The Junto Welcomes: Shakira Hunt

original interview conducted by Oludare Marcelle
(artist and Manzanita's Creative Coordinator)
photos by Jonny Echevarria
(photographer, performer & music educator)

From Franklin’s Junto to Our Streets: Elevating Today’s Visionaries

Way back in 1772—before Benjamin Franklin was flying kites in thunderstorms, he was busy lighting up minds and communities with something fierce called The Junto. This wasn’t your average meet-up; it was a serious power circle for those looking to level up personally and as a community. Fast forward a few centuries, and here at Manzanita, we’re keeping that spirit alive, spotlighting modern-day movers and shakers like Shakira Hunt, blending deep values with everyday hustle.

Shakira’s vibe is pure magnetism. “I’m feeling at ease,” she begins, grounded and real. Though she sometimes skips her grounding morning routine, her passion and heart never waver. “By day, I'm a commercial photographer, but really, I'm a creative producer because so many things fall under that.” Her project, "Give Me My Flowers," is more than just a gig—it’s a soulful mission. It’s about shifting narratives, giving Black men the space to show their softer sides. “It turned into a portrait series and has now evolved into more of an experiential conglomerate,” she shares, eyes lighting up with its impact and evolution.

She’s deeply inspired by the wellness community that supports her. “I’ve been diligent about curating the people around me who are examples for me,” Shakira notes. Friends like Hava Rose, who runs a journaling community, Melissa Romero, a divine feminine wellness coach, and Brandi from Hike and Heal, play crucial roles. Her therapist also teaches her about self-love and body positivity.

Community is her lifeblood. “Wholeheartedly important. It's necessary,” she emphasizes. Shakira isn’t just in the community; she’s weaving it. “I'm a networker kind of girlie. I don't hesitate to reach out to somebody that is desirable in the work that they do and create a beautiful energy around that space.”

Shakira’s approach to life and work is a blend of structure and serendipity. “I depend on structure for business, but I flow through life with serendipity and whimsy. I love casual encounters that might turn into project deals. It's part of my abundance experience. Creating space so that magic can find me is important to my everyday experience,” she says.

Reflecting on her work, Shakira shares, “Over the last five years, I've been practicing full-time just under my own practice and then also developed a body of work that's more of a personal experience and exploration. I did that during the pandemic as a way to get outside, play, and express because we were all on lockdown. That felt stifling and isolating. A friend of mine and I got together, created a beautiful set outside, and it really stuck with me as I started to analyze the imagery. I saw him as a black man who felt very safe and comfortable in his feminine energy and vulnerability. He's never afraid to show that. I thought, wow, what an invitation to black men to show up in the space like that. I developed a series highlighting different men of different backgrounds, sexualities, experiences."

Shakira’s journey is sprinkled with life lessons. “Nothing is ever as it seems. Perception can really steer us wrong,” she reflects. Her work, rooted in healing and exploration, sparks dialogue and connection. Vulnerability and openness are her creative catalysts. “A lot of my work is rooted in vulnerability and openness myself. So that's always going to be a reflection for me because I have to show up in that space like that in order to receive and also to give.” Navigating the creative industry as a woman of color, Shakira shares, “There are layers to this—being seen, being heard, and finally, being understood.”

Her final thoughts are powerful: “We’re here to make waves, to stir things up,” she asserts, “and if we can do that while lifting each other up, why not?” Inspired by the past but geared for the future, Manzanita stands for those stitching innovation, vulnerability, and unity into the fabric of their daily lives. Shakira’s story is just one thread in this vibrant tapestry we’re weaving—full of folks ready to shake things up, make some noise, and transform their slice of the world.

Photo Credit: Jonathan Echevarria