Sharing Mental Health Trials, Triumphs

By Genoa Barrow | OBSERVER Senior Staff Writer “Women Who Dared” panelists emphasized the transformative power of sisterhood and community healing. From left to right are Toni McNeil, Allisha Crockett, Isale Rahotep, and Adwoa Akyianu. Louis Bryant, OBSERVER Giving each other grace to speak their truth, an intergenerational panel gathered in the spirit of “solidarity and empowerment” to discuss their individual and collective experiences. Women’s mental well-being took center stage at the Guild Theater earlier this month, as the California Black Women’s Health Project (CBWHP) hosted its annual “Women Who Dared” event, giving participants the space to share their challenges and triumphs. Moderated by author and self-love coach Anita Ross, the panel consisted of activist and evangelist Toni McNeil; Allisha Crockett, an educator who focuses on mental health recovery and restorative justice; local nurse Isale Rahotep; and entrepreneur Adwoa Akyianu. “With Black women being the backbone of society, it is extremely important that we are cared for, not only by ourselves, but by our community,” said Akyianu, CEO of beauty brand She Has Shea. Local radio host Wanda Smith was praised for her support and advocacy of Black women, including creating a space for their voices to be heard through...