Positive Change Story: Shaakira

Dear Robin,

I stumbled on your YouTube page and Instagram when I was searching for ways to live a minimal, zero-waste life; a slow life, a life more connected with nature, about three years ago. When I saw your Trash Suit project and your Grow Your Own Toilet Paper project, they grabbed my attention and piqued my curiosity! What kept me interested was when I saw your videos on growing food forests in people’s yards and when you foraged 100% of your food for a year. I’m so impressed how you collaborated with communities and shared how anybody can break free from the conventional agricultural food system. I’m happy to have learned from your inspirational messages and radical movements.

I have taken some small steps that I have learned from you starting with taking a different kind of trip than I was used to. This trip was an Earth skills trip in Asheville, NC called Firefly Gathering. I had never heard of Firefly Gathering, but I went to learn some Earth skills in exchange for volunteer nursing. I met a few herbalists and learned a lot about herbalism and medicinal plants. I was inspired to create a mini apothecary in my home. I picked up a woodworking skill and made my first wooden spoon that I actually used and am still very proud of. 🙂

You have inspired me to get rid of my microwave and all plastic Tupperware. To get rid of plastic-made clothes in exchange for clothes made from natural earth materials. You inspired me to get involved in my local community garden and forage for wild spring water — something I had never thought to do before.

My goal is to challenge myself and get rid of my phone. I don’t feel joy in using my phone. It feels like a burden and a trap to have my cell phone. I’m inspired by you to challenge myself to get rid of half of my possessions and my home for a short period. I’m emotional just thinking as I write these ideas and challenges.

I’m driven by your purpose and what you stand for and admire all your efforts towards black indigenous, black women, and all indigenous people.

Sincerely, Shaakira