Breaking Traditions to Share Your Story

Some traditions are meant to be honored. Others are meant to be broken.

She was born into a long line of storytellers—a griot, carrying a tradition that has spanned over 700 years.

To be a griot is a great honor—to pass down history through stories, music, and poetry, keeping the wisdom of ancestors alive for future generations.

But in her tradition, while women sang, only men played the kora, a beautiful 21-stringed harp-like instrument from West Africa.

Sona Jobarteh broke that tradition.

Taught by her brother and later her father, she became Gambia's first female professional kora player—a cultural ambassador blending the old with the new.

Her music now reaches audiences worldwide, and through her academy, she’s inspiring the next generation to embrace their heritage while creating their own path.

When I heard her music and learned of her story, it brought tears to my eyes.

The barriers she overcame, the role she plays in preserving and evolving tradition—it’s powerful and deeply moving.

Her story made me think:

✨ What barriers are you willing to break to share your voice?
✨ What traditions are holding you back from stepping into your power?

So often in business, we silence ourselves.

We wait for permission, afraid to challenge the norm.

But the truth is, your story, your work, and your message deserve to be seen and heard.

Are you ready to take the stage and shine your light?

Here's to breaking barriers and shining your light,

✨🌿✨

Lenore