by Jillian Holness
Jillian Holness currently resides in Canton, Ohio, but has been able to hear stories from people all around the world. As a travel enthusiast, Jillian has been to various countries, including France, Germany, Ghana, and Tunisia. Her curiosity about the world and passion for storytelling fuels her as a journalist.
As a writer for Black Girl in the CLE, Jillian will cover public health issues that Black women in Northeast Ohio are facing. She is especially interested in the effects trauma has on body image, self-esteem and relationships. Jillian is also a firm believer in self-care and lives by the motto “treat yo’ self.” She is your go-to person for finding the best places in town to relax, unwind, and feel rejuvenated.
Jillian decided to write for Black Girl in the CLE because she has experienced the unique challenges Black women and girls face in Northeast Ohio and wants to see change. Jillian believes change starts with a proactive approach. She takes the words of former Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm to heart. “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” Jillian admires how Black Girl in the CLE founder Shana Black has followed Ms. Chisholm’s advice. Through Shana’s platform and collaboration with the Greater Cleveland area, she has helped young Black girls and women become more engaged in their community. Jillian is looking forward to being a part of the Black Girl Media team.
Jillian’s work has also been published in Real Health magazine, POZ, Her Campus and The Devil’s Strip. When she isn’t typing on her laptop with 10 tabs open, Jillian can be found driving to her favorite Bubble Tea café in Kent and ordering her usual; a black raspberry tea with passion fruit boba. She also enjoys listening to audiobooks and filling her home with Hello Kitty and Sanrio merch.