Empowerment Series: BET, Tyler Perry’s, “Sistas” Actress – Novi Brown Shares Sisterhood and Commitment with AW
Tyler Perry‘s BET series “Sistas” follows a group of four women, as they find themselves and love while going through a series of ups and downs in relationships. Despite the ongoing merry-go-round of emotions, they survive personal ordeals by leaning on their circle of friendship.
In a recent storyline for the show, Novi Brown’s character, Sabrina Hollins is left in a state of indecision about whether or not to commit to her on-screen beau. The ambivalence of to be or not to be exclusive creates great confusion. Her turmoil worsens when she sees the object of affection on a date with another woman after she declines his request for exclusivity. It is up to her girls to support the uncertainty, and help Sabrina understand there is no right or wrong, just what’s best for her individual happiness.
As women, we are pressured into thinking there is a need to have a man by our side, in order to feel complete. Thankfully, gender roles are changing, so are the dating rules we’ve been following. The way we view relationships is evolving, as we step into careers full speed and delay or cancel motherhood. Often times, it takes the support of the women in our circle to remind us, we don’t have to do things the conventional way. There are options outside traditional boundaries set by old world thinking. We should remain confident in the women we’ve grown into, knowing there is always a choice.
AW had the exciting opportunity to interview Novi Brown on the topics of sisterhood and commitment. The Writer/Actor was born in Berlin, Germany but New York City holds a piece of her heart. Since graduating Magna Cum Laude from The City College of New York with a Bachelors in Fine Arts she has shared her talents across the creative entertainment industry by taking part in 15 film and television productions, as well as, countless print works.
Hopefully, this interview offers a fresh perspective on the commitments in your life, not just in love but with girlfiends too!
The comedy-drama, Sistas has been a breath of fresh air. It demonstrates how females empower each other through strong friendships. We need to promote more sisterhood among women, show as much support, as possible. How important have girlfriends been in your life while navigating the world of love, career, and relationships? My girls have been vital in my growth, as an individual. The cool thing about my friendships is that we are very open with each other and committed to having a judgement free zone. It is a place we can safely discuss our internal and external issues within the world of love, career & relationships. Receiving feedback from a untainted source is truly divine and friendships can hold space for that!
We can learn a lot from other women. Our experiences connect us, and there are countless stories out there to inspire us, if we set aside the judgment. What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from the sisterhood in your life? The biggest lessons learned from my sisterhood – your sisters are there to help you sharpen instincts and reinforce boundaries. Sisterhood means being transparent and brave enough to admit when you are afraid to be seen for who you are, on all levels. These are some of the countless lessons I have learned and continue to during this journey.
The show does a great job of showing the various types of men we encounter during the dating game. In a recent episode, your character, Sabrina, deals with the indecision of whether or not to commit to a man she has been dating for a short time. What advice can you give to readers that may be encountering a similar situation in their life? I find dating and love to be interesting topics. We would like to think that any of us are experts on the subject but it’s different for everyone. All we know is what makes us individually, feel good and that is what matters most. Attraction is an ever-evolving aspect of our lives, as is our capacity to make space for others through love and understanding. Stay open and have fun with the experience.
I was a late bloomer, who had a hard time finding my voice in relationships and life. It set me back years, I’ll never forget the feeling of coming to the realization that I had a right to be heard. This was life-changing, helping me come into my own. I was ready to accept the responsibility of what it meant to be an empowered woman. Once I began the journey, true freedom set in for me. Your character, Sabrina is slowly evolving, as she looks to figure out her wants and needs, as a woman. Can you recall, when you found your voice? How did the revelation change your life? I’m still finding my voice as a woman, everyday. There are ” a lot of loud ass men out there trying to shut out women’s voices.” Many of the limitations imposed on women have to do with a man’s perspective. Men in society have been setting the rules and silencing us for centuries. I honor the ability to be open and receptive to a steady unfolding of the female voice, starting with my own. Every time I use my power as a woman, I have a revelation. I can and will change my life according to my vision.
AW likes to end interviews with a positive message. Please share a quote or mantra to inspire readers? Words you lean on when experiencing inner struggles or indecision on something important in your life? “Progression, not perfection” because life is a perfect balance of moving forward by appreciating when we’re able to look back. Use your mind as a tool, not a trap. Leap and take risks you will be proud of.
The motivational speaker, Jim Rohn quote “You’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with” came to mind while writing about the meaning of the women in our lives. I believe there is so much truth to his words. My girlfriends, have all let me borrow their superpowers at some point during our lives. I’ve benefited from their understanding, strength, kindness, sage advice, confidence, compassion, and non-judgmental attitudes. Having strong women around has inspired me in unimaginable ways.
The friendships in our lives help us push through to the other side of pain. Women find their voice at different times. Your girls come to the rescue while you are struggling to evolve. They help us find courage to speak out when needed. We shouldn’t underestimate the power women have on each other. Leaning on female relationships is life saving. It can provide comfort during confusing or difficult moments, as well as, joy. Having girlfriends to celebrate the wins together is just as important to highlight.
The personal exchange with Novi was a pleasure. She is lovely, and her friendly demeanor made it easy to write this uplifting interview. It’s encouraging to see how many women are willing to share their stories to educate or motivate others. AW appreciates the time and interest from Novi to lend a piece of her journey to our readers.
Check your local listings for Tyler Perry’s “Sistas” on BET. You can also follow on Instagram for updates on Novi and the cast.
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