A Message from the Editor
I’m filled with gratitude and reflection. Thirteen years ago, this journey began with a dream that seemed tremendously unattainable then. I wanted to create a space where Black Arkansans’ stories could be told, voices could be heard, and ideas could thrive in a way the mainstream often misses.
Who would have ever thought a girl like me could do such a thing?!
Who would have ever thought a girl like me could do such a thing?!
When I published the first issue in 2021, I was uncertain but driven by passion and a vision to make a difference – by something much bigger than me. Today, I look back with pride and a deep appreciation for every step that brought this publication to this point. Every single page, every article, and every photo was crafted with love, heart, and intention.
I have been honored to interview incredible individuals, cover groundbreaking events and stories, and bring fresh perspectives that challenge and inspire. My first big break came when Sister Friends United, Inc. allowed me to cover the 12th Annual Women of Excellence Awards & Scholarship Banquet – the theme was Harlem Nights (super cute). I have been going ever since! Each new issue, each collaboration, and each feedback from our readers fueled my growth.
I have been honored to interview incredible individuals, cover groundbreaking events and stories, and bring fresh perspectives that challenge and inspire. My first big break came when Sister Friends United, Inc. allowed me to cover the 12th Annual Women of Excellence Awards & Scholarship Banquet – the theme was Harlem Nights (super cute). I have been going ever since! Each new issue, each collaboration, and each feedback from our readers fueled my growth.
This thang hasn’t always been easy, though. There have been days when I’ve questioned whether I should keep going, whether the dream was too big, and whether the pressure of doing it all myself would take me down. But then I’d get a message about how an article touched someone. Every time! And that? That kept me going. That’s why I keep creating, pushing, and showing up.
I’ve learned so much about people, community, business, the power of media, and storytelling. I’ve weathered many challenges, celebrated victories, and always stayed true to my mission — to give us a platform for us to be seen consistently.
The support I’ve received from the public has been truly humbling. So has the hatred and ignorance. But it has all made this magazine what it is today, and I am grateful for the thoughtful comments, shared stories, prayers, donations, and support of those who have been with me every step of the way. Your cheers were needed and much appreciated.
Thank you for being here. Thank you for reading, for sharing, for supporting. I couldn’t have made it this far without you. It’s up — more stories to tell, more voices to amplify, and more opportunities to connect with all of you in meaningful ways. I hope you’ll continue this journey with me.
To Kev Moye and Janee Miller...Kimberly Lee, Trikina Walker, and Aria Thorns...Kim Donahue, Terra Carroll, and Antoinette King...to my parental units...and my husband, and my son, and my daughter...Thank y'all SO much!
I’ve learned so much about people, community, business, the power of media, and storytelling. I’ve weathered many challenges, celebrated victories, and always stayed true to my mission — to give us a platform for us to be seen consistently.
The support I’ve received from the public has been truly humbling. So has the hatred and ignorance. But it has all made this magazine what it is today, and I am grateful for the thoughtful comments, shared stories, prayers, donations, and support of those who have been with me every step of the way. Your cheers were needed and much appreciated.
Thank you for being here. Thank you for reading, for sharing, for supporting. I couldn’t have made it this far without you. It’s up — more stories to tell, more voices to amplify, and more opportunities to connect with all of you in meaningful ways. I hope you’ll continue this journey with me.
To Kev Moye and Janee Miller...Kimberly Lee, Trikina Walker, and Aria Thorns...Kim Donahue, Terra Carroll, and Antoinette King...to my parental units...and my husband, and my son, and my daughter...Thank y'all SO much!
Dianna D. Donahue-Holley
Publisher & Editor-in-Chief |
4 Years of Milestones
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