“My passion for fine-art, fashion and editorial work became my focus, and my style and interest found me in many ways;” said Payne.

As noted by the indefatigable and infamous Malcolm X:

“The most disrespected person in America is the Black woman.

The most unprotected person in America is the Black woman.

The most neglected person in America is the Black woman.”

This opened Payne’s eyes to look deeper at the Black female in a different light.