Empowering Black Filmmakers– Filmhub’s Black Cinema Vertical

For over 15 years, Greg Maurice has been immersed in the world of film distribution and acquisitions, navigating an industry known for its challenges and systemic gatekeeping—particularly for African-American and Black filmmakers. As the leader of Filmhub’s Black Cinema Vertical, Maurice is on a mission to level the playing field by creating opportunities and removing barriers for underrepresented voices in film.

“The film industry has always been a tough space, especially for Black and brown filmmakers,” Maurice explains. “Throughout my career, I’ve focused on finding ways to highlight these filmmakers and create distribution strategies for their work. Historically, they’ve lacked access and opportunities because so much of the industry revolves around Hollywood relationships.”

Maurice points out that while technological advancements have made it easier for filmmakers to produce content, the road to distribution remains fraught with challenges. “There are so many films being made by talented Black filmmakers, but they don’t have the avenues to distribute their titles. That’s where Filmhub comes in.”

A Platform for Change

Filmhub launched its Black Cinema Vertical to provide a dedicated space for Black filmmakers to distribute their work and share often overlooked stories. Maurice sees this as a pivotal moment in the industry. “It’s about creating opportunities, building distribution strategies, and amplifying stories that haven’t been told,” he says.

Transparency and education are central to Filmhub’s mission. The company empowers filmmakers by giving them access to valuable insights and tools, helping them understand the distribution process and monetize their films. “We value transparency as a company,” Maurice emphasizes. “We want to equip filmmakers with as much insight as possible, from how to use our platform to how to market their titles effectively. It’s all about giving them the tools to succeed.”

Championing Diverse Stories

One of Maurice’s primary goals is to showcase the diversity within the Black filmmaking community. “There’s so much diversity among us, so many talented filmmakers with different stories to tell,” he says. “Unfortunately, Black films are often stereotyped as fitting into one specific narrative. I want to break that mold and highlight the range of genres Black filmmakers are creating—thrillers, comedies, action films, and more. It’s important to show the breadth of creativity coming from our community.”

By collaborating with a variety of channels, Filmhub ensures these unique stories reach audiences that might otherwise never see them. Maurice believes that amplifying these voices enriches the cultural landscape and challenges outdated perceptions of what Black cinema can be.

Building Trust Through Results

Filmhub’s success speaks for itself, thanks to the filmmakers who have benefited from the platform and shared their experiences. “We’ve built our reputation through word of mouth,” Maurice says. “Our founders wanted to prove that what we’re doing works by letting the filmmaking community speak for us. We haven’t done traditional marketing or promotions, but the feedback we’ve received from filmmakers—especially from the Black community—has been incredible.”

The platform’s case studies and filmmaker feedback have helped shape its tools and strategies, enabling Filmhub to better serve its users. The company continually refined its approach to meet filmmakers’ needs, from licensing deals to distribution insights.

The Future of Black Cinema

For Maurice, the ultimate goal is clear: creating distribution strategies that engage audiences and give filmmakers the platform they deserve. “It all comes down to how you engage an audience,” he says. “Filmhub serves as a catalyst, offering insights and transparency while making information and resources readily available.”

Through its Black Cinema vertical, Filmhub is paving the way for a more inclusive film industry. By empowering Black filmmakers, diversifying the stories being told, and breaking down barriers to distribution, Maurice and his team are helping to reshape the landscape of cinema. 

Dr. Key Hallmon’s No One Is Self-Made Redefines the Path to Entrepreneurial Success

Key Thoughts Photo Option 1-resized“It takes a village.” It’s a phrase many of us are taught, rooted in the belief that unity and togetherness drive collective success. Yet, in today’s culture—where entrepreneurship and individual success are glorified—the term self-made has become a badge of honor. But can both community and individualism propel us forward? Dr. Key Hallmon, an entrepreneur, speaker, and change agent, tackles this question head-on in her HarperCollins debut, No One is Self-Made.

