MEET OUR COLUMNISTS
ERIN MCCOY
FASHION COLUMNIST
Hello world! It’s Erin, the one and only! I’m from Baltimore, born and raised and I truly love Charm City.
I’ve been a creative as long as I can remember! I graduated from Western High School in 2009 and explored higher education right after but ultimately decided to join the workforce instead. Art and Literature are very old friends of mine (and I’d love to finish a degree in English and/or Philosophy in the near future).
My expression of choice is fashion and it’s been a huge part of how I communicate and move through life! When you look good, you feel good, as cliche as it sounds it’s been a powerful tool for me with navigating confidence and how I show up in spaces. Completing the Styling Fundamentals certification course at FIT really solidified how I see my talents.
Through God’s grace, He’s revealed that fashion is not only about the individual or one voice- there’s beauty in community and connecting with others. As a stylist (or style curator) my mission is to help people show up as authentically as possible, in a stylish way.
Fun Facts: I love all things horror, I’m Great British Baking Show obsessed, and usually read at minimum three or four books at the same time.
Favorite Bible Verses: Psalms 139:14.
Things I Hope For: To be reassured that I am specially and uniquely created with gifts and purpose is everything. And I’m hoping to pass that on to as many others as I can!
Erin M
MAKESHIA LUCIEN
FITNESS COLUMNIST
Also go by Kesh "Quiche"!
I’m originally from Florida, but my roots are in Haiti. My passion for fitness and physical therapy started with my undergrad at Stetson University where I was blessed to get a full ride soccer scholarship to attend. 3-4 years later, I pursued my PT degree at Howard University- wasn’t the original plan but God definitely had something better for me.
My specific area of interest is recovery rehabilitation. Now, I tell this to my patients all the time- that physical therapy truly runs in my blood. I've had grandparents who used to walk miles in order to treat and heal people of their ailments and just truly have a heart to serve.
This continues to inspire me to pursue my gifting in treating and training people in the most holistic way. I've been able to partner with organizations like U.S. Amputee Soccer and Mission Discovery in Guatemala to promote physical therapy globally.
With my background in athletics and being a gym lover myself, I’m super passionate about teaching others how to be the best versions of ourselves we’re designed to be.
In my free time, I love to travel (Thailand was the first country that sparked my desire to explore God’s creation). I’m also very close to my family and cherish any moment with them.
Fun facts: My dad and I share the same birthday, I dabble in improv, "Love & Basketball" is my favorite movie, and I’ve been deported from Colombia (COVID-related, long story).
Favorite Bible Verses: I really live by sayings in addition to bible verses.
Take everything as a God given lesson
May I never forget that I need God on my good days, as desperately as I need God on my bad days
Top 3 Bible verses: Jeremiah 29:11, Psalm 37:4, Matthew 6:33
Things I Hope For: abundance and living in truly what God has called me to do!
BRIANA M
FINANCE COLUMNIST
PG County MD, New Carrollton born and rasied!
I've received my bachelors in Social Work from Bowie State University. My love for building the next person up inspires me to pursue becoming a Finance columnist with Thngs Hoped For. Sharing the information and success that I've had with others who may not otherwise have the same info or simply might not have known is a barrier I like to break.
By God's Grace I purchased my 1st home at the ripe age of 24 years old, I am CEO and Founder of Power In Unity LLC a financial agency and also Curator of the Unity Kingdom Builders, a christian entrepreneur network which focuses on fellowship, prayer and fasting.
Fun facts: Both my parents are Haitian and I speak Haitian Creole & visited Haiti a couple times. I don't really watch tv shows or movies but I love podcasts and documentaries with occasional love reality shows. In my spare time I'm either doing one of the three- 1) staying home with my Rotti 2) lighting a candle and watching a good podcast 3) pampering myself with some self care and getting dolled up or spending time with loved ones.
Favorite Bible Verses: Psalms 37:23 & 1 Corinthians 13. The whole thing as a great reminder of true love and how to love others well.
Things I Hope For: to support all population that are in need in addition to those who have intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing resources and connections rooted in excellence and love.
RIKI BLAZE
FUN COLUMNIST
Born and raised in Maryland, I bring a unique blend of formal education in Marketing, Events, and Graphic Design—plus a wild, adventure-filled education from life itself. I'm inspired by the thrill of the unknown, constantly seeking out rooftop and hole-in-the-wall restaurants, breathtaking concerts (the more the better!), and unforgettable experiences.
In my column, I'll be writing about all things FUN—from the ultimate planned road trips to spontaneous National Kite Day adventures—because life is meant to be lived!
As a self-proclaimed Jesus Freak, I live a sold-out authentic life that I strive to see others live too! I've hosted groups with over 300 people, empowering Christians to seek God in every area of their lives.
Currently, I'm pursuing a certification with the International Coaching Federation as a Relationship Coach.
In my spare time, you'll find me embarking on epic solo dates, volunteering everywhere I can, unapologetically embracing a maximalist lifestyle, and dancing to the beat of my own saxophone.
Things I Hope For: To be married by next year, spending the next best days of my life helping Christian singles date and live better, and absolutely seeing my book hit the best-sellers list!
Favorite Bible Verses: Luke 1:45