We had the good fortune of connecting with Erikah Swift and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erikah, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
I am inspired by the innovations, creativity, and forward thinking mindsets of Black women that have pioneered the culture of this country. From music, television, fashion and more, Black women have used their voices to spark change that must be recognized and celebrated. It is admirable how Black women have demonstrated that consistency, dedication and genuineness can establish success in your brand or business regardless of your audience. Creative Black women such as @IssaRae, @VictoriousLogan, @Savannah.Christina, @Lauren.Ashli, @FunSizedChelle, and @KekeCameron (just to name a few), inspire me to live in my truth and stand for something. As a faith and lifestyle blogger, I feel seen and appreciated by other Black women in this community. I think every field needs the contributions of Black women because our creative works are revolutionary and long lasting. My gratitude and love for Black women is endless. Through their actions, I am encouraged to walk boldly in God’s purpose for my life and empower other Black women to do the same. I am motivated to accomplish this goal by producing authentic stories about my truth, and eventually, helping others share their stories too. Lastly, I want to take a moment to recognize the Black women and girls who were taken too soon by systemic racism and police brutality and uplift them with love by saying their names. Breonna Taylor. Attatiana Jefferson. Sandra Bland. Natasha McKenna. Kendra James. Malissa Williams. Pamela Turner. Shantel Davis. Korryn Gaines. Regis Korchinksi-Paquet. Rekia Boyd. Miriam Carey. Tanisha Anderson. Marielle Franco. Kayla Moore. Agatha Felix. Aiyana Jones. And countless others. I look forward to our society implementing changes that create better systems for all Black lives and amplifying the voices of all Black women.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Writing is considered my art. I am excited to produce more creative content for my blog such as poems and spoken word pieces. Professionally, I got to where I am today by taking opportunities that help me sharpen my skills as a content creator. Currently, I’m in graduate school pursuing a Master’s of Arts degree in Writing and Digital Communication. I also make sure that I am reading and gaining tips about writing whenever I can. Getting to this point wasn’t easy, I dealt with a lot of doubt and negative self-talk because I thought that I didn’t have enough resources to bring my ideas to life. However, I learned that God always provides, and if you stay faithful to the little resources or opportunities you have now, you can be trusted with more in the future. Lastly, one thing I want people to know about me and my story is that Signed With Love was created from adversity. Whatever you’re facing right now, it won’t last forever. God works everything together for your good in the end (Romans 8:28).

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
A really cool place to hangout is Downtown Decatur. The scenery is a nice balance of rustic and modern — perfect for photo ops. Whatever food you’re in the mood for can be fulfilled in this small city. From chain restaurants like Taco Mac and Chipotle, to smaller gems like The Iberian Pig and Siam, Downtown Decatur is a great place to try new cuisines and enjoy a day outdoors. Also, it’s only a short distance away from the city of Atlanta, so you can end the night with great music and drinks at places like the Ultra Lounge or Harold’s Chicken and Ice Bar.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I dedicate this Shoutout to all of my incredible Black women friends and family members who are committed to bettering themselves and those around them. Thanks for supporting me and Signed With Love!

Website: https://signedwithlove.blog/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/signedwithlove_blog/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/signedwithlove.blog/
Youtube: https://signedwithlove.blog/

Image Credits
Melanie Fan. @melboyphoto on Instagram