Activ•ism

-noun
1. The doctrine or practice of vigorous action or involvement as a means of achieving political or other goals, sometimes by demonstrations, protests, etc.
Philosophy –
a. A theory that the essence of reality is pure activity, especially spiritual activity, or process
b. A theory that the relationship between the mind and the objects of perception depends upon the action of the mind

By definition activism is self-explanatory! It is my duty to acknowledge persons whom go above and beyond, making a personal duty to enact change for the better! This dedication gives a round of applause to a pioneer(s) whom is making strides throughout her community.  Community 50/50’s Founder and CEO Zenobia Bey “ZBey tha Poet”, along with dedicated volunteers are single-handedly flipping the perception for the youth here in Richmond, Virginia! How you ask? Take a look:

I had the gracious opportunity joining in on the fun, during spring Lyrics & Beats sessions, which was held every fourth Friday of the month directly after school! Since the summer has kicked into full swing, Lyrics & Beats sessions have transitioned to every other Wednesday from 1p-3p; Seven sessions are scheduled to be held this summer! With three sessions already in the bag, the next will be Wednesday, August 2nd, 2017 @ 1p. location: The Arts Center on Hull st. road

Lyrics & Beats:

Local Virginia Beach artists KEVNPHE came out to support, and showcased to the youth that you can follow your dreams and still be successful! This was the moment were our young Melaninated youth got to see positive male influences from outside the city of Richmond, Virginia.                                                                   

Much Respect to these young brothers!!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   Shout out to the AWESOME volunteers! Without your dedication and time this would not be possible!

In addition to community activities and youth workshops during the regular school season, Community 50/50 joins forces with StreetlovinRVA’s Yvonne Libron and commits to Morning Motivation at the local Martin Luther King (MLK) Middle School every Tuesday and Thursdays approximately 8:15am- 8:40am, even though school is currently out for the summer. Love is still shown to those who attend summer school sessions! This practice positively motivates the children to have a great day and excites them to learn!

In Yvonne’s own words:

“Wow! What can I say?
Z (as I call her) is somebody who is gifted with many talents.
And not just talents like musical or artistic, but gifted with the ability to LISTEN and understand one’s needs especially when it come to the concerns of our youth!
She is resourceful, connected, and more than anything….the type of “go to” player you would want on your team!
She’s a caring, observant, and a “go hard or go home” woman. Not the kind of person that really tolerates bulls**t from anyone!
She gives out to people nothing less than what she expects from herself, which is….dedication, hard-work, and resiliency.
Personally, I don’t think she gets enough credit for all of her efforts that she puts out in the local Richmond non-profit community.
Ohhh…she also has a spontaneous sense of humor! Like she can take a joke and crack right back at ya because of her witty personality. Lol. 

I could on some more if you’d like, but real summed up:
She’s that friend you can call on for any need, you know? Like she’s that type of person in your life! =) ”  -Yvonne Libron (StreetlovinRVA)

The importance of capturing another’s perspective on one who everyone see’s, really gives you insight to that person’s character.. evidently Zenobia’s light shines very bright!

Winding down the 2016-2017 school year, as an incentive and further encouragement, Community 50/50 made a deal with the children who passed all their SOL tests. Upon successfully defeating examinations, a day trip would be awarded for perseverance towards the end of the school year. Destination:  Norfolk, Virginia to visit the Spirit Of Norfolk! Needless to say, the challenge was accepted!! Shout out to MLK middle scholar’s, very much deserved!!

Shedding light on those who may walk in darkness (get it?)… To Zenobia and Community 50/50, continue to do the work so desperately needed in the city. We appreciate your spirit sistar. Looking forward to the future. Activ•ism at it’s finest! Peace, abundance and prosperity. 

Image Courtesy Of:  S.Randolph
© By Shaddai Randolph 2017
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