Awards December 28, 2038 Cote D’Ivoire Notification When I first learned that I had been nominated for the Ebony Awards, I blinked my eyes several times and went like ..me? Immediately, I saw myself, counted among the creatives and entrepreneurs who were leaving an indelible mark on the world through their innovative storytelling and impactful endeavors. I can’t tell you the countless number of times I stood in front of my mirror after that, just rehearsing and rehearsing this speech; the poses I tried, the voice modulations I attempted. “Oh Mansa, you are shouting into the mic,” or “Oh Mansa, you don’t sound confident at all,” until my subconscious chided me and said, “Be real, girl, just be yourself.” 82 The Birthday Journal
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