Aya Collective Publishing

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Tamien Elder. I was born and raised in South Minneapolis to Guyanese parents and am the eldest of five. I’m a connector at heart and love networking, attending arts and cultural events in the Metro, and being in community to learn and grow with others. At the same time, I cherish moments of peace and quiet—reading, creating art, and exploring new places in my city.

When was the first time you recognized yourself as a writer?

English was always my favorite subject in school, and I’ve always loved reading. I started journaling consistently in high school, writing about my life and the world around me. My journals became a space where I documented my prayers and honest conversations with God—the highs and the lows. I still have all of them!

Though the writer in me was always there, I didn’t fully recognize and embrace that identity until I embarked on my book-writing journey.

How did you initially get involved with Aya Collective Publishing?

I first became involved with Aya Collective Publishing when I began my book-writing journey with my good friend and sister, Dr. Shakita Thomas Kpetay.

Tell us about your creative and spiritual work outside of Aya Collective Publishing.

Outside of the Aya Collective, I am a budding entrepreneur. Through my brand, Beauty Equipped, my mission is to educate, inspire, and connect with others—especially Black women—on their personal health journeys.

That has taken shape in different ways: providing wellness and beauty products to help women live healthier and happier from the inside out, writing and engaging through patient health social networking platforms, and facilitating community support groups for Black women with Endometriosis.

My goal is to raise awareness about Endometriosis and menstrual health by leading group discussions and delivering presentations in community and educational spaces.

How can people find and support your work?

You can stay connected and follow me on Instagram @beauty_equipped. A website is coming soon!

What’s one piece of advice you have for aspiring writers?

Lean into the process. You won’t always feel like writing, and you may not enjoy every moment of it—and that’s okay. Give yourself grace and celebrate even the smallest progress. You can do this!