Kayla Thugi is a first-generation African American whose parents originated from Kenya. She’s a poetic writer and 2D artist. Growing up in an environment that encourages confidence in her identity, Kayla’s work focuses on Black culture's beauty, accomplishments, and struggles while demonstrating the history behind it. She’s a sophomore attending The Rivers School who has performed one of her original pieces called “Melanin” to the student body. The poem highlights the uniqueness of dark skin and its story. It describes the cruelty that fueled movements to combat oppression and the pride felt through the awareness of Black history and progress.