In a time of teacher shortage, Trenice J. Brinkley made the bold decision to return to the classroom driven by a combination of passion, purpose, and an unwavering belief in the power of education. Recognizing the acute need for dedicated educators, she saw it as a call to action and an opportunity to step in when our educational system needed it most.
The shortage of teachers has become a pressing issue that affects the quality of education and hinders the development of our future leaders. With fewer educators available, classrooms are becoming overcrowded and students may not receive the attention they deserve.
Trenice J. Brinkley’s decision to return to teaching is commendable as it demonstrates her commitment to making a difference in the lives of young minds. By stepping back into the classroom, she is not only filling a void but also providing students with an experienced mentor who can inspire and guide them on their educational journey.
In times like these when we face challenges within our educational system, individuals like Trenice J. Brinkley remind us that dedication and commitment are essential qualities that can drive positive change. Her decision serves as an inspiration for others to step up and make a difference where it matters most — inside our classrooms.
As we applaud Trenice J. Brinkley’s decision to return during this time of teacher shortage, let us also recognize the importance of supporting educators who dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to shaping young minds and building a brighter future for all.
What can you share with us about your media brand, Two Queens Media?
Trenice J. Brinkley: Two Queens Media is a platform my colleague, Lynnecia S. Eley, and I founded with a mission to elevate underrepresented voices and stories. We believe in using various forms of media, including podcasts, documentaries, and written content. It’s all about creating a space for diverse perspectives to be heard and celebrated.
As a media professional, what is your process for creating compelling content?
Trenice J. Brinkley: Creating compelling content starts with understanding our audience and the stories we want to tell. We conduct thorough research, find engaging angles, and present the information in a way that resonates with our viewers or readers. Collaboration and storytelling are at the core of our process, ensuring we connect with our audience on a personal level.
What topics do you most prefer to write about/cover?
Trenice J. Brinkley: I’m passionate about issues related to family, education, entrepreneurship, social justice, equity, and representation. These topics are close to my heart and align with my background in education. They are also areas where Two Queens Media can make a significant impact, amplifying voices and sharing stories that often go unheard.
Are there any journalists that inspire you? Why are they inspirational to you?
Trenice J. Brinkley: Most certainly, there are several Black women in education who have left an indelible mark on my life and career. These extraordinary women are a profound source of inspiration and motivation for me. Individuals such as Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, whose unwavering dedication to advancing educational opportunities for Black women laid the foundation for generations of learners, have been a guiding light.
Another remarkable figure is Dr. Ruth Simmons, who achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the first Black woman to lead an Ivy League university. Her groundbreaking leadership and fearless pursuit of equity and representation in education are deeply inspirational to me. These women, like many others who have remained unheard, have played a pivotal role in shaping my journey and reminding me of the importance of resilience, determination, and advocacy for educational equity.
What qualities would you say make good journalists?
Trenice J. Brinkley: Good journalists possess a strong commitment to truth and accuracy. They are curious, empathetic, and skilled storytellers. Integrity, objectivity, and the ability to adapt to changing media landscapes are also crucial qualities. But, above all, a good journalist should be a passionate advocate for the stories they tell.
What have been some of your favorite media highlights throughout your career?
Trenice J. Brinkley: There have been several moments in my media career that I hold dear. These include the launch of Two Queens Media, witnessing the tangible difference our work has made in marginalized communities, and being acknowledged for our dedication to promoting and supporting business owners, influencers, and entertainment artists.
One particularly significant milestone is the launching of the HBCU initiative “Black & Ivy League (BIL),” powered by Soigne’ + Swank Magazine. BIL is a Student Empowerment Initiative with a mission to educate and inspire students about the incredible educational opportunities at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through the Black & Ivy League (BIL) network.
It’s been immensely fulfilling to join forces in empowering the next generation of leaders, showcasing the achievements of HBCU alumni, and highlighting HBCUs as a valuable educational option. Together, we can shape brighter futures, which is a cause close to my heart. Yet, what truly stands out is the invaluable connections we’ve forged and the diverse stories we’ve had the privilege to share. Each narrative brings its unique and intrinsic value
What are some of your media aspirations?
