We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Monaya Cleveland. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Monaya below.
Monaya, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
One of the best ways I’ve learned to overcome imposter syndrome is by remembering something my best friend told me years ago: “God can’t bless who you pretend to be.” That really stuck with me because it’s true—real blessings don’t come from trying to be someone you’re not, they come when you’re true to yourself. This reminder has helped me let go of the pressure to meet other people’s expectations and just focus on showing up as my authentic self. When I stopped pretending, I realized that being genuine is what opens doors and attracts the right opportunities.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Well, I own Forever Nabi & Co., a small business coaching and development company dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and fostering personal growth. With a passion for activism within the Diaspora, I really like to focus on addressing socioeconomic challenges, including food disparity, insecurity, and political education. Her dedication to community work earned her a prestigious NAACP award for her efforts in uplifting youth.
Monaya has served as Executive Assistant and Project Coordinator for Big U, contributing to FX’s Hip Hop Uncovered and World Star Hip Hop Checc’n In Podcast. Currently, she works as the Community Outreach Business Coordinator for Diaspora Groceries and Diaspora Groceries Cares, co-owned by Tiffany Haddish and Richea Jones, where she continues her mission to ensure that BIPOC businesses are equipped with the tools and resources necessary to obtain funding, insurance, and the certifications needed to qualify as vendors.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I believe the three most impactful qualities that have shaped my journey are my ability to communicate effectively and meet people where they are, my adaptability to change, and most importantly, my deep understanding of self. This self-awareness fuels my ongoing commitment to be a lifelong student of knowledge.
If I were advising anyone on how to cultivate these skills, I would encourage them to embark on the most transformative journey of their lives—the journey of self-discovery. It requires facing inner challenges and embracing vulnerability, but it’s through this process that you’ll truly understand your voice and identity. Knowing who you are at your core is essential because it not only shapes your brand but distinguishes you in any market or space. In a world that can often feel oversaturated, the authenticity of your personal journey is what sets you apart and creates meaningful connections with others.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
My parents’ most impactful gift was introducing me to the power of self-love. They nurtured in me the ability to see life through perspective, which in turn taught me patience, teaching me that how I view the world shapes my reality. Through their unwavering support, they embodied a version of unconditional love that reflected the boundless love of God, reminding me every day that I am worthy and cherished, just as I am.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.forevernabilahco.com
- Instagram: @forevernabiandco and @moornabilah
- Twitter: @moornabilah_
- Youtube: @forevernabilah
Image Credits
Anthony Smith
@cinematicradeo
Shariff Wright
@thewright_visuals
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
