THE COMMUNITY
The COVID pandemic has taught Emily about the intersectionality of community with profession. When New York City was hit hard at the beginning of the pandemic, Emily embraced the energy of her community. The people she met along her morning and evening walks when she left the house gave her the fuel and perspective to propel her forward at her job. Emily decided to take it a step further and highlight the advocates of her community that want to be heard. As we have learned, a job doesn’t start the moment you walk in or sit down at your desk at your job. Community and profession are profoundly linked and she wants the world to hear their voices as well.
SONYA
Sonya and her husband Tobius are very active in the Harlem Community. They started Only In Harlem out of their apartment and founded the Grass Roots Farmers Market on 145th Street and Edgecombe Avenue. Expanding their reach to include local artisans, chefs, and wellness products, their pop up shop is featured in various locations throughout the neighborhood. It serves as a community gathering place for vegan take-out, natural bath and beauty products, baked goods, mirrors/framing and more. With dreams of expanding further and building on their devotion to their community, we look forward to keeping in touch with them! Follow them on Instagram at @only_in_harlem and @grassrootsfm
SIDNEY
Sidney is a neighbor that inspires us. He dreams of being a motivational speaker and uplifts everyone that meets him. Sidney is constantly absorbing the positive energy of the community around him. He learns from every experience (good and bad). In the clip, he talks about overcoming muscle spasms and living with a disability.