Anniversary Issue: Ujima Moving Forward. Rising and Embracing The Future

VIEWPOINT

We Are Celebrating!!

15 Years in the Austin Community

Time sure goes by fast doesn’t it? Ujima Magazine is celebrating 15 years of storytelling in our Black community! What does that look like? Over the years, I have looked for people in our community making an impact and a difference in our community. They are considered our Everyday Heroes!

The stories shared with our community range from Sickle Cell awareness, technology and innovation, the love Black Father’s have from raising their children, black love and relationships, being a voice for our foster care system, pet parents, young men caring for others by organizing a giving campaign, young religious leaders, awareness of food deserts, art and

young people, educational impact on our children, natural healing, entrepreneurs, the importance of water, women who are incarcerated, having a blackowned radio station, homelessness and more.

Ujima’s staff and readers are thankful for the heroes who have shared their experiences and stories of inspiration, devotion, empowerment and leadership in our community. It is important that we continue shining a light on all the contributions we make everyday to our community and surrounding areas. We are an important part of Austin and I will continue to tell stories of how we contribute everyday.

Thank you to our storytellers, our readers and people who contribute their time and love for

Damita Miller-Shanklin Editor-in-Chief Damita@ujimamagazine.com

Ujima Magazine. I can’t put into words the importance you all are to Ujima Magazine and its community mission. We look forward to introducing you to more great people in our community, especially our young people who are our future.

#embraceyourcommunity #ujimamagazine #ujimaatx #collectiveworkandresponsibility #blackowned #womanowned

Ujima Magazine is a free news publication. For Advertising Opportunities email UjimaMagazineAds@gmail.com

NATURAL FOOD FOR NATURE’S PEOPLE

We live in a current time where 1 in 4 people have a chronic health condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and mental health conditions. How did we get here? Just a few generations ago, people were healthier and living longer lives. Well, life has certainly gotten more convenient; from the use microwaves, driving everywhere to get around, to fast food on every corner in many cities. We spend more time sitting and scrolling social media or bingewatching our favorite episodes of a Netflix special. Our daily habits have changed along with our

daily diets. Food does not have the same nutrients and minerals it once had. Our government allows numerous additives in our food, and toxins in our water which are outlawed in many other countries.

If we look at statistics, it appears those who identify as Black are some of the most affected by chronic illness. We have some of the highest rates of disease and illness in our communities. We are often told this is due to genetics and other psychosocial reasons such as lack of access to medical care. I am here today to offer an alternate perspective, the truth in a world full of misinformation.

The reason many Black people are suffering from chronic illness is because we are not considering the truth about who we are. You see Black people are

UJIMA MAGAZINE: 15 YEARS OF EMPOWERING THE AUSTIN COMMUNITY

By Jacqueline Johnson

In a world where the power of community and unity often goes unnoticed, Ujima Magazine has been a shining beacon for the past 15 years, casting a vibrant spotlight on the rich tapestry of Austin's diverse cultures and voices. Since its inception, Ujima Magazine has been more than just a publication; it has been a celebration of community, culture, and collaboration.

Ujima Magazine was born out of a vision to bridge gaps and amplify underrepresented voices within the Austin community. Named after the third principle of Kwanzaa, which means "collective work and responsibility," Ujima has been on a relentless journey to empower, educate, and inspire through its content.

Over the years, Ujima Magazine has evolved into a powerful platform that highlights the achievements, stories, and challenges of Austin's African American community. Through its articles, features, and profiles, the magazine has shed light on the remarkable contributions of individuals, businesses, and organizations that often go unnoticed by mainstream media.

What sets Ujima Magazine apart is its commitment to storytelling that goes beyond the surface. The magazine delves into the heart of issues affecting the community, tackling topics ranging from social justice and education to entrepreneurship and art. Its thought-provoking content sparks conversations and encourages readers to take an active role in shaping their community's future.

