Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Crystal Wilson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Crystal , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
Growing up, my mom always exposed my sister and I to age appropriate books and often took us to the library. As a teenager in high school and young adult in college, I tended to what I thought was more important and didn’t read as much. Once I began to settle down and especially as I began to become more family oriented, the habit of reading came back in my life. I would read to my children while they were still in my womb and would continue when they were born. We’d make trips to the library and bookstore often. I found that I enjoyed reading childrens books just as much as adult books. Divine synchronicity would allow for me to lose my job in the business world in 1993. It was on a trip to the local library that I learned that they were looking for a Branch Manager. I applied and got the job…..on the first day, I knew the library was where I belonged! I was exposed to the world of literacy in all facets.
A few years later I earned my Masters in Library and Information Studies and move to Senatobia, Mississippi. It was through work with college students that I learned that Black children’s interest in reading had been suppressed by WHAT they had to read. I wanted to be a catalyst in awakening their love for reading by providing a safe space with books by, for and about Black people. I founded OASIS Literacy Center in September 2013 to “strengthen the academic and life skills of citizens of underserved communities by being a place of innovative, creative and visionary learning. We will increase reading and writing skills ; build self-esteem ; enrich the mind and body ; and build healthy communities by building healthy citizens.”
Since 1993 we’ve touched many lives and have established ASE’ Academy where we ““Provide true education (to bring forth the genius that is already there) for African children that supports our goals and aims to build and maintain the Black Nation.” To accomplish this we will begin by “unlearning to remember….teaching to Nation Build.”
My work with children is challenging and rewarding. I have grown and evolved tremendously and I am thankful. I love what I do! I have found that my need to learn so I can be an effective teacher has increased I love the creativity that comes with planning to engage our youth of all ages. It keeps me vibrant and on my toes. I am hopeful and positive because I know there is so much more to come!
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am the Founder and Director of OASIS Literacy Center and ASE’ Academy. OASIS is a nonprofit organization that focuses on the academic and life skills in the Black community. We provide programming and support in those areas. ASE’ Academy is more specific by providing academic instruction from a Black perspective. It was because I learned later in life about the awesomeness of people of African descent that I wanted to establish an organization and institution to reach our children at an early age. Knowing that we come from greatness is a catalyst for us to continue the legacy.
It is so rewarding to create and develop relevant and age appropriate lessons for our children/youth. I love learning and I love teaching my people “ourstory.” I am particularly interested in the rich culture and heritage of Mississippi and Arkansas as those are the two states I call home. I do have a blog that I record and document interesting facts about Mississippi. It can be found at https://mississippigotdamn.blogspot.com/.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Being a lifelong learner is key! This learning can come from a variety of sources…..books and other media, life experiences and my favorite, elders. The elders in my life keep me grounded, encouraged and inspired.
Using a holistic approach to problem solving. As I began working with children, I found that most were issues and obstacles that had to be approached from a “root” or source perspective. Finding the cause so the problem can be handled permanently.
Creating community. Having a reliable village/tribe is essential in the work of Nation Building.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
Both of my parents have transitioned from the physical realm and I often reflect on the values, morals and standards they instilled in me. Those values include thinking beyond myself in all I do because my decisions and behavior have consequences that will affect others as well.. They taught me that family extends to the community in which I live.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://blackliberationmovement.com/ase-academy
- Instagram: aseacademyms
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unlearningtoremember/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@crystaldenise365