Trenice J. Brinkley: I aspire to continue growing Two Queens Media and expanding our reach. I want to be a part of positive change in the media industry, advocating for diversity and inclusivity. Ultimately, I hope our work can inspire others to use media as a tool for social change.
How has media changed your life, and how vital is media for society?
Trenice J. Brinkley: Media has given me a powerful platform to advocate for the causes I’m passionate about. It has allowed me to reach a global audience and connect with like-minded individuals. In society, media plays a vital role in informing, educating, and influencing public opinion. It has the power to shape narratives and promote understanding, making it an essential tool for positive change.
Why did you decide to return to the classroom as a teacher, especially during a time of teacher shortage?
Trenice J. Brinkley: Returning to the classroom during a time of teacher shortage was a decision driven by a combination of passion, purpose, and the profound belief in the power of education. I firmly believe that teachers play a pivotal role in shaping our country’s future leaders. They are the architects of knowledge, molding young minds and instilling the values and skills necessary for success.
One of the key reasons for my return was the acute need for dedicated educators during the teacher shortage. It was a call to action, an opportunity to step in when our educational system needed it most. I saw it as a chance to contribute to a solution, to be part of the change that would positively impact students’ lives and the educational landscape as a whole.
My love for education has been a driving force in my life. It’s a love born out of the belief that education is the great equalizer, offering opportunities and empowerment to those who seek it. Sometimes, our students need to see what success actually looks like, and I wanted to be a living example of what one can achieve through dedication and hard work. And yes, I must say, I’m still a bomb-ass publicist, using my skills to promote the importance of education and the value of our educators.
While financial incentives may be a consideration for some, my decision to return to the classroom was not financially motivated. It was about answering a calling and fulfilling a sense of purpose. It was about giving back to a system that has given me so much and shaping the future leaders of our country, helping them realize their potential, and inspiring them to reach for their dreams.
You and Lynnecia both have backgrounds in education. Can you tell us more about your shared journey as educators and how it has influenced your work together?
Trenice J. Brinkley: Certainly, Lynnecia and I have always shared a passion for education. Our backgrounds as educators have been a driving force behind our collaboration. We’ve both witnessed the transformative power of education and its ability to shape young minds, instill values, and create opportunities. This shared journey as educators has deeply influenced our work together, as it’s instilled in us a commitment to creating platforms like the Black & Ivy League (BIL) initiative, which is dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders through education and inspiration.
Our experiences in the classroom have given us firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities within the educational system. This insight has fueled our desire to make a positive impact, especially in underrepresented communities. It’s through our combined expertise and understanding of the educational landscape that we’ve been able to effectively advocate for the value of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and the incredible educational opportunities they offer.
In essence, our shared journey as educators has not only strengthened our personal and professional connection but has also served as the cornerstone of our mission to inspire and uplift students and make a difference in the realm of education.
How has returning to the classroom as an educator influenced or impacted Two Queens Media, your media brand?
Trenice J. Brinkley: Returning to the classroom as an educator has had a significant impact on Two Queens Media. It has deepened my understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the education sector, and this knowledge has enriched the content we produce. My experiences in the classroom have given me a firsthand perspective on the needs and concerns of students, educators, and parents.
This insight has allowed me to create content that directly addresses these issues, such as my efforts to promote the value of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through the Black & Ivy League (BIL) initiative. I’ve been able to connect with students and educators, helping me tailor our content to be more informative and relevant.
Moreover, being back in the classroom has reinforced my commitment to advocating for educational equity, which aligns perfectly with the mission at Two Queens Media to amplify marginalized voices and stories. It’s not only a source of inspiration but a reminder of the importance of the work I do and the impact it can have on individuals seeking education and personal growth.
To find out more about Trenice Brinkley and Two Queens Media
Website: www.trenicejbrinkley.com
Social media: www.instagram.com/twoqueensmedia
