Working, while making time for Myself

“Black women all over the world are shining. Practicing black girl magic, melanin on fleek, and thriving in their careers. But it is not their skin that makes them unique, but rather similar.  However, It is their story and their journey that captivates people making each and every one special in their own way.” -Taylor Mills

Early Childhood…

Arianna Allen is from Raleigh, North Carolina. She grew up with her two brothers, and her mom. She attended South East Raleigh Magnet High School. She later attended North Carolina A&T State University where she attained a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Elementary Education and Special Education.

When I grow up…

“I wanted to be everything. I wanted to be a Marine Biologist. Then I wanted to be a Clinical Psychologist. I love videography, and I thought I wanted to go into Journalism. When I got to college, I was originally declaring English Education as my major. Then my passion with education kicked in, and I became a teacher.” – Arianna Allen

Career…

“I am currently a Special Education Inclusion teacher. I’ve been in this role for one school year. My little brother had a lot of learning disabilities as a child. Often times I would pitch in, and help my mom with my brother. I gained a passion in Special Education from helping my brother, which ultimately led me to my career. ” -Arianna Allen

Lessons learned from work…

“I am one of the three black women that works at my school. This has taught me to not feed into some of the stereotypes that are placed on black women. I have learned not to show my emotions, or when things are affecting me. I’ve learned a sense of tolerance. Work has also taught me to appreciate my culture, and being a black woman. But most importantly, work has taught me to make time for myself.” – Arianna Allen

I am proudest of…

“I am proud that I got through my first year of teaching. I didn’t know how I would get through it, but I did.” – Arianna Allen

Remember me…

“I would like to be remembered for having an impact on children, and adults lives. I want to be remembered for my contagious personality, and I want people to go ‘Oh my God I want to be just like her’.” – Arianna Allen

20 years from now…

“In 20 years I want to go to law school, and go into politics. I want to help change policies within the education system, and be apart of something that is bigger than me. I want to be an advocate for others that can’t advocate for themselves.” –Arianna Allen

Confidence to me is…

“When I was younger, I had the worst self-esteem. Often times, girls would tease me about my forehead. But as a I got older, I realized I have to accept my forehead because I can’t change it. Now I understand my flaws are a part of who I am. Confidence to me is loving your flaws, and loving who are, and not allowing other people to change how you feel about yourself.” -Arianna Allen

Traveling back in time…

“If I could travel back in time, I would tell my younger self to enjoy life, and love yourself no matter what people say about you. You are beautiful, and you are going to change the world. So just do it.” -Arianna Allen

To be a black woman is…

“To be a black woman to me means being strong, and being unique. It also means being able to face diversity without allowing it to break you. Black women are precious jewels, and we should be treated with care.” -Arianna Allen

“To be a queen is to be a champion. Every queen wears their crown

differently. Although our journeys make us unique, our destinations continue to make us the same. Every queen is grinding for a purpose; every queen is shining in her own light. Just remember no matter what queen, you got this.” -Taylor Mills