We recently connected with Qualiéma (kwa-lee-ma) Green and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Qualiéma (kwa-lee-ma), thanks for joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
Taking a significant risk by choosing to heal rather than hide marked a pivotal moment in my life—a profound pause where my purpose and passion began to blossom through the roots of self-love and healing. In 2020, amidst the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic, I faced a life-altering diagnosis: Lichen Planopilaris (LLP), a rare autoimmune condition mirroring lupus, causing chronic pain and hair loss. This diagnosis wasn’t just a medical event; it was a profound awakening. Like many autoimmune conditions, LLP intertwines with stress and emotional well-being, manifesting as a battle—a simultaneous fight and protection of the world within the body. Though I had experienced multiple “big chops” with my hair in the past, the hair loss was different. It was as though I was losing a piece of my identity and spirit—something was happening to my body beyond my control. Externally, I appeared at my best, yet internally, I was literally on fire. Faced with this challenge, I stood at a crossroads: allow the condition to define me or transform it into a catalyst for growth. I chose the latter. I delved deep into the connection between my spirit, mind, and body, no longer content with identifying as a self-love advocate, but truly exploring what self-love means. I tapped into my inner self and acknowledged the parts of me that had been deprived of love and healing for so long. This journey became an exploration of the trauma and pain I had unconsciously carried for years.
The relentless pursuit of my acting career and the busyness of life had masked this inner turmoil. I juggled numerous jobs to sustain myself, always pushing to the limit. However, the grind culture mentality, unbeknownst to me, had triggered my nervous system, leaving my entire being exhausted. This realization underscored the necessity of a holistic approach to healing—addressing the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual dimensions. The path was far from linear. It was a journey of valleys, mountains, and rivers. It was raw, messy, and unfiltered. Riddled with moments of doubt and vulnerability, I embraced my journey with courage and faith. Fueled by a deep-seated belief in self-love, this transformation didn’t happen overnight, and there were certainly moments of agony along the way. However with each step, I became more grounded, resilient, and in touch with the essence of who I am. The physical changes to my appearance became a symbol of my inner growth and evolution.
Today, I approach my career with a newfound sense of ease and fulfillment for the craft itself. I’m no longer chasing after something elusive but rather focused on he(art) of creating meaningful and impactful work. Ironically, this shift has opened up new and exciting opportunities I never imagined before. Through therapy and spiritual introspection, I discovered the strength to release the need for external validation and redefine success on my own terms. And so, I ask you, the readers: what does success truly mean to you?
The evolution of my healing journey led to the inception of HEALVOLUTIONARY: a digital platform dedicated to empowering a community of individuals, particularly women of color, to embark on a journey of self-discovery. By intersecting self-love with mental wellness, Healvolutionary aims to dismantle multi-generational trauma and mental bondage, promoting a life that goes beyond mere survival. My passion and purpose to reclaim my narrative and forge connections through storytelling resonate deeply with James Baldwin’s words: “All art is a kind of confession, more or less oblique. All artists, if they are to survive, are forced, at last, to tell the whole story; to vomit the anguish up.” I also draw deep inspiration from the life and voice of Dr. Maya Angelou. Knowing her story, from early childhood to the legacy that transcends generations, provides me with strength, courage, and wisdom. Her voice, although once silenced, now stands as a testament to uncovering our truths. The bold decision to pause, rest, and prioritize my well-being was nothing short of divine intervention. It revealed to me that healing is a transformative journey of Hope, Faith, and Love.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I ‘m an Actress, Certified Life Coach, host of Epoch Conversations and Founder of Healvolutionary. I’ve always believed that art as it imitates life, is an expression of psychological insight and personal resilience. Growing up in the urban yet vibrant communities of Oakland, California, I developed a deep appreciation for the human experience and individual narratives. As a young girl, when asked what I wanted to be, I would always say a doctor. It should come as no surprise how the unfolding of my passion and purpose intertwine. My commitment extends beyond my artistry. I firmly believe that artistic expression and storytelling encourages true healing, a journey that requires radical self-acceptance and self -love.
What am I most proud of? The answer to this question lies not in singular accomplishments or accolades, but in the collective moments of healing through art, where my work has touched lives and sparked transformation. I am proud of the stories of individuals who found solace, strength, and a renewed sense of purpose through the art and messages I share. Every piece of content, every coaching session, every journey of Epoch Conversations is prayed upon and crafted with the intention of fostering healing, a lifestyle rooted in self-love and most importantly faith.
As for what I want you know about me, is this: At the heart of everything I do is a deep, unwavering belief in the transformative power of art, self-love and healing. Although the wellness space has become trendy, I stand for authenticity, vulnerability, and the courage to face the full spectrum of healing. My work is not just about external success; it’s about nurturing the inner landscape of the soul. It’s about understanding that true wellness comes from aligning our lives with our deepest values and truths. I am committed to fostering environments that encourage introspection, connection, and a profound sense of belonging.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
The mission driving my creative journey is deeply intertwined with the belief that when we heal, we also heal our ancestors. This profound connection to our roots and ancestry forms the foundation of my work. Through this lens, I strive to tell the stories that live within us—stories that carry the wisdom, resilience, and dreams embedded in the multigenerational spirit of creativity. Whether a comedy, drama or tragedy, our stories are rich with lessons and insights that, when brought to light, have the power to transform our perspectives and heal us.
By embracing these narratives, we not only honor our heritage but also breathe new life into our creativity. This process allows us to share experiences that transcend trauma, revealing pathways to freedom and purpose. My creative journey is dedicated to weaving stories where healing and storytelling become a medium through which we explore these narratives, offering a space for self-love, growth, and freedom. It is through this exploration that we find the courage to live beyond the shadows of our past, stepping into a future defined by authenticity and empowerment.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
Art, for me, has always been more than just a form of expression—it’s a conduit for truth and transformation. It’s the one career where you continually rediscover yourself. I take immense pride in knowing that through my art, coaching, and storytelling, I’ve been able to create a space where people feel seen, heard, and understood. As a creative, my passion and purpose stand on the pillars of authenticity, self-love, mental wellness, and faith. These are not mere buzzwords but foundational principles that shape everything I do.
Contact Info:
- Website – www.healvolutionary.com
- Instagram – Personal: @qualiema Business: @healvolutionary Podcast: @epochconversations
- Linkedin – Qualiema Green
- Youtube – Qualiema Green
Image Credits
Feature Photo
Photo 1: Aja Hitomi Photography
Additional Photos
Photo 2: Aja Hitomi Photography
Photo 3: Dana Patrick Photography
Photo 4 & 5: UNEXPECTED TIES Written by: Nehemyah Gray; Director: Grant Housley 2024