Author: Damita M-S

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.
Food and Drink, Health and Wellness, Lifestyle

Empowering Sobriety: Navigating Dry January in the Black Community

Damita Miller-Shanklin Have you heard of the new thing to do in January? It involves no alcohol? Yes, you may have guess, it’s called Dry January. It officially became a thing in 2013 under the organization Alcohol Change UK. (Time.com) I have not done Dry January because I’m not there yet. But I was curious about how it worked and what made people choose to … Continue reading Empowering Sobriety: Navigating Dry January in the Black Community

Unknown's avatarDamita M-SLeave a comment
Goals, Motivation

A Year-Long Adventure: Staying Strong with Your Goals

Damita Miller-Shanklin Achieving your goals requires a combination of planning, commitment, and consistent effort. Here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of accomplishing your goals throughout the year: When planning how to reach your goals is to set clear and specific goals. You can not be vague, instead make it specific like “lose 10 pounds in three months” not just “lose … Continue reading A Year-Long Adventure: Staying Strong with Your Goals

Unknown's avatarDamita M-SLeave a comment
Austin Texas, Black History, Community, Memories

Ujima Celebrates Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Damita Miller-Shanklin As I sit and write this post today, it is 21 degrees with a wind chill advisory. This means the MLK Day celebration has been canceled but postponed for a better weather day. We may cannot march or meet at the MLK statue on the UT campus, however we can still each celebrate his memory and continue our fight for justice and equality for … Continue reading Ujima Celebrates Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Unknown's avatarDamita M-SLeave a comment
Around Town, Black History, Celebrating the Vision

Events of Interest: Celebrating MLK Day 2024

Damita Miller-Shanklin Source: Austin Center for Events If you plan to attend the MLK Celebration on Monday, January 15, you will need to plan to dress warmly. I don’t remember a time I have attended the event and it was not cold. The morning will start with a short program starting at 9am. You can make your way to the MLK Statue on the UT … Continue reading Events of Interest: Celebrating MLK Day 2024

Unknown's avatarDamita M-SLeave a comment
Education, Health and Wellness

Health and Wellness: Your Thyroid and What You Should Know

Damita Miller-Shanklin The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, and it plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions by producing hormones. Thyroid conditions can lead to an imbalance in hormone levels, resulting in symptoms and health issues. Here are some common thyroid symptoms and key things to know about thyroid conditions: Common Thyroid Symptoms: Five Key Things to Know … Continue reading Health and Wellness: Your Thyroid and What You Should Know

Unknown's avatarDamita M-SLeave a comment