For Dr. Key, village is more than a word—it’s a movement. When she engaged with entrepreneurs at all stages of business, one common thread emerged: they needed community and funding. Rather than focusing solely on financial solutions, she set out to solve both. She understood that building a strong community would organically lead to increased sales, visibility, and access to resources—ultimately impacting funding in a more sustainable way.

This vision materialized as The Village Market, a direct pipeline connecting Black entrepreneurs with consumers and corporate partnerships. To date, her model has generated $8.8 million in direct sales for Black-owned businesses and awarded $800K in grants. Through partnerships with brands like Mastercard and Sprite, The Village Market and The Village Retail have created new opportunities for Black business owners to thrive.

Her belief remains true: “Community will always be the thing that saves us and propels us forward.”

Before launching The Village Market, Dr. Key founded a speaker series called It Takes a Village, where she introduced audiences to successful business owners. This early initiative was a precursor to her broader mission—proving that entrepreneurship thrives in community, not isolation.

Now, with her debut book, No One is Self-Made, she’s expanding this conversation on a national scale.

- - Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon - Entrepreneur | Educator | Social ActivistSet to release on February 4, No One is Self-Made challenges the deeply ingrained belief that success is achieved alone. Dr. Key argues that individualism erases the critical role of mentors, supporters, and communities who help shape an entrepreneur’s journey.

“We must return to community to build our coalition and collective.”

The book explores key challenges entrepreneurs face, including:

  • Loneliness
  • Financial insecurity
  • First-generation business struggles
  • Purpose and vulnerability and more.

Dr. Key provides actionable solutions to humanize the hardships while celebrating the journey—offering a bold roadmap for business owners who want to embrace collective economics and community-driven success.

More than just a mantra, “Support is a verb” is Dr. Key’s call to action. She challenges people to actively support Black-owned businesses—not just through one-time purchases, but by making it a lifestyle.

Real support means patronizing Black businesses consistently, knowledge-sharing and mentorship, and gathering intentionally to align on shared missions and visions

By embodying these principles, communities can build long-term economic strength from within.

Dr. Key’s journey as an author started long before No One is Self-Made. At just seven years old, she dreamed of writing a book. Now, she’s bringing that vision to life—not just to share her story, but to provide a blueprint for others.

Reflecting on her journey, she shares:

“You can have a vision when you’re younger, and if you’re diligent, work hard, and treat people well, there will come a time when you actualize the dreams you once spoke about.”

No One is Self-Made is not just a book; it’s a movement. It calls on entrepreneurs, change makers, and leaders to embrace the power of collective success—because real, lasting impact is never built alone.

To pre-order/order No One is Self-Made and to RSVP for tour stops and local activations visit: www. drkeyhallmon.com/noism/

How East Point is Staying Camera Ready with their International Film Fest

For over 19 years, the Peachtree Village International Film Fest has brought rich, diverse content to Atlanta, and this year, they’re elevating this initiative with the launch of the East Point International Film Fest. Born from a partnership with the East Point Convention and Visitors Bureau, the festival aims to establish East Point as a premier film destination for visitors from near and far.

The East Point International Film Fest has been years in the making. Founder Len Gibson has spent this time connecting with various municipalities across Georgia to broaden the festival’s impact. In conversations with Fulton Films and the Georgia Film Office, he learned about the impressive work underway at the East Point Convention and Visitors Bureau (EPCVB), led by Chantel Ross Francois, and discovered they shared a vision of bringing a film festival to the city. A mutual friend helped bridge the gap, and the East Point International Film Fest was set in motion.

What makes this year unique is the festival’s mission to unite industry experts and enthusiasts nationwide to showcase East Point’s offerings. While many pass through East Point due to its proximity to the world’s busiest airport, they may not get the chance to experience the city’s cultural richness.

Taking place from November 7 to November 10, the festival opens with a press conference and brunch and wraps up with a cocktail reception. The event will feature a wide range of activities, including 60 film screenings, various panels and workshops, an awards show, and a pitch contest.

