We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Lakeetha Blakeney. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Lakeetha below.
Lakeetha, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s jump to the end – what do you want to be remembered for?
My work focuses on the experiences of marginalized individuals and groups. I create pieces for children and I create for adults. In both cases I want them to see themselves, I want them to be inspired to learn someone else’s story. I hope my legacy will work that sparks conversation that leads to meaningful and sustainable change.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I am an actress, playwright, Director, and author. My journey in the world of theater began when I was 15. I went to summer camp at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte and I fell in love with the stage. I received my BA in Theatre and African American Studies from University North Carolina at Greensboro. After graduating I began teaching in After School arts programs where I began to develop directing skills. I moved to St Louis Mo where I worked with the St Louis Black Rep and there I began writing my first script “Sweet Jenn” a play about a formerly enslaved woman. That script won best original script at the Atlanta Black Theatre Festival. I moved back to the Charlotte area and began working with local theatres such as CTC and Matthews Playhouse. Like so many others I lost my job when theatres closed during the pandemic. It was as if I lost my compass, I had no direction. With the help of career coach Shannon Ivey I began writing the first book in the Princess Fearless series. I have since adapted it into a play and am working on Book 3. Now I work with various organizations including Mecklenburg county to create work that highlights how he experiences of marginalized communities.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
To be honest I am always learning. Sometimes I don’t know what I am doing until I’m doing it. Mistakes and missteps only server to make me better. I have been blessed to have good people around me who offer wonderful advice. I do my best to make sure my heart and intentions are in the right place even when I mess up. I always own my mistakes and things are never really as bad as they seem
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
In our society women and black women in particular (because I am a black woman and it informs my work) have been taught to be small to not offend, I would do a ton of work for very little money. Yes there is a thing called paying dues but there is also not knowing your self worth and I didn’t. I know now that I have a voice and a gift and I have the courage to ask for what I am worth. I no longer sell myself short
Contact Info:
- Website: Keethab.com
- Instagram: @Keetha_b_author
- Facebook: Lakeetha Blakeney
- Youtube: Keetha B