A Tribute to My Mentor
The Late
Sister Alma Nomsa John, R. N.
Grassroots Community Leader and Role Model
Turn an inspiring idea into a successful achievement!
Written by Abiwa Ali (also known as Patricia Williams Diaw)
New York Amsterdam News, Saturday, April, 1988
Broadcasting great Bill McCreary, performers such as Ruby Dee, Ossie Davis, Harry Balafonte, poet Abiodun Oyewole (The Last Poets), and so many others credit Sister John for her work pioneering the fields of nursing and broadcasting for African Americans.
Poet Abiodun Salutes Sister John
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Sister John at the 1982 African Naming Ceremony Photo by Jim Belfon
December 30, 1978. Alma Nomsa John, R.N. loved folks holding hands at community gatherings; her motto was always: "If you know teach; if you don't know learn; each one teach one; each one reach one." She is pictured below, wearing an necklace with an Ankh, the Ancient Egyptian Key of Life. In the picture, Sister John celebrates Kwanza for the patients of Harlem Hospital with well known poet and children-writer of the day, Sauda Oni (standing next to her). At the 1978 event, Abiwa the Storyteller (aka Patricia Williams Diaw) is invited and presents an Indian tale to honor Sister John's Native American guests. (Photo by Jim Keys)
Coming soon.........I REMEMBER Dr. Ethel Mae Bonner