Highlights this year include The Business of Music and Film panel, which will celebrate legendary Southern hip-hop producer Rico Wade, and the inaugural East Point Convention and Visitors Bureau Culture Impact Award ceremony honoring former East Point Mayor Patsy Jo Hilliard, the city’s first African American and female mayor.

Other notable events include a free screening in collaboration with Black Girl Film Camp, featuring short films by young African American women, followed by a Q&A session. Additionally, there will be a showing of the Atlanta-shot comedy Car Lot, starring and executive produced by NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, directed by Atlanta native Dorian Forbes, and featuring Jamal Willard, DC Young Fly, and others.

The ultimate goal of the East Point International Film Fest is to establish East Point as the “go-to” film and TV hub in the Southeast—a place where projects can be seen and sold. To achieve this, the festival offers year-round training to demonstrate that East Point is “Film Ready,” with notable productions like Black Panther and Stranger Things already filmed there.

Additional focus areas include:

  • Music Integration: Enhancing film and TV projects through impactful soundtracks and scores, which are essential to the success of any production.
  • Marketplace Creation: Providing a platform through the festival where filmmakers can showcase their projects.
  • Industry Training: Developing opportunities for young minds in the business and encouraging economic growth within the City of East Point.

To purchase tickets and stay updated on event details visit www.EPIFF.org and follow @epiffga on social media.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Stormi Banks Leads a Debt-Free Revolution

In an entrepreneurial landscape where accessing funding and mastering grant writing often feel like formidable obstacles, Stormi Banks, CEO of the Pink Print Firm, is dedicated to breaking down those barriers and creating opportunities for women entrepreneurs to thrive. Pink Print is more than a grant writing agency; it’s a movement dedicated to empowering women–especially women of color– to build and sustain debt-free businesses, achieve financial independence, and create lasting legacies of wealth.

Since its founding, Pink Print has aimed to go beyond securing funding to instilling financial literacy and stability for future generations. “The power of entrepreneurship lies in our ability to uplift each other,” Banks explains. “By equipping women to establish financially sound, debt-free businesses, we are laying a foundation for generational wealth and stability.”

Demystifying Grant Writing for Entrepreneurs

Central to Pink Print’s mission is dispelling the misconceptions surrounding grant writing, which many assume to be a simple path to funding. Banks underscores that the process is nuanced and highly competitive. “Grants require careful alignment with funder goals and meticulous preparation,” she notes. “Our role is to guide clients through this complexity, from assessing eligibility to crafting standout applications.”

Beyond funding, Pink Print provides a partnership to navigate each step of the grant process. By emphasizing clear strategies and precise positioning, the agency empowers clients to grow sustainably with the right resources in place.

Financial Freedom as a Core Mission

For Banks, financial freedom is not just a business tagline—it’s a deeply personal mission. Growing up in communities facing chronic financial challenges, she saw firsthand the effects of debt and instability. “Achieving financial literacy and control over finances is transformative,” she reflects. “It’s about building lives and businesses that are free from debt, enabling people to focus on growth and legacy.”

This dedication to financial empowerment underpins Pink Print’s latest initiative: the Debt-Free Revolution.

The Debt-Free Revolution: Elevating Financial Literacy in Atlanta

On November 16, 2024, Pink Print’s Debt-Free Revolution will come to Atlanta, expanding the firm’s reach in a day-long event focused on practical strategies for women entrepreneurs. Targeted at business owners from ages 18 to 40, the event promises to offer actionable insights for building wealth, eliminating debt, and accessing funding.

“The Debt-Free Revolution goes beyond inspiration,” Banks explains. “We want attendees to leave with specific steps they can immediately apply to reshape their financial outlook.”

With an emphasis on debt reduction, financial growth, and grant accessibility, this event represents a critical step in Pink Print’s vision of creating resilient, debt-free businesses. By providing the tools and guidance needed to gain financial autonomy, Banks hopes to inspire women across industries to transform their futures.

