Viewpoint
Ujima is celebrating its 17 year birthday! Woohoo�� �� �� This is another milestone that we are so excited about. My team has worked hard, including our writers, to share their stories that we hope resonated with you throughout the past year.
Thanks to Ujima’s Contributing Writers Jacqueline Johnson, Minister Sonya Hosey, Aubrie Edmond, and Christina “Satya” Gobert. These ladies take time out of their busy lives to give our readers stories that empower, inspire, and provide love for our community. I appreciate the insight they bring to each story they share. I really am blessed and grateful to have them a part of Ujima.
To my team, Eliza Edwards, Chiquitta Harris, Mary Linnen, and Nikkia Scott thank you for taking my vision and
mission to help me create a digital magazine that is a legacy of stories for our black community. It very important to me that my work uplifts, shows our diversity as black people and inspires our younger generation. Storytelling is important. As I said before, it is my duty to make sure our history, our lives, our community is not erased and forgotten. As a black woman and a black American, we all know the importance of our history, legacy and how black people have contributed more than our share to this country. Thanks to our ancestors for their sacrifice so we can live today in a time where we still have a voice and our freedom. But we have to continue our fight each day.
To Madelyn Patterson, thank you for believing in Ujima and me. Thanks for partnering with us to bring more stories to the forefront through our
collaboration on We Are Austin (CBS). We Are Austin has shared our stories and has connected to our community without hesitation. I am grateful for being a part of the partnership that helps all involved grow.
Happy Birthday Ujima!
Damita Miller-Shanklin, Editor Damita@Ujimamagazine.com
Ujima Magazine is a free news publication. For Advertising Opportunities email UjimaMagazineAds@gmail.com
Harnessing the Power of the Moon
By Christina “Satya” G., Contributing Writer, Holistic Therapist, Herbalist, and Ayurveda and Meditation Teacher
If you’ve noticed, we have been experiencing many unique cosmic events this year. To those that practice spirituality and understand their significance, this is an exciting time to be alive. Just last month on 8/8, there was a powerful Lion’s Gate Portal that provided enhanced manifestation powers. When there are changes cosmically, we too are affected, since we are inextricably linked to the natural world.
An example of this connection is in thinking about the woman’s 28 day menstrual cycle that typically mimics the 28 day cycle of the moon. It is also common knowledge that the tides in oceans change according to the moon phases. If the moon has this much power and influence, imagine what it can do when we work with it intentionally.
We can harness the power of the moon and the cosmos in a way that supports us by tapping into the potency of the universe during that time. All ancient civilizations paid homage to and worshipped Mother Nature. The Egyptians; one of the oldest societies, worshipped the sun, Amen Ra. Unbeknownst to many, this is the origin of why we say ‘amen’ following prayer. Since the advent of religions and therefore indoctrination, we have lost our connection and understanding with Mother Nature, including the cosmos.
One way we can reclaim that is to observe and participate in sacred rituals during the new and full moon which both occur monthly. During the new moon, we are encouraged to focus on setting intentions for the future and new beginnings. On the full moon we are encouraged to release that which no longer serves us, including people, places, habits, thoughts and states of being. Isn’t it amazing that Mother Nature provides built in energy and power for cleansing, releasing and calling in what we want in our lives? See below for ways you can utilize the power of the Story continues on p8
Ujima Magazine Celebrates 17 Years of Empowering the Community
By Jacqueline “ooh” Johnson, Contributing Writer, Entreprenuer, Community Leader, Author
For 17 years, Ujima Magazine has been a trusted voice, a vital connector, and a beacon of empowerment within our community. Since its inception, the publication has remained committed to its mission of sharing stories that matter, uplifting voices often overlooked, and ensuring that important information reaches the people who need it most.
In a rapidly changing world, where national headlines often overshadow local narratives, Ujima Magazine has consistently highlighted the issues, triumphs, and opportunities within our neighborhoods. From showcasing small businesses and community leaders to covering topics that impact health, education, and culture, Ujima has served as both a mirror and a guide reflecting who we are while pointing toward where we can go together.
The importance of supporting local news outlets and magazines like Ujima cannot be overstated.
These platforms provide more than just information; they preserve culture, foster connection, and create a sense of belonging. Local publications ensure that our stories are not lost in the noise of the mainstream but instead celebrated with authenticity and care.
At a time when many small publications struggle to survive, Ujima’s 17-year milestone is both an accomplishment and a call to action. By subscribing, sharing, and supporting communitydriven media, we invest not only in the magazine itself but in the future of our voices and stories.
As Ujima Magazine celebrates nearly two decades of service, it stands as a reminder of the power of unity, the value of representation, and the necessity of having spaces where our community can be informed, inspired, and empowered. Here’s to honoring the past 17 years and to ensuring many more to come.
