this business?

In 2020, my youngest son graduated from high school, leaving me wondering about my next steps. Despite my role as a Branch Manager at a financial institution, the pandemic's slowdown provided me with extra time. This unexpected time at home led me to explore creating natural products after discovering a TikTok recipe. Watching a woman craft body butter and deodorant inspired me to try it out. Enjoying the process, I began sharing these products with friends and coworkers.

With the luxury of time, I immersed myself in courses and books on product development, expanding from two items to twelve. As interest grew from those around me, my business took shape.

How can we find your products and purchase from you?

My products can be found and purchased at www.lovesharon.com. I also have “Meka Carey” merch on the site too.

What's next for you?

A few of my friends in comedy and I will be filming a comedy special titled, “Bama Got Something to Say Volume I.” We will be uploading it to Tubi and Amazon Prime. The plan is to continue to highlight comedians and musicians from the state in this series to give them exposure to a larger audience and hopefully help launch not only our careers but many others. The event will be held on June 29th of this year and tickets are being currently sold for $20. We are hoping to sell out and show the world that Bama not only has something to say, but also provides awesome talent.

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Stylist: Kathy Davis Model: Sherita Howard MUA: Romi Darling Photographer: Gazelle Productions www.sixtysosassy.com

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Snaps

(Poetry Corner)

Hold Your Head Up Queen!!

Hold your head up Queen, Your crown is tipping.

The world took you by surprise and made you feel like a victim.

Friends turned to enemies, leaving you feeling empty.

Don’t let them see you down, hold your head up.

The sky’s the limit.

It’s for what you amount to, that no one can be you.

The things you sought out to achieve.

It’s the greatness God blessed within you for you to seek the power you hold inside.

Don’t let pain turn you into a victim.

Don’t be a slave of your pride.

It’s just the growing pains, And we all have our flaws.

Don’t let this world turn you cold.

Embrace the fact that you have a heart.

There’s a star in you and other Queens with big dreams.

It’s not too late to get your degree and L.L.C. Wipe the tears from your eyes, And know your path is clearing.

Release the burdens of your past, And know that God hears you.

Hold your head up Queen, And reach your highest peak.

The time is now for you to move to the rhythm of your beat!!

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- Joya C. France

Loquacious Conversations 9:36

by Dorcas “D.C. Britford

9:36 Magazine had a sitdown with Benjamin Barnes Branch YMCA (Tuscaloosa, Al) Director, LaKeda Smith, to discuss the paste, the present, and the future I always like to start off with background info. So, tell me, where are you originally from? Where did you get your start?

I’m originally from Bibb County. My parents actually live in Brent, Al. I have a twin sister who lives in Huntsville, Al, two older brothers in Brent, and a younger sister in Brent. So basically, most of my family is still in Brent, Al. I married my husband, Anthony, 23 years ago. We have one son together.

I have a bonus daughter and a 13year-old grandson. I attended Shelton State Community College (Tuscaloosa, Al) and The University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa, Al).

Photo by Camera Play Photography

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9:36 What did you study in school?

Well, I switched my major several times. However, I ended up majoring in General Health Studies. That degree gave me the ability to work with non-profits. I was really trying to go that route but my counselor, at the time, thought I was more people oriented. She saw that I cared about people, so she guided me in that career direction. Non-profits is not all that I do, but I am currently earning my Master in Non-Profit Management. .

So, you are getting your master’s degree now?

Yes Nice. When did you start with the YMCA? Oh my gosh. Well, what actually brought me to the YMCA …I graduated from the UA. My husband and I had just gotten married. Then, I got pregnant within the first year of our marriage. When I had our son, Chaden, he had a birth injury. I was working at a non-profit in Birmingham, Al, but I was having to take him to therapy three times a week. He had a private sitter. And I thank the Lord for private sitters. We couldn’t afford it, but the Lord sent me a wonderful lady to take care of my baby. Anyway, I needed to be in Tuscaloosa. I was working a good, full-time job, with benefits. And I had to leave it so I could be there for my son. It was hard traveling Photo by Camera Play Photography back and forth, so I had to 9:36 MAGAZINE | 11 leave.

