Meet Aiyana Freeman | Poet & Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Aiyana Freeman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aiyana, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
My favorite quote is a bible verse that says “this is the day the Lord has made, rejoice and be glad in it” Psalms 118:24. To me, this scripture means to take everything a day at a time and there is always a moment in a day to see happiness in. I like that it is simple and peaceful. It reminds me to just take a moment to breathe.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I currently have a book out called Inside the Mind of a Flower. Along with book is shirts I created, with a few of the quotes from my poems on them. Something I feel sets me apart from others is that my poetry book is also a journal. Which is honestly what I am most proud of, next to being proud of how far I have came from when I started this all.

I got to where I am today because taking the time to learn what it took to become an author and the courage to get up and perform poems out loud. Also, I have been writing since I was young, so it has given me the time to figure out how I want to write.

It definitely wasn’t easy. I would get writers block sometimes and the self-publishing aspect of it all was a process. But I let myself go through how I felt and when I was good to go, I’d dive back in.

The lesson I learned was to not rush the process and set backs are inevitable, but to not let it stop you.

I want the world to know that I am here and I plan on doing more and expanding my brand.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would take them to the beach, of course, maybe even rent some bikes and ride around. To southeast to go to the taco shop and then a place I love is Mt. Soledad because it is a beautiful view of the city. I would go out to eat at some different Black restaurants like Lousiana Purchase and Surf n Soul, just to name a couple. Some of the most fun things to check out are local events and places like Balboa Park and waterfront areas just to look around and observe the scene.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to my mom. She has been very encouraging and my soundboard for ideas.

Website: www.afthepoet.com

Instagram: @afthepoet

Facebook: @AFthePoet