Picture captured during her performance at the LMNT POETRY SERIES: A Poetry Night for the Voiceless
In a world that often masks emotion with stoicism, Rachel Jenkins, known as Eloquent Pearlfection, offers a rare and refreshing voice. Her poetry is not just a craft but a courageous act of vulnerability. Hailing from East St. Louis, IL, Jenkins has transformed her journey into a powerful message, inviting others to see beauty in honesty, strength in softness, and resilience in raw expression. Her reflections in this Q&A reveal a poet deeply committed to the universal truth that self-expression, though often fraught with challenges holds the key to growth and connection.
Q&A with Rachel Jenkins
Q: Can you share details about your childhood, including your upbringing and educational background?
A: I'm from East St. Louis, IL. I began writing poetry and journaling at a young age. It was always a way for me to express myself. I honestly had no clue the power it held back then.
Educational background: I have a bachelor's degree in Psychology and I currently use that working in the social services field.
Q: How did your family shape your early development and influence your growth?
A: My family actually isn't big on vulnerability. When I found my love for writing I unlocked my true voice. However, with me reciting poetry they have been super supportive of me performing.
Q: How has your experience with vulnerability shaped your understanding of strength and resilience?
A: Time has taught me that there is power in being vulnerable. It has placed me in rooms and provided me with opportunities that I otherwise would not have experienced. Some are things I envisioned and other things have exceeded far beyond my expectations.
Q: What specific moments or experiences led you to transform your perception of vulnerability?
A: My thought process started to change once I began meeting more poets and entertainers. I loved being around other creatives and how therapeutic sharing my poems felt. However, the biggest turning point was once I booked my first paid performance.
Q: How do you believe positivity and inspiration can change the lives of others, especially when shared through creative outlets?
A: I think the simplest way to answer this is according to what's in the Bible. The most powerful thing in the world is love. I think in anything we do we should lead with love. The rest of our life goals will fall into place once that thought process is embraced.
Q: What does the name "Eloquent Pearlfection" represent to you, and how does it embody the essence of your message?
A: Eloquent Pearlfection is a mixture of me always being told that I have a way with words and being a bit of a perfectionist. I always strive to put my best foot forward no matter where I perform.
Q: How do you hope your words, quotes, and poetry will provide comfort or support to people during difficult times?
A: My hope is that the things I write will have the power to touch at least a few people. May they be a hug to someone on dark days, a shoulder to lean on when life makes you feel sad, and encouragement on days when doubt tries to creep in.
Q: In what ways do you see yourself using your gift of writing to inspire or uplift those who may feel unheard or unseen?
A: Sometimes I am asked to perform in places that require motivational poems. Some examples have been church events, tea parties, and community events. You never know who may need to hear those words so sometimes I recite them in other places as well.
Q: How do you believe vulnerability and authenticity can inspire others to find their inner strength?
A: Vulnerability allows people to see that even the "strongest" person is human too. It shows a more relatable side, which can strengthen bonds and naturally motivate other people to be their true selves and follow their passion.
Q: What are your future goals or aspirations as a poet?
A: This year was the mark of my 2nd year of being consistent with poetry. I make new goals at the end of each year. I'm excited to see where else this journey takes me.
Jenkins’ evolution as a poet is nothing short of remarkable. As she enters her second year of consistently pursuing her passion, she speaks with gratitude for the opportunities that have not only met her expectations but soared beyond them. Some achievements were written in the stars, carefully planned, and diligently pursued. Others arrived unexpectedly, the result of her authenticity resonating in ways she hadn’t even imagined. Each step of her journey is a living testament to the transformative power of vulnerability, proving that the willingness to be seen, fully and openly, can unlock doors to resilience and unparalleled success.
What makes Jenkins stand out is her unwavering commitment to love as a guiding principle. Through her poetry, she actively dismantles the outdated notion that vulnerability equals weakness. Instead, she offers a new vision—one where vulnerability is the foundation for profound strength, genuine resilience, and deep human connection. Whether on stage or in writing, Eloquent Pearlfection uses her gift to inspire others to shed their protective armor, embrace their true selves, and discover the inner strength that comes when love leads the way.
Rachel Jenkins is not merely a poet; she is a beacon of hope for those who have yet to find their voice. Her message is clear: vulnerability is not something to fear, but something to cherish. It is through this brave act of openness that we can truly inspire, uplift, and, most importantly, connect. Through her art, Jenkins is creating a world where people are empowered to lead with their hearts, and where love, above all else, reigns supreme.
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Lukumi Arlota – Contributing Writer
Lukumi Arlota is a mental health advocate, black empowerment activist, public speaker, and business owner.
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