As a journalist, media personality, wellness ambassador and strategic communications professional, Sandria Washingon has long been dedicated to amplifying the voices of those with stories to tell including changemakers, celebrities, and everyday people whose stories might not otherwise be heard.
For most of her adult life, Sandria believed her curiosity, sense of adventure, and 20+ year practice of journaling were all part of her natural inclinations of self-discovery. A few years ago the Chicago native’s life took its biggest plot twist yet, when at the age of 38 she learned that she was adopted. Always one to look for purpose in any given situation, Washington soon partnered with long-time friend and fellow late-discovery adoptee (LDA) Dr. Samantha Coleman to create Black to the Beginning, a multi-platform initiative to disrupt the legacy of secrecy, stigma, shame and silence that surrounds the subject of adoption within the Black community.
In addition to her work with Black to the Beginning, the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign graduate also serves as the Director of Engagement and Partnerships for the Bronzeville based Urban Juncture Foundation to lead community engagement efforts such as the Bronzeville Community Garden and the annual Back-to-School Block Party as part of the organization’s Engage Bronzeville initiative.
A former on-air personality for Chicago’s very own WVON 1690 AM, Sandria has interviewed such luminaries as Debbie Allen, Queen Latifah, and Kelly Rowland. The longtime Bronzeville and Washington Park resident has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout her career including receiving a Chicago Defender Women of Excellence award, a 2020 She Rocks It award, and being named to the 2016 inaugural National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) 40 Under 40 list.
N’DIGO recently sat down with Sandria to learn more about her incredible story and the important work she does.
N’DIGO: In your own words, who is Sandria Washington?
Sandria Washington: Sandria Washington is a renaissance woman. I am both being and becoming all the time. I’m a seeker, adventurer, cozy homebody who loves good food, live music, solo travel and a good backstory. I am a light, and I like to shine my light on the people and things I care deeply about.
What are three words those closest to you would use to describe you?
Brave, Inspiring, and a-whole-mood.
How did you discover your creative voice?
It was very organic for me. Some of my earliest memories as a little girl involve reading, writing stories and poetry, and coloring. In elementary school, my gift of writing and being an orator were affirmed and encouraged. I knew at an early age that I expressed myself well – if not better – through writing. At my current “big age” the discovery of my creative voice is still very much active. I’m exploring new mediums to express my creativity and learning to honor how my creative voice wants to express itself NOW.
Please tell us about your journey in becoming an advocate for adoption within our community?
I’m so glad to answer this question because I don’t consider myself an advocate of adoption. What I advocate for is individuals and Black families healing, particularly healing from the things in our families that are often hidden through secrecy, stigma, shame and silence, such as adoption.
Can you talk about your personal experience with adoption?
In 2018, at the age of 38, I learned that I was adopted as an infant. In my quest to find answers and community with other Black late discovery adoptees (LDAs), it became quickly apparent there was a lack of resources and support for Black adoptees raised in Black families, and little conversation about Black adoption within the mainstream adoption conversation.
How did Black to the Beginning come about?
As fate would have it, I was already (unknowingly) good friends with another late discovery adoptee, Dr. Samantha Coleman. In 2019, we came together to create Black to the Beginning to amplify stories of the Black Adoption Experience and disrupt this legacy of secrecy, stigma, shame and silence within our community. Black to the Beginning centers the voices and experiences of Black families and Black adult adoptees via adoptee coaching services, speaking engagements and workshops, and consultative services for those impacted by the Black Adoption Experience. We also produce and host the critically-acclaimed The Black Adoption Podcast. In 2023, our work as culture-shifting podcasters was featured in the Jamia Wilson curated children’s anthology, A Year of Black Joy: 52 Black Voices Share Their Life Passions.
What is the biggest misconception you repeatedly run into in regards to adoption?
The prevailing misconception is that Black people don’t adopt; that adoption is what white people do. Black people absolutely do adopt. Another major misconception is that Black adoptees raised in Black families don’t experience challenges. “Matching” in a same race family doesn’t automatically exclude adoptees from struggling with their identity, sense of belonging, or grief.
Please tell us about your work with the Bronzeville based initiative, Urban Juncture?
As Director of Engagement and Partnerships for Urban Juncture, I’ve developed and led community programming, such as Bronzeville Fit (“B-Fit) our community wellness initiative offering free, accessible fitness classes and health resources. I also develop and manage key relationships such as longstanding partnerships with Chicago Bulls and Northwestern Medicine. For a little razzle dazzle, my role also includes development work, helping Urban Juncture to secure substantial grant funding, including awards from The MacArthur Foundation, Mellon Foundation, The Coleman Foundation and Chicago Community Trust.
How do you find balance and what are some things you do for yourself in the name of self-care?
These days, I’m working on “balance”. I’m learning that in different seasons, I may need to prioritize different things and there will be an imbalance. Self-care is a way of life for me. I’m a Pisces and an introvert, so recharging in my own energy works well for me. Quiet time with myself is a must. I often check in with myself and ask what do I need. Do I need to stay in? Do I need to get out and connect with friends? Do I need a little snack? Do I need an adventure? Do I need a good cry? I try to give myself whatever it is I need in that moment.
Best advice to those seeking to improve their mental health and wellness?
Prioritize listening to your body and healing through moving your body. Walk, stretch, work on your flexibility and mobility, build your strength, take intentional deep breaths, and rest without guilt. Also, prioritize play and experimentation in your life. YOU are your best DIY project.
Something people would be surprised to know about you?
People who’ve known me within the last 10 to 15 years would be surprised to know that there was a time when I was afraid to go places by myself. I felt too self-conscious. Also, I’ve also been featured on Oprah’s Super Soul Sunday – twice.
Can you name a book that changed or really impacted your life and give a sentence about why?
My top two (because I can’t name one without the other) are Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss and The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. The messages in these books are very similar. So many of us become lost, overwhelmed and disheartened by life at times and tend to search outside of ourselves for answers and comfort. These books remind me that the answers are not ‘out there’; they are within me. The journey within yourself is the most transformative journey you’ll make if you’re brave enough to go.
Favorite quote or affirmation?
“The only thing better than me is being a better me.” – Sandria Washington
What’s next for Sandria Washington?
I am an aspiring documentary filmmaker and I’m looking forward to making progress on that goal in 2025 with my first short film. Black to the Beginning also has a few exciting projects launching in 2025. I’m also prepping to return to competitive bodybuilding in 2025. Beyond these things, I’m leaving room for more blessings, growth opportunities, improved health and love.
For more information on Black to the Beginning, please visit blacktothebeginning.com and connect with Sandria at @sandriawashington on Instagram.
