We recently connected with Jalevina King and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Jalevina , thanks for joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

From a young age, I knew I wanted to follow a creative and artistic path. I always had a desire to be recognized for something special, even though I wasn’t sure what it would be. I held on to that aspiration, hoping to create a legacy tied to my unique name—something that, when searched, would bring meaningful results. I remember a 5th-grade poetry contest where I wrote about my emotions, and my teachers’ praise made me realize I had a gift with words. From that moment, I started filling notebooks and binders with poetry, plays, and short stories. Writing became my safe space, allowing me to express freely and without limits.

As I grew older, family influences led me to consider more practical career paths, like psychology. My main drive was to help people, but I soon realized that psychology lacked the creativity I craved. It felt too linear, confining me to a single path, which didn’t align with my nature as someone who thrives on exploring multiple facets of creativity. Over time, I understood that helping people isn’t always done in a counseling office; creativity could also be a powerful tool for connection and support. This past year, creating wellness content has shown me how I could impact people beyond an office, I discovered that through writing, theater, and graphic design, I could connect and inspire in many ways. Writing, in particular, became as vital as breathing and deeply embedded into my daily routine. One day, I stumbled upon a video that said, ‘your power is in your voice,’ and it resonated deeply, unlocking a part of me that had been waiting to be validated. Since that moment, I’ve embraced this truth, realizing that my voice, through various creative forms, holds the power to uplift and transform. Embracing my creative identity has brought immense joy and a sense of purpose, allowing me to deeply connect with others through my words, performances, and design

Jalevina , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Hi readers, my name is Jalevina King, and I am the founder of ReflectiveLetters. ReflectiveLetters is a space I’ve created to promote wellness and spirituality, particularly within the Black and Brown communities. Growing up, discussions around mental health and spirituality were often considered taboo, the closest we came to addressing stress was the phrase “give it to God.” While I did indeed give it to God, there came a point where I had to face myself beyond what my parents had taught me. I realized that God’s presence wasn’t just about talking into the void; sometimes it meant speaking with a therapist, connecting with the Earth, expressing myself through poetry, or even speaking into a microphone. One summer night in 2023, after pulling an all-nighter and reflecting on my desire to start a podcast and Insta-blog, the thought ReflectiveLetters came, I typed it into my notes, and though I left it there, I knew in that moment it was time to create something meaningful.

ReflectiveLetters is dedicated to blending wellness, mental health, and spirituality through various forms of content, including blog posts, infographics, and creative series covering topics from mental health to my personal expressions of creativity. My work aims to provide a sanctuary for those seeking solace, understanding, and guidance as they navigate their individual journeys. What sets ReflectiveLetters apart is its commitment to authenticity and vulnerability, I share my personal experiences, struggles, and growth, allowing readers to connect on a deeper level. To me, it’s not just about content; it’s about creating a community where we foster reflection, engage in healing conversations, and offer affirmation. The feedback I receive about how my content has helped someone feel seen or motivated them to begin their own healing journey is incredibly fulfilling. Having once been someone searching online for spaces of safety and understanding, I’m honored to now be part of creating that same space for others. You never truly know what someone is carrying, and knowing that ReflectiveLetters can be a reminder that they’re not alone is something that fills my heart with gratitude. This platform is my way of offering a space where people can breathe, reflect, and heal together.

If you’re in search of a safe space to connect or collaborate, ReflectiveLetters is here to provide a space for growth and reflection. My brand is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a commitment to building a community that uplifts each other’s wellness journeys. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, practical insights, or a space to engage with like-minded individuals, ReflectiveLetters is here to support you and remind you of who you are :).

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

I believe society needs to support artists in every way possible, whether through funding or simply showing up. Too often, creativity is seen as just something people do, but I view it as so much more. Being a creative is about living, breathing, and immersing yourself in creativity. The creative process is intricate and layered, and while it’s not always visible, it doesn’t receive the recognition it deserves. In theater, for example, a team of actors, directors, stage managers, and others pour immense effort into just one production. People don’t always realize that these shows need both financial backing and community support. While a small group of supporters is appreciated, it’s truly rewarding to see creative spaces filled with people in awe of the art unfolding on stage. Beyond theater, countless creatives—including musicians, dancers, photographers, designers, illustrators, writers, makeup artists, and digital artists—often go unnoticed. They too deserve recognition. While many seek what’s mainstream, creatives are the ones shaping that very culture, always ahead of the curve. Everyone deserves their flowers and unwavering support. We don’t need anyone’s permission to give them what they’ve earned—support has the power to change lives.

Secondly, I would emphasize accepting creativity as a way of life. Expressing oneself isn’t always easy and doesn’t come naturally to everyone. Whether they are an author, actress, model, or makeup artist, being able to step into a space and be 100% vulnerable is a superpower—a power that more people need to respect. Many creatives and artists pour a lot of themselves into their work, and accepting that as their way of life could clear up much confusion. I often hear things like, “Why are they like that?” or “Who do they think they are?”, the truth is, they are exactly who they present themselves to be. I love the creative and artistic community because there is no status quo—just people simply existing as themselves.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the liberation and healing it brings. There’s something beautiful about being the captain of your own ship, shaping your own world, and deepening your connection with yourself. I believe that a strong sense of self is essential for creation, and I love when my work reflects that. The more I create, the more I liberate myself, and in that liberation, I find deeper self-connection—an experience I find truly beautiful. Being a creative has shown me that I’ve always known who I am, and that accepting narratives imposed by others simply doesn’t fit. I cherish having creative control, the ability to let my imagination run free, whether it’s designing graphics, producing a podcast episode, or conceptualizing a video. Each project reveals another facet of my being, setting me free in new ways. Creativity is the space where my soul speaks without filters, expressing what it needs to—and I don’t think there’s anything more liberating than that.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://open.spotify.com/show/1N6ydfIsSjnXIpEDEeOcIj?si=1f86c0a45f05498f
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reflectiveletters/ https://www.instagram.com/jalev1na/
• Other: email: [email protected]

Image Credits

Portrait 1- JeMichael R. Hayes
Portrait 2- Antwan Cummings
Portrait 3- Daniel Yakubu
Portrait 4- Jarrett Matthews