Greetings!
Sierra A. Porter is a Georgia State University alumna, graduating in May 2018 with a B.A. in journalism. As an accomplished journalist, she has interviewed prominent figures in media and entertainment, including Bobby Brown, Cee Lo Green, Jermaine Dupri, KISS’ Paul Stanley, Andre 3000, Boyz II Men, and more.
Porter previously served as an entertainment writer for The Des Moines Register and was awarded the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ)-New York University Journalism Scholarship for the Magazine and Digital Storytelling program.
In 2021, she earned the Sheila Brooks NABJ Entrepreneur Scholarship and gained valuable experience interning at LinkedIn News, The New York Post, and Billboard. During her time at NYU, Porter was diagnosed with bipolar disorder type II after years of being misdiagnosed with borderline personality disorder, anxiety, and severe depression. She faced immense challenges, including suicidal ideation, attempts, and multiple hospitalizations spanning from Georgia to New York.
Although she achieved significant success as an entertainment journalist, Porter became disenchanted with the industry and shifted her focus to music commentary. Struggling with substance abuse and dissatisfaction with the industry, she took a step back from writing, explored other gigs, and pursued a third degree in corporate communications and public relations at Georgetown University.
Determined to confront her mental health challenges, Porter made the life-changing decision to quit alcohol and wrote a deeply personal 14-page essay detailing her journey to diagnosis and recovery. Inspired to help others, she began volunteering for mental health organizations such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) through their In Our Own Voice program.
Eventually, Porter founded Ebony Emotions—a platform created specifically for Black and Brown individuals navigating life with bipolar disorder. This platform aims to provide a sense of community, understanding, and hope for those who feel alone. Porter believes that despite the challenges of bipolar disorder, thriving is possible. Healing and recovery are within reach.
Help us create more resources and support for Black and Brown communities.
We strive to understand the lived experiences, struggles, and triumphs of BIPOC individuals with bipolar disorder — meeting each person with compassion, respect, and a commitment to seeing their full humanity.
We are committed to educating the public about the myths and misconceptions surrounding bipolar disorder, fostering greater awareness and understanding.
Ebony Emotions empowers our members to become leading voices by sharing their personal stories with bipolar disorder. Our motto is: No one knows your tale better than you.
We provide a welcoming and inclusive community where individuals with bipolar disorder, from all walks of life, feel valued and supported.
We are passionate about helping individuals with bipolar disorder overcome the challenges of their mental health journey while embracing the truth that healing is not linear.