More Than an Event—A Movement

For Banks, this journey toward debt-free, women-owned businesses is about more than funding—it’s about dismantling barriers that hinder growth and inspiring women to forge legacies of financial independence. “This is the start of a lifelong journey,” she concludes. “The Debt-Free Revolution is about cultivating confidence, independence, and wealth for women entrepreneurs.”

Join the Debt-Free Revolution

As the November 16 event nears, Atlanta’s women entrepreneurs are invited to join this transformative experience, gaining insights and connections to build a future free from financial constraints. To learn more about the Debt-Free Revolution and secure a spot, visit https://thedebtfreeclinic.com/waitlist 

For more information on The Pink Print Firm, visit https://pinkprintfirm.com/

Revitalizing Fenton Village: Daniel Moijueh’s Mission to Empower a Thriving Community

Daniel Moijueh, Executive Director of Fenton Village in Silver Spring, Maryland, is dedicated to protecting and fostering growth within this vibrant community. Home to approximately 240 businesses, Fenton Village is a thriving neighborhood with establishments ranging from restaurants and salons to music and art stores. Under Moijueh’s leadership, the community is adapting to ongoing development, positioning itself as an enduring cultural and economic hub.

Central to Moijueh’s leadership is his commitment to advocacy and strong community relationships. By hostingmonthly forums, he brings together local business owners and residents to address critical issues, including crime, the impacts of construction, and homelessness. This open dialogue fosters a collaborative spirit, empowering Fenton Village to meet challenges together while creating a supportive network that strengthens community ties and resilience.

Daniel Moijueh, Executive Director of Fenton Village

A key initiative Moijueh is developing is the launch of a Fenton Village app—a resource aimed at streamlining connections between businesses and residents. This app will offer users easy access to information on local businesses, from restaurant recommendations to retail services, enhancing accessibility and helping businesses reach patrons through a user-friendly platform.

With a rich background that includes 13.5 years in the U.S. Army, Moijueh brings resilience, discipline, and a unique perspective to his role as a community leader and entrepreneur. His career has been marked by challenges that sharpened his insights, including a personal business setback in 2020 when he invested $250,000 to open a jewelry store, only to face overwhelming financial strain as the pandemic took hold. Though he eventually closed the store, Moijueh regards the experience as a valuable lesson in persistence—a story he shares to inspire other business owners facing tough times.

Moijueh’s vision for Fenton Village extends beyond short-term gains, aiming for a sustainable, thriving community. Leveraging his expertise in government contracting, he is exploring options for tax incentives, grants, and government partnerships to support local businesses. By securing these resources, he seeks to cultivate a flourishing small business ecosystem that can serve as a model for other communities, showcasing how economic resilience and community values can fuel sustainable growth.

Through his dedicated efforts, Moijueh is transforming Fenton Village into a resilient cornerstone of the greater Silver Spring area, where economic vitality and community spirit go hand-in-hand.

To learn more about Fenton Village, visit https://www.fentonvillagesilverspring.org/

HerSoul: The Experience – A Transformative Healing Event for Women in Atlanta

HerSoul The Experience is an upcoming, powerful event dedicated to supporting women on their healing journeys, especially those affected by trauma that has impacted their personal growth. This transformative conference, founded by Cosha Joseph, LPC-S, NCC, is set for Saturday, November 9th, 2024, at Hotel Colee in Buckhead. Designed as a safe, supportive space, this event invites women affected by trauma to connect, learn, and heal alongside a community of like-minded individuals.

Cosha Joseph, a licensed professional and national certified counselor, was inspired to create HerSoul The Experience after the success of her healing journal and affirmation cards. Driven by a passion to build a community of women bonded by shared experiences and resilience, Joseph aims to foster an environment where women can be open, honest, and vulnerable about their journeys. 

