Conversations with Sequena Alexander

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sequena Alexander. They and their team shared their story with us below:

Sequena “Queen” Alexander, a native of Grand Prairie, TX, is an accomplished artist and entrepreneur. She holds a marketing degree from Wade College in Dallas, TX. Coming from a lineage of entrepreneurs, including her great-grandfather James O. Goodwin, the youngest entrepreneur in Black Wall Street who owned the Oklahoma Eagle, the only black-owned newspaper in Tulsa, OK, Queen unknowingly followed in his footsteps. Becoming the youngest business owner on Black Wall Street, Queen opened the only black female-owned art gallery in the state of Oklahoma, known as the Greenwood Gallery. Showcasing and representing talented minority artists, Queen’s Gallery serves as a platform to advocate for artists of color, providing opportunities and selling their artwork on her website, thegreenwoodgallery.com. 

In 2022, Queen published her first book, “I Love 90s TV Black Television Word Search,” combining her passion for word searches and nostalgia for 90s TV. This marked the beginning of her journey as an author. Inspired by her father, her role model, Queen wrote her next book, “Mr. Paul Can Do It All,” a children’s book that encourages young readers to believe in their limitless potential. 

Queen will be hosting her first book signing and reading event at the Black Girl Magic Museum on June 11th at 2 PM. This special event emphasizes the importance of continued reading even when school is out and highlights how “Mr. Paul Can Do It All” inspires children to pursue their dreams. The event will feature free ice cream, generously sponsored by Braum’s, adding to the excitement. After the reading and the opportunity to meet Mr. Paul, the children will enjoy a private guided tour by the owner of the Black Girl Magic Museum, providing valuable insights into the remarkable black women who have paved the way for us all. 

Through her art, entrepreneurship, and advocacy, Queen is dedicated to empowering children and celebrating the achievements of black women. With each endeavor, she leaves an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those she touches, inspiring a new generation to embrace their own magic and limitless potential. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has been quite a journey for me, filled with both challenges and rewards. My experience in Tulsa, OK, was one of the toughest yet most rewarding journeys I have ever encountered. Witnessing the prejudice and lack of opportunity for my community was heartbreaking, but it also ignited a fire within me to fight for change. On this path, I faced the absence of female mentors, especially female entrepreneurs, as I lost my mother over a decade ago. This means that much of what I am doing today is a result of trial and error, as well as following my intuition. Without a doubt, anything worth having doesn’t come easy. I have come to appreciate the challenges that life throws at me because it is in those moments that I truly discover how strong and creative I am. Each time, I surprise myself. 

I have come to realize that life is not solely about reaching a destination; it is about embracing the journey itself. The journey is where we face obstacles, grow, and make a difference in the lives of others we encounter along the way. I have learned to savor and enjoy every step, even during the most challenging times, because it is through these experiences that I continue to evolve and positively impact the world around me. 

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
First and foremost, I am an artist at heart, but my journey took an unexpected turn when I opened the only black art gallery in the state of Oklahoma. This experience ignited a passion for advocating on behalf of other minority artists. Although I have since moved away from Oklahoma, my efforts in supporting artists have expanded. I collaborate with a diverse range of artists and sell their work on my website, extending their reach and visibility. 

To further my advocacy efforts, I have founded an art collective called Shug Dae, which functions as a mini staffing agency for creatives. Through this collective, I actively seek out opportunities for artists and connect them with projects that allow them to showcase their talent. 

In addition to being an artist and an advocate, I am also an author of children’s books and activity books. I find immense joy in creating literature that inspires young minds and sparks their creativity. It is a fulfilling role that allows me to instill valuable lessons and messages of empowerment in the next generation. 

As a mother to a 10-year-old boy, he is one of the greatest blessings in my life. I cherish the moments we share and strive to create a nurturing environment that encourages his own artistic expression and growth. 

Recognizing the importance of exposure for artists, I organize events that provide platforms for them to showcase their work and gain the recognition they deserve. These events not only benefit the artists but also contribute to the vibrant artistic community, fostering connections and collaborations among creatives. 

In all my endeavors, whether as an artist, an advocate, an author, or a mother, I am driven by the belief that every artist deserves an opportunity to shine. I am committed to making a positive impact by supporting and uplifting the voices of artists, both locally and beyond. 

We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
For me, success is not solely defined by reaching a specific destination or achieving financial milestones. I started to truly feel successful when I shifted my perspective and began valuing the journey itself. Embracing the process, learning from challenges, and finding joy in the pursuit of my goals became more important than any end result. A significant aspect of my definition of success lies in the impact I have on the lives of others through my work. Witnessing the positive changes and transformations that my efforts bring to individuals and communities has become a meaningful measure of success for me. It is incredibly fulfilling to know that my work can make a difference and contribute to the well-being and growth of others. 

Growing up, I used to equate success solely with financial accomplishments. However, as I matured, I realized that true success goes beyond monetary gains. It involves discovering and embracing my unique, God-given purpose in life. By aligning my actions and utilizing my natural gifts and talents, I am able to find fulfillment and create a meaningful impact in the world around me. 

Moreover, I find a great sense of success in doing what I love. Engaging in work that aligns with my passions and values brings me a deep sense of satisfaction and joy. It is a privilege to wake up each day excited about the work I get to do, knowing that I am actively pursuing my passions and making a positive difference. 

Ultimately, success, to me, is about finding and fulfilling my purpose, impacting the lives of others, and finding joy in the journey. It’s about using my gifts and talents to create positive change and make a meaningful contribution. I am grateful for the opportunity to do the work I love, and I look forward to continuing this fulfilling journey of growth, impact, and personal fulfillment. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.thegreenwoodgallery.com and Queensbooks.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/queenwood_ave/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eyecandyqueen.alexander/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbu3824rxNfeSZeZmibs2zQ