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drINK Café: Creating Brave Spaces Through Shared Spaces

Article

Background

Born in Kenya to Nigerian and Kenyan parents, Valerie Ntinu is a recent MA graduate in Media, Culture, and Society, specializing in Black Womxn’s experiences and the Black Diaspora. From her own experience as a Black womxn navigating predominant spaces, Valerie sought to create a virtual event addressing the double burden placed on Black womxn. The goal of her Action Project was to highlight and explore the intersections of racism and misogyny confronting Black womxn and non-binary individuals, while providing a brave space for participants to express their grievances.

Approach & Methodology

Valerie collaborated with two organizations that cater to her audience — Association for Black Artists and Netherlands Black Women — to help promote the event and attract participants. She leveraged their contacts and social media presence to gather attendees for the virtual sessions. The project took the form of an artistic event, for which Valerie procured painting canvases and paint from a local store. While initially nervous about participant engagement, she found that the attendees were open and eager to share their experiences. Despite the success of the virtual event, Valerie felt that conducting it in person would have been more impactful.

Next Steps

Valerie plans to host another session in the near future, hoping to improve the format and potentially hold the event in person. She advises anyone organizing similar projects to allow themselves ample time to fully realize their vision and plans.