9:36 Well, mothers do what they have to do.

Yes we do. So, when he turned 5, and graduated from physically therapy, I said I was going to get my job back. However, I answered this blind ad in the paper that said, “Looking for someone, with supervisory experience, to work with children.” It didn’t say it was for the YMCA. I responded to it, and they called me in for an interview. At the time, it was the Downtown Y on Paul Bryant Drive. I thought I wanted to go back where I was, but I came to the YMCA, and I have loved it ever since. This is a mission/ faith-based program. That’s what I love about it.

When I think back now, it was faith that got me through my son’s birth injury. He couldn’t move one of his arms for the first three months of his life. I would cry every day because I was worried about the quality of life he would have if he was disabled. He had Erb’s Palsy. One night I was crying, and I heard the Lord say, “Every time you cry, it makes me have to start this over. Keep your faith.” So, I said, “Ok God. I’m not going to cry again.” And the very next morning, my son moved his arm. He was three months old, and that arm had never moved. But he moved it. It was a simple up and down. From that point, I never cried about his arm again. I went to physical therapy, and I did everything I was told to do. There was even one therapist that said, “Ms. Smith, just face it. He’s not going to be an athlete. He’s not going to be able to use his arm.” At the moment I requested a new therapist.

She said that to you?

Yes. Yeah, I would’ve needed a new therapist too.

In all honesty, she thought she was preparing me for what his life could be. But, I was not at the point where I was accepting that. I didn’t accept anything. I didn’t accept any assistance either because to me that was like I didn’t have faith in God. Chaden graduating from physical therapy was the highlight of my life. Because when you give birth to a child and something is wrong with them, you blame yourself. But, God is good.

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9:36 Yes, HE is. So, how many years have you been with the YMCA? -’ve been with them for 21 years, but I have been with the Benjamin Barnes Branch since 2010.

I know you probably can’t give too much insight, but what’s the difference between the Benjamin Barnes YMCA Branch and the Downtown YMCA Branch?

To be honest, there is no difference on paper. We are all part of the YMCA of Tuscaloosa County. And Benjamin Barnes is a branch. The Downtown YMCA is the main office, but it is also considered a branch.

Now, the differences I know, which are historical differences, is the Benjamin Barnes Branch is in a predominately Black neighborhood. So, the term “Black Y” is more of a term of endearment to me. But, it depends on who you are speaking with too. People who were raised here, seem to take pride in that. Like this is our “Y.” But, it has also been viewed as a separate (black or white) YMCA. The number of program participants are about the same, but the membership downtown tends to include fewer black people. However, both branches are almost equal in the amount of program participants. We are a smaller branch, so it does seem like there is a difference, especially to community members. But on paper, there is no difference.

So, what do you say when people have questions about why this YMCA needs to raise money and that one does not seem to have that need?

Every non-profit is required to raise money. We all fundraise. However, fundraising is way more vital to this branch because we don’t make as much money. Some other non-profits don’t have to fundraise as aggressively as we do because a lot of them make money through other revenue strings. We focus primarily on youth development programs, and we provide financial assistance. So, that financial assistance would be from the money we are raising. Through that, we can give those families who struggle to afford the program, a chance to participate at the YMCA. 9:36 MAGAZINE | 13

9:36 I’m really grateful for programs like this, because it gives our kids a chance to be exposed when they might not get it elsewhere. This is West Tuscaloosa. Its children are often forgotten. Many times, people ask, “Why do you work there?” and I think, “Why not?” This is a place where people are people. There is nothing that I have encountered here, that I wouldn’t encounter somewhere else. Children are children.

Parents are parents. Whatever their reason may be, who am I to decide that this person doesn’t deserve because they are here, or they are there. We set this program up where we can help everyone who needs help.

You’ve been doing this for twenty plus years. What’s been your most difficult moment where you were close to saying, “I’m done.”

