Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nicole Yarde. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Nicole, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

At the heart of Black REwrite lies a profound and urgent mission: to combat the systematic erasure of Black and Brown authors from the literary world. In an age where our stories are increasingly at risk of being wiped away, and revisionist history is on the rise, Black REwrite stands as a place of truth, representation, and empowerment.

The inception of Black REwrite was fueled by a stark realization: for every Zora Neale Hurston or Maya Angelou removed from bookshelves, there is a dire need to cultivate and encourage more writers of color. Our history, rich in diversity and depth, is too often overshadowed by narratives that fail to capture the true essence of our experiences. Black REwrite was born out of the necessity to preserve and amplify these voices.

Our mission extends beyond merely countering the erasure of established authors. It’s about nurturing a new generation of writers of color, providing them with the tools, resources, and support to liberate their voices. We believe that every writer of color has a unique story to tell, a story that holds the power to enlighten, inspire, and transform perspectives.

Black REwrite is more than a platform; it’s a movement dedicated to ensuring that the voices of Black and Brown authors are not just heard but echoed across the world. We are committed to breaking down the barriers that have historically silenced these voices, creating a space where writers can freely express their truths.

Through our courses, workshops, and community initiatives, we aim to empower writers of color to bring their stories to light. We envision a world where the narratives of Black and Brown authors are integral to the global literary landscape, celebrated for their authenticity and impact.

In essence, Black REwrite is a tribute to the past, a response to the present, and a signal for the future. It’s our contribution to a world where every story matters, and every voice is valued.

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.

My journey into the world of creative works is deeply intertwined with my career in education and social justice. My 20-year tenure with the New York Department of Education has been a cornerstone of my professional life, reflecting my dedication to uplifting communities and empowering individuals, especially in historically underserved areas.

My career has been marked by a relentless pursuit of initiatives that resonate with culturally responsive and liberatory education. I’ve always been driven by the desire to tackle implicit bias and champion social justice and emotional intelligence. My approach is rooted in equity, ensuring that every person, irrespective of their background, has the opportunity to thrive.

I’ve been a steadfast advocate for progressive and transformative programs, pioneering innovative educational strategies that go beyond traditional boundaries. My focus has always been on imparting knowledge, fostering empowerment, and inspiring others. I believe in an educational experience that acknowledges and nurtures every individual, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and understood.

Expanding my impact beyond the educational sector, I recently launched my own venture, Black Rewrite. This platform is dedicated to elevating emerging authors from the BIPOC community, underscoring my commitment to diversity, representation, and the power of storytelling.

Writing has always been a cornerstone of my identity. I am currently working on a book, “Not Just Words: Unlocking the Author Within,” which embodies my love for writing and my belief in the transformative power of self-expression. In this work, I aim to guide readers on a journey of self-discovery, liberation, and the realization of their dreams.

When I step away from my professional endeavors, I indulge in my love for cinema, global travel with a special fondness for my native Barbados, and culinary adventures, infusing my Caribbean heritage into every dish I create.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from CUNY and a Master’s in International Education from NYU. I reside in Brooklyn, NY.

What sets me apart is my multifaceted approach to education and creativity, blending my passion for social justice with my love for the arts. I am most proud of how Black Rewrite has become a beacon for emerging BIPOC authors, providing them with a platform to share their stories and voices. I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that my work is a reflection of my commitment to empowerment, diversity, and the transformative power of storytelling.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Throughout my life, education has been my passion and profession. I’ve cherished every moment as an educator, grateful for the sustainable financial stability and invaluable lessons it provided. However, in the past year or so, I began to feel a sense of emptiness, a longing for something more. Despite my love for teaching, there was a growing realization that my soul was yearning for a different kind of fulfillment.

I decided to take a break from work, a pause to reevaluate my life and quiet the external noise. It was during this period of introspection and silence that I reconnected with my lifelong love for writing. I’ve always been writing in some form or another, as evidenced by my bachelor’s degree in journalism. Writing has always been my sanctuary, a source of joy and liberation.

In those moments of self-reflection, I realized that while I had dedicated my life to what I needed to do, it was time to pivot towards what I truly wanted to do. This realization was both liberating and daunting, but I was ready to embrace it. It was from this space of courage and clarity that Black REwrite was born.

Black REwrite is more than just a platform; it’s a manifestation of my journey towards fulfilling my true passion. It represents a brave step into a space that has always been close to my heart. This pivot in my career and life was about aligning my work with my deepest passions and desires. It’s a testament to the belief that it’s never too late to pursue what truly makes you happy and fulfilled.

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

One of the most significant lessons I’ve had to unlearn is the notion that putting myself first is not only acceptable but necessary. Growing up as a Black woman with Caribbean heritage, the cultural and societal norms I was surrounded by didn’t always encourage self-prioritization. The ethos of “children should be seen and not heard” was prevalent, often leading to a feeling that my voice was silenced or discouraged.

For a long time, I internalized these messages, believing that elevating my voice or needs was somehow selfish or inappropriate. However, as I progressed through life and my career, I realized the importance of speaking up and asserting myself. Learning to be brave, to lean into challenges, and to assert my presence became pivotal steps towards my liberation and empowerment.

This journey of unlearning wasn’t easy. It was through observing other powerful women of color, who unapologetically took up space and voiced their truths, that I found inspiration and courage. Their strength and resilience showed me that it’s not just okay to prioritize oneself, but it’s essential for personal growth and fulfillment.

Now, as I navigate through my professional and personal life, I carry this lesson with me. It’s become a core part of my mission to encourage other women of color to find their voice, to understand their worth, and to embrace their power. I want them to know that they are needed, valued, and that their voices can and should be heard.

This unlearning has transformed not just how I view myself, but also how I interact with the world. It’s a message I infuse into every aspect of my work with Black REwrite. By empowering others to speak up and positively take space, I hope to contribute to a world where every woman of color feels empowered to put herself first, to share her story, and to live her truth unapologetically.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.blackrewrite.com
• Instagram: @black_rewrite
• Facebook: black rewrite