Industry pros on how it manifests in their work, days, and soulcare rituals.
– KEYS SOULCARE
We’re honored to have conversations with lightworkers of all walks and industries. But we’re not going to lie: these next few names in the beauty world inspire us — not to mention our wellness and style rituals — virtually every day. And, when the pros below answered the call to muse on Black joy through the perspective of their past, present, and future visions? Well, let’s just say we had a major fangirl moment.
”Black joy means celebrating and uplifting us all the time, not just during Black History Month. As an editor, that means telling our stories, providing honest information, and making sure we’re represented in a beautiful manner through my work. Joy and soulcare go hand in hand because, in my opinion, without caring for yourself and your soul, real joy can’t be experienced. It’s important that we’re kind and gentle with ourselves to make room for the positive things the universe has to offer.” — Aimee Simeon, Senior Beauty Writer, Refinery 29 | @aimeeamazing
“There are so many ways to find and create joy. Some of my favorites include watching old music videos and Black-led films like Carmen Jones starring Dorothy Dandridge. (I’m a sucker for nostalgia.) Other times, I love to read, take baths, or listen to healing meditations and music – like those of Lauren Ash and Beautiful Chorus. Lately, I’ve been loving pole dancing. It’s been so freeing, strengthening, and healing for me, as are doing face masks and watching YouTube. Sitting in silence and just simply taking deep breaths can be very centering as well. Meditating and praying never fail me.” — Akili King, Beauty Editorial Assistant and Writer, Vogue | @akili_
“Joy is essential to a balanced mind and body. Stress can quite literally make you sick. (Trust me, I’ve experienced it.) The more joy you have in your life, the easier it is to be healthy — not just physically, but on a soul level. I also encourage Black people to fill their homes with happy, uplifting music with positive messaging. We make some of the best music around, and we are so connected to our art that it affects all aspects of our lives. I think we also need to just show each other love, no matter where we come from.” — Jihan Forbes, Digital Editor, Allure.com | @itsjihanm
“A lot of people are feeling very alone right now. It’s sometimes hard to recognize your support system when you’re by yourself and don’t have access to people in the same way you used to. At work, I include Black women in almost everything I do, and I always use uplifting language when describing our beauty. On a personal level, I try to check in and engage with people as much as I can. I celebrate people’s wins whenever I see them, and I find ways to make my friends know they’re loved — whether it be sending them a funny meme, random text, or a surprise delivery to their house.” — Kayla Greaves, Senior Beauty Editor, InStyle.com | @KaylaAGreaves
“Growing up, joy looked like creating without abandon with my friends after school and during the summers. We spent all day making songs, learning trendy dances, playing [with] makeup, or just jumping on a trampoline for hours. If I did not have those moments, where I could express myself uninhibited in big and small ways, I would not know how to find it in my adult life.” — Rachael Edwards, Beauty Editor and Senior Social Coordinator, POPSUGAR | @RachaeltheLord
“From a beauty perspective, Black joy is freedom of expression and celebration. It’s recognizing and celebrating your beauty from the moment you come into consciousness rather than having to attempt to adhere to two sets of beauty standards. It’s the freedom to be who you are and having all of that be reflected back at you. Joy is generated internally and is rooted in gratefulness. Taking care of your soul and honoring yourself is the quickest way to find it.” — Tembe Denton-Hurst, Writer, The Strategist at New York Magazine | @tembae
How do you cherish and celebrate your Black joy? Share your thoughts (and joys!) in the comments below.
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