In honor of Black History Month, Atwood Magazine has invited artists to participate in a series of essays reflecting on identity, music, culture, inclusion, and more.

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Today, globally acclaimed “positivity queen” and self-proclaimed “international hype girl” Alethea Crimmins shares her essay, ‘Unapologetic Brilliance: My Journey to Shine,’ as a part of Atwood Magazine’s Black History Month series!

Says Crimmins, “I overcame years of bullying, self-doubt, and abuse by reclaiming my power, embracing my uniqueness, and choosing to shine unapologetically, proving that I was never meant to fit in – I was meant to stand out.”

Renowned for her daily motivational mantras, including empowering phrases like “Be Great In Their Face” and “Have A Good Day On Purpose,” each punctuated with her signature “Ya’ Welcome,” Crimmins has established the influential brand and podcast “Pimpin’ Positivity,” dedicated to uplifting millions across the globe. Recognized and reposted by influential figures such as Madonna, Viola Davis, and Rihanna, Crimmins is not just a motivational speaker but a global influencer shaping a movement of empowerment, self-love, and positivity. Her activism to promote body positivity as a plus size woman has been celebrated globally.

But her journey towards becoming a celebrated influencer wasn’t without its trials and tribulations. Growing up in a small town where dreams often felt stifled and voices muted, Crimmins learned the power of resilience at an early age. Hindered by a stutter that seemed insurmountable, she discovered the strength to overcome adversity through sheer determination and unwavering self-belief. Education became her sanctuary, a realm where she could mold young minds and impart the invaluable lessons learned from her own struggles. But Alethea’s aspirations transcended the confines of the classroom, leading her to embrace the global stage of empowerment and music. Fueled by a passion for connecting with others and spreading positivity, she found her voice through the universal language of music, captivating audiences with her soulful performances and infectious enthusiasm. Her magnetic presence extends far beyond the digital realm, with impactful appearances on The Jennifer Hudson Show and numerous corporate conferences where she serves as a keynote speaker. 

Her dynamic and authentic approach, characterized by a blend of humor, wisdom, and raw vulnerability, leaves an indelible mark on audiences worldwide. In addition to her role as a life coach and entrepreneur, Crimmins is a passionate advocate for self-love and acceptance. Having navigated her own journey of self-discovery, she remains committed to empowering others to embrace their authentic selves and live their truth unapologetically. Her commitment to authenticity is exemplified in her personal life as well, as a proud member of the LGBTQ community, she brings authenticity and inclusivity to her message of positivity and empowerment. Despite the challenges she has faced, her commitment to family remains unwavering. As a devoted mother of three and a loving partner to her spouse, she has built a supportive and nurturing home where love and acceptance reign supreme. Her personal experiences have fueled her passion for fostering inclusive communities and empowering individuals to embrace their uniqueness without fear or reservation. 

As she continues to inspire millions, Alethea remains dedicated to her role as the “international hype girl,” forging connections that resonate with hearts and minds across the globe.

An inspiration through both her actions and her words, Alethea is an example for us all – and a stirring reminder that what we say, and what we do, matters. Read her moving Black History Month essay below, and listen to her new single “Shine” wherever you stream music!

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UNAPOLOGETIC BRILLIANCE

My Journey to Shine

by Alethea Crimmins

I know what it feels like to be silenced, to be made to feel small. To walk into a room and wonder if I belong.

For so long, I felt like I didn’t. I was always judged for simply being me – too loud, too bold, too different. The world told me I needed to shrink, to take up less space, to soften my edges so I could fit into a mold never meant for me. And I believed it.

I lacked self-esteem, self-worth. I thought my value lay in the hands of other people, in their approval, in their validation. I lost myself trying to be who they wanted me to be. And when I could no longer bear the weight of it all, I tried to disappear—three times. Three times, I believed the lie that I wasn’t enough. Three times, I thought the world would be better off without me. But after that third attempt, something shifted. I realized that no one was coming to save me. I had to save myself.

So I did.

I became my own cheerleader. My own protector. My own best friend. My voice became louder than the voices of the world, drowning out the noise that told me I wasn’t worthy. I started to shine—not for them, not for approval, but for me. Because I was always meant to. We shine like glitter, leaving traces of our magic wherever we go. We sparkle. We illuminate spaces where there is darkness, bringing light, wisdom, and power into every room we enter.

“Shine” is more than just a word to me – more than just a song, it’s a bad bitch anthem, my love letter to myself, my coming-out story.

It’s a declaration that I will no longer shrink for anyone. My music has a message, a purpose—to uplift, to empower, to remind every Black woman, every person who has ever felt like they weren’t enough, that they are. That they always were. That they were born to shine. It’s time to take back our power and live out loud.

So let them say what they want. Let them misunderstand our passion, our confidence, our power. It changes nothing. We were never meant to be small. We were never meant to dim our light. We will shine—boldly, fiercely, and unapologetically. Because we were born to. And we always will. – Alethea Crimmins

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