Cece In The City

Tag: empowering

  • Cece in the City: Plot Twists, Power Moves & Queen Energy

    Hey everyone!
    Hope you had an amazing week and weekend. Winter is definitely wintering right now ❄️—some places even got snow, while we just got that bone-chilling cold. But enough about the weather… let’s jump into Cece in the City!

    📚 Book Talk: People We Meet on Vacation

    So I officially finished People We Meet on Vacation, and fun fact—I watched the movie before finishing the book. Now listen… I’m usually that lady who says “the book is always better.” Like historically speaking, books have had the upper hand since, well… forever 📖😌.

    But THIS time? Plot twist of the century—the movie actually did it better for me. Shocking, I know! The pacing, the chemistry, the vibes… it worked. That doesn’t mean skip the book though—check out both and decide for yourself.

    👉 Grab the book here: https://amzn.to/4pKGEOk

    🎬 Cece on the Scene: THE RIP

    Now let’s talk movies. I watched THE RIP, starring a powerhouse cast:
    Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Steven Yeun, Teyana Taylor, Sasha Calle, Catalina Sandino Moreno, Scott Adkins, and Kyle Chandler.

    The story follows a team of Miami cops who discover millions of dollars hidden in a rundown stash house—and whew 😮‍💨, trust starts fraying real quick. When money enters the chat, loyalty starts exiting.

    Overall rating: 4 out of 5 ⭐
    The twists? Solid. The plot? Kept me locked in.
    Only note—I would’ve loved to see more of the women in action, but it was still a strong watch. Definitely add it to your list.

    👑 Women’s Group Outing: January Edition

    We also had our FIRST women’s group outing of the year, and let me tell you—it was everything ✨

    Theme: Animal Print / Leopard
    Because historically, leopard print has symbolized power, confidence, and royalty—and that’s exactly the energy we’re carrying into the new year.

    🐆 Bold
    🐆 Fearless
    🐆 Queen-like

    Every woman received a crown—because let’s be clear, you don’t find crowns… you ARE one 👑.

    We also did Letting Go Plates, a powerful little ritual where we wrote down everything we’re leaving behind and NOT bringing into 2026. (Yes, we’re clearing space early!)

    🍽️ Dinner Stop: Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar

    We headed to Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar, and for many of us, it was our first time. The reviews from the table?
    ✔️ Food was good
    ✔️ Vibes were strong
    ✔️ DJ was VERY raw 😅

    At times I was like “oh wow,” and other times I was definitely grooving 💃🏾. The place was packed, full of life, and our waiter stayed on point checking on us—which always earns bonus points.

    We did have a 2-hour limit, but we made it work, handled business, laughed, talked, and soaked it all in. It was a much-needed outing.

    💕 Passing the Torch

    One of my favorite parts? My daughters were inspired to start their own women’s group with their friends—same theme, their own section, their own energy. And yes… they had a GREAT time 🥹💖. Love to see it.

    ✨ Missed the Outing? No Worries

    You can still do your own Letting Go Plate at home:

    • Use a real plate and break it after
    • Or use a plastic plate—write on it, cut it up, or even keep it
      Totally your choice.

    📸 Be sure to take a picture and share it—I’ve included a photo for inspiration.

    Remember the theme:
    Bold. Fearless. Queen-like.
    Leopard energy is wild, focused, fierce, and confident… that’s the vibe 🐆👑

    💐 Weekly Thank You: Women Who Inspire

    One thing I love doing each week is giving flowers while they can still be smelled 🌸. This week, I want to send a big thank you to two women who continue to inspire, empower, and pour into me through their storytelling.

    ✨ Elizabeth Gilbert
    Her book—and later the movie—Eat, Pray, Love truly left a mark on me. Historically, it became a cultural moment for women learning to choose themselves, explore the world, and heal out loud. The themes of self-discovery, courage, and starting over deeply resonated with me and still do. It reminded me that it’s okay to pause, wander, and find joy in unexpected places.

    ✨ ReShonda Tate
    As an author, ReShonda Tate keeps me entertained, engaged, and turning pages. Her storytelling feels real, relatable, and powerful. Every time I pick up one of her books, I know I’m in for a good read—she has a gift for pulling you in and keeping you there. Authors like her continue to remind me how important our stories are.

    To both of these women—thank you for inspiring me, empowering me, and reminding me of the power of words. Your work matters, and it continues to pour into so many of us 💫

    ✊🏾 Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

    This week, it’s also important to pause and honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—not just the name we hear every January, but the man, the mission, and the movement.

