Michael E. Wilson Jr., known to many as The Real Mike Wilson, is a musician, storyteller, and creative force with roots in Brooklyn and a home base in Queens, New York. For over two decades, Mike has been mastering his craft as an emcee, producer, spoken word artist, and poet using rhythm, language, and sound to build bridges between people and their stories.

A natural educator as well as performer, Mike leads dynamic song and poetry writing workshops that blend lyric analysis with hands-on music production, engineering lessons, and live recording. These workshops don’t just teach music, they unlock the power of self-expression and community through sound.

When he’s not teaching, Mike is performing. Whether on stage with a live band or in studio sessions, he brings his storytelling to life through heartfelt lyrics and carefully crafted beats. His passion for narrative also extends to the page. In 2021, he published his first collection of short stories, Faces, followed by The Wonderful Life of Mr. Silverlinning in the summer of 2025. Both works explore human emotion and connection with the same authenticity found in his music. Currently, Mike is deep in the creative process writing his next book and producing new songs for upcoming projects, while continuing to mentor and inspire the next generation of artists.

Through every beat, every word, and every story, Mike stays true to his mission: to inspire others to create from a place of authenticity and own their stories.

What do you want folks to know about you?

"I am the Founder and CEO of D2 Communications, a  public relations boutique committed to amplifying Black voices and sharing authentic stories that reflect the richness and diversity of our community."

What inspired you to start your own PR boutique, and how did your identity as a Black entrepreneur shape your mission and vision?

“After spending 10 years as a reporter and later working as a spokesperson in both state and city agencies, I witnessed firsthand the systemic challenges Black professionals face in the media and public service sectors. I experienced racism in the newsroom, struggled to tell our stories through a positive and accurate lens, and saw how Black leaders were often overlooked and denied the opportunity to speak for themselves or receive public credit for their work. Those experiences lit a fire in me. I started my own PR business to create a space where I could take control of the narrative to spotlight Black-owned businesses and leaders in our communities, elevate their voices, and ensure they are seen, heard, and valued.”

How do you use your platform to uplift other Black-owned businesses or underrepresented voices through your work in public relations?

“As a Black-owned PR boutique, we intentionally use our platform to amplify the voices of other Black-owned businesses, leaders, and underrepresented communities by prioritizing partnerships rooted in equity, cultural representation, and empowerment. Whether it’s securing meaningful media coverage, crafting authentic brand narratives, or connecting our clients to valuable networks and opportunities, we are committed to using our expertise to open doors. Representation matters—and through intentional storytelling, strategic visibility, and community building, we help ensure that diverse voices are not only heard but celebrated.”

How has your business journey unfolded so far?

“Starting a new business has been both rewarding and challenging. There’s a deep sense of purpose in building something that reflects my values and serves my community, but it also takes a lot of resilience, especially as a Black woman navigating the entrepreneurial space. There are moments of uncertainty, long hours, and a constant pressure to prove your worth. But I’m grateful to have a strong support system. My partners, Richard and Mario, are incredible, and I truly love working with our clients. Seeing them receive the recognition they deserve, shaping narratives that reflect our truth, and building meaningful relationships, that’s what makes it all worth it. It’s a journey of growth, grit, and gratitude.”

Tell us about the LCBC community and why chose to be a part of it?

“This community fills me with joy and inspiration. Connecting with fellow creatives, writers, and readers has been nothing short of uplifting. I’m deeply passionate about literacy and I truly believe it has the power to transform lives and, ultimately, change the world. It’s an honor to represent Lit City and be part of a movement that celebrates the power of words and storytelling.”

Dr. Mendoza was born in the Dominican Republic and now calls Brooklyn home. 

She’s made it her mission to support high-achieving Black and Caribbean American women navigating the pressures of identity, family, culture, and self-worth. Her approach is thoughtful, holistic, and deeply rooted in compassion.

She sees the things that often go unspoken — the quiet weight of expectations, the pain of estrangement, and the struggle to feel seen. And through her work, she’s creating space for real healing, real empowerment, and real connection.

We’re honored to have her in our community. 

Check her out at www.combaheepsych.com :  she’s someone you’ll definitely want to know.

Shanice Brette is a writer and director born in Castries, Saint Lucia, and raised in Brooklyn’s Little Caribbean. Her storytelling is rooted in the lived experiences of immigrant women particularly those from the Afro-Caribbean diaspora bringing their voices, histories, and resilience to the forefront.

She is currently in pre-production on her debut short film, MUMMA a deeply personal narrative about a pregnant St. Lucian woman navigating the complexities of motherhood, migration, and ancestral care. With a focus on cultural memory and generational strength, MUMMA promises to be a tender, evocative portrait of identity and legacy.

The project was recently awarded the prestigious 2025 WAVE Grant for first-time women filmmakers and is now seeking $20,000 in community support to bring the film to life.

Support the campaign or help spread the word:
seedandspark.com/fund/mumma

Let’s help amplify this important story.