About Sheena-Maria

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Sheena-Maria is an African American poet, playwright, actress, and makeup artist. A native of Monroe, NC, she is a 2005 graduate of Winston-Salem State University where she received a Bachelor of Arts in History & Political Science. She earned a Master’s in Education from Strayer University and is a faithful member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. Her education fuels her passion for the African Diaspora, the Africans experience in America, and how historical events has shaped African American culture as we know it. 

Best known for her thought-provoking wordplay, Sheena Maria has shared stages with prominent writers, civil rights activists, and artists such as KRS-ONE, Dr. Nikki Giovanni, Dr. Cornel West, Dr. Sonia Sanchez, Dr. Ian Smith, and Terry McMillan. A lover of poetry, Sheena Maria has authored five compilations of poems, published two entitled: “Ink Running Through My Veins” (2008) and Sheenisms : A Collection of Poems on Life, Love, Heartbreak & Redemption (2020). She is also the author of a devotional, guided journal, “Paint The Day Beautiful: A Guide To Virtuous Living”, available on Amazon.

In addition to writing, Sheena-Maria has starred in television, independent films and stage productions in the Southeast over the past 15 years.  She has more than 10 years of experience as a Freelance Makeup Artist--independently and for MAC Cosmetics. An educator at heart, she enjoys educating women and emerging artists on product knowledge, technique, and proper application. 

Her life and work is driven by a solid mission to INSPIRE creative change, ENCOURAGE growth and development, to EDUCATE & EMPOWER individuals to realize their maximum potential.