Calling on lessons learned from their mothers, sisters, and friends, the 36 women of As I Am speak candidly about what it means to be a young African American woman. All between 18 and 35 years old, each has a powerful story to tell and presents herself to the world matter-of-factly, with no apology, and with a powerful sense of who she is. Photographer Julian Okwu pairs each of his gorgeous duotone portraits with a frank and compelling interview. From motherhood to building a career to coping with the challenges of illness, racism, and sexism, the women in As I Am relate their views and experiences, revealing unerring strength and an admirable openness to what life has to offer. In equal parts moving, humorous, and heartening, As I Am is a celebration of the successes and potential of young black women today.