My name is Raina Coleman, and I am a 15-year-old writer with big dreams and even bigger questions about the world. I’m hardworking, bold, and passionate about understanding people, history, and justice. I've always loved learning about African American culture, thinking critically about systems around me, and finding ways to express myself through writing. I’m the kind of person who speaks up when something doesn't quite sit right with me, and I’m always ready to stand my ground. Whether I’m organizing something, spending time with my family, or writing about important topics, I always put my thoughts and care into what I do. I come from a strong family that values storytelling, tradition, and truth. That’s part of why I’m so drawn to topics like justice and identity. I’ve seen how much it matters to have your voice heard.

Why do you enjoy writing is probably something you're truly wondering. I write because I love being able to use my voice when I feel as if others don't hear me when I speak. Meaning, sometimes I feel like people or the world shut me out when I try to talk. Writing just helps me process and speak on things that other people might be too afraid to say out loud. I write about tough topics like racism and injustice, and I share personal stories that help people feel understood. Something that motivates me is knowing that my words can start to make a change, whether it’s helping someone feel less alone or shining a light on something that needs to be fixed. Writing is one of the strongest ways to make a difference. The stories that matter to me are the ones that don’t always get told, the overlooked people, the complicated truths, the uncomfortable conversations. I believe young people like me have a lot to say, and I’m not afraid to say it.

If I'm being honest, I'm still exploring what I want to do in the future, but I have a very strong pull towards law. I’m quite interested in becoming a criminal defense attorney because I want to stand up for people who are often judged before they’re even heard. Nothing is worse than being judged by your looks or being judged by what others say about you before they even get a chance to know you or hear your explanation for it, if there's one. But besides law, I’ve also considered journalism, where I could keep writing and digging into stories that matter, and using my voice to people who might be too afraid to use theirs. But also, a part of me is interested in ultrasound technology, because helping people through healthcare and learning about the body is also very meaningful to me. I have tons of different interests, but they all connect back to the same thing, serving others and seeking truth.

My writing voice is authentic, bold, and honest. I don’t sugarcoat things, but I do write with my heart. I try to mix deep thinking with cultural awareness and a little personality, too. I can write seriously when it’s needed, but I also know how to keep it engaging. I want people to hear my voice and feel emotion when reading.

Readers can expect thoughtful, purposeful writing from me. I like to explore topics like identity, injustice, family, history, and being a young Black girl in today’s world. I don’t just give surface-level takes, I go deeper, into personal meanings. I connect personal experience to bigger systems, and I always try to make sure my work has meaning behind it. Whether I’m writing an opinion piece, a profile, or a story based on real life, I bring truth, care, and a sense of voice that’s uniquely mine.

In the future, I plan to make a real impact like my grandfather, Abraham Coleman, who served in the army and was a respected leader in our town. His dedication to service and standing up for his community inspires me every day. He showed me the importance of courage, responsibility, and using your voice to make a difference. If I become a lawyer, I want to fight for people who can’t fight for themselves, just like he stood up for others. If I go into journalism, I want to uncover the stories that matter. No matter the path I take, I’ll carry his example with me, using my voice to uplift others and speak on what’s right.