One of the cornerstones of Ujima Magazine's success has been its unwavering dedication to collaboration. The magazine has served as a platform for partnerships between community leaders, artists, activists, and businesses. This collaborative spirit has not only strengthened the bonds within the Austin community but has also provided opportunities for growth and empowerment.

As Ujima Magazine celebrates its 15th anniversary, it's clear that its impact has been profound and lasting. It has inspired generations, fostered a sense of pride, and shown that when a community comes together, incredible things can happen. The magazine's journey continues, with its pages set to capture the essence of Austin's ever-evolving identity, and its commitment to unity and empowerment remains as strong as ever.

In an era where media often falls short in accurately representing the complexity of communities, Ujima Magazine stands tall as a testament to the power of authentic storytelling and the celebration of unity within diversity. Here's to 15 years of uplifting voices, sharing stories, and building a stronger Austin community together.

We’re super excited to have shared a piece of this journey with Ujima Magazine!

Contributing Writer, Jacquie “ooh” Johnson

Jacqueline Johnson, a proud Texan, currently resides in Denton, TX, alongside her spouse and two daughters. With two grown sons residing in California and two grandsons. Jacqueline is the visionary behind Jacquie ooh, an online resource hub committed to equipping women with the tools they need to think well and live well. Additionally, Jacqueline has spearheaded the development of the Glow Collection by Jacquie ooh, an exceptional line of all-natural skincare products. Designed to provide your skin with a nourishing gourmet experience, this collection embodies her passion for holistic well-being. Jacqueline is also very involved in her community where she volunteers and is the precinct chair in her county. She is the author of: “Glow Through It” 21Day Devotional Journal for Women, and “Dare to Sparkle” Entrepreneur Guide plus Dream Big 4-Day Devotional. And, most recently her remarkable show, “Motivational Monday with Jacquie ooh” received the 2023 Bronze Telly Award for being an exceptional online talk show. For more information on Jacquie ooh please visit www.jacquieooh.com

She Speaks Wellness: Breaking Glass Ceilings

By Minister Sonya Hosey

I have always admired black-led nonprofit visionaries, women entrepreneurs, and political leaders of faith. These leaders started with a passion in their hearts and life experiences to make a change beyond their communities. These are women on the front line who are not afraid to break glass ceilings. Women such as Shirley Chilsom, in 1969, became the first Black woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives.

Let us have a dialogue about women, faith, and wellness," that explores the intersection of women's spirituality, roles, and overall wellbeing. This intersection highlights how faith and gender influence women's mental, emotional, and physical health.”

In scripture, these influential leaders impacted the nation and made eternal history – Deborah, a Judge;

Growing Up

Hannah, a Prayer Warrior; Tabitha, a Philanthropist; Lydia, an entrepreneur; and Mary, the mother of Jesus. However, most times, it comes with a cost. According to the CDC health equity 2022 report, there is gendered racism, "racism, or a system of policies and ideas that cause and maintain racial inequities between those who belong simultaneously to minoritized gender and race groups. As leaders, it is essential to have dialogues to acknowledge and learn from women of color's lived experiences and how gender bias can impact women’s mental, emotional, and physical health.

The CDC’s report's health outcomes showed that Black women had the highest chronic stress load compared to Black men, White men, and White women, a pattern not explained by socioeconomic factors,

such as poverty.

Women leaders must become entrepreneurs of our health – mind, body, and spirit. You must organize and operate your body like a disciplined business - understand the importance of self-care, focus, and learn new strategies to become well. Discipline will include a complete sabbatical from all forms of technology, healthy living, and detox from adverse environments and people.

You must trust God and embrace the distinct mission and assignment given.

We should speak the Jabez prayer over our lives – Jabez 4: 9:10 “Oh, You would bless me indeed and enlarge my territory. Let Your hand be with me and keep me from the evil one.” And God granted his request.

Women, it is your time to break glass ceilings!

