Akiena is a multidisciplinary artist who expresses herself through poetry, visual art, music, and literature. A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Theater with a concentration in Dance and African American Studies. She is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.
Akiena’s formal study of poetry during her undergraduate years inspired her to transform the pages of her notebooks into a published body of work. In 2018, she released her debut book, My Inside Thoughts Are Poetry, marking her introduction to the literary world as a published author.
Writing has become both a practice of healing and a pathway to self-discovery, allowing Akiena to find and strengthen her voice. Through her work, she encourages others to embrace poetry and journaling as tools for deep introspection and personal growth. Her creative journey is rooted in reflection, authenticity, and emotional honesty. Guided by love and intention, Akiena honors her existence through art, poetry, acting, and music—using each medium to inspire self-determination and wholehearted living.
My Inside Thoughts Are Poetry
My Inside Thoughts Are Poetry is available at Namaste Bookshop in Manhattan, marking a significant milestone in Akiena’s literary journey as the first Black poet to have her work sold on the shelves of the establishment. Independently published, the book has sold hundreds of copies worldwide and has reached the personal collections of notable figures, including Laurence Fishburne.
The impact of My Inside Thoughts Are Poetry has extended beyond sales, positioning Akiena as an inspiring voice for writers both nationally and internationally. Through her work, she continues to encourage creative expression, authenticity, and storytelling as tools for connection and transformation.
Poetry for the heart and soul healing
Like a flower needs sunlight
Akiena’s second birth, Her new poetry baby. Four years worth of collected poems and storytelling.
Her second literary release, Like a Flower Needs Sunlight (2022), is a powerful collection of poetry and divine reflections that further amplifies Akiena’s voice, vulnerability, and visionary presence as an emerging poet. This work brings heightened awareness to her evolving artistry and spiritual depth.
Presented as a hardcover volume spanning 209 pages and seven chapters, the book is an energy-shifting body of revolutionary yet tender writing. Through intimate storytelling, poetry, and contemplative prose, Akiena explores solitude, self-healing, and the inward journey toward wholeness.
This collection of heart-centered poetry radiates warmth and light on every page, offering readers a deeply reflective and transformative experience. Selected poems and the cover are illustrated by Jarryd Brown. Autographed copies are available through Akiena’s online bookshop.
Bloom Anywhere, Always.
Bloom Anywhere, Always.
“I’m just a young Queen living in Queens manifesting my dreams”
Akiena Louis
'“As long as we water our soil, with God as our Sunlight we can bloom anywhere, always”
“Keep Blooming into your becoming”
