I am the Founder/Publisher of a digital magazine called Ujima, located in Austin, Texas. We highlight our "everyday heroes."
Ujima focuses on the "everyday hero" in our Black community. We promote, inspire and educate through writing positive stories.
I also love art, dogs, photography, journaling, blogging and wine.
“There comes a time in every woman’s life when enough is enough. It can be about career, finances, relationships, self-love, or even a lack of direction. One day, you find yourself asking – if not now, then when?”
“African American women are natural caretakers. We spend our lives giving to our children, our jobs, our relationships and even sometimes our parents. But, when do we give to ourselves? We can give so much that instead of our cup running over, we find ourselves giving from an empty cup.” Continue reading “AUSTIN WOMEN EMPOWERING AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN IN 15 CITIES”
African American Cultural Heritage District Board Forms
L – R (clockwise) Rev. Freddie Dixon, architect Emily Little, business owner Adrian Neely, attorney James Nortey, museum curator Bernadette Phifer, artist Lisa Byrd.
Nearly 30 years after the idea first came to light, Austin’s African American cultural heritage district is closer to becoming a reality. Last week a group of business owners, community leaders and cultural and arts professionals officially established the organization known as the African American Cultural Heritage District (AACHD).
“The organization plans toserve as a catalyst for projects and activities that are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents and small businesses of Central East Austin,” says Adrian Neely, board chair, “while preserving and protecting the cultural legacy of Austin’s historically Black community.”
“We appreciate the support of visionaries in the community and staff from the City of Austin, especially Deputy City Manager Michael McDonald,” adds Neely.
In the late 1980s a group of concerned citizens and activists offered a plan for the revitalization of E. 11th and 12th streets that included the creation of a cultural arts center and heritage district. Since the 80s many other community members have worked to create a community-based economic engine to preserve and protect the vitality of African American culture in Austin. Continue reading “African American Cultural Heritage District Board Forms”
Ujima Magazine is introducing a new foodie blog written and tasted by Kevin DJ Flexx Fletcher. This blog was created purely for entertainment because DJ Flexx loves food and wants to share his experiences with the community. Ujima will share his food voyage as he visits all the different spots in Austin and wherever he may go. Enjoy! Texas Steak Out is sort of the … Continue reading New Foodie Blog: Austin Eats Visits TEXAS STEAK OUT!
Dear Friends, Ujima Magazine has some great news to share with you. We Are Going Digital! Damita Miller-Shanklin, Founder and Publisher, of Austins’ only Black focused magazine, has been committed to telling diverse stories that educate and inform our community. Ujima has worked to build the magazine around our community by highlighting everyday heroes; and it will continue to do so. … Continue reading UJIMA MAGAZINE IS GOING DIGITAL!!!