We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Missnatasha Connects a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

MissNatasha, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?

My parents were visionaries in their own right, carving out a life that blended resilience, tradition, and an unshakable sense of pride. They got so many things right—especially when it came to exposing us to the world beyond city streets. While other families sought comfort in familiar places, my mother and father packed up the car, loaded the boat, and took us north, deep into the heart of nature. Camping wasn’t just a trip; it was a lesson in respect—for the land, for ourselves, and for the unseen forces that had shaped our ancestors’ survival. We learned how to listen to the wind through the trees, how to honor the spaces we occupied, and how to exist in a world that didn’t often expect to see Black faces in those places.

But their teachings didn’t stop at the water’s edge. My parents instilled in me the value of hard work—not just as a means to an end but as a declaration of self-worth. They showed me that true success isn’t just about personal gain; it’s about service, about lifting as you climb. In their presence, I came to understand the unspoken codes of the world—how dignity and respect could open doors, how surrounding yourself with the right people could shift the course of your life. Through them, I learned the power of food, not just as nourishment but as a bridge between generations, a way to gather, to heal, and to celebrate. Family, friendship, and community were not just words in our home; they were a way of life. And because of them, I walk with purpose, knowing that the lessons they gifted me are stitched into the very essence of who I am.

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 started CreateDon’tHate out of frustration, the frustration of individuals hating of me and others like me just because of my differences. I wanted to start a movement of hope courage and love and build community and connection in the process. At Create Instead of Hate Mental Wellness Solutions (CIHMental Wellness Solutions) we encourage creating instead of hating, each and everyday, through books, speaking about mental health and wellness and being a peer supporter. Offering a nonjudgmental, confidential peer that’s here to hear what you have to say good or bad happy or sad.

Offers:
A Sincere Peer
The CreateDon’tHate Show on YouTube
Disability Advocate
Mental Wellness and Self Acceptance books for children and adults
Mental health and Wellness Speaker
Stationary – BeeWell cards, stickers, notebooks

With over 15 years of experience dedicated to enhancing both personal and professional growth. Being neurodivergent I stands out as a seasoned professional in mental wellness and community support. My career reflects a deep commitment to fostering positive environments through effective communication, active listening, and empathetic engagement.

My journey includes a diverse background in mental wellness advocacy and education. As the founder of Create Instead of Hate Mental Wellness Solutions, (CIHMental Wellness Solutions) I has authored three influential mental health and wellness books, speaking at key wellness events such as the Embracing Imperfections Event in Atlanta. My advocacy extends to addressing both visible and invisible disabilities across multiple platforms.

My previous roles as a Student Counselor and Wellness Counsellor further highlight my ability to connect with and support individuals through various challenges. From advising international students to developing resilience strategies for peers, my work is marked by a genuine passion for helping others succeed.

My qualifications include a Life Skills Coach certification, Ba in Education and Digital Studies and diploma in Early Childhood Education and Community Work respectively. My professional journey is characterized by a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

My dedication to creating supportive and inclusive environments, coupled with my extensive experience, makes me an ideal candidate for roles that require a deep understanding of community needs and a drive for positive impact. I welcome opportunities to contribute to organizations that value quality care and community-centric approaches.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

I believe that my BeeWell cards have been the biggest help in building my reputation within the mental health and wellness market. The BeeWell cards act as a bridge to connection and community. The BeeWell cards help to market what I do and share love all in one. I have given out over 3000 cards in the last 3 years and build tremendous connections in the process.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

A lesson that I had to unlearn would have to be being nice, I say this all the time, ” I’m not nice, I’m kind” Nice doesn’t get you nowhere but used and abused. Being kind is far more rewarding for myself and others! Being kind doesn’t hurt and much as being nice.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/missnatashaconnects
• Instagram: @missnatashaconnects
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/missnatasha-connects-a1094925?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@createdonthate?si=_cihHWECPujR2soU

Image Credits

MissNatasha

NeddyNyce