Being a college junior in NYC wasn’t easy for Iris. The pandemic made it worse. But no matter how stressed she may get, she remembers that loving herself is the solution to all her problems.
Story
Elena Johnson
(she/her) Mentee
Elena Johnson is a journalist and creative storyteller from the Bronx. She loves to be near nature and listen to neo-soul music while painting. As an avid movie-goer, Elena enjoys mind-bending, thought-provoking movies as well as stories about everyday life. She also enjoys reading novels by women of color for the representation and inspiration it provides, which wasn't as common as it is now when she was growing up, and hopes to one day provide the same for others.
Favorite Authors & Artists
bell hooks, Issa Rae, Audre Lorde
Artist‘s Statement
Growing up, I often felt like I wasn’t good enough, a struggle that many young black girls and women face. On my own journey of self-discovery, I learned the importance of self-love and authenticity and hope to inspire young women of color to learn the same for the betterment of their mental and emotional well-being through my creative storytelling, visual art, and poetry.