Author

Brandy Collins

Brandy Collins a former Oakland Voices contributor.

She is a writer and public services advocate born and raised in the Bay Area. Collins graduated from the 2019 class.

She is a blogger, and the funny one in numerous group chats. She is concerned with civic engagement and leadership development toward making public works more efficient for the people. Brandy is full of Scorpio magic and self-proclaimed Professional Aunty.

Brandy Collins's Latest Articles

Workers face rising costs, low wages, burnout

U.S. workers are feeling the pressure as every industry from tourism to musicians comes to terms with letting go of the middle class dream of yesteryear.

A Black woman stands on an outdoor stage with a microphone.
People’s Kitchen Collective documentary shares a pilgrimage in “Radical Hospitality”
Oakland’s Best Bookstores: A Guide to Unique Literary Havens and Community Spaces

Book Lovers Have Plenty of Oakland Shops to Choose From

a black and white photo of a Black father holding up his child
Black Fatherhood’s Bad Rap Needs to Change

Black fathers are overcoming stigmas and demonstrating their vital contributions to their children's lives through community support, art, and activism.

five people sit in front of an indoor mural that says "knowledge is power"
Empowered Community Journalists Ready to Share Oakland’s Untold Stories

Meet the newest community correspondents making a difference in Oakland's storytelling landscape.

How Has COVID and the Pandemic Impacted Your Life?

Oakland Voices alum reflect on four years since the beginning of the pandemic. Some found new hobbies – mushroom foraging, for example – while others were at turning points in their careers.

A man sits inside a car and shows the camera a fried fish sandwich
TikTok Food Influencer Keith Lee Shows the Bay Love – But is it Enough?

Keith Lee's visit to the Bay Area promises a surge of attention for local restaurants -- but will it help restaurants in the long run?

a black and white photo of a storefront that says Everett & jones Bar-B-Q and a group of Black people dressed in 70s attire pose in front of it
Everett and Jones Barbeque Celebrates 50 years of Sauce, Stories, and Flavor 

Shirley Everett-Dicko credits community, large family, and an Asian community connection for helping start the barbecue chain

A woman wearing a head wrap shows another woman a book
Black Cultural Zone’s “Uptown Market” Showcases Oakland’s Local Entrepreneurs

A partnership between Black Cultural Zone and Block, the new Uptown Market features Oakland vendors and wares.

a group of diverse journalists pose for photo
Maynard 200 Fellowship Kicks Off by Empowering its Fellows to Effect Change