    I’m especially grateful that I’ve had the opportunity to visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and Museum here in Atlanta. Walking through the space, reading the exhibits, and learning more about his life gave me a deeper understanding of his courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to justice. It’s one thing to learn about him in books, but standing in a place filled with history makes it hit differently.

    Dr. King reminded us that change starts with courage, community, and love—even in the face of resistance. His legacy continues to inspire generations to speak up, stand firm, and lead with purpose.

    I’m thankful for the chance to learn, reflect, and carry those lessons forward ✨

    Stay tuned for the next Cece in the City—more books, more scenes, more vibes coming soon 💫

  • Pink Power: Celebrating Strength and Community for Breast Cancer Awareness

    October was a month of purpose, pink, and powerful connections! In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we joined forces with the incredible R.A.L.E.Y. nonprofit to celebrate resilience and raise awareness. Gathering at Guac Taco Studio, we turned up in pink, surrounded by amazing people ready to make a difference. The energy was contagious as we played games, laughed, and indulged in some of the best taco bowls in town.

    We bonded over rounds of “Heads Up,” celebrating life, strength, and each other. Days like these remind us of the importance of community and the beauty of standing together for a cause that impacts so many. Here’s to awareness, action, and all the warriors we stand with!

  • Women Stand Strong (WSS)

    This month, I want to shine a light on some of the amazing things I’ve been doing in the community. A few years ago, I started a women’s group called Women Stand Strong (WSS). Life can be a lot sometimes, and I wanted to create a space where us ladies could step away from the chaos, reconnect, and just enjoy ourselves.

    Once a month, we get together to catch up and engage in activities like dining out, creating vision boards, and taking nature walks. Sometimes, I slack off and miss a month, but every time we do meet, it’s filled with good vibes, fun times, and laughter. I’ve met some incredible women through this group who have become not just friends but sisters to me.

    Moving forward, I plan to add more structure to our gatherings, maybe even introduce themed events, and hopefully expand our activities. There’s so much I want to do with this group, and I’m excited about the possibilities. If you’re in the Atlanta area and interested in joining us, comment below—we’d love to have you!

    I’m also proud of myself for keeping this group going. It’s been a joy to support these amazing women, and I’m grateful for everyone who’s joined and participated. Here’s to many more great moments with WSS!

  • Fredia Gibbs Story: Meet the Most Dangerous Woman in the World

    This month, I’m thrilled to spotlight and support some of the incredible people I’ve met and the books they’ve authored. As a true bookworm with a passion for reading, I’m always eager to dive into these stories and share the journeys of these remarkable authors.

    One book that left a lasting impression on me is The Fredia Gibbs Story: Meet the Most Dangerous Woman in the World. This powerful read dives deep into the life of Fredia Gibbs, an extraordinary woman whose journey is as inspiring as it is compelling. Through this book, I got a chance to learn more about Fredia’s life, her challenges, and her triumphs. She’s a force to be reckoned with, and her story is nothing short of motivational.

    I was also honored to feature Fredia on the cover of Where It Begins magazine, and our interview was one for the books—pun intended! Her insights, strength, and determination shine through in every word, making the interview a memorable experience.

    If you haven’t already, I encourage you to check out Fredia’s book and learn more about this phenomenal woman. And don’t forget to read the interview we did with her in Where It Begins—it’s one you won’t want to miss!

    https://issuu.com/cecewibnet/docs/wib_may_2021-final-02

  • “The Extraordinary Journey of Barack Obama: A Tale of Hope and Inspiration”

    Title: “The Extraordinary Journey of Barack Obama: A Tale of Hope and Inspiration”

    Introduction: Welcome, readers, to an exhilarating adventure through the remarkable life and accomplishments of one of the most influential figures in recent history: Barack Obama. Brace yourselves for an unforgettable journey filled with hope, inspiration, and the transformative power of leadership.

    Chapter 1: A Beacon of Hope Emerges We kick off our adventure by delving into the early years of Barack Obama’s life. From his humble beginnings in Hawaii to his multicultural upbringing, we discover the diverse tapestry that shaped his worldview and set the stage for his extraordinary rise to power.

    Chapter 2: A Trailblazer in the Making In this chapter, we explore Obama’s educational journey, from his time at Columbia University to his law studies at Harvard. Uncovering the challenges he faced as a biracial individual in America, we witness his unwavering determination to overcome obstacles and make a difference.

    Chapter 3: The Audacity of Change As we move forward, we find ourselves in the heart of Obama’s groundbreaking 2008 presidential campaign. Prepare to be swept away by the energy, excitement, and rallying cries for change that captivated a nation hungry for a new direction.