By Aubrie Edmond, Contributing Writer

Coming home for the summer after being on my own for a while is a strange feeling. Waking up in my childhood bedroom every morning is jarring, I feel like I’m being jolted back in time. It always hits me like a truck that I’m older, it’s the first thing that I think of each time I wake up. I start thinking of my old dog, old friends, old memories. It’s strange to think about all the things I’ve outgrown, the people I can’t see and the places I can’t go anymore. I still hang out with all my friends from high school, the good ones at least. When everyone you know is excellent, anything you do will feel mediocre. All of them have done so

much with their lives, I feel like I’m falling behind. I’m only twenty, but all the decisions I make feel so heavy and final. Everything I do is lifechanging, every decision I make will last a lifetime, and it all feels doomed. I know it sounds dark writing it all out like this, but I think a lot of people my age feel this way. It’s hard not to. Our whole lives we’re told to work hard in high school so we can get into good colleges, then to work hard in college so we can have good careers, and finally to try hard at work so we can lead meaningful lives. It never ends, and we never get a break. But that can’t be all there is. Deep down I think we

all know it isn’t. There’s no other way to explain that feeling you get when you stand in the silence of the woods, that quiet peaceful sensation that makes the world seem a little bit brighter for a while. That feeling when you laugh so hard your stomach hurts, of walking hand in hand with someone you love; those moments make it worth it, I think.

Ujma Magazine: Our Story is Your Story Building

15 Years of Resilience, Unity, and Progress

Our Roots:

Ujima Magazine is an idea that comes out of quitting my job and wanting to be a writer. I wanted to tell stories about our Black Community and record our history. I had the opportunity to work with the late Akwasi Evans, of NOKOA Newspaper, and I knew I had a place to share stories of our community as well.

Ujima Magazine was founded in September 2008. Our mission is to tell inspirational stories and highlight the “everyday heroes.” We introduce people each month that make a difference or an impact in our community. Ujima remains small when it comes to members of the staff. The core team consists of Eliza Edwards, who is our Operational Manager/IG, Chiquitta Harris, our Graphic Designer, and Mary Linnen, our Editor/FB. We have worked together since the beginning which has provided continuity in building a brand and a working team with the same mission. We have great contributing writers that bring their perspective on different subjects that add to the

voice of the magazine. We have Jacquie OOh Johnson, Minister Sonya Hosey, most recently Aubrie Edmond and Christina Gobert. I’m so glad to have them aboard because the messages they share are meant to educate and elevate our readers. I thank our past contributors as well. Madelyn Patterson is also a collaborator and marketing manager that recently joined Ujima Magazine.

I knew I had a place to share stories of our community ...

Finding Our Way:

Over the last fifteen years, Ujima has grown in different ways. There have been several incidents where I had to make hard decisions based on my time, budget and growth. Going to the digital platform changed the game for us because it opened up new audiences and readers. It was nice having a printed magazine but it was realized, much later, it limited the reach of readers and people becoming aware of the brand. Awareness and branding is very important to me. Ujima remains resilient and it is seen by just the fact of celebrating 15 years. It has not been easy to keep going. But because sharing stories of Black People is so important, that keeps the magazine and the excitement going for me. When a person is interviewed, I always learn something and if I learn I feel whoever reads the story will learn something new as well. That’s exciting. I have mentioned it before, Ujima Magazine is a part of the legacy of keeping our history alive and telling stories that people in the future will read and get an idea of who we were and what we did during our time here on earth.

Just as we do now with our ancestry history.

What’s Next?

Ujima Magazine is a small business and my way of life. I live and breathe Ujima. It is my lifeline to the community and the people. Moving forward Ujima will continue to focus on partnership goals, telling stories and reaching new readers. Our collaborations with other businesses and organizations in our community, that share a

similar mission, is the next step in our plan. Ujima has to be a part of the community and not just tell the stories.

