Today we’d like to introduce you to Chinelo Onuigbo.
Hi Chinelo , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
For as long as I can remember, I have been driven by creativity and connection. In grade school, I sought out art classes and opportunities to express myself through various artistic mediums. I took a painting class in high school that really introduced me to the power of grounding yourself through art practices. Simultaneously, I noticed a strong lack of equitable representation in mainstream art. This was where my passion for pursuing social equity and healing through art began.
I went on to obtain my Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies and Social Justice, then my Master of Social Work in Community Organizing. Since then, I have dedicated myself to strengthening communities through artistic expression, genuine connection, meaningful dialogues, and advocacy.
A culmination of my practice, passion, and expertise has led me to launch Grounded Cultural Collective; an organization dedicated to curating custom art and cultural workshops based in grounding practices. In each workshop experience, participants are invited to create freely and come home to themselves in the process.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
As with most things in life, beautiful outcomes require hard work and some roadblocks. I have been blessed to meet and collaborate with so many incredible people along the way. I have had incredible experiences creating real change in community. I am at a place currently where I get to do what I love and am passionate about. Though, getting here did come with its fair share of roadblocks. I was starting my second semester of graduate school when the pandemic hit. I saw and felt the very real impacts of the isolation, loss, and numerous other impacts that came with it. I’ve also spent a lot of time working with youth specifically. The creativity, drive, and world view that youth in our communities hold is incredible. At the same time, I have seen youth be strongly impacted by the pandemic and other crises in community. Navigating challenges alongside folks in these conditions is not easy, but also affirms that valuing connection and healing is the path to brighter futures.
I recently became a mama as well, and have beautiful one year old twin boys. Being a mother is one of my deepest joys in life, and also adds layers of complexity to the work I do. We live in a society that is not set up to fully value mothers and children. Making sure that my children are getting everything they need while also pouring myself into my work requires intentionality, balance, energy, and consistent grounding. Nevertheless, I truly love being a mother and the work that I do.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Grounded Cultural Collective provides custom curated arts and cultural workshop experiences that promote grounding and healing for businesses, community groups, families, friends, and anyone else seeking a one-of-a-kind experience. There is a creative experience for individuals in all seasons of life, from expecting parents and early childhood participants to elders and everyone in between. Each experience can take many forms and is carefully crafted to meet participants where they are. However, some popular workshops include guided painting, vision boards/manifest mood boards, and 2D Afrofuture Fashion.
This isn’t just any art workshop. Creative techniques are woven with cultural connection, restorative practices, and intentional guidance shaped from a background in social work and community care. Each workshop is created to invite participants to create freely while feeling present in their body and coming home to themselves.
You can find out more about Grounded Cultural Collective at groundedculturalcollective.org and follow us on Instagram/Facebook @groundedculturalcollective . If you are interested in booking a workshop experience, you can reach out for a custom quote. chinelo@groundedculturalcollective.org . We’re excited to get grounded with you!
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
I have learned many lessons along the way, but one that I hold close is to move through fear. If there is something that you love, something that you’re passionate about, or something that the world needs more of, do it afraid. Do it even if there are setbacks or people that don’t believe it is possible. Move with courage, believe in yourself, and take care of yourself and those you love in the process. Your village will uplift you when times are tough and celebrate you and your wins. Remain steadfast, strategic, and confident in yourself to be the change you need.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://groundedculturalcollective.org
- Instagram: @groundedculturalcollective
- Facebook: Grounded Cultural Collective
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chinelo-o/