    Chapter 4: Yes, We Can! It’s time to relive the momentous occasion when Barack Obama became the 44th President of the United States. With his historic inauguration, we witness the power of his message and the hope he instilled in millions around the world.

    Chapter 5: Navigating Challenges, Inspiring Progress In this chapter, we explore Obama’s presidency, highlighting key milestones such as the Affordable Care Act, the economic recovery after the Great Recession, and the historic Paris Climate Agreement. We examine his ability to navigate challenges with grace and determination while inspiring progress.

    Chapter 6: Legacy Beyond the Oval Office Even after leaving office, Barack Obama continues to make waves. In this chapter, we dive into his post-presidential endeavors, including the establishment of the Obama Foundation, his memoir “A Promised Land,” and his advocacy for social justice issues.

    Chapter 7: Lessons from Obama’s Leadership As our adventure draws to a close, we reflect on the profound lessons we’ve learned from Barack Obama’s leadership journey. From his ability to bridge divides to his commitment to inclusivity, his legacy serves as a guide for aspiring leaders and changemakers around the world.

    Conclusion: A Lasting Impact As we bid farewell to our exhilarating journey through the life of Barack Obama, we leave with a renewed sense of optimism and the knowledge that one person’s vision and determination can truly change the world. The indelible mark left by Obama’s leadership reminds us that our actions can shape the course of history.

    So, buckle up and join us on this adventure through the life of Barack Obama. Get ready to be inspired, entertained, and captivated by the story of a man who dared to dream and made a lasting impact on the world.

  • Madam C.J. Walker: Empowering Women and Breaking Barriers

    Title: Madam C.J. Walker: Empowering Women and Breaking Barriers

    Introduction: Madam C.J. Walker, born Sarah Breedlove, was a pioneering entrepreneur, philanthropist, and advocate for women’s rights in the early 20th century. As the first self-made female millionaire in the United States, her remarkable journey from humble beginnings to success is a testament to her determination, resilience, and dedication to empowering women. In this blog post, we will explore Madam C.J. Walker’s inspiring life, her groundbreaking achievements, and her lasting impact on entrepreneurship and social change.

    1. Early Life and Entrepreneurial Spirit: Born on December 23, 1867, in Delta, Louisiana, Sarah Breedlove was the daughter of former slaves. She faced numerous challenges growing up, including poverty and the loss of both her parents at a young age. Despite these adversities, Sarah exhibited an entrepreneurial spirit from an early age. She worked as a laundress and later as a sales agent for a hair care product company, which set the stage for her future success.
    2. Creation of the Madam C.J. Walker Brand: Driven by her own struggle with hair loss and scalp issues, Sarah developed her own line of hair care products for African American women. Recognizing the lack of suitable products in the market, she formulated specialized treatments to address these concerns. In 1905, she officially established the Madam C.J. Walker Manufacturing Company, making her the first African American woman to establish a business on such a scale.
    3. Entrepreneurial Success and Philanthropy: Madam C.J. Walker’s business acumen and innovative marketing strategies propelled her to great heights. She embarked on a nationwide tour to promote her products, using her own compelling personal story to connect with potential customers. Her sales force, consisting primarily of African American women known as “Walker Agents,” not only sold products but also became empowered as entrepreneurs themselves. Walker’s success enabled her to give back to her community through philanthropic efforts, including supporting educational institutions and organizations that promoted racial equality.
    4. Social Activism and Women’s Empowerment: Madam C.J. Walker was not only a successful businesswoman but also a fierce advocate for women’s rights and social change. She recognized the importance of financial independence and entrepreneurship in empowering women, particularly women of color. Walker used her platform to address issues such as economic equality, voting rights, and access to education. Her philanthropic endeavors and activism laid the groundwork for future generations of women to pursue their dreams and break through barriers.
    5. Legacy and Impact: Madam C.J. Walker’s legacy extends far beyond her business achievements. She shattered stereotypes, defied societal norms, and created opportunities for countless women to pursue economic independence. Her contributions to the beauty industry, entrepreneurship, and women’s empowerment continue to inspire and resonate today. Walker’s remarkable journey serves as a reminder that determination, resilience, and a vision for change can pave the way for success and social progress.

    Conclusion: Madam C.J. Walker’s journey from poverty to becoming a self-made millionaire is a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit, tenacity, and commitment to empowering women. Through her groundbreaking hair care business and philanthropic efforts, she revolutionized the beauty industry and uplifted countless individuals along the way. As we celebrate the remarkable life of Madam C.J. Walker, let us be inspired by her legacy and continue to strive for equality, empowerment, and the pursuit of our own dreams.

