Americans celebrate Black History Month during February to honor the contributions of Black Americans. The month transpired from Carter G. Woodson’s idea of Negro History Week, which began in 1926. Black History Month has blossomed 50 years after Negro History Week was established, and today includes local parades, ceremonies and gatherings featuring the work of Black artists, entrepreneurs, politicians and pastors. This year, The Feather will be bringing you stories about local black leaders who have positively impacted Fresno and the Central Valley of California.

Nia Marie Hodge, founder of Another Level Training Academy (ALTA FRESNO), is one of the 51.2 percent of African American female business owners. Holding titles, including entrepreneur, author, cosmetologist, and many more, Hodge refers to herself as “multi-hyphenated.” Hodge serves as a leader and role model for young women in the Central Valley. 

Hodge grew up in a family that modeled hard work and resourcefulness. Her family traveled from Oklahoma to Fowler and then Fresno, searching for a better life. They picked cotton, cut grapes, pitched watermelon, and worked in factories. Looking to help others in need, Hodge’s family built homes and communities. Coming from a background of athletes, farmers, entrepreneurs, carpenters, and hard workers, Hodge represents a great example of hard work in all she does. 

Hodge’s family of entrepreneurs influenced her to create her own business known as Another Level Training Academy (ALTA FRESNO). The objective of ALTA Fresno is to improve the communities of color and address disparities experienced by African Americans. Alta Fresno works to raise awareness about issues, like higher maternal mortality rates, implicit bias in hospitals, lack of food, and limited access to trauma care and grief counseling.

ALTA Fresno also focuses on bringing STEAM (science technology engineering arts and math) to students through partnership with a department in Fresno Unified School District from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. to help kids in need. With the introduction of culturally -relevant literature and writing, Alta works to inspire students. In the area of art, they teach about the culture-bearing technique of traditional African braiding, which is one of Hodge’s specialties. 

Hodge started her career in Cosmetology. She found her passion for hair when she was 14 years old. Hodge grew up in a family of hair braiders and barbers so the skill came naturally to her. Cosmetology helped Hodge provide for her kids’ college as well as purchase a home. 

“I saw doing hair as a lucrative business I could create,” Hodge said. “I would come home after school and braid hair.”

Doing hair was a building block for Hodge’s future jobs and success. One of her future career paths was becoming an author. Hodge published “Beauty from Brokenness Learned in the Storm” a book filled with notes, journals, and reflections on Hodge’s life. The goal of “Beauty from Brokenness Learned in the Storm’’ is to impact those who have experienced loss, trauma, and imposter syndrome. The book was made for women who have faced hardship but still have a heart to seek guidance from God. Along with “Beauty from Brokenness Learned  in the Storm,” Hodge also published a book titled “Food for Life.” This book was created to show a community of people that food can be healthy and amusing.

“The process of becoming an author was eye-opening because I realized that everyone has a story to tell, no matter how big or small,” Hodge said. “Many people don’t write because they second guess themselves or think their story won’t be well received, but no one will know what others have gone through if we don’t share our stories.”

Hodge faced many challenges throughout her life but continues to persevere as a woman filled with faith. The hardest challenge Hodge faced was burying her daughter as well as her granddaughter. Hodge’s faith was one of the contributing factors that helped her get through every tough day. 

“The perseverance to live through this tragedy came from my faith, my community, and the commitment to my family and accepting God’s plan,” Hodge said. “I continue to heal and evolve so that I can be a beacon of light and hope for my grandchildren and children.” 

Hodge is an influential individual to many. She is a loving mother to her kids. She is hardworking and nudges her kids to be diligent as well. Hudah Hodge, one of her daughters, admires her mother’s hard work and dedication in all that she does.

“My mother has shown me that hard work is rewarding, and it pays off it’s not just for personal gain,” Hudah Hodge said. “She has modeled being an individual who does not make excuses, but she makes a way, and she doesn’t just make a way for herself, but she knocks down walls and doors for other people. That is the true beauty of being a hard worker.”

Hodge lives the teachings of the Torah about sisterhood, brotherhood, community, and raising children. Hodge is a Jew of color, part of the Hebraic faith. Hodge’s foundation is based on the many teachings and principles in the Bible, and she carries these with her in all that she does.

Hodge’s hard work and dedication are an inspiration to many. She is known for the wisdom she imparts to the next generation.

“Listen more than you speak, sit with your elders, and ask them about their experiences, their dreams, and what they hoped for, their communities, and their families,’’ Hodge said. “You are beautiful, capable, and stronger than you know. Anything you put your mind to, you can achieve with love and community.”

To purchase Hodge’s book “Beauty Through Brokenness,” visit this link.

To read more from The Feather, visit other articles the series, including Black History Month Spotlight: Bishop Dewayne “JR” Coleman impacts various communities with ministries and Black History Month Spotlight: Dr. Deshunna Monay Ricks inspires local community