I’m Folami, the lead singer for SuRa FoMa. And I really do sing. Check out my CD Come Be with Me! As the lead singer, I actively facilitate the space to ensure everyone’s voice is heard, needs are met and people are getting something incredibly worthwhile out of the space. A lead singer is like the host at the party. And I want make sure everyone has a good time and meets somebody that makes them glad they came. When not rehearsing (for June!) with the band, I am working with schools and youth-serving non-profit organizations coaching leaders and facilitating transformative equity-centered professional learning experiences. I am a community psychologist and all of my work allows me to use those acquired skills wisely. I have four adult children who are all exploring their artistic talents and 3 grandchildren, one of which is in pre-production for her YouTube channel – at 5 years old!

Here are some of my answers to the Favorite Things survey so you can get to know me a little better:

Personal National Holiday aka Birthday: September 21st

Organization Affiliation: SuRa FoMa

Favorite Snacks: Protein (cheese, meat, eggs), Greek yogurt with fresh fruit and granola, coffee and flavored creamers

Favorite Candy: Snickers and Werthers

Favorite Beverages: water with lemon, a sugary carbonated beverage every now and then

Introvert, Extrovert or Somewhere in the Middle? Somewhere in the middle

Early Bird or Night Owl? Early bird

What forms of creative expression speak to you most? spoken word/hip hop and improv, when in Chicago, visual art-making

Favorite color: Blue

Favorite song or album: Stevie Wonder – Innervisions

Favorite artist of any kind: Bob Marley

Favorite movie, TV show…etc: Movie – Black Panther, TV – Black-ish

Favorite form of relaxation and/or self-care: Reading novels, binge watching a TV series and entertaining for friends and family. Thrift store shopping with my hubby and do-nothing weekends.

Something that excites me about being in Chicago: Improv!!!