HerSoul:The Experience blends clinical and spiritual perspectives to create a comprehensive approach to healing. Attendees will gain insights and tools designed to empower them to overcome trauma and reclaim their path to personal growth. By addressing both the mind and spirit, the event promises to provide participants with resources they can apply well beyond the conference.

“This is an opportunity for women to see that no matter where they are in life, they’re not alone,” says Cosha Joseph. “HerSoul is about building a sisterhood, a support system that women can lean on. Trauma may be part of your story, but it doesn’t define you. This event is a space for you to reclaim your power.”

The event will feature guest speakers who bring diverse perspectives and expertise, including renowned motivational speaker RealTalk Kim, healing advocate Samantha Lee, and inspirational speaker Krystal Klear. Each speaker will offer unique insights into resilience, healing, and personal empowerment. Additionally, guest host Tyressa Ty will lead discussions, creating an inviting atmosphere for attendees to share and connect.

To purchase tickets, click here

To learn more about Cosha Joseph visit https://www.coshajoseph.com/

A Night of Strength and Self-Care: Moniek Garside Journal Signing

On Thursday, October 17th, Moniek Garside, LCSW, celebrated the launch of her first journal, “I Can. I Will! A Guided Journal to Create a Pathway to a Better You”, at Nostalgia Kitchen + Cocktails in Stone Mountain, Georgia. The event was an inspiring evening centered on empowerment, strength, and self-care, as Moniek connected with attendees who are passionate about personal growth and wellness.

The highlight of the night was a fireside chat between Moniek and Star94 Personality Alyssa DiTomasso, where Moniek shared insights about the importance of self-care and how her journal can serve as a tool to help others on their journey. The atmosphere was warm and uplifting, filled with thoughtful conversations and powerful reflections on achieving balance in life.

While enjoying delicious food and cocktails, attendees had the opportunity to engage with Moniek and gain valuable insights about how to improve their well-being. Moniek’s journal, “I Can. I Will!”, is designed to help users set goals, reflect on their progress, and ultimately create a pathway to a more fulfilling life.

Guests had the opportunity to browse an array of exclusive merchandise, including t-shirts, coffee mugs, and a special “balance” candle, all available for purchase. Moniek also took time to personally sign cards and connect with family, friends, and fellow wellness enthusiasts, making the event a personal and memorable experience.

For those who couldn’t attend, “I Can. I Will! A Guided Journal to Create a Pathway to a Better You” is available for purchase on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Lulu. To stay updated on Moniek’s work and wellness journey, follow her on Instagram at @fitlifewellnessllc.

The evening was not just about celebrating a journal launch—it was about fostering a sense of community, empowerment, and inspiration for everyone in attendance. Moniek Garside continues to encourage others to prioritize self-care and embrace their journey toward personal growth. 

Honoring Legends, Shaping the Future: Inside the 2024 Living Legends Gala

The Thomas J. Blocker Society hosted its highly anticipated 3rd Annual Living Legends Gala at the Loews Hotel in Midtown Atlanta. Over 100 distinguished guests gathered to celebrate a night of honor, inspiration, and the impactful leaders shaping the future of healthcare.

The evening kicked off with an exclusive VIP reception, where influential guests and sponsors had the opportunity to network and engage in intimate conversations. Among the attendees were high-profile leaders from various industries, all united by a common goal: to support the next generation of healthcare professionals.

With Emmy Award-winning actress Jasmine Guy as Mistress of Ceremonies, the formal gala commenced in spectacular fashion. Thomas J. Blocker Society (TJBS) President Dr. Vandy Gaffney opened the program with Wayne Martin, President and CEO of Covenant HealthShare, and Dan Walden, executive at PNC Bank, among the key speakers. The night also featured moving testimonials from two students, who shared their personal stories about how TJBS and its members have positively impacted their academic journeys and career trajectories.

The highlight of the event was the recognition of Dr. Harold Jordan and Dr. Willie Underwood III for their dedication and services to Georgia’s medical landscape. This segment offered a powerful moment with an intimate discussion featuring honoree Dr. Willie Underwood III and facilitated by 11 Alive’s Emmy-nominated anchor Jonathan Martin. The conversation covered Dr. Underwood’s remarkable career and provided an insightful look at the current state of healthcare.

