When I was asked to introduce myself, my first thought was that I didn’t have a long list of impressive titles or extraordinary accomplishments to share. I haven’t climbed Mount Everest, written a bestselling novel, or accepted an award on a grand stage. Instead, I realized that what I do have is something just as meaningful: a genuine love for people, stories, and the written word. And perhaps that’s the best place to begin.
I’ve always believed that the most remarkable people aren’t necessarily the ones making headlines. They’re the mothers, fathers, grandparents, neighbors, artists, teachers, and dreamers who quietly shape the lives of those around them. Their stories often go untold, yet they carry the wisdom, humor, resilience, and love that define our communities. Those are the stories that have always drawn me in, and those are the stories I hope to tell.
Writing has been my way of connecting with the world for as long as I can remember. It’s where I reflect, process my experiences, and express thoughts that are sometimes easier to write than to say aloud. The page has always been a place where I can be honest—with myself and with others.
Along the way, I’ve been fortunate enough to have opportunities to share my writing publicly. Those experiences encouraged me to continue developing my voice and reminded me that our words have the power to comfort, inspire, challenge, and bring people together. While I’m grateful for every opportunity I’ve received, those moments aren’t what define me. What defines me is my desire to write with authenticity and to create work that resonates long after the last sentence has been read.
At my core, I’m simply someone who believes that everyone has a story worth telling and that the ordinary moments of everyday life often become the most extraordinary when we pause long enough to notice them. Sometimes the greatest lessons come from a conversation at the dinner table, a walk through the neighborhood, a church service, a family gathering, or even a stranger’s unexpected act of kindness.
I’m a proud Queens girl, and that will always be a part of who I am. Growing up in New York taught me to appreciate diversity, resilience, and the beauty of different perspectives. It also taught me to speak honestly, laugh often, and never lose sight of where I come from. So when you read my work, you can expect authenticity, warmth, and a healthy dose of relatability.
Some of my favorite childhood memories were made in Harlem.
My family would spend entire days there—shopping, exploring the neighborhood, and, of course, stopping by our favorite soul food buffet. (Shout out to Manna’s… if you know, you know.) But those trips were never just about where we went or what we bought. They were about spending time together, sharing stories, laughing until our sides hurt, and being surrounded by a community rich in history, creativity, and pride.
Harlem always felt like more than a destination. It felt like a living expression of Black culture—a place where music, literature, fashion, art, entrepreneurship, and faith all came together to tell a larger story about who we are as a people. Those experiences left a lasting impression on me and continue to influence how I see the world today.
Another place that deeply shaped my life was Greater Refuge Temple, my home church. It was there that I learned the importance of faith, compassion, perseverance, humility, and service. The church wasn’t simply a place to worship; it was a community that encouraged people to care for one another, celebrate each other’s victories, and stand together during difficult times.
Those values continue to guide me today, and they naturally find their way into my writing. Whether I’m writing about family, community, culture, or the arts, I hope my work reflects the belief that kindness, understanding, and empathy still matter.
One of the things I’m most passionate about is celebrating the richness of Black life in all of its forms. Too often our stories are told through a narrow lens, but our experiences are wonderfully diverse. We are artists, poets, educators, entrepreneurs, musicians, caregivers, visionaries, and everyday people creating extraordinary lives through ordinary moments.
As a contributor to Mood Magazine NYC, I’m excited to explore the people, places, and conversations that strengthen our communities. I’ll be highlighting the poetry scene, examining family dynamics, celebrating creative voices, and sharing stories that encourage meaningful dialogue. I hope my writing inspires readers to reflect, to reconnect with one another, and to appreciate the beauty that exists all around us.
More than anything, I want this column to feel like a conversation.
A place where we can celebrate culture, ask thoughtful questions, share honest reflections, and remind ourselves that every person has a story worth hearing.
Thank you for welcoming me into your reading journey. I’m honored to be part of the Mood Magazine NYC family, and I look forward to sharing many stories with you in the months ahead.
by Jennice Powell Founding Editorial Contributor
