Azia Wiggins

Jackson, Miss., is home to hundreds of artists creating works across disciplines that are often overlooked and lack mainstream recognition or publicity despite their quality. Vicksburg, Miss., native and fellow creative Alexis Noble determined that Mississippi artists may simply need the right platform to present their creations. In 2022, she founded The Mash Up to be that solution.

I’ve been told my whole life that I was different. “You’re special,” and talented, and “There’s just something about you.” Since I’ve known nothing else outside of living and growing from moment to imperfect moment in this Black body, hearing these things about myself has always made me question why. What is it about me that shines so brightly that everyone else can see “It” so clearly, but somehow “It” remains a nameless factor?

“All Efforts of Worth and Excellence Are Difficult,” reads the title of my favorite devotional for today. Such a fitting title to sum up the journey that innovators, pioneers and overall leaders have to trek daily. One of the most challenging things about being a leader is the moments when you have to stand first and stand alone while the community you serve watches.