She
Speaks Wellness:
Healing the Wounds We Didn’t Create—But Refuse to Pass On
By Minister Sonya Hosey
What Is Trauma?
Trauma is the emotional, mental, and physical response to deeply distressing events. Left unhealed, it can echo across generations. This is generational trauma— yesterday’s suffering showing up in today’s decisions, relationships, and self-worth.
Many of us carry the imprint of history—slavery, segregation, poverty, systemic injustice—and the silent struggles of our mothers and grandmothers. We’ve inherited their strength, but also their scars.
The good news: we can choose differently.
Pathway to Healing
• Name the Patterns – Healing begins when we bring pain into the light.
• Seek Help – Growth comes through therapy, prayer, sisterhood, and cultural traditions that restore identity.
• Pass Down New Legacies – We plant seeds of love, joy, and wholeness for future generations.
3 Steps to Break Generational Trauma
1. Name It & Pray Over It – Ask God, like David in Psalm 139:23–24, to reveal hidden wounds.
2. Heal with God’s Guidance – Pursue therapy, support, and faith practices that renew your mind (Romans 12:2).
3. Create New Patterns – Sow faith and truth, remembering Galatians 6:9.
Where to Go for Help
You don’t have to walk alone. Consider:
• Therapist (trauma-focused)
• Support Group
• Faith-Based Counseling
• Community Mental Health Center
Final Note
Healing is holy work. When we heal, we honor our past and set our daughters free for the future.
NEW CHAPTERS
By Aubrie Edmond, Contributing Writer
There has been a lot of change around me recently. A little over two weeks ago, I arrived in D.C. for the second time in my life, this time with the majority of my belongings for the next three years in tow. A month ago, I was living my life under the impression that I was moving to Boston. I had gotten into law school; the hard part was over, but it still didn’t feel right. I was still waitlisted at three schools and had a pending acceptance to Howard University School of Law, if they had any seats left in their class. I sent HUSL’s admissions team an email, not expecting anything in return. A few days later, I received a response telling me to check my status, and I was in.
With a few simple words, my life was turned around. I had to move much sooner than I had originally planned, which was bittersweet. I had to quash the ideas for road trips and beach days to say my goodbyes quietly. I packed my bags quickly and contemplated the realities of my situation. The silly thing about reality is that it’s sort of impossible to fathom until you’re living it. I’m in the middle of my second week of law school. It’s very strange to be in the midst of D.C. as a law student during such uncertain times. There are more questions than answers for everyone right now, but it’s empowering to be a part of the generation asking the questions.
The thing that drew me to Howard University and made me confident in my decision to turn my life on its head was its incredible legacy in both law and culture. I hope that I will contribute to that legacy as I navigate this next chapter of my life, one change at a time.
Ujima Magazine: 17 Years of Storytelling, Resilience & Community
By Damita Miller-Shanklin, Editor
When Ujima was born in 2008, I was 44 years old with a heart full of hope and a simple desire: to tell stories. On September 15, 2008, we launched our first glossy, fullcolor magazine filled with the stories of people making a difference. I didn’t have a roadmap, only a love for storytelling and a deep belief that our community’s voices deserved to be heard.
Ujima has taken on many forms — from glossy print to newspaper style, and now, a digital magazine. I’ve shared before how losing the ability to print crushed me. It stung, and for a moment, I sat in that disappointment. But the call to keep telling our community’s stories was louder than any setback. Once I pushed past self-pity, I realized there were many ways to keep Ujima alive. The journey hasn’t been easy, but every tear, every doubt, and every non-believer only made us stronger.
Seventeen years later, here we are — still standing, still telling stories, still blooming.
A Year in Review
This past year, Ujima leaned into themes that reflect the heart of who we are. Each issue reminded us that Ujima is more than words on a page — it’s a movement rooted in culture, resilience, and love for our community.
• We returned to our foundation, remembering why Ujima exists and the importance of our work.
• We lifted up everyday heroes, spotlighting the neighbors, advocates, and changemakers who often go unseen but make a lasting impact.
• We created space for conversations about health and mental health, and we celebrated the brilliance of Black-owned businesses.
• We honored the role of art, time, and partnerships in keeping our culture vibrant and alive.
The heartbeat of Ujima has always been the people. This year, our covers highlighted some incredible Everyday Heroes:
• Reona Berry, CEO of American Breast Cancer Survivor, reminding us of the power of health advocacy.
• Chris Marshall, Founder of the Sans Bar that allows sobriety to be around friends in a local bar which specializes in non-alcoholic drinks.
• Simone Barnes and Veronica Robertson of My Spirit is Rooted, helping us center conversations around mental health.