  • Rosa Parks: The Courageous Catalyst of Civil Rights

    Title: Rosa Parks: The Courageous Catalyst of Civil Rights

    Introduction: Rosa Parks, often referred to as the “Mother of the Civil Rights Movement,” was a remarkable African American woman whose refusal to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus in 1955 sparked a wave of social and political change in the United States. Her act of defiance against racial segregation and oppression became an iconic moment in history, serving as a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement. This blog post explores the life, impact, and enduring legacy of Rosa Parks, a symbol of courage, dignity, and resilience.

    1. Early Life and Activism: Rosa Louise McCauley Parks was born on February 4, 1913, in Tuskegee, Alabama. Growing up in a segregated society, she witnessed firsthand the injustices and inequalities faced by African Americans. Parks’ involvement in civil rights activism began long before her famous bus incident. She joined the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in 1943 and served as a secretary for the organization’s Montgomery chapter, dedicating herself to fighting for equal rights and justice.
    2. The Montgomery Bus Boycott: On December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks’ quiet act of defiance would change the course of history. Tired after a long day at work, she refused to give up her seat to a white passenger on a racially segregated Montgomery bus. Her subsequent arrest and the Montgomery Bus Boycott that followed, led by Martin Luther King Jr., propelled the civil rights struggle into the national spotlight. Lasting for 381 days, the boycott marked a turning point in the fight against racial segregation, ultimately leading to a Supreme Court ruling declaring segregation on public transportation unconstitutional.
    3. Impact and Legacy: Rosa Parks’ bravery and steadfastness inspired countless individuals and ignited a wave of activism across the country. Her act challenged the status quo and galvanized the Civil Rights Movement, influencing subsequent movements for equality, justice, and human rights. Parks became an icon of resistance, proving that one individual’s actions can create a significant impact. Her refusal to surrender her dignity paved the way for desegregation and the dismantling of systemic racism in the United States.
    4. Life after the Bus Boycott: Following the bus boycott, Rosa Parks faced numerous challenges, including death threats and employment difficulties. However, she remained committed to the struggle for equality. In 1965, she became a staff member for Congressman John Conyers, Jr., and dedicated her efforts to advocate for civil rights and social justice through her work in his office. Parks continued to be an active participant in the movement and a prominent voice for equality until her passing on October 24, 2005.
    5. Rosa Parks’ Enduring Influence: Rosa Parks’ legacy extends far beyond her pivotal role in the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Her courage and determination continue to inspire generations of activists fighting for social justice. Parks’ remarkable journey and unwavering commitment remind us that ordinary individuals can effect extraordinary change. Her story serves as a reminder of the power of individual action and the importance of standing up against injustice, regardless of the personal cost.

    Conclusion: Rosa Parks’ refusal to surrender her seat on that Montgomery bus over six decades ago was a moment that changed the world. Her courageous act propelled the Civil Rights Movement forward and awakened a nation to the injustices of racial segregation. Rosa Parks’ unwavering commitment to justice and equality, along with her legacy as a symbol of resistance, continues to inspire individuals to confront oppression and fight for a more just and inclusive society. Her story is a testament to the power of ordinary people to create extraordinary change and a reminder that the struggle for civil rights is an ongoing journey that requires courage and perseverance.

  • Billie Jean King

    Billie Jean King

    By: Cece Hymes

    Billie Jean King is a former world tennis player. She won 39 major titles. Did you know that Billie Jean King  won the Battles of the Sexes tennis match against the 55 year old Bobby Riggs?  Billie also is the founder of the Women’s Sports Foundation.

    Billie Jean King inspired so many people she also has an action figure to share with the world. She is doing so much to inspire others. She has a library that she teamed up with the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation and Dodgers.

    Here is two of her quotes that stood out to me:

    “After attending the T20 World Cup & watching the Aussies win in front of a crowd of 86,000,. It’s no surprise they are so beloved. When women’s sports are given media attention, sponsors, & marketing they deserve, they thrive.

    “Don’t let anyone define you. You define yourself.

    We definitely have to give her roses today. She is a sports icon and inspiration to the world.

    What are some of your greatest moments of Billie Jean King?Make sure to follow me @Cece.Atl. 

  • Interview with Caroline Labouchere

    Check out the article we did on Caroline as she talks about her journey and career.

    Check it out https://issuu.com/cecewibnet/docs/wib_november_2022_final1