Since 1986, the Shrine of the Black Madonna’s Cultural & Events Center has been the epicenter of enlightenment for Houston’s Black community. The institution’s manager, who also serves as the National Director of the Shrine’s cultural centers and bookstores in Detroit and Atlanta, is Galena Park native Nailah Nelson. Nelson has earned the nickname “Mama Africa” for the supportive mentor role she plays to young adults seeking to learn more about Pan-African history and become more effective community change agents.
The Defender spoke with Nelson about the relevance of Pan-Africanism, her work leading the Cultural & Events Center and her role as a community mentor/mother.
DEFENDER: What is Pan-Africanism and why should Black people care about it?
NELSON: Pan-Africanism is the movement, the idea and thought that all Black people everywhere, wherever they live, they’re all connected as African people. Whether we’re here in America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, the islands along the Pacific Rim, we trace our roots back to a common source – the African continent. We originated from one land regardless of where we reside today. We are one people, and Pan-Africanism, as exhibited by greats from our history like Marcus Garvey, Edward Wilmot Blyden, Miriam Makeba, Assata Shakur, calls us to move and act in the world in a way that shows and celebrates our connection.
DEFENDER: How does that spirit of Pan-Africanism show in the programs offered by the Cultural and Event Center?
NELSON: Pan-Africanism shows in the programs at the Shrine Cultural Center because we are inclusive of all. We have representation of all Pan-African nations and cultures from everywhere, whether it’s an antique or a current item, or whether it’s a book. What we seek to do is introduce our people here to a Pan-African culture. We have classes and entrepreneurship workshops talking about not just the Africans in America but the Africans from Ghana, Liberian, the islands. We are showing and displaying the art, writings, and brilliance of our global culture.
DEFENDER: When did you start working at the Cultural and Event Center?
NELSON: I started in 2012, right after Hurricane Ike destroyed the building and we were in a fight with our insurance company. After they gave us our premiums back, Bishop Kimathi was involved with the renovation process. And I, at that time, agreed to come in as manager. After the building was cleaned up, despite the loss of $2 million worth of inventory, we realized all we had was a bunch of empty rooms. And even the art and books we salvaged, that was just enough to put in our gallery. So, what we had was a space, a lot of space, 40,000 square feet. So, we turned into an event center. We reimagined ourselves.
DEFENDER: How did that “re-imagining,” from Shrine Bookstore to Events Center, take place?
NELSON: In the beginning, when we started the reimagining process, we first opened up with the help of Sister Marini (Jackie Adams) with the Melodrama Boutique. We did a Black Book and Art Fair. We did three of those to bring the customers back, to let them know that our doors are back open. After those three events, my husband, Bishop Kimathi, decided, “I’m gonna give you a birthday party.” He called in caterers and decorators so people can see what the possibilities were in the Cultural Center as a rental venue. And it was really decked out. A lot of people came. And that was the beginning of our venue rental business. And it was doing really good. And in order to get the community to book their parties and events there, we had to have very competitive rates. And with the competitive rates, promoters started bringing a lot of speakers to the Cultural Center: Dick Gregory, Francis Cress Welsing, Umar Johnson, for example. So, the venue rental business was very good for us… until COVID.
DEFENDER: Can you speak to the institution’s enlightenment mission and your work as a community mother/mentor, “Mama Africa”?
NELSON: My main goal in opening the doors, it’s kind of two-sided. It’s to be open to the community and to do my part in mentorship. There are a lot of young brothers and sisters who come to the Cultural Center looking. And I feel like it is my role and responsibility to guide them in the process. When they come to have a quest, a desire to learn more, I have to steer them and offer seeds of wisdom to them in whatever process or what stumbling blocks they may be facing. Any advice that I can give them, life skills or philosophical, however I can help them grow. So, I think that’s how I got to be that mother image, because my doors and my phone and my email and my WhatsApp, they’re all open all the time.
DEFENDER: What is your favorite part of the job?
