Black Boy Joy Spotlight: Rasheed Westry

Always smiling. Always joking. Always singing for Jesus. Rasheed "Sheed" Westry brings light, laughs, and love to everywhere he goes. Known for his holy ghost humor, Rasheed is more than just a smiling face! With amazing goals and God by his side he will rule the world!

Introducing the one, the only South Carolina State and Claflin double student extraordinaire, Sheed.

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself! Name, hometown, major, interest.

I am Rasheed W. Westry, commonly known as “Sheed”, and I am a young black male who is on the rise for success. I am the third son born to Calvin Sr. and Gail Westry in the historic village of Harlem, New York City. While living in New York City, I attended Food and Finance High School where I had dreams and aspirations to open and become an executive chef of Southern Cuisine restaurant. Upon graduation in 2014, I furthered my studies at the New York City College of Technology where he majored in Culinary Arts/Hospitality Management. But after a revelation from God, I packed my bags and moved “home” to South Carolina. Today, I am currently a Senior, Sociology major, at the distinguished South Carolina State University located in Orangeburg, South Carolina. I plan to enter a Masters of Social Work program where he hopes to one day become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker to help be of service to the Mental Health epidemic within the Black Community. My interest includes cooking, baking, reading, singing, modeling and learning. Education is the key to success, so I aim to inspire those around me to continue to become the most educated you can afford to be! Having a strong Christian faith, I live my life by the biblical scripture: “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. [6] In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3: 5-6.

2. How would you describe your unique style?

Wow. Umm. I would describe my style simply as “just me”. It’s not as flashy as others, but it is also not dull either. For me, I pride myself on individualism. This basically means that I never want to be just like another person. I like to stand out and be unique even if that means shopping at different places or even wearing what is considered not popular by societal standards. I also believe that style is just a state a mind. I go based on how I am feeling that day or what look I am trying to go for. Listen. I am also a firm believer that it does not take a lot of money to look good. Do not be afraid to hit up them thrift stores or even shop on the sale/clearance rack. LOL.

3. What were you involved in on campus and how has that shaped your college experience?

Being the person that I am, I found myself trying to be apart of every organization that sparked my interest - Magazine, Gospel Choir, Campus Activities Board, etc. But, after realizing that I could not juggle them all, I went with my passion and started to give all my time to the gospel choir. Through this choir I have gained interpersonal skills, leadership skills, great connections, life-long friends, and a deeper connection with God. Currently, I serve in a double capacity as the Vice President and Business Manager of the choir. Also, I serve as the Vice President of the NY/NJ Pre-alumni Council on the campus of SC State University and a member of the Sociology Club.

4. You openly profess the love of God! How do you navigate being a Christian in college?

Honestly, It is not easy because temptation is all around you in college. Don’t get me wrong; I am not perfect or ever claimed to be perfect. I fall short daily. But, what helps me is that I have a firm, unbreakable relationship with God. When I fall, I know He is right there to lift me up and dust off my shoulders. I also recognize that I have to stay in tuned with God’s word, so I am constantly reading my bible, praying, and keeping the tradition of going to church.

5. What best describes your black boy joy?

My #BlackBoyJoy stems from being able to be unapologetically Sheed. In a world where everyone is trying to follow trends, I appreciate the fact that I can be myself and be completely happy and content with that. My joy also comes from being able to be of service to people and to the community around me. I recognize that growing up I didn’t have much, so being able to give back means so much to me. I believe that my #BlackBoyJoy helps redefine the Black Male experience in America and take away any stereotype that is associated with us.

6. Any words of encouragement for the men of color?

Continue to be a beacon of light in all that you do. There are so many people waiting for us to fail, but it is our duty to never let the naysayers dictate our worth. We are so much more than what this world tries to portray us to be. We are beautiful human beings that God has called to be great. Do not allow people to diminish your vision. Go after ALL your dreams!

Stay connected with me:

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