I first met Kameisha at Jalisa’s 90-Day Self Care Dare event series. She had a laid-back vibe and possessed, in my opinion, a vast knowledge of crystals and plants, which is so Colorado! Kameisha was born and raised in Aurora and has lived in Denver for six years. Here’s what she shared about being Black in Denver.

What does it mean to you to be Black in Denver?

Being Black in Denver means having access to all types of people, cultures, and activities. For me, growing up here meant that I was allowed to express myself however I wanted without judgment or a limited scope of what blackness is. I am definitely an “awkward Black girl” and that’s because I live in an awkward city.

How have your experiences in Denver shaped you as a creative, entrepreneur, professional, etc.?

Growing up here, I was exposed to many things that some communities just don’t have access to. I started playing music at a young age, and eventually, I was able to travel all over the U.S. playing in Drum Corps because of our strong arts programs. At the same time, I completed advanced computer programming classes that granted me college credit. As an adult, I realize that Denver’s love of the arts and sciences is a major part of how I got to where I am today.