Rootzandwingzllc

THIS. IS. TIMELY. Understanding Blackness in Cuba requires moving beyond U.S.-centric racial frameworks and engaging a sociohistorical context shaped by nationalism, diaspora, and cultural production. Let’s get into it for a deeper understanding of how it informs Allyship or critique in the Black U.S. context.

COMMUNITY IN ACTION:
From distributing books and meals to creating transformative cultural experiences, each gathering reflects RootzGround & WingzFly’s commitment to uplifting communities through education, literacy, the arts, and collective care in , , and . Together, we have:
• Expanded access to books, food, and essential resources
• Created culturally affirming learning experiences
• Empowered youth through art, movement, and storytelling
• Supported educators in building inclusive classrooms

“Supporting local, independent, community bookstores that help provide access to authors, stories, and programming that affirm the beautiful diversity of our community is a necessary commitment. Simply, they help us to thrive!”
Dr. Skyller Walkes Founder, Rootz and Wingz, LLC.
CEO, RootzGround & WingzFly
WORD UP COMMUNITY BOOKSHOP / LIBRERÍA COMUNITARIA MEMBER

Please join us in welcoming our newest RootzGround & WingzFly Board member Dr. Monica Iles 🙌🏾👏🏾!! Dr. Monica Iles is a seasoned educator and leader with over 34 years of experience in secondary and postsecondary education. She holds a Doctor of Education in Developmental Education from Grambling State University, with research focused on improving success and retention among first-year college students.
Dr. Iles began her career in Marketing Education and went on to serve 12 years as a Marketing Coordinator, where she led student achievement in competitive events and was recognized as DECA Advisor of the Year. She has spent the past 16 years as a high school counselor, supporting student development, academic success, and college readiness.
In addition to her work in education, Dr. Iles serves as Board President of St. Hope Healthcare, where she helps guide strategic initiatives to expand access and improve health outcomes in underserved communities. She has also held leadership roles with the Marketing Educators of Texas, advocating for excellence and equity in career and technical education.
Dr. Iles is committed to service-driven leadership, with a career defined by advancing student success, strengthening communities, and fostering equitable opportunities.

It was my humble honor to serve as the opening keynote speaker at the 6TH ANNUAL 101 WOMEN IN BUSINESS CONFERENCE in Baton Rouge, LA, with the theme “Built to Last: Leading with Integrity, Positioning for Growth.” The conveners, speakers, and facilitators created a dynamic space of innovation, encouragement, and inspiration. Thank you for entrusting me as the Founder of Rootz and Wingz, LLC., with the charge of speaking about, “Ethics as a Strategy: Why Integrity Is a Competitive Advantage.” Good business and meaningful impact should be anchored in a guiding philosophy of principled integrity. I was encouraged by the business leaders present who aim to model that philosophy in action!