CHICAGO | March 22, 2015 -- This week marks the launch week for the brand new online blog and journal, BlackGirlInOm (BGIO). Founded by Lauren Ash and Zakkiyah Dumas, BGIO "promotes holistic wellness and inner beauty for women of color. Through the online publication and pop-up yoga and holistic wellness experiences, BGIO encourages self-care and self-love for communities of color."

I've had the good fortune to work with the staff from the early months of its inception. It's been amazing to see what Lauren Ash and Zakkiyyah Dumas have put together, both in this publication and in the community-based efforts that connect with the Blackgirlinom enterprise. This debut issue focuses on the idea of growth, and includes an interview/discussion I had with the award-winning Somali American poet Ladan Osman.

Check out Issue 001 today and be on the lookout for much more from this crew of movers.