INTRODUCING
"WHEN A BLACK MAN SMILES"
This is a celebration of resilience, joy, and the boundless spirit of Black men. This book is a heartfelt tribute, born from my deep enthusiasm and commitment to magnifying the excellence within our community. It captures the smiles of Black men, showcasing their brilliance and breaking through the stereotypes that often overshadow their true essence. Through these narratives, I aim to inspire, uplift, and remind everyone of the profound impact and beauty of a Black man's smile.
​
Additionally, as of August 2024, I need 37 more pre-orders to be able to distribute this publication both locally and internationally. Click here to learn how you can help.
Photographer: Sarai (my daughter)
AQUILLA X CO.
AQUILLA AND COMPANY
I serve a God with the big "G", not the little one.
None of this would be possible without God leading and guiding my every step. Everything you are about to see through my life and this website is a prayer manifested.
All things are possible to those who believe. - Mark 9:23
I can stay in my home (without having an urge to leave) for a minimum of 72 hours straight.
My home is peaceful, for the most part. I always have something to do, so I don't experience that "I'm bored" feeling. I don't even know what boredom feels like, lol.
​
I am a self-proclaimed culinary enthusiast.
I think I can cook any meal, any recipe, or throw flavors together based on taste. The problem is that my daughter rarely tries my food, no matter how appetizing it looks or smells.
​
When I was a little girl, I had high ambitions and gigantic dreams until...
One particular day, I went with my mother to her favorite beauty supply store in the heart of North Minneapolis, MN, on Broadway Ave. Up until that day, whenever anyone asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I would respond by saying either an artist, an author/illustrator, a lawyer, or a businesswoman with an office made of glass walls, where I could come and go as I pleased. My brain must have been tired of the day's shenanigans on that particular day, circa 1986-1988. When the store owner asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I replied, "a cooker!" Cue the scratch on the record player! I must have said something horribly incorrect, as I remember my mother squealing, "A WHAT?!?" I said it again, and this time I said it with my chest, "A COOKER!" I embarrassed my mother to her core. She had a "lecture" waiting for me when we returned to our car. I'm pretty certain what happened in that store formed my lasting thought... that I cannot stand small talk! LOL
​
​Can you guess what's next? I don't like engaging in small talk!
That's self-explanatory. It's a rarity if I'm talking to you about the weather, traffic, or my favorite color *rolls eyes*.
​
Professionally...
I am deeply passionate about choosing organizations and partnerships that align with my goals of supporting and uplifting my Black community. Although I enjoy working with every culture and demographic and will do so wholeheartedly, my passion is serving those who share my melanated skin. I thrive in roles where I can be artsy and creative while leading community engagement, branding businesses, and coordinating purposeful events. My commitment to this work is fueled by a desire to create positive representation. Additionally, I am dedicated to advocating for domestic abuse support groups, ensuring survivors have the resources and assistance they need. Through these efforts, I'm aiming high to create lasting, positive change within our communities, starting with my own.
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