-Well, I can answer that. The most difficult time was when there were problems with the facility. However, people still entrusted the YMCA with their children. They could have chosen anywhere else to go but they still chose this facility. We were getting bad press, but there were still hundreds of children here during the summer. They gave me my second wind. I was discouraged and ashamed because I knew that the things that were happening, were things we could not do anything about. To know that people would say they wanted the best for the Benjamin Barnes Branch YMCA, but then not help when we asked, was discouraging. I mean, this is needed. Where were the people going to go? It was hard because people only looked at what was wrong, but they never looked at how many things were right.

Culture. How would you change the culture of this program or how it is perceived?

Actually, the culture is more diverse than what many realize. Our Summer camp staff is diverse too. We serve children throughout Tuscaloosa County. Not just on the West Side. I believe the move (it’s coming) into our new building by the McDonald Hughes Center, will allow people to notice and appreciate the diversity of the Benjamin Barnes YMCA. 9:36 MAGAZINE | 14

9:36 What would you say to younger LaKeda?

Oooo…I like that. I would say to the younger me that life gets easier because your mindset will evolve.

When I was younger, I thought that I was limited.

It was an unfairness, but I wasn’t bitter about it. I accepted that I was gonna be this darkskin girl with the disadvantages that come along with having a darker complexion. I was raised in a rural area so colorism was seen a lot more.

Photo by Camera Play Photography 9:36 MAGAZINE | 15

Especially, within our community.

Yes. I would also say, “LaKeda, listen! People are crazy! Don’t think about what people say. Look at what the Bible says about you. You are wonderfully made. And HE said that HE made everything so good that HE rested on the seventh day. HE didn’t say that HE made everything except Lakeda good. HE said everything. So, believe in who God says you are over anyone else.”

The Called...

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Educator of the Month

9:36 truly values education and the educators who watch over our babies 5 days each week. This month we are honoring our 1st EVER Educator of the Month, Tamar Wilson.

Where are you from?

I was born in Demopolis, AL, but Tuscaloosa is home for me. I spent one year of my life in Hale County, where both of my parents grew up. The rest of my years have been spent in Tuscaloosa.

What is your title?

I am a professional school counselor as well as a licensed professional counselor.

How long have you been in this position?

I am nearing the end of my 13th year as Photographer Unknown in school counselor. I've spent my entire career in the Tuscaloosa City Where do you work?

Schools(AL).

I currently work at Northridge High School. This has been my first year as a high school counselor and my first year away from the school that gave me my start, The Alberta School of Performing Arts, formerly Alberta Elementary School.

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9:36 Was being an educator what you always wanted to do?

I have always wanted to be in the helping profession with a focus on adolescents and youth. My aspirations to be a helper originally led me towards the medical field, but that didn't pan out for me. When I found Human Development, I found my niche.

What degrees have you earned?

I have a Bachelor of Science in Human Development with a concentration in adolescent and youth development and a Master's in School Counseling both from The University of Alabama. I earned my Education Specialist in School Counseling from The University of West Alabama and have just completed my coursework for an Instructional Leader Certification from The University of Alabama.

What awards have you received?

I was awarded the Elementary School Counselor of the Year for the Tuscaloosa City Schools Special Education Support Services (2021-22).

What's your ultimate goal as an educator?

I want to make a positive lasting impact on every student I meet. I want every student and family member who I encounter to have a greater sense of their value, their potential and their support system. I want each student to know that they are loved, that they have purpose, and that their life matters. I want to retire knowing that I gave all I could possibly give to the students I have served.

What has been your most memorable experience? (Any "Aha" moments?)

I've had so many memorable experiences that it’s hard to pinpoint one.

What I have learned, is that the people you meet (students, colleagues, parents, community members, etc.) become an extension of your family. You celebrate success together. You grieve loss together. You strive for better together. Unity is at the center of a good educational experience.

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Photos by Gazelle Productions

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Happy Mother’s Day!!!

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9:36 ask you to celebrate Mother’s Day with us and you did just that!

Linda Pippen Jones I love my Shugga Lamb, and I just wanted to say that she’s an amazing woman. She’s a great grandmother.

