BE HEARD Vol. 0.1
The Legacy of Creation:
Celebrating Black Excellence Through Art, Innovation, and Community
As Black History Month comes to a close, we reflect on the stories we’ve had the honor of sharing—each a testament to creativity, resilience, and the power of expression. Throughout February, we highlighted trailblazers who embody Black excellence in their own unique ways. From the bold artistry of Bree Gilliam, who uses oil paint to amplify Black stories, to Dr. Leon Butcher, redefining the intersection of dentistry and community care, to Akai, pushing boundaries in Buffalo’s fashion scene, and Taya of Hydrated by Honey, making wellness accessible—each represents the spirit of innovation, intention, and transformation.
This past month wasn’t just about looking back at history; it was about celebrating the history we are making right now. The artists, entrepreneurs, and visionaries we featured aren’t just creating for today; they are shaping a future where Black creativity, business, and culture thrive beyond trends and moments. They are building legacies that inspire generations to come.
Creating More Than Tangible, Creating Movement
There’s something powerful about being more than just present in a space—about shaping it, molding it, and leaving an imprint that lasts long after the moment has passed. That’s exactly what Bree, Dr. Butcher, Akai, Taya, and SCKY REI are doing.
They are not just producing art, services, or products; they are creating an environment where Black creativity is limitless, where culture is not just observed but felt, and where excellence is not just a goal but a foundation.
Bree Gilliam: Painting Stories That Speak Beyond Words
Bree Gilliam reminds us that art is a language—one that speaks even when words fail, ensuring that Black and brown faces, emotions, and histories are honored and seen. Through her oil paintings, she captures the richness of Black identity, using color, texture, and movement to convey both personal and collective narratives. Her work not only preserves stories but sparks conversations, challenging traditional spaces to make room for authentic Black representation. Each brushstroke is intentional, a testament to the power of visibility and self-expression.
Dr. Leon Butcher: Crafting Smiles, Transforming Lives
Dr. Leon Butcher teaches us that true craftsmanship is about transformation—how something as simple as a smile can change the way a person sees themselves and the world. His work goes beyond aesthetics; it’s about restoring confidence, rebuilding self-worth, and creating a lasting impact that extends far beyond the surface. With every patient he helps, Dr. Butcher proves that his craft is not just about perfecting an image but about unlocking the power of self-assurance and the ability to face the world with renewed strength. His dedication reminds us that true artistry is measured not only in skill but in the lives it touches.
Akai & Escapades: Fashion as Rebellion, Identity, and Art
Akai and Escapades show us that fashion is more than fabric. It’s identity, expression, and a statement that refuses to be confined. His designs challenge expectations, pushing past the ordinary and into a space where creativity speaks louder than conformity. Akai isn’t just making clothes—he’s shaping a movement, one that dares to stand apart and redefine what it means to create with intent. His work isn’t about following trends; it’s about setting a new standard, proving that fashion is a canvas for bold ideas, individuality, and authenticity.
Taya of Hydrated by Honey: Wellness for the Culture
Taya of Hydrated by Honey proves that wellness is for us—that nourishment extends beyond what we consume. It’s found in the knowledge we pass down, the care we give to our bodies, and the accessibility we create for others. Through her work, she reminds us that true self-care is both a personal and communal act, rooted in tradition, education, and intentional living. Her dedication to holistic wellness isn’t just about products; it’s about empowering others to understand and reclaim their right to nourishment in all forms.
SCKY REI: Reimagining Representation Through Art & Music
SCKY REI exemplifies this ethos. His work—spanning illustration, graphic design, and music—fuses anime aesthetics with Black culture, reimagining representation and storytelling. From North Omaha to St. Louis, his creative impact is undeniable, shaping spaces that allow Black artistry to thrive. His collaborations with the Malcolm X Foundation, album artwork, and contributions to Out of Omaha are proof that creativity is a force that extends far beyond the canvas.
The Power of Black Creativity in Community
This past month was more than just a celebration—it was a reminder. A reminder that we are the architects of culture. That the stories we tell, the businesses we build, and the art we create are shaping the world in real-time. And that’s not something that ends when Black History Month does.
If there’s one message we want to leave with each creator we highlighted, it’s this: Keep pushing the envelope. Keep thinking. Keep creating. Not just for the sake of production but for the sake of legacy. Build something that lasts beyond trends. Make work that sparks conversations long after you’ve walked away. And most importantly, create an environment that nurtures more than just yourself. Create a sustainable, thriving community around you.
To everyone who has supported these visionaries, who has read these stories, shared these posts, and engaged in these conversations—thank you. The work does not stop here. We are Black history in motion. We are the culture, the creativity, the soul.
As we move into March, we look forward to expanding our focus on small businesses and continuing to highlight incredible entrepreneurs and creatives from all backgrounds who are building sustainable legacies within their communities. Because progress and innovation thrive when we uplift and learn from one another, ensuring that creative spaces remain inclusive, dynamic, and impactful.
Let’s keep creating with intent.
Stay connected. Stay inspired. Be the movement.
