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Join us to learn about a powerful book by E. Aramide Adedeji, LICSW, LCSW-C, who gives us a practical guide for those recovering from intimate partner violence

The agenda for our brunch event:

• Noon: Meet, greet, and order food and drinks from Elaine’s award-winning menu
• 1pm: Our 45-minute interview begins, followed by a 15-minute Q&A with the audience to be produced on our popular podcast and video series
• 2pm: Guests talk with the author, buy the books, and get them signed!

Meet the Author: Hey y’all!  I’m Aramide “Mimi” Adedeji, and for the past 16 years, I’ve been dedicated to empowering individuals and amplifying voices that too often go unheard. My journey as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker is deeply personal, shaped by my own experiences and the countless stories of resilience I’ve had the privilege to witness. Rooted in a family that cherished education and self-discovery, I earned my Bachelor’s from Michigan State University (Go Green!) and went on to complete my Master’s in Social Work at Howard University. Today, I hold an LICSW, proudly serving individuals and communities in the DMV (DC-Maryland-Virginia) as a psychotherapist.
 
Throughout my career, I’ve made it my mission to create safe spaces where people feel seen, valued, and supported. From advocating for youth in the foster care system to leading teams focused on young adults’ unique needs, I’ve worked tirelessly to promote equity and foster growth. I’ve been honored to train, coach, and consult with professionals nationwide, addressing topics like engaging fathers within cultural contexts, supporting youth impacted by domestic violence, and empowering foster care youth to thrive.
 
My latest accomplishment was giving “birth” to my book baby in October 2024. It reflects my passion for helping survivors rediscover their strength, embrace their stories, and step into their purpose. Whether through my work with individuals, advocacy for people of color, primarily black and brown girls and women, or volunteer efforts with organizations across the globe, my commitment remains the same: to inspire, uplift, and remind others of the power within themselves. I’m so glad you’re here, and I hope you find encouragement, resources, and connection through this space. Together, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to grow, thrive, and shine. Learn more: iamthemessage.co

About A Whole New World: 8 Strategies for Reclaiming Power and Purpose After Leaving an Abusive Relationship — This powerful book by E. Aramide Adedeji, LICSW LCSW-C, offers a practical guide for those recovering from intimate partner violence. Author and psychotherapist Aramide Adedeji provides a step-by-step approach to rebuilding self-esteem and autonomy, starting with the crucial process of acknowledging the abuse and its impact. Click here to buy the book!

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About our host, Hope Katz Gibbs, journalist, author, podcast/video producer, and PR director at Elaine’s Literary Salon: A journalist since graduating from the University of Pennsylvania in 1986, Hope’s articles have appeared in dozens of publications including The Washington Post, The Miami Herald, Costco’s Connection, The National Press Club, Beach Life magazine, and more. She has won numerous journalism awards for her writing, including her book, PR Rules: The Playbook. Hope founded Inkandescent PR + Publishing Co. in 2008 and, over the decades since, has promoted the work of hundreds of authors, artists, educators, and entrepreneurs. She publishes three online magazines: InkandescentWomen.com • BeInkandescent.com Health & Wellness magazine • InkandescentKids.com. Her company builds websites and produces more than 30 podcasts each month on InkandescentRadio.com, which gets more than 1 million hits/month; the video versions of the shows are featured on Inkandescent.tv. Inkandescent® also publishes books: Find those titles on her PR website, Inkandescent.us.

About ElaineLiterarySalon.com: In 2024, Hope partnered with bestselling thriller novelist Jeffrey James Higgins, founder of the project and the regular host of the series. The podcast show ranks #1 on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for literary salon shows. Watch all of the videos in the series on YouTube at ElainesLiterarySalon.tv

Find Elaine’s Literary Salon events here: ElainesLiterarySalon.com

About Elaine’s Restaurant:  A menu filled with delicious modern Mediterranean cuisine selections is sure to please everyone in your party. The dishes are inspired by exquisite food from Alexandria, Egypt — a blend of Middle Eastern and French, Greek, and Italian influences. Elaine’s is named for the owner’s grandmother and is based on a promise she made at the age of 12, growing up in Cairo. “I promised my grandma I would someday own a restaurant and name it after her,” shares Cynthia, who is also an author. She and her husband, bestselling thriller novelist Jeffrey James Higgins, are proud to share my family’s recipes with new friends and families in the Washington, DC metropolitan area.” Located in an 1880s building, it was the former home of the beloved bistro Bilbo Baggins for 38 years. The newly renovated restaurant is located in the heart of Old Town’s Historic District within sight of the Potomac River and Founders Park, just a few blocks from The Torpedo Factory Art Center, and Old Town Alexandria Waterfront. Make a reservation today: elaines-restaurant.com.