Black excellence is a phrase that needs to be shouted from the rooftops. It is the summation of a centuries-old thesis on survival. Simply put, regardless of the obstacles of injustice and stacked odds, we always find a way to come through the fire unscathed and stronger than before. I Hear That Girl! is a huge proponent of positive and empowering content for black women and the community as a whole. That is why I was so eager and excited to hear about Mrs. Monique Greenwood and her new reality show on OWN, “Checked Inn”.
Monique Greenwood is the owner of Akwaaba Bed & Breakfast Inns. I say inns with an “s” because sister-girl has four of them! I’m a southern girl, Carolina Girl in fact… born and bred. From the country fields of Edgefield County. So, I know the prestige of a bed and breakfast establishment that some others may not understand. A bed and breakfast deliver an intimate and thoughtful experience that you cannot receive from a hotel. It’s like being welcomed into someone’s home.
I watched the premiere episode and I fell in love with Mrs. Monique (that’s what I call her). This lady is an accomplished entrepreneur, but not only in the hospitality industry. She was the editor-in-chief of Essence Magazine following Susan Taylor. She speaks her mind and knows the importance of representation, which she attempts to share with her daughter. Monique’s daughter has her own pursuits in life outside of the Akwaaba and Monique will find it difficult to help her understand the responsibility of their legacy and generational wealth in the black community.
You have to check out this show which gives us a perspective on black life that until now, has never been shown on a major network! Thanks to Mother O, we have this type of programming in which our young people can see that there are sooooo many opportunities for them to excel in outside of the typical (athletics/entertainment). Here’s a first look at the premiere:
