By Terry Allen
Texas Metro News
https://texasmetronews.com
Big Mama used to say the night isn’t what scares you—it’s what you can’t see in it. Darkness itself is neutral. It’s the lack of knowing that makes your mind run wild. The sun rises for everybody, no questions asked. But knowledge? Knowledge only shines on those who are willing to look for it, study it, and use it. Fear grows best in an uninformed mind. The moment light shows up, fear starts packing its bags.
Right now, we’re living in a moment where the light is moving fast. Artificial intelligence, technology platforms, and digital tools are evolving at a speed that makes some folks freeze and others fly. And here’s the truth Big Mama would tell straight: the difference isn’t age, money, or pedigree—it’s curiosity and courage.
Across the country, BIPOC innovators are stepping into industries that once felt locked and lighting them up from the inside. Derrick Walker looked at the publishing and storytelling space and said, “We can do this differently.” Through Brown In The Word (https://empire.ffm.to/browninword), he’s using digital distribution and platform strategy to amplify voices that were always powerful but rarely prioritized. That’s light at work.
John Ima took on fashion tech with SpreeAI (https://spreeai.com/) and asked why sizing, returns, and representation had to remain broken. By blending AI with real-world consumer behavior, he didn’t just disrupt an industry—he illuminated a more profitable, more human way forward.
And in healthcare, Evan Jackson at Intus Care (https://intuscare.com/) stepped into a system known for inefficiency and burnout and applied technology to home care with dignity and precision. Same industry. New light. Better outcomes.
None of these leaders waited for permission. They learned fast, partnered smart, and moved with intention. They understood that technology isn’t the enemy—ignorance is. The lack of knowing is darker than the night because it convinces you to stand still while opportunity passes by.
AS A part of our education and teaching artistry framework, i am is intentionally advancing a small cohort of emerging creatives and communicators through City Men Cook’s CityMenTor program. This next-level mentorship focuses on creation, content development, We invite partners and stakeholders to send us their next great person—individuals ready to grow, contribute, and soar within a structured, mission-driven creative environment.
Big Mama would end it like this: don’t sit on the porch complaining about the dark. Strike a match. Young folks—bring the speed, the tech, the daring. Elders—bring the wisdom, the context, the discernment. Collaborate. Build together. Share the light. Because when we combine knowledge with purpose, the whole community can see where it’s going—and move forward without fear.
Terry Allen is an NABJ award-winning Journalist, DEI expert, PR professional, and founder of the charity – Vice President at Focus- PR, Founder of City Men Cook, and Dallas Chapter President of NBPRS.org
