It’s never easy to say goodbye…
What does creating legacy sound like? How do you describe a phenomenon? What can I possibly say about Shades of Noir that hasn’t already been said? I like to start with, thank you. I can honestly say I have been through a transformation of sorts that couldn’t have been predicted. Seeing myself in the eyes of so many who look just like me and being able to contribute to such an important conversation, one that not only pushes forward the empowerment of underrepresented peoples but supports, educates and nurtures the creative within will be such a treasured moment in my hopefully long prosperous life, but one that will forever influence the rest. I began unaware of what it truly meant to be a part of a community, what it truly meant to create change, and how many different ways we as individuals can serve justice.
Throughout my higher education experience I was looking at the very words that would become almost like mantras leaving my mouth; words like justice, society, inequality, diversity, representation, race, marginalisation and only until I joined Shades of Noir did it forced me to look inside myself did I find out their true definitions and in turn my truth. I was able to define my goals, ambitions, and most importantly, my potential. I’d like to give a humble and warm thank you to the founder Aisha Richards and my editor Melodie Holliday, whose counsel, support, and inspiration were invaluable to me and for bringing together such a space that I know will continue to be a light in the dark for so many.
Though leaving Shades was always going to feel too soon, and I will miss my team dearly. It was an honour to serve my community as Junior Editor and I know I will continue to do so wherever life takes me.
Here’s to many more reasons to Salute.
Bee Smith
