New Orleans teen Berneisha Hoooker is determined not to let her past determine her future.
Her compelling story is the subject of episode four of our ESSENCE Black Girl Magic docuseries. Director Nailah Jefferson perfectly captures the teen’s determination and resilience as she continues to use her artistic voice to spark change.
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“Through my creations, I want to portray a more positive image of our generation,” Hooker says as she displays the artwork she has painted around her historically Black high school.
Growing up, Hooker was unable to read or write well into elementary school. It wasn’t until Hurricane Katrina forced her to evacuate her New Orleans home that she began to understand the importance of an education.
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Now a high school senior, Hooker is an aspiring playwright who is enrolled in college classes, dreams of going to Howard University and makes it a point to give back to her community.
“I know I’m just one person,” she says, “but it only takes one spark to start a flame.”
Watch her entire story below.
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