NELSON: My favorite part of the job is being around people. I’m such a, I wouldn’t say introvert, but I really am. I’m an only child. I don’t like being alone. My husband doesn’t agree with [the introvert part]. But once I get a platform to talk to people, I’m really in it. Whether it’s in person, on the phone, on a Zoom call, I love interfacing with my people. It energizes me.
NAILAH NELSON
Education: Galena Park HS. TSU (BA). Texas Tech University (Masters)
Work Before Cultural & Events Center: “I started at Texas Southern University at the Black Jewel, KTSU. I moved over to KCOH as the community announcer. I worked at a CBS affiliate in Lubbock, Texas: KLBK.”
What are you reading right now: The Science of Mind.
What’s on your playlist: “Pink Cashmere” by Prince. Awesome! Awesome! I’m a Prince fan to my heart.”
Mantra (words to live by): “Do what you can when you can. Period.”
THE COMMUNITY SPEAKS
“Courtesy, kindness, efficiency, compassion and professionalism are terms we think of when describing our beloved Reverend Nailah Nelson! Her level of service to the community sets an example for all who aspire to save our suffering people and fallen humanity from the pit of hopelessness and helplessness in the time of the advent of the revolutionary Messiah.” [Dr. Abdul (Robert) Muhammad , Student Minister, Muhammad Mosque No. 45, Nation of Islam]
“A sister that has stood in solidarity with the National Black United Front in word, deed and action.” [Kofi Taharka , National Chairman, National Black United Front]
“I think Rev. Nailah is a great example of leadership and positivity, and is constantly supporting her community and its needs.[Sister Fatima , The Shabazz Team]
“Reverend Nailah is truly welcoming and intentional in her efforts to promote a deep appreciation and true knowledge of the rich cultural heritage of our African past. She develops connections and growth opportunities through programs and projects that heighten the consciousness of aspiring young people. Her influence and commitment are both valuable and essential as they direct young people to practice self-determination and self-reliance.” [Bishop Djenaba Akida , Executive Pastor, Shrine of the Black Madonna #10, Houston]
“Rev. Nailah Nelson displays what a community mentor and advocate should look like in our community, She always has encouraging words and gives you the push to explore your gifts and talents. She is cheering for you when you may not feel like cheering for yourself.” [Theresa Parker , Founder/Owner, The Vegan Palate]
LETTER FROM A COMMUNITY LEADER
Nailah from the Shrine Cultural Center Houston has made a remarkable impact on the Foundation for Black Heritage and Culture through her dedicated efforts and contributions. Her involvement in various initiatives, such as the We Are One Mobile food pantry and activities related to the Black Heritage Fest, has been instrumental in advancing the mission and goals of the organization.
Nailah’s commitment to serving her community is truly commendable. Through her involvement with the We Are One Mobile food pantry, she has played a vital role in addressing food insecurity among vulnerable populations. This initiative aims to provide nutritious meals to individuals and families who may not have regular access to food.
Nailah’s assistance in organizing and coordinating the distribution of food resources has undoubtedly made a significant difference in the lives of many individuals, ensuring they have access to essential sustenance.
Furthermore, Nailah’s active participation in activities related to the Black Heritage Fest has helped promote and celebrate African-American culture, history and achievements. The Black Heritage Fest serves as a platform for showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the African-American community while fostering unity and understanding among diverse groups. Nailah’s contributions to this event included organizing performances, exhibitions, workshops, and other engaging activities that highlight the contributions of African Americans to society.
Nailah’s dedication to supporting the Foundation for Black Heritage and Culture demonstrates her passion for uplifting the community and preserving its cultural legacy. Her involvement in these initiatives not only helps address immediate needs but also contributes to long-term social change by fostering a sense of pride, empowerment, and unity within the African-American community.
In conclusion, Nailah from the Shrine Cultural Center Houston has made a remarkable impact on the Foundation for Black Heritage and Culture through her involvement in various initiatives such as the We Are One Mobile food pantry and activities related to the Black Heritage Fest. Her dedication, passion, and commitment to serving her community are truly inspiring.
Richard Andrews, Founder/President,
The Foundation for Black Heritage and Culture