She wears that proudly! Thank you, mom, for all you’ve done for your children, grandchildren and great grands. RIH to my sister, Dominique Kindred, who started the 2nd and 3rd generation for my momma. My mom is a joy to be around, and everyone loves her! Salute to you Mickey!

From Shae White Denise White is an amazing mother.

She is a caretaker to my father and has been for over 36 years. She is a mother to two children a girl and a boy. She always put others first and helps everyone that’s in need.

She is also a grandmother and great grandmother.

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From Dee Hamner My mom, Gloria, is my heroine. She teaches me how to persevere through tough times, respect myself, and, most importantly, love and serve the Lord.

She is strong, kindhearted, giving, and committed to educating others.

From Natasha McCoy My mom, Evonne Coleman is truly my rock, my best friend, and the love of my life. She has always been there for my brothers and me. She’s our champion and our motivator. I love her dearly and to me, there's no greater mom.

From Monica Winters "Our mother, Norma Winters, is the epitome of endless love. She is selfless; always willing to serve those she loves. She has been consistently generous with her heart and her hands. Our mother, the backbone and the blessing of a beautiful family."

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9:36 From Shawna Moore My mother is the most self-less, loving, giving, and praying woman that I have ever known. Not only has she raised two daughters of her own, but she has also had a hand in molding, developing, and raising her grandchildren. She is a keeper of my secrets and the one who I count on the most. I am extremely blessed to call her mama.

From Your Biggest Headache Mother of 3, grandmother of 11. To know Thelma Dianne is to know she’s not running from work!! She works hard but shops harder!! Flowers are from the heart, but this will be around forever.

From Chrishauna Griffin (Pearl Harris) My precious “Pearl” is the epitome of a virtuous woman who loves and gives unselfishly.

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9:36 From Jayla, Maci and Madison Our mom, Chrishuna Harris-Griffin, means so much to us. She is strong, beautiful, independent, a great provider, and so much more. She is the best mother ever.

From Jeff My mom was born in 1938, which means she will be 87 on her birthday this year. Mom reared 3 boys in Memphis, Tennessee. She could not teach us how to be men, but she taught us responsibility which made us great men. Mom is the poster Mom for love and support and that’s why she is loved and celebrated all year.

From Kevil My mom, Venessa, is the epitome of a strong woman. From her, I learned the importance of being a hard worker, protecting my peace, loving on myself, and establishing a solid foundation for my future. She also taught me how to be a great mother to my son. She's the G.O.A.T. in my life and I am forever grateful!

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9:36 To the mothers who gained angel babies.

I lost my baby Nov 11, 2018 .

I was so excited to become a new mommy, but God had other plans.

May 10, 2024, would of been my baby’s 5th birthday! I just want to show love to the Angel mothers out there! We are not forgotten and we are never alone! Mother loves you so much and I know Heaven couldn’t wait for you! With all my love 11:11:18. Happy Mother’s Day ladies. Even though you didn’t fully carry in flesh, you’re still a mother by spirit! RIH BABY D. PIPPEN

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9:36

The Rabbit Hole Miss Daisy Was a “Bad” Mother

by Kevil Tice

The month of May is set aside to celebrate the first woman we ever loved…Mama. While most times “mama” is the one who gave birth to us, that’s not always the case. Mama can also be our grandmother, aunt, best friend’s mother, or anyone else who has a positive impact on our lives. So, this month, as we celebrate Mamas, we must salute those who earned the title without giving birth. Let’s take a trip down the rabbit hole and salute someone like Mrs. Daisy Bates.

Born in Arkansas and basically orphaned when her mother was murdered and her father left her to be raised by another family, Daisy had a rough start, to say the least.

Fortunately, she did not let that stop her from becoming an activist, journalist, and mother figure. She received many awards and honors, including an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree, Congressional Gold Medal, Arkansas General Assembly Commendation, and she has a street named after her in Huttig, Arkansas.

Through reading about her, I also learned that she was an Honorary member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated (Oo – Oop). In addition to all that, she was deeply involved with the Little Rock Integration Crisis.

