In this powerful episode of The Zaya Show, Zaya sits down with Justin for an honest conversation about what it means to navigate higher education, achievement, and identity as queer Black men. The discussion explores the unique challenges, pressures, and expectations that often come with pursuing academic success while existing at the intersection of race, sexuality, and masculinity.
Justin shares his experience of unexpectedly going viral on Twitter after posting a simple video celebrating the completion of his master's degree. What should have been a moment of joy and accomplishment quickly became a reminder of the harsh realities of social media, as some commenters shifted the focus away from his achievement and directed cruel remarks toward his physical appearance.
Together, Zaya and Justin unpack the impact of online criticism, the importance of self-worth, and the resilience required to continue showing up authentically in a world that often judges people before recognizing their accomplishments. The conversation also highlights the significance of representation, the value of education, and why celebrating milestones matters—especially for communities that have historically been underrepresented in academic spaces.