Today we’d like to introduce you to Chrissy Sample.
Hi Chrissy, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Well, how I started is quite sad; turning my pain into purpose is what lead me to where I am today. Get a tissue- In 2020, I was pregnant with twin boys, but only one survived. My experience as a black woman navigating through the healthcare system that failed me in my time of need was difficult and unfortunate; more importantly, it was preventable.
As black mortality rates rise, I birthed my purpose and created A Moment For Mama; it’s a non-profit collective for women of color. A Moment For Mama is committed to advocacy, educating, giving access to resources that assist in birthing and postnatal care. Whether it be first baby or third mamas, need a moment! but most importantly a village that supports and loves deeply! I pour in and celebrate motherhood in its entirety. “Aint No Hood Like Mamahood”
From NYT, NBC, Pfizer, and now my latest Hulu The #1619 Project, I use my story to create change and spread awareness.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No! Oh my gosh, no. I would have to say the hardest part is managing the grief, no one prepares you for that. It comes in waves, too… one moment, you’re fine, and then you’re not. Doing the work for BMH (black maternal Health) is emotionally hard while reliving my own traumas every time I speak on this crisis and constantly reminded why I do this because of the constant stories of black women dying, our babies are dying, and not enough people are outraged. I’m passionate about motherhood; the juggling act is never ending, the pressures of showing up for myself the way I do for everyone else…giving myself grace.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I actually work in fashion, been in this industry for 17yrs. I’m the director of a luxury shoe company. I’m known as the shoe guru, specializing is luxury leather goods.
I am most proud of my reputation that I’ve built with a work ethic to match making my expertise sought after.
What sets me apart beside being a woman of color and having to GRIND to get where I am, is my authenticity.
It’s my power! I stand in it no matter what I’m facing.
What do you think about luck?
I don’t believe in luck. Everything is by design and alignment! Every interaction/level has purpose. As far as professional opportunities, “What’s for you will never miss you.” Every company I worked with has prepared me for the next.
Personal… I’ll use my birthing story as an example, I’m not the first black woman to almost die and lose her baby, but I am the woman they’re paying attention to.
Most will question, “Why me?” or chuck it up to this is just the way things are.
I understand this is my calling; I’m intuitive and a believer of a higher purpose than what we initial see on a surface level.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: amomentfor_mama
Image Credits
David Dames
Myesha Gardner
Flo Ngala
