Meet the Authors
Authors in order of appearance in the book:
Cassandra Walters
Cassandra Walters, a passionate high school teacher and devoted mother resides in Maryland with her two children, Jordan (9) and Mia (7). Captivated by the magic of words from a young age, she found solace in sharing her tales of motherhood on Facebook. Joining an anthology venture marked a significant milestone, allowing her to broaden horizons and share her unique perspective on the challenges and joys of motherhood with a wider audience. Through her writing, Cassandra delicately weaves narratives that encapsulate the essence of love, laughter, and the heartfelt tears that accompany the intricate dance of motherhood while inviting readers into the tender, humorous, and poignant moments that shape her life as both an educator and a mother.
Raquel Cherry, LICSW, LCSW
Raquel Cherry, LICSW, LCSW is living in her God-given purpose as she supports people "heal for real" through her virtual private practice "Healing Through Therapy, LLC." Raquel holds a bachelor's degree in psychology, a master's degree in social work. Raquel was born to Sammy and Cora Cherry; parents who gave all they knew to give to their four beautiful children. Raquel's greatest prayer is that when her 18-year-old daughter Kaliyah feels that she isn't enough, that the weight of the world is too much; she seeks God first.
Aïdah Aliyah Rasheed
Aïdah Aliyah Rasheed is an educator, film director, photographer, and multimedia producer. With two decades of experience, she has overseen multimedia projects and strategic initiatives for esteemed arts, cultural, and educational institutions across three continents. Driven by a profound commitment, Aïdah strives to capture and share light, constructing beacons of connection and understanding within our collective human experience. Connect with Aïdah: @aidahrasheed
Jasmine Brown
Jasmine Brown is a mother, cybersecurity professional and a graduate of the illustrious North Carolina A&T State University. When she’s not in the office, she captures the essence of life as a single mom by choice through podcast interviews and brief writings. She enjoys spending valuable moments with her blessings and dogter, trying the newest DIY home improvements and traveling with family and friends. Connect with Jasmine: @Schi_didthat
Rashida Zalika Davis, PhD
Dr. Rashida Davis is a psychologist and founder of Heal To Hear Consults, a private practice located in Dallas, TX whose mission is to help GOD's people heal so they can hear from HIM more clearly. Dr. Davis truly enjoys supporting people through life's challenges. Dr. Davis takes a holistic and relational approach to therapy, using approaches that cater to clients' unique identities and therapeutic needs. Outside of the counseling room, Dr. Davis conducts workshops and facilitates retreats that promote mental, physical, spiritual, and relational well-being. Connect with Dr. Davis: https://www.healtohearconsults.com & @HealToHear
Rikiesha Metzger, PhD
Rikiesha Metzger is a multifaceted International Community Artist-Philosopher working with themes related to race, identity, and spirituality. Originally from Philadelphia, PA, she has traveled extensively, first as a military child, and more recently as an artist interested in experiencing and collaborating with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Built upon a strong spiritual foundation, she demonstrates how art can be used as an outlet for self-expression. She recently received her PhD in Philosophy, Aesthetics, and Art Theory from the Institute for Doctoral Studies in the Visual Arts. Connect with Dr. Rikiesha: http://www.rikiesha.com/
Shama Winston-Ford, MS; LPC-A, NCC
Passionate about fostering mental wellness and personal growth, the proud owner of Disruptive Thinking Counseling offers comprehensive counseling services with a compassionate, client-centered approach. Having earned a bachelor's degree in psychology at Charleston Southern University, they value the foundation it provided for their journey. Their achievement of an MS in Clinical Counseling at CSU is significant to them. Currently an adjunct professor in the Psychology Department at Charleston Southern University, they are pursuing their second year of doctoral studies at Regent University. Born and raised in Dominica, they moved to the United States at 14 and have been happily married for 18 years with two sons, Shamar and RJ. Connect with Shama: www.disruptivethinkingcounseling.com
Teresa Chisolm
Teresa Chisolm was born in Germany and raised in multiple states due to being a military child. She is a stay at home mom to an ever expanding family. She holds her faith and family dear to her as she navigates life and motherhood. Writing is a passion she wishes to further explore in the near future.
Randiesa Spires, LCSW, LISW-CP, LICSW,CBS
Randiesa Spires is a prominent figure in maternal and reproductive mental health, integrating her skills as a licensed clinical social worker, postpartum doula, and certified breastfeeding specialist. She offers a comprehensive approach to support women throughout motherhood. With 15 years in maternal mental health. Ms. Spires advocates for reproductive justice and mental health. Her work, "Mothering as a Work of Art ," highlights her expertise and serves as a guide for mothers facing postpartum and breastfeeding challenges. Randiesa's efforts in developing care models emphasize maternal mental well-being. As a renowned speaker and consultant, she influences policy and educates healthcare professionals while leading support groups. Her advocacy aims to ensure mothers receive necessary support, advocating for a society that values reproductive justice and maternal mental health.
D.L. Tucker
With a B.A. in Fine Art from Morgan State University, D.L. Tucker has worked collaboratively on countless interdisciplinary projects exploring innovative ways to create art for social change since 2009. She is a dedicated community artist that is passionate about using mixed media art and narrative storytelling to support mental health awareness, embrace strength through adversity, and to help build a more inclusive society for everyone. This loving wife and mother of five creates personal narratives through doll making, puppetry, murals and comics. Connect with D.L. Tucker: https://www.dajzhavu.com & @dajzhavu
Quashana Atofau-Caskey
Quashana (Shana) is a Marriage and Family Therapist located in Southern California. She is of Samoan and Black descent. She shares 2 sons and a bonus son with her husband. Shana is a NICU mama who endured one of the most challenging events in entering motherhood. She loves traveling, reading, experiencing new foods, and watching anime. She works with mothers and children at a private practice called Spark All Wellness. Her passions are helping others, spreading cultural awareness, and bringing to light the challenges of Black mothers in our society. Connect with Shana: https://sparkallwellness.com & @sessionswithshana
Bernaiyya (Naya) Jackson
Bernaiyya, a recent graduate of The University of Oklahoma, holds a Masters in Social Work and is a devoted mother to her 6-year-old son. She is driven by her passion to offer mothers and children access to quality mental health resources. Drawing from her personal journey, Bernaiyya brings a wealth of experience to her profession. During her graduate studies, she focused on providing mental health services within the private practice sector, catering to individuals and families. Prior to her time at The University of Oklahoma, she earned her degree from Howard University and thereafter served as a Lead Teacher with Teach for America in Tulsa's historic Greenwood District. Bernaiyya's dedication extends to community development, as she actively contributed to the North Tulsa Economic Development Initiative (NTEDi), collaborating with families to enhance their quality of life. Connect with Naya: mommiesconnectedmc@gmail.com
Dashana Lane
Dashana is currently an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Bethune Cookman University. Dashana Lane is a graduate of Florida State University, where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and her Bachelor of Arts degree in African American studies. After completing her studies at Florida State University, Dashana received her Master of Science in School Psychology and Counseling Services from Howard University. Dashana also received her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership at the University of Florida with an emphasis on Early Childhood Education.
Gianina K.L. Strother
Gianina K.L. Strother is an assistant professor in the Department of African American and African Studies at Michigan State University. Her research, writing, teaching, and creative activities are grounded in her advocacy for social justice within a range of institutional spheres. Through her analysis of Black expressive cultures, her work examines issues of race, gender, class, sexuality and age in both stage performances, and the performative practices of everyday life. She is a first time “surprise” mother (in her 40s) of a spirited and curious little human named Laila Anaya.