Today we’d like to introduce you to Kiyona Miah & Jasmine Mastin.
Hi Kiyona & Jasmine, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
The Black Yogis of South Florida community yoga & wellness group was created because we saw that there was a challenge in finding black wellness professionals, especially yoga instructors. We were two black women who recently moved to South Florida from out of state and were looking for other black-led yoga classes. In our search, we found each other.
We searched for a meetup group or network of black wellness professionals and when we did not find it, so we created it. We provide visibility for all people locally and visiting South Florida interested in finding black-owned and led yoga, fitness, and other wellness businesses in the area. We began by creating social media accounts to introduce ourselves and highlight what we intend to do. Our introduction was a Kwanzaa yoga challenge which was well received.
As our community grew, we formed relationships with other organizations to further our mission. We use our platform to highlight the benefits of yoga and a healthy lifestyle. Each month, we host a donation-based yoga class in the park, an Instagram Live wellness topic, and fun social activity. Our classes are open to yogis of all ages and experience levels.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Our journey thus far has presented some challenges, however, we are grateful for all of the connections and opportunities that have flowed to us. As many have experienced starting a business or group, the first challenge is participation and buy-in. Our very first monthly yoga class only had one student. Sometimes that can chip away at your encouragement or motivation to keep going; nevertheless, we prevailed.
Is one of those arenas where it attracts more women than men. It has been our challenge to get more men interested in yoga. Another challenge is funding. We have big dreams for our group, however many of our aspirations require funding, space, and resources.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
We are both professional Yoga Instructors.
Kiyona: I am a registered yoga teacher certified in vinyasa, pre and post-natal, and trauma-informed yoga. I chose to study these specializations based on my passion as well as the needs of my community. I teach pre and postnatal yoga to teen mothers at Cope Center North in Miami. I also teach a monthly class on Hollywood Beach called Yoga Under the Stars.
In addition, I teach classes at the House of Athletes in Weston, FL, and Yoga Joint in Hollywood and Pembroke Pines, FL. I am known for creating safe and supportive spaces for new yogis. I am most proud of hosting my first womb wellness retreat for women in Tulum, Mexico this year.
Jasmine: I am a registered yoga teacher certified in vinyasa, and trauma-informed yoga. Yoga is a passion career that I enjoy experiencing personally and sharing professionally with the community. My personal and professional background in mental health counseling is what connected me to yoga. I have spent some time witnessing the benefits of its fusion. I have offered yoga at drug and alcohol treatment facilities, community outreach groups, and after-school programs.
I currently teach online at The Black Yoga Bae virtual yoga studio, daycare schools in Broward county, and Inspiration Fitness Gym. I am known for yoga play with infants, children, and up. I am also known for offering yoga as a tool for mental and emotional well-being. I am most proud of myself for moving to a new state alone and co-founding a wellness community.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Our group was founded during the Kwanzaa season and all of the principles connected to our core values and mission. We have been blessed to experience Ujima (collective work and responsibility) as we have grown our yoga family. We would like to thank our community partners Social Xchange, FitfriendMe, The Healing Circle, DamGoodVegan, and Give Back Yoga Foundation.
In addition, we have had many fellow yoga teachers and wellness practitioners who have believed in our mission and given their time and talent. Last, we want to thank all of our family members from South Florida and beyond who share our content, show up to our events, and mention our names in rooms when we are not present.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/blackyogisofsouthflorida
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/188498916798555
Image Credits
Jace Nicholson, Kierra Colston, and SocialXchange