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Southern Living Online Magazine

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One of Miss Daisy’s most impactful acts was when she became a mentor for the Little Rock Nine. Her home was used as a meeting place for them to be picked up before school and dropped off after. Her house was open to not only them, but to all youth. Her personal mission insisted that black students would be afforded the opportunity to obtain the same education as white students. The city of Little Rock expanded her vision with the establishment of Daisy Bates Elementary School.

I could go on and on about how Miss Daisy pushed hard for the future of black youth. From fighting for racial integration, arranging transportation for students to get to school, to using The Arkansas State Press (owned by Bates and her husband) to expose injustices, protecting children from protestors, and even joining school parent organizations. She became much more than a mother figure. Miss Daisy was “Mama.”

Nah, Daisy Bates did NOT have any biological children, but she definitely was one Bad Mother!

Smithsonianmag.com

The NY Public Library Digital Collections

Take a moment to love on the “Mamas” in your life. And, if they are no longer with you, cherish their memories and live out a legacy that will make her proud.

Happy Mother’s Day!

Kevil Tice Photo by Zombie Fame 9:36 MAGAZINE | 26

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“Navigating Parental Accountability in Changing Times”

by Corlandra Weaver

Reflecting on childhood experiences often serves as a poignant reminder of how much has changed over the years. Take, for instance, the rituals surrounding weather safety in schools.

Remember those moments huddled in the hallway, knees to chest, fingers interlocked behind our heads…as if somehow that would protect us from the elements? It’s a curious memory. One that prompts questions about the efficacy of such measures and the roles of adults in those situations.

Back then, it was the kids who assumed the protective stance, while teachers remained upright, overseeing the procedure. Today, discussions about school closures due to inclement weather spark debates about safety and parental responsibility. With climate patterns becoming increasingly unpredictable, parents find themselves grappling with tough decisions about their children’s safety during extreme weather events.

In the state of Alabama, where I reside, Governor Ivey emphasized the importance of parental involvement in a student’s education.

She highlighted the pivotal role parents play in ensuring their children’s well-being and academic success. This sentiment underscores the need for proactive parental accountability, and it extends beyond academic matters to encompass mental health, behavior, and overall welfare.

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Part of being accountable means staying informed and engaged with your child’s education. Gone are the days of waiting for report cards to address academic concerns. Today, parents have access to realtime updates on their children’s grades. This enables timely interventions and support. While the constant notifications may be irksome, the payoff is worth it – a proactive approach to nurturing academic growth and accountability.

But parental accountability transcends academics. It permeates the fabric of family life, shapes values, encourages communication, and builds self-esteem. As a mother of three, I’ve instilled a culture of accountability within my household. Education is paramount, and every family member has a voice. Our Saturday morning family meetings serve as a platform for open dialogue where each member shares a positive attribute and addresses any pressing issues.

In a departure from traditional hierarchical dynamics, my children are encouraged to voice their thoughts and opinions. They know they have a support system behind them. It’s a small yet significant shift in parenting philosophy – one that acknowledges the agency and autonomy of children, even in matters typically reserved for adults.

In a world fraught with uncertainty, one thing remains steadfast– the importance of parental accountability. It’s about more than just being present; it’s about actively participating in your child’s life, advocating for their needs, and fostering a sense of responsibility that extends far beyond the classroom. So, as we navigate the complexities of modern parenthood, let’s remember to be the kind of parents who can proudly say, “I am accountable.”

Corlandra Weaver and her sons

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ak e p S

! ! ! t on i

Why do people, who get cheated on, stay in the relationship?

Shai There can be a number of reasons. It depends on what you value.

If you value family and not raising kids in separate homes, you stay for the kids. It can be financial reasons (aka it’s cheaper to keep her/him). It can be fear of being alone. Or it simply can be that you sincerely love them and want to believe that they’ll never make that mistake again. No one wants to give up the happily ever after they’ve created in their mind. I’ve felt all of these reasons btw.

Jeff They stay because of insecurities they have developed through time spent and earned with that person. If they are not careful, they will plant a seed that says, “Nobody else wants you, but me.”

They also make you feel like at least you know what we got, instead of trying to figure out a new relationship. .