Ujima Magazine will grow by being bold, taking chances and improving our branding through podcasting, having a more visual presence and taking on new ways of being a part of the Black community.

As we celebrate our 15 years, Ujima wants to say Thank you! And remember to Embrace Your Community.

#embraceyourcommunity #ujimamagazine #ujimaatx #blackowned #womanowned

Sharing stories of Black People is so important and keeps me going.

Quick Sun Tip!

How to protect your skin from the sun

Use sunscreen every day, even if it's cloudy. Apply at least one ounce of sunscreen (enough to fill a shot glass) at least 15 to 30 minutes before going outside. Also use a lip balm or lipstick that contains sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30.

How To Relax At Home

So if you're staying inside because of the heat, you could easily start to feel tense, nervous or just bored. Try these techniques to help you relax.

1. Deep breathing. When we're worried or stressed, our breathing changes. ...

2. Find a new distraction. Sometimes you just need to take your mind off things for a while. ...

3. Exercise. ...

4. Yoga. ...

5. Cooking.

https://www.wearewithyou.org.uk

Conditions Doctors Often Miss

Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis are some of the top causes of medical error in the United States today.

Cancers, heart attack, stroke are on the top misdiagnosis list. There are ways you can help your doctor make a timely diagnosis. Here are some suggestions that may help you communicate with your physician: Tell The Whole Story: Even things that seem minor to you.

Take Notes: Writing down a timeline, or a sentence or two about your symptoms can help your doctor see the progression of your condition over time.

Don’t Minimize Complaints: You may have gotten into the habit of saying, “it’s not a big deal,” your

doctor, however, needs to know exactly how your symptoms impact your life.

Bring a Friend: A trusted friend or family member can help you understand what your doctor is saying and assist with details, especially if you have a condition concern with concentration or memory.

Remember to make sure to get your annual medical examination.

Mary Linnen Editor

naturally the most aligned with nature. Our hair grows upward like the trees, plants and grass, and our skin bears resemblance to tree trunks, sticks and wood. We are truly camouflaged in nature. We have natural protection from the sun’s rays with our highly carbonated (melanated) skin. We also require more of the sun’s power in the form of vitamin d. None of this is coincidence. Since we are the greatest reflection of nature, we must consume nature in all forms to be at our best and that includes the food we eat. We are made to eat foods that grow in nature: alkaline fruits, alkaline vegetables, spring water and herbs. When we veer from this, we suffer immensely. What do you think would happen if you fed your plants soda or coffee? We must get back to our true nature and embrace the foods meant for our unique structure. Those are Alkaline Electric foods provided directly from the source.

Christina Gobert

Natural Healing Wellness Co| Co-owner Meditation Teacher

Ayurveda

Teacher

Alkaline Lifestyle

Teacher

Holistic Well-Being Guide

Please check out www.naturalhealingwellnessco.com/alkaline to download the Alkaline food list

Ujima Social Media

Ujima thanks our readers for following us on our social media platforms. Your comments are always appreciated and welcomed! You can follow us at Ujima Magazine FB Page, Ujimamagazine1 on IG and Ujima Magazine on Twitter, aka X and Threads.

AVOCADO TACOS

Still trying to be as comfortable as possible in this heat. Ujima has been making suggestions to eating well during the change of seasons for fifteen years!!

Try this recipe which is delicious, quick and easy! Do you remember when we shared this with our readers?

INGREDIENTS:

3 avocados-peeled and pitted

12 (6inch) corn tortillas

1/4 cup onions

1/4 teaspoon garlic salt

1 bunch fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped jalapeño pepper sauce, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F

In a medium bowl,mix avocados,onions,and garlic salt.

Arrange corn tortillas in a single layer on a large baking sheet,and place in the preheated oven 2 to 5 minutes, until heated through.

Spread tortillas with the avocado mixture.

Garnish with cilantro and sprinkle with jalapeño pepper sauce.