Meet our alumni

Get to know the women and girls wielding the hammer who are changing their own lives.

 
 
 

Adeniji and the freedom of for us by us:

 
 

WWTH has given me the space and tools to get active about my creative goals. The intensive curriculum and amazing teachers create a flexible support system for me to own what I learn and find my voice within the medium. This is my first opportunity to be a student in a learning environment made for black women by black women and I’ve learned a lot by how freeing it feels.

“This is my first opportunity to be a student in a learning environment made for black women by black women and I’ve learned a lot by how freeing it feels.”

— Adeniji

 
 
 

Mubeenah on how she met her potential with confidence and care:

 
 

We Wield the Hammer provides young black women in Oakland a safe space to learn a new skill under the guidance of professional black female artists. It gives access and exposure to the possibilities of metalworking and being an artist and the possibilities of your own creative potential. It empowers young black women with a positive space to express themselves through their creativity. From this experience, I was able to receive a wonderful mentorship from Ms. Karen. Through this mentorship, I was challenged by her to commit to my fullest potential as a young woman and as an artist through confronting my inner fears, anxiety, and self-doubt. In the end, it built confidence in my ability of completion and not giving up on my self and my visions. That is a lesson I continue to carry with me. I encourage other young black women in Oakland to take part in the experience.

“I was challenged by [Ms. Karen] to commit to my fullest potential as a young woman and as an artist through confronting my inner fears, anxiety, and self-doubt.”

— Mubeenah

 
 
 

Makeda, daughter of NiQueen and young metalsmith:

 
 

I found a new joy and confidence in myself by being able to handle metals, fire, and tools that I would have not been otherwise exposed to. I feel proud of myself for creating actual jewelry pieces out of my own designs. I used silver, copper and brass. I learned to saw, weld, and solder and feel comfortable in a workshop now. This program has inspired me to stay creative and confirmed that I can be an entrepreneur.

— Makeda

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NiQueen Jones, mother of WWTH alumna:

 
 

“We Wield the Hammer is an outstanding program that truly empowers and nourishes young women. Such an amazing opportunity! Karen Smith is a visionary, a gem, and a truly spectacular artist. I admire her commitment to pouring love and unparalleled skills into the Youth of our community. As a young person, it means the world to have someone believe in you, it helps you to believe in yourself. I’m honored to have my daughters and nieces to be a part of something so special.”

“As a young person, it means the world to have someone believe in you, it helps you to believe in yourself.”

— NiQueen Jones