Justin It’s not the end of the world. Forgiveness is real and mistakes, no matter how careless or thoughtless, happen.

Chivonne Some people come from a place of forgiveness. Others may not believe that it is realistic to expect "life-long monogamy". Some blame themselves for the other persons infidelity. I believe one of the biggest reasons is financial. A variation of other reasons may be because you love them, you don't want the other person to have them, or you’re afraid of being alone and starting over.

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Terrance People stay in unfaithful relationships for a number of reasons. Those reasons may include, but are not limited to the following: security/stability or insecurity/ fear….

Security- Maybe they aren’t financially able to support themselves.

So, they choose to stay out of comfort. (It’s a safe place).

Insecurity- The fear of the unknown. Starting over is hard for some individuals. Therefore, some people choose to stay in unfavorable circumstances because they are scared to start over. The lack of a firm foundation makes an individual turn a blind eye on certain situations.

Take it from Tina B. Out of convience....most times people feel as if they don't have anywhere else to go, no one else to want them, or don't have enough money to pay all the bills.

And then there's genuine friendship with your mate. Liking them is enough to pass by the cheating and the pain because so many other things out weigh their mistake.

You're treated with love and kindness. Why let a mistake change everything? You will leave and will constantly look for the love that person gave you. Not saying cheating is right. It is not. But isn’t always a reason to leave.

Love, Tina B.

Photo by Michael Shelton

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T h e y v sel o L A Mother’s Love: f

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A Tribute to Three Remarkable Women

by Romi Darling

In the tapestry of life, a mother’s love weaves a thread of unparalleled depth and immeasurable value. It is a love that transcends boundaries, surpasses the depths of the ocean, and reaches beyond the skies into the realm of the divine.

I’ve been blessed with the privilege of experiencing the love of three extraordinary mothers, each shaping a different chapter of my life with their unique gifts and guidance.

First, there was my grandmother, a beacon of wisdom whose nurturing embrace taught me the essence of love, patience, and kindness. Her presence laid the foundation for the woman I would become.

Then came my aunt, a relentless provider and epitome of resilience.

Through her, I learned the power of independence, determination, and unwavering strength. She showed me that a woman is capable of achieving anything to which she sets her mind.

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9:36 And finally, there is my birth mother, whose journey paved the path for my existence. Despite her own struggles, she made the ultimate sacrifice, entrusting me and my sister to the care of our grandmother and aunt, ensuring we received the love and support we needed to thrive.

A mother’s love knows no bounds. It is not measured by material possessions or fleeting moments of indulgence. Instead, it is found in the gentle guidance, the unwavering support, and the unspoken sacrifices made for the sake of a child’s well-being.

As Mother’s Day approaches, I am filled with gratitude for the profound impact these women have had on my life. To Bettie Harris, Alicia Jackson, and Brenda Webster—thank you for your boundless love, your unwavering strength, and your enduring presence. I am forever grateful to have you as my mothers.

Happy Mother’s Day, with love and appreciation that knows no bounds.

Happy Mother’s Day from Romi Darling

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Recognizing our children for the great things they are doing.

Meet Zharia Simmons. She is a 15 year old 10th grader at Central High School (Tuscaloosa, Al).

Zharia’s is an “A” honor roll student who is also dual enrolled at Shelton State Community College. She participates in track & field and she is on the executive counsel for her high school FBLA chapter. After high school, Zharia plans to be the first college graduate in her family. She wants to major in medicine. Her most valued accomplishment is the sculpture that she designed for SWJ Technology (pictured). When asked about the inspiration behind her artwork, Zharia stated, “We were given the words ‘resilient’ and ‘resistance’ and told to find inspiration from them. A common symbol for resilience is a spiral which reminded me of a tornado.

When tornadoes come through cities, the community comes together to change the reality of it and to build upon what it was before. I was inspired by the fact that in dark moments, there is always something you can do to change your reality.”

Zharia also mentioned that her family and her friends constantly motivate her to strive for the best.

