Some weekends remind you exactly why you fell in love with what you do. Essence Festival Weekend was one of those moments. Every assignment was a reminder of how far I’ve come and how much farther I can go. Huge thank you to Solomon Group for trusting me to document such an unforgettable weekend. From the Convention Center to the Superdome, every space was filled with culture, purpose, and excellence. Watching Brandy and Monica share the stage was unforgettable, and photographing my first Maafa alongside the Ashe Cultural Arts Center was an honor. Congratulations to the Gumbo Coalition honorees, and thank you to Marc Morial and the entire National Urban League team. DJ Envy’s Car Show was pure nostalgia, while Mayor Helena Moreno continued making New Orleans shine. The surprise duet between Irma Thomas and Tonya Boyd Cannon during essence fest welcome party/ladies night gave everyone chills. My city. My culture. My purpose. What a weekend.