Influentials

Explore the lives of global Afro women from famous and others relatively unknown - with this collection of images and essays that celebrates their commitment to family, progress, and justice. There is Melanie Wilson, who the author met during a 1992 Fall class at the Institute of Political Leadership in Wilmington, North Carolina. The author could not help but be impressed by her story as a high school student who carried business cards to pass out at college recruitment events. Rachel Lyndsay is the first African-American bachelorette in the franchise's history. On one episode, she admitted to feeling stuck in the shadow of her sister, who was considered the prettier and more popular one when they were growing up. By revealing her heart and mind to a group of men on reality TV, she has inspired thousands. Erica Garner is the daughter of Eric Garner, who died in the chokehold of a New York City police officer.