Über die Autorin bzw. den Autor

Elizabeth Leiba is a professor, bestselling author, business consultant, and passionate social advocate for Black women and girls. Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice, Elizabeth has inspired and empowered audiences through her dynamic platforms, including the Black History & Culture Academy and Black Women Handle Business. She is the author of acclaimed titles such as the bestselling I'm Not Yelling, Protecting My Peace, and I Came to Slay.

With a background in communication, politics, and academia, Elizabeth brings both expertise and heart to every project. Her work has been featured by major media outlets and continues to drive conversations on representation, empowerment, and self-love. Elizabeth currently resides in Colombia, where she continues to uplift and connect her vibrant global community.

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From Chapter One

Born to Shine: You Are Magic

“The reality is: you are enough, and your uniqueness is powerful.”

—Yara Shahidi

Hey, girl! Let me tell you something: You were born to shine. That’s right—there’s something super special about you, and no one else in the whole wide world can be just like you. You’re one of a kind, and that’s what makes you magical.

You might be thinking, “But what makes me so special?” Well, think about all the things you’re great at or love doing. Maybe you have a talent for drawing, or maybe you’re the one who always makes your friends laugh. Maybe you’re awesome at solving math problems, or you’re the fastest runner in your class. Whatever it is, those things make you YOU. And that’s what makes you stand out in the best way possible.

But here’s the thing: It’s not just about what you can do; it’s about who you are on the inside, too. Your heart, your mind, and your personality are part of what makes you amazing. The way you treat others, the way you stand up for yourself, and the way you keep going, even when things get tough—that’s where your real magic comes from.

Every girl has something special inside her. Maybe it’s the way you make people smile, the way you come up with creative ideas, or how you make others feel safe just by being yourself. Being unique doesn’t mean you have to be the best at everything, but it does mean embracing what makes you YOU. In this chapter, we’ll talk about why it’s important to love your differences and celebrate them. Think of yourself as a star, shining in your own way. You don’t need to dim your light to fit in with others—let it shine as bright as it can!

Think about Serena Williams. She’s one of the best tennis players in the world, but what really makes her special isn’t just how hard she can hit a tennis ball. It’s her confidence, her determination, and the way she never gave up, even when people doubted her. Serena shines because she knows her worth, and you can shine like that, too!

So, the next time you start doubting yourself, remember this: There’s only one YOU, and that’s your superpower. You have something that no one else can bring to the table, and the world needs your magic.

Activity: What Makes YOU Shine?

Now it’s your turn! Grab a piece of paper or your journal and answer these questions:

1. What are three things you love about yourself? They can be big or small—everything counts!
2. What’s something you’re really good at? Maybe it’s drawing, writing, dancing, or making friends.
3. How do you help others? Whether it’s helping your family, supporting a friend, or just being kind, think about the ways you make a difference.

When you’re done, take a moment to read your answers out loud. Remind yourself of your greatness every day, because you truly are one of a kind!

Affirmation: I am unique, powerful, and proud of who I am.

Pride in Black Identity

Here’s another thing you need to know: Your Blackness is powerful. It’s beautiful, it’s bold, and it’s a big part of what makes you shine. From your skin to your hair to the way you carry yourself, every part of you is a reflection of greatness.

Let’s take a moment to think about where you come from. Your ancestors were warriors, queens, inventors, artists, and more. They survived the toughest challenges and built a legacy of strength, and that same strength runs through your veins today. That’s something to be proud of!

Think about Gabby Douglas. She made history as the first Black woman to win the Olympic gold medal for gymnastics. But do you know what happened? After her win, some people talked about her hair more than her talent. Can you imagine that? Instead of letting it get her down, Gabby kept her head high and stayed focused on what really mattered: being great at what she did and making history. She showed the world that her beauty and her talent were inseparable. Her Blackness didn’t hold her back—it made her shine even brighter!

Your Black identity is part of what makes you unique, and it’s something to celebrate every single day. Whether your hair is curly, coiled, braided, or straight, it’s beautiful because it’s yours. Whether your skin is deep brown or a lighter shade, it’s beautiful, because it tells the story of where you come from. Never let anyone make you feel like you have to change to fit in. The world needs to see you just as you are.

Every time you look in the mirror, remember this: You are carrying the legacy of all the Black women who came before you, and you are paving the way for the Black girls who will come after you. So, walk with your head held high, love the skin you’re in, and take pride in every part of yourself.

Activity: Celebrate Your Black Girl Magic

Let’s celebrate all the things that make you proud to be a Black girl!

1. What’s your favorite thing about your Black identity? Is it your hair, your skin, your culture, or the way you express yourself?
2. What’s something you’ve learned about Black history that makes you proud? It could be about someone in your family, or a famous Black woman from history.
3. Draw a picture of yourself as a superhero. How does your Black girl magic help you save the day? What’s your superhero power, and how do you use it to make the world better?

Once you’re done, hang your drawing somewhere you can see it every day to remind yourself how amazing you are!

Affirmation: I am beautiful inside and out, and my Blackness is my strength.