Guests also participated in a lively auction, where generous bids were made in support of scholarships and programs designed to empower future leaders in healthcare and biomedical sciences.

The gala was made possible due to generous contributions from this year’s sponsors, including Covenant HealthShare, PNC Bank, Henry Schein, Northside Hospital, United Healthcare, Morehouse School of Medicine, Rucker Roots, Carter Hill, Sonder Health Plans, Law Offices of Cameron Hawkins, Olly, Pop Socket, Dax Hair Care, Best-Selling Author Bonika Wilson, Skin Leaf Cosmetics, True Citrus, and many more. 

For more information on how you can support Thomas J. Blocker Society initiatives or participate in next year’s gala, please visit www.thomasjblockersociety.com.

Empowering Wellness and Inclusivity: The Visionary Leadership of Kamille Richardson and Lakila Bowden at iSee Technologies

Kamille Richardson: Turning Rejection Into a Vision of Inclusivity

Kamille Richardson, founder and CEO of iSee Technologies, has turned the challenges she faced into powerful tools for change. Born blind, Kamille’s early career search was marked by rejection and biases, as many hiring managers were unwilling to accommodate or understand her blindness. These setbacks, rather than deterring her, fueled her resolve to create her path. Instead of being defined by the barriers imposed by others, Kamille decided to hire herself, which became the solution to the problems she faced.

Kamille now leads iSee Technologies, a company dedicated to providing corporations and government agencies with the tools to address unconscious biases and foster more equitable and inclusive work environments. Her unique perspective and experience enable her to help organizations unpack the often-overlooked challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, ultimately creating more inclusive workplaces.

One of Kamille’s signature achievements is her keynote speech, “The Magic of Being Differently Disabled.” In it, she reframes the concept of disability, shedding light on common misconceptions about blindness and other disabilities. Through her journey, and the stories of others, Kamille inspires her audiences to challenge their preconceived notions and adopt actionable steps to foster inclusivity in their daily lives.

Kamille’s advice to individuals with disabilities who aspire to careers in public speaking or entrepreneurship is practical and empowering: start small and grow from there. Whether it’s conducting short Instagram Live sessions or speaking to smaller audiences, she emphasizes the importance of building confidence gradually. For those interested in entrepreneurship, Kamille suggests joining local business networks, such as the Chamber of Commerce, to establish connections, grow a network, and create visibility in the community.

Her greatest career accomplishment so far is building iSee Technologies, a company that reflects her vision of inclusivity and empowerment. By turning the countless “no’s” she received into a business that benefits not only herself but countless others, Kamille has proven that barriers can be transformed into opportunities.

 

Lakila Bowden: Championing Wellness and Leadership

As COO and co-founder of iSee Technologies, Lakila Bowden brings a unique approach to leadership that is rooted in both corporate success and a deep commitment to personal wellness. Having transitioned from a traditional corporate background, Lakila now dedicates her time to helping high-achieving women unapologetically prioritize self-care. She encourages women to celebrate self-care in every facet of their lives through her keynotes, breaking the idea that focusing on oneself is selfish or indulgent.

Lakila’s role as COO is ever-evolving, but her leadership style remains consistent. She focuses on honoring rest, building a strong team, and engaging with clients that align with iSee Technologies’ core values. Under her guidance, iSee has worked with major companies like Walt Disney, Kraft Heinz, and government agencies—organizations that have made wellness a key pillar of their corporate culture. Lakila emphasizes that companies willing to invest in wellness for their teams see real results, including improved collaboration and enhanced productivity.

In her own life, Lakila practices what she calls “Lakila’s Self Care Cheat Codes”—a set of simple yet impactful practices that keep her grounded and balanced. These “cheat codes” include exercise, mindfulness, and practicing deep self-compassion. But perhaps one of her most important strategies is surrounding herself with people who uplift and support her. She believes that self-care isn’t just about the individual; it’s about creating an environment where people around you contribute to your wellness and motivation.