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Photos by Gazelle Productions

Sports

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Madness

“Women Athletes Called Mom”

By Shawna D.Moore

As a former athlete, my love and respect for women who have managed to excel, live their dream, and make their names great in sports has only heightened over time. I have followed and admired many great women athletes who have not only done great things in their careers, but they have also managed to add motherhood to the equation. Although they made it look extremely easy, unfortunately that wasn’t the case at all. The 3 phenomenal women athletes who I have chosen to pay tribute to, deserve all the accolades, respect, and recognition in the world. In a competitive, male dominated world of sports, they figured out a way to do what they love, bring life into the world, and give many young aspiring athletes hope that they too could have them both; a life in sports and children.

Candace Parker Candace Parker was selected number one as the overall pick in the 2008 WNBA draft by the Los Angeles Sparks. But, that’s not where it started. She was coached by her father when she was only 6 years old, won 2 national high school player of the year awards, won the slam dunk contest in 2004, became the first woman to dunk in an NCAA tournament, was the only player in WNBA history to win MVP and Rookie of the Year in the same season, and won three championships on 3 different teams in the WNBA. But even with all of those accomplishments, she says, “Being a mom is THE most important aspect of who I identify as. No matter how many hats I may wear, being a mom always IS NUMBER 1!” Although she faced a lot of scrutiny and criticism after getting pregnant early in her career, one of her aspirations was to be able to give other women who wanted to pursue both a career in sports and motherhood, hope, because you shouldn't have to choose when you can have it all.

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9:36 Allyson Felix Allyson Felix, who recently retired, is the most decorated female Olympian in track and field. She has competed in the 100 meters, 200 meters, and 400 meters. She is a 2012 Olympic Champion in 200 meters, a 2016 Olympic silver medalist, and most recently a 2020 Olympic bronze medalist. Those are only some of the many medals that she received throughout her illustrious career.

In 2018, when she was 32 weeks pregnant, she had complications and was diagnosed with preeclampsia which threatened her life.

She had to have an emergency C-section but after her daughter spent several weeks in the neonatal ICU, she is now thriving.

She has had to fight battles with her pay getting cut after her daughter was born, she advocated for child-care to help mothers as they trained and competed, and she fought to bring awareness of health issues during pregnancy in women of color. “It’s really hard to balance being a mom and a professional athlete, and the reality is that there’s a certain level of financial support and security that’s necessary to be able to do it. When I think about the world that Cammy will grow up in, I don’t want her or any other woman or girl to have to fight the battles that I fought.”

Serena Williams Serena Williams, mother of two, regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, was ranked number one in the world in singles by the Women’s Tennis Association for 319 weeks. She is by far, one of the greatest examples of working hard as a child and throughout her entire life to live her dream in the highest capacity.

She turned pro in 1995 and her career spanned over 27 years up until she decided to retire in 2022. She has won 23 Grand Slams, the 2012 Wimbledon Championship, an Olympic Gold Medal, along with many other competitions.

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9:36 In 2017, at the age of 41, after competing in The Australian Open, Serena became a first time mother. After taking a break for just 8 months after giving birth, she returned to tennis defeating Kristyna Pliskova in the first round of the French Open. Although, driven by the ability to finish what she started, she was quoted as saying, “Sometimes my heart literally aches when I’m not around her. But, you know, it’s good for me, I guess, to keep working and just to show all moms out there that it’s not easy. It’s really kind of painful sometimes. Sometimes you just have to do what you have to do.”

Just like she always strived to be the best athlete she could be, she vowed to be the best mother she could be and then there was postpartum depression. She endured many crying episodes because she wanted to be perfect for her daughter and more often than not, she felt inadequate. She said that being a mom was by far her biggest achievement. She was also quoted as saying, “I talk about the struggles all of us moms feel. It’s totally normal to feel like I’m not doing enough for my baby. We have all been there. I work a lot, I train, and I’m trying to be the best athlete I can be.”

Finding the balance between work and raising children is a true art. Those who are able to do it, are the real MVP’s.

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Happy Mother’s Day Mommy!

We love you and we thank God for choosing you to be our mother.

Love, Ayesia, deMarius, Dorcas, Tamar, & Temperance