vol. 281 / Unlocking FaithExploring and celebrating the place we all love to call home.
VOL. 281 / Unlocking Faith
This week’s guest editor, Faith Wilkerson, Ed.D., is a higher education powerhouse and community connector who has spent over two decades crafting inclusive programming and leading institutional traditions at the university level. With her strategic leadership in student affairs and diversity work, she's shaped the experiences of thousands of students while maintaining her commitment to equitable engagement.
Currently juggling roles as an adjunct professor at the University of Richmond and Founder of UnlockingRVA (plus its nonprofit arm, Unlocking Richmond), Faith is all about bringing communities together one unforgettable event at a time.
This three-time VCU graduate and former Alumni Council President has racked up some serious accolades, including Style Weekly's Top 40 Under 40 and the Richmond Times-Dispatch Women Who Drive Richmond award. But here's what really makes Faith tick: she's perpetually plotting her next adventure (Jamaica 2026, anyone?), believes wholeheartedly in the restorative power of a good nap, and shares her home office with Axel, her scene-stealing Yorkie who's mastered the art of photobombing Zoom calls and has somehow landed himself on the "unpaid intern" roster.
Between changing lives professionally and keeping Axel from redecorating the furniture with his teeth, Faith proves that impactful leadership and a sense of humor make the perfect combination.
Take it away, Faith …
Happily Natural Festival
Celebrate culture, wellness, and community at the 2025 Happily Natural Festival. Also known as Happily Natural Day, this three-day Richmond tradition uplifts holistic health, African and African-American culture, and social change. Expect an African-centered business expo, cultural arts and crafts, workshops, lectures, live music, and more. The main festival day is Saturday, August 30 — don’t miss it.
Happily Natural Festival / Friday, August 29 - Sunday, August 31 / Richmond, VA / times + locations vary, updates and details here
RuPaul's Drag Race Werk the World Tour
Starring RuPaul’s Drag Race icons Sasha Velour, Jaida Essence Hall, Kim Chi, and more, this larger-than-life show brings dazzling performances, fierce fashion, and unforgettable energy to the stage.
This two-day celebration brings together tabletop gaming, arcade classics, esports championships, cosplay photoshoots, and more. Whether you’re a casual fan or a competitive gamer, ImmerseCon is the place to play, connect, and explore.
Vitals:
ImmerseCon 2025 / Saturday & Sunday, August 30 – 31, 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM, prices vary / Hilton Richmond Hotel & Spa Short Pump, 12042 W Broad Street
THE WELL Fest
Curated by The Well Collective, THE WELL Fest is a full-day gathering of people, art and creative connection in the heartbeat of our city. This celebration will highlight Richmond's arts, culture, and music scene, along with welcoming Charlotte-based Sainted Trap Choir to the stage. Taking place at Main Street Station on September 6th from 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM; 10:00 AM if you plan to attend the morning wellness class led by local instructors.
You can expect a high-energy Wellness Bar featuring kombucha, cold-pressed juices, coffee, and teas from local favorites like The Beet Box and Urban Hang Suite. There will be an Art Walk curated by The Art Seen, where you can enjoy artist showcases and be a part of the creation of a public mural. The Market will feature a selection of hand-picked vendors, artisans, and creators. There will be giveaways, a mind-body lounge, and activations that inspire connection with Richmond’s city center, yourself and each other.