Lakila also brings intentionality to her work at iSee Technologies. Not every organization is the right fit, and that’s okay. She prioritizes working with clients who genuinely value inclusivity and wellness, ensuring that iSee Technologies can make the greatest impact. Despite retiring from corporate America at just 37, Lakila’s proudest achievement is her impressive career accomplishments and her ability to consistently celebrate every win, no matter how big or small, even during uncertain times.

 

iSee Technologies: A Shared Vision of Wellness and Inclusivity

Kamille Richardson and Lakila Bowden have taken their distinct paths and combined them to create iSee Technologies, a company that provides people development solutions with a focus on workforce wellness, performance enhancement, and inclusive workplaces. Their work shifts the hearts and minds of organizations, helping teams collaborate more effectively, boost profitability, and motivate employees to perform at their best.

At iSee Technologies, wellness, and inclusivity are not just ideals—they are actionable, transformative strategies that are embedded into every partnership. Together, Kamille and Lakila are redefining what it means to lead, offering organizations the tools they need to create cultures that not only embrace diversity but thrive because of it.

To learn more about iSee Technologies

Follow Lakila Bowden on Instagram @lakilaj and Kamille Richardson @kamillealia

Dahéli Hall’s Journey Through Infertility and Creativity: The Birth of SPADURA

Dahéli’s creative journey for her project, SPADURA, began in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown—a period she describes as particularly isolating. This challenging time coincided with her struggles with infertility, creating an intense need to process her emotions and experiences in a meaningful way. For Dahéli, expressing herself through performing, journaling, and making people laugh has always been a therapeutic outlet. However, with the world on pause and her usual ways of coping out of reach, she turned to writing as a means of navigating her IVF journey.

One of Dahéli’s most significant challenges was the emotional weight of shame and guilt. She found herself grappling with the societal and familial expectations of conceiving after marriage. Dahéli recognized that marriage often comes with an underlying assumption of starting a family, or expanding it if a couple already has children. These external pressures compounded her internal struggle, making the journey even more isolating.

As a comedian, Dahéli faced an additional layer of complexity. She realized there weren’t many visible examples of comedians successfully balancing motherhood with their careers. This realization motivated her to pursue motherhood on her own terms, which soon meant navigating the demanding process of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) while continuing her work on stage. The experience was grueling: performing for an audience, awaiting test results, and repeating the cycle night after night.

When the lockdown finally eased, Dahéli took a brave step towards opening up about her journey. She rented a small theater near her home for $20 an hour and invited friends to hear her story. The choice to share was prompted in part by the constant inquiries from friends and family about when she would start a family. By speaking openly about her and her husband’s struggles, she hoped to shed light on the complexities and hardships of their journey.

Dahéli emphasizes that the path to motherhood—or even deciding if motherhood is right for someone—is far from straightforward. In many cases, women only speak about their infertility struggles after achieving pregnancy, but Dahéli was navigating her journey in real-time. Through her performances, she wanted to explore how one can endure losses and setbacks without allowing them to become defeating.

Through SPADURA, Dahéli aims to provide a platform for conversations that are often swept under the rug, including issues such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), fibroids, endometriosis, hysterectomies, and miscarriages. Her goal is to infuse these discussions with humor to make them more engaging and break the stigma that often surrounds these topics. By doing so, she hopes to help more women feel seen and understood.

Ultimately, Dahéli wants her audience to leave the show feeling uplifted. Her vision for SPADURA extends beyond a single performance; she dreams of turning it into a series that continues to explore the complexities of women’s health and fertility in a way that is both honest and humorous. Through her work, Dahéli hopes to foster a sense of community and solidarity among women, creating a space where their stories are not only shared but celebrated.

Follow Dahéli on Instagram at @daheli.hall and @spadura_show.

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