Meet Mya Abraham | Writer

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

Hi Mya, let’s talk legacy – what do you want yours to be?
I don’t recall where this quote stems from, but something that I live by is the phrase, “remember me by the words I’ve written into this world.” Being named after the indelible Maya Angelou came with a certain weight, especially once I discovered the power and strength I possess with my own voice and pen. So, I want people to know that I’m a lover of us— the culture and Black people, especially Black women first. Second, I’m a writer. I tell Black stories, document R&B history and help others find their own voice.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

I definitely consider myself to be a multi-hyphenate while also reserving some gifts for myself. I’m mostly known as a Music & Culture Journalist, specializing in R&B. Plus, I manage operations for the independent screenwriting label, Damn Write Originals and a small Black-owned business, Alexandra Winbush. I use my expertise and transferable skills to pivot into Film and TV. Not to mention, I’m a Type A double Virgo (sun & moon) with the ability to juggle a lot. I also love what I do.

With me doing so much, I will admit that my lifestyle isn’t easy or ideal. I encounter many sleepless nights and there’s a lot of balance that takes place during the day to ensure things don’t slip through the cracks. However, time management is key, along with being incredibly organized. With that being said, work-life balance and prioritizing self-care are essential.

Ultimately, I just tell Black stories and document R&B. I want people to know that being able to “do it all” or “have it all” requires sacrifice, balance and hard work— regardless of how clichéd that sounds. But once you find your groove, it’ll all work it out and it will definitely be worth it.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m so new to LA still, so thank you to my tribe (and ‘Insecure’) for putting me on game!

EAT: I’m obsessed with Bossa Nova. I also love Harriet’s Rooftop, Alta Adams Restaurant, Captain Kidd’s in Redondo Beach, Met Her At A Bar cafe, Catch LA, and The Elbow Room. I’m also on a mission to find the best pizza to rival authentic NY pizza & prove that Jack in the Box is far better than In-N-Out.

FUN: rent a yacht out of Marina Del Rey, drive along PCH, check out the Santa Monica Pier, enjoy an Escape Room, go roller skating at Moonlight Rollerway, host a beach bonfire, attend a Leimert Park Farmer’s Market, find a R&B Party to attend plus general tourist things and a few other gems I got from my friends that I won’t mention publicly.

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?
Shoutout to Iyana Robertson and Naima Cochrane— two Black women who’ve made their own marks in the industry and who have guided me to grow as a woman and a writer. Also, shoutout to Damn Write Originals— we are a solid team making waves in Film and TV and I love being apart of something much bigger than myself that is truly one of its kind.

Website: myabriabe.com

Instagram: myabriabe

Twitter: myabriabe

Other: My newsletter: takeitpersonal.substack.com

Image Credits
Courtesy of Mya Abraham