Today we’d like to introduce you to Lady Syren.
Hi Lady, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Philadelphia girl, born and raised, and subsequently challenged in many ways. I leaned on words, writing, and reading very early into my childhood, as a means of escape. My mother suffered from addiction and left an unreasonable amount of responsibility on me to care for my siblings. So I feel that is a direct correlation to my desire to amplify marginalized voices, empower women, and advocate for healing, and self growth the way that I do. From elder sibling, to case manager and child advocate, to business owner, to now being a professional speaker. Each role unique, but people centered. And each contributing to my perspective on humanity, and a deep necessity to connect.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No. Life can be anything, but smooth sailing. Especially as a black woman! That in and of itself is a struggle; being a black woman! My skin alone, has had me face adversity from as far back as my memory goes. Heck, I was even born with jaundice, a condition causing yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, triggered by a buildup of bilirubin in the blood. So scratch that. My “skin” has been a topic of discussion since birth! However, no one could’ve prepared me for how America would see me, or try to depict people like me. Black. There’s so much nuance that goes into the discussion of race, socialization, opportunities, fairness, politics, and simply existing, I couldn’t possibly sum it all up here. But I will say, that despite the obstacles, I’ve come to deeply appreciate black contribution, representation, and love in a formidable way.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Vee Allen, poetically known as Lady Syren, is the embodiment of unapologetic feminine power, with a ferocious delivery. This Philadelphia native, is a multitalented writer, multi-platform host, curator, teacher, performance artist, keynote speaker, poet, and published author, who stands at the intersection of creativity and empowerment.
She has taken center stage at historical city events, political rallies, festivals, such as ODUNDE – the largest African American festival in America, the Black Hair Expo and Black Business Conference, both in Denver, CO. Her artistry places diversity, inclusion, & equity at the forefront of any stage she graces. Despite being featured all over, her biggest personal achievement is publishing her first book, Crowned in Melanin. Deemed as her love letter to blackness, Crowned is an evocative collection of poetical musings that explores what it means to be black in a country like ours, while also navigating her own womanhood. Her poetry speaks to the complexities of feminity, sensuality, trauma, and triumph, while her pole artistry reclaims body autonomy, offering women a sacred place to feel seen, powerful, and free.
Whether through spoken word, stage performance, or putting the FUN in your fitness, she invites audiences and students alike to witness the divine
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Stillness and peaceful moments make me happy, because life is stressful & hectic enough.
Other people’s joy, makes me happy. Especially when I see other women achieving their goals. Or other artists elevating their craft. Because even if it didn’t happen for or directly to me, I know it’s possible because I see others being blessed. I don’t think society gives enough credit to being so content with your own standing in life, that you can genuinely be happy when good things happen to deserving people. A lost art, perhaps?
And lastly, seeing my child happy. That puts an instant smile on my face!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ladysyrenspeaks.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladysyren?igsh=Y2o2Y2J5MnJoMGw0
- Twitter: https://www.threads.net/@ladysyren
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ladysyrenspeaks?si=n9BmcCL3v0I1ijbT
- Other: https://www.ladysyrenspeaks.com/links?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAb21jcATMyd5leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA81NjcwNjczNDMzNTI0MjcAAadcqRNNBw5mzcSoWhIkZJ6RFcvSiNPqRecGCzDNIqBBGB4F5ccRDYIww0-XHQ_aem_K-Nd7ha8h2bXEi5vK0Nf9A
Image Credits
Darnell A. Barnes
DSQ Photography
DSQphotography@gmail.com
