Poet Maya Houston to hopeful writers: 'Never stop writing'

Maya Houston knows what it's like to struggle. And she knows how to rise above obstacles to find a way to accomplish her dreams.

Houston sat down with Charleston Scene to discuss her publishing company, Journee Publications, which she founded for the well-being of women, and her journey to becoming a published poet.

Houston's books can be ordered online at journeepublications.com.

Q: Tell me about your latest book, "Journey the Soul of a Poet."

A: This book is a collection of my most personal poems which reflect actual personal events throughout the years of my life. This book has allowed me to be open and honest about my own growth. It's different from other poetry books in that most of the poems have an intro or a moment of clarity/hindsight that explains the purpose, the lesson or just the emotions behind what you are about to read or have just read.

Q: Who are your three favorite poets, and why?

A: Langston Hughes and Nikki Giovanni are two of my favorite poets because they are the people's poets. They write about everyday, relatable subjects that uplift our culture and their readers. Nikki said in one of her poems, "Black love is black wealth." I feel that we need to understand that our values have changed, and so has our community and our children. As a result, our future is affected by this great detrimental change. Kris of KRS-One would have to be my third choice. I love his philosophies, and lyrically, he is outstanding!

Q: Tell me about Journee Publications. What is the mission of the company?

A: Journee Publications is an independent publishing company I started after finding that the larger companies were not interested in my vision and after so many others told me this could not be done. I had a strong desire to motivate others, and I am motivated to help other writers become published who may feel that this is not attainable. Mission: to create opportunities for budding authors and to be a platform and a voice for young writers.

Q: You are also the founder of the Sacred Women's Alliance Inc. Tell me about this organization.

A: Sacred Women's Alliance, Inc. is a nonprofit organization with a passionate desire and vision to mentor young girls/women. Our organization focuses on, but is not limited to, girls/women that have been abused and those with low self-esteem. Remaining positive is always the key. Sacred Women's Alliance Inc. is determined to help young girls/women deal with their issues in a positive manner. During the mentorship, the young girls/women develop a strong sense of self-pride and integrity.

Q: What inspired you to start the Sacred Women's Alliance?

A: Sacred Women's Alliance was born after the book was finished and I recognized my triumph over my own struggles with low self-esteem, lack of direction in my professional life and lack of self-love.

Q: What advice would you give to local writers?

A: Take every experience you live through as an opportunity to tell the story from your point of view. Keep a journal for good notes and never stop writing.