Hello, I am Leoline - a name that signifies a leader, a role I carry with pride, much like my late mother.

My life has held more trauma than most people ever see, much of it overlooked, misunderstood, or hidden. Such a life can be deeply isolating and painful.

As I travelled, people often shared their own stories of trauma with me, and many thanked me for the wisdom, reflection, and language I offered back to them. My ability to recognize hidden trauma and to tell it apart from what people so quickly label as "anger" comes from lived experiences.

A Little Short Story About Me

If my words resonate with you...

As time passed, I started recognizing a painful trend in the way my trauma – and the trauma of many other Black individuals – was perceived. As a person and particularly as a Black woman, I've seen our trauma being ignored, downplayed, or regarded as something to experiment with. Too frequently, it feels as though people of color are being studied rather than genuinely cared for.

Repeatedly, when I disclosed my experiences to professionals, I was subjected to psychoanalysis, sidelining, or pitched "healing" and coaching programs by individuals who understood little to nothing about Black trauma or its authentic context.

Trauma is undeniably real, and so too are the consequences of being misunderstood. Holding this close to my mind and heart, I realized I had to provide more support to others, just as I’ve been quietly and effectively supporting myself.

I established this personal blog to convey brief, genuine narratives from my life – stories about my suffering and the ongoing retraumatization that many of us experience. Through my tales, I also present helpful tools that have guided me through my trauma, hoping they may offer solace and direction to others.

Here, I don't feel the need to mask my pain or the almost everyday retraumatization I endure. I am free to express my true self as I amplify my voice and write for those who genuinely relate, because they too have experienced it. In this supportive environment, I can honor my personal healing, feel recognized, and experience less isolation. This is the audience I am welcoming to join me on this journey.