• Ericka Barnes of Black Makers Market, Shuronda Robinson of Adisa Communications, Mildred Batts of Millhouse Entertainment, and Arnikia “Nicky” Robinson — author, motivational speaker, and TV host — are each shining examples of Black business excellence and resilience.
Each story carried the same message: greatness doesn’t always announce itself loudly. Sometimes it shows up in quiet persistence, everyday service, and unwavering vision.
Growing & Blooming
This year also marked growth for Ujima. Our digital reach expanded through
our website, newsletter, and social media platforms, connecting us with more readers each month. We strengthened partnerships, sparked new collaborations, and continued finding fresh ways to tell the stories that matter.
One partnership especially stands out: our ongoing collaboration with Gone Mad Productions, owned by Madelyn Patterson, where together we’ve shared Black stories each week on We Are Austin (CBS). This platform has helped shine a brighter light on the richness of our community, and for that, we are deeply grateful.
What’s Next
As we step into our 17th year, Ujima is not slowing down. Here’s what’s on the horizon:
• Continuing and expanding collaborations
• Share more stories about the black men in our community
• Growing our video story content
• Launching our podcast
• Showcasing new freelance writers
• Deepening our commitment to community, engagement, and storytelling
We hope you’ll continue to walk this journey with us — to read, share, and celebrate as Ujima keeps blooming. Because this is not just our story; it’s our story — a story we write together.
Let’s Keep Blooming�� �� ��
Mary Linnen, Editor
MARY’S TIPS & IDEAS
FALL GARDENING
WELCOME SEPTEMBER
September is the beginning and ending of many things for me. These past two months have made many memories for my family and friends.
September is a special month for Ujima. We will be celebrating 17 years of sharing our community heroes. There have been so many accomplishments by so many amazing people.
This made me think of how before photos were stored on your smartphones and computers there were photo albums. A visit to someone’s home and the albums would come out, lots of wonderful memories would be shared.
If you need a great gift, take your phone to a location that will print photos for you and create an album. Not everyone has a smartphone or computer. Perfect for a senior person or anyone unable to attend the special functions.
Just my food for thought.
It appears that fall gardening starts in the summer. There are many vegetables considered fall vegetables. Some I read about are favorites all year.
Spinach is a fall garden favorite! You can harvest baby spinach in as little as three weeks. Spinach needs cooler temperatures, so plant in mid to late summer or early fall, depending on where you live, for fall and early winter harvests.
Collard greens are a sturdy green that's best braised and slow-cooked for hearty autumn meals. Plant seeds
about six to eight weeks before the first fall frost.
Carrot is another root crop that likes cool weather. There are many different types, but look for quick-growing dwarf varieties that mature in about two months.
These are a few of many. It’s not too late to start a garden, especially collard greens!!
Preparing for Fall
Getting your home ready is always encouraged. Remember your personal wellbeing is also important. A lot of things have changed, which makes self care very important. What you need is a personal decision, here are a few suggestions. Friendly reminder!
Personal Well-being:
• Wardrobe: Switch to warmer clothes, add layers, and update your bedding with warmer options
• Diet: Incorporate seasonal foods like pumpkins,
squash, and root vegetables.
• Mental Health: Reflect on the past season, set intentions for the fall, and prioritize self-care activities.
• Physical Health: Adjust your exercise routine to accommodate cooler temperatures and potential changes in daylight hours.
moon to improve your life:
• New Moon: new beginnings, setting intentions
• Good time for journaling about what new habits you would like to implement in your life (see below for prompts)
• Create a vision board for the next few months
• Cleanse and declutter your home
• Start new projects
• Create a new daily routine
• Connect with your body
• Get grounded
Full Moon: culmination, release, celebration
• Release what no longer serves you
• Make moon water by setting glass of water outside under the moonlight and later using in spiritual practices
• Celebrate your achievements
• Charge your spiritual tools under the moonlight
• Take a spiritual bath
Shadow Work Journaling Prompts (per House of Formulas) New Moon:
25 Must-Have Baking Essentials
Almost time for holiday baking.
There are lots of recipes to try and share. Before we start let’s check and see if we need to update our cooking essentials or purchase utensils. Use this as a guide to help you get ready for your favorite recipes.
• I am ready to …
• I want to …
• I am ready to meet my new love by…
• I want to find my true path in life
• I will find a new job
Full Moon:
• I release myself from ….
• I cleanse myself of ….
• I free myself of ….
• I forgive myself for ….
• I let go of my ex
• I free myself of needing to be liked
September New Moon+ Solar Eclipse= Transformative intention setting power: 9/21/25
September Full Moon: 9/7/25
How will you utilize the power of the moon to move you closer to the life you have always envisioned?
Story continued from p2
Before We Go…
Moments from Our Year:
