By Nikita Haynie
Scottie Beam is leaving her mark on the world, one dream at a time, whether you know her from Hot 97, Black Girl Pod, or State of the Culture. Scottie Beam proves that living authentically as a black woman will take you further than you can imagine. I first became enamored with Scottie Beam and her unapologetic black womanhood through the Black Girl Podcast (every black woman should listen!) and have become a stan of her fervor for the plight of black women everywhere. Deanii Scott, aka Scottie Beam, is the voice our generation needs; her voice is a constant reminder to the world that black women matter and we are to be heard and seen. Here are gems of why I stan for the beautiful, multifaceted , and tenacious Scottie Beam.
Recently there was a ploy from a individual insinuating that Scottie was bothered by their existence (yes, the individual was of the European descent because of course they think we are in competition with them, tuh). However, Scottie rose above this plot to make her mission firm and clear stating in a Black Girl podcast episode: “My mission has been, is to make sure I uplift black women in music, listen to good music, put people on to music and also make sure people are aware of black women and their issues.” Black women are constantly fighting against the external noise of our counterparts; however, even when the flies come, don’t swat at them, but in true black woman resilience, rise above to boldly stand on your mission. The mission is always bigger than white noise.
If most of us are honest, it’s scary to take leaps of faith but for Scottie Beam her “losses” (and I use the term loosely as she has been candid in sharing stories of her greatest life choices) have served as the catalyst toward her greatest successes. One choice specifically was leaving her former job at Hot 97, one of New York’s popular radio stations, where she felt it was time for her to step outside of her safety net and pursue her passions. Ms. Beam took her faith leap in 2017 and now in 2019, her faith move has proven to be her checkmate. I am reminded of one of my favorite scriptures : “Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think (Ephesians 3:20).” Scottie makes it plain and simple, “Faith is tough but essential.” Black women pride ourselves on our accomplishments; however, even in what we consider a failure, God is always around the corner with a win. Sometimes faith is all you need.
There is power in being a black woman, and this power scares the world even though it continuously imitates us. However you can’t imitate; you can attempt to emulate, but it will never be as authentic as the real creation. Scottie Beam personifies this power and proclaims it with pride as she encourages black women everywhere to know that we are powerful, beautiful and that we are God’s given creation. Her charismatic personality and intoxicating beauty will inspire black women to always bet on ourselves. When she received a modeling contract with Wilhelmina Modeling Agency she posted, “I hope I am a reminder that possibilities are endless if you give yourself a chance. Being yourself does pay off. Sticking to your guns does pay off. This isn’t easy but it’s worth it. Who knew my dark skin, curves, wide forehead, full lips and big smile would pay off. I’m stepping outside my comfort zone again. Black girl, never ever count yourself out.” The world would love for black women to fade into non-existence, but we must continue to walk in unapologetic black womanhood.
Scottie Beam must be protected at all costs. She is a woman of fervor, determination and the next revolution for black women. I am reminded of this quote by black author Stephanie Lehart, “Your voice has GREAT power; don’t be afraid to utilize it when needed. You’re NOT an angry Black woman; you’re a woman who has something important to say. Your voice matters and so do YOU.” #SCOTTIEBEAMMATTERSPERIODT.
Nikita Haynie is a Contributing Writer for the Pedestal Project, LLC. Nikita is a writer, author, and educator. She is a creative that writes content intersecting faith, black womanhood, and culture. Proud optimist. Follow her on Instagram: @thenikitahaynie. Check her out at NikitaHaynie.com