Saffron Trust Women's Foundation

06/03/2026

What Love Looks Like: A Tribute to My Heart Holder, Madelyn Patterson.
In the work we do at Saffron Trust, we talk a lot about mission and metrics, but the truth is, I can’t do any of this without "Heart Holders." These are the rare friends who act as moral and spiritual incubators—people who don’t just sit with me in the light, but who keep my soul warm when the world feels cold. Madilyn Patterson is exactly that. She is my Heart Holder.

I will never forget the conversation that sealed our bond "always and in all ways." I called Madelyn Patterson to thank her for her incredible support of one of Saffron’s Breaking Bread events, where she volunteered. She picked up the phone with such radiant joy, such a "glass-filled-to-the-brim" energy, that I was caught off guard. It wasn't until we were deep into the call that I learned she was actually on her way to the hospital to address some serious medical concerns.

I was floored. I told her, "Madelyn, I am shocked. With everything you have on your plate, you took the time to help little old me with my event?" I pushed her for an answer—I needed to know what kind of fuel she was running on. She didn't hesitate. She simply replied, "I’m a servant of God!" In that moment, I knew. I told her right then and there: "I want you in my life always." And we have been in each other’s lives ever since, in every way possible.

Madelyn has shown me the profound architecture of a life where "everything belongs." She has taught me what "Sadness in the Joy" and "Joy in the Sadness" actually look like. She is a warrior. She is a breast cancer survivor who navigates the world with a tracheotomy, yet her voice—whether spoken or felt—is louder and more influential than anyone I know. She has reached a level of spiritual maturity that most of us only dream of; she can look at a mountain of a problem and, if need be, surrender, say, "I can’t solve this, but in time, I can outgrow it." And then, in her powerful silence, she looks at me as if to say, "Now, let me show you how it’s done."
Let’s be real: Madelyn is a total badass.

For anyone who is a baby boomer, you may recall that in 1974, there was a movie called Foxy Brown. It featured Pam Grier as a fearless, stylish, and determined woman taking down a criminal network to protect what she loved. It was grit, it was style, and it was raw power. Madilyn is my modern-day Foxy Brown, but she’s running the opposite of a criminal network. She is infiltrating the media landscape to take down every barrier in her way, using her platforms to uplift Black women and restore dignity to the community. She does all of this while operating with the grace of a Wife, Mom, First Lady, Musical Director and the heart of a servant. She is the "avenger" for our sisters, but her weapons are love, media, and an unmatched commitment to God.

Madelyn, this photo of you and me truly captures "What Love Looks Like". It isn't a greeting card; it’s a glass filled to the brim, even when the world tries to crack it. You’ve taught me that true love is always a leap into the unknown, and I am so glad I took that leap with you.
Thank you for being my spiritual incubator, my media powerhouse, and my dear friend. You are a servant of God whose heart is unmatched, and I am in absolute awe of you.
Always, in all ways, Love you

05/18/2026

Scoor is one of my longest friends in Austin, though our journey actually began years ago, back in New York. Only the two of us know the "untold story" behind our longstanding friendship, but I can say, hands down, I am a Bini ride-or-die loyalist!

She is a true force of nature—the power pushing a tsunami and the strong wind you don’t see coming until it moves you. Bini is my secret keeper and my "drama stenographer"; she’s that authentic, popcorn-eating friend you can truly be yourself with. We have traveled the globe together, and one thing I know for sure is that you will never find Bini at a table of gossip or engaging in community controversy. She is about solutions and healing, for real.

Her commitment to the Austin community is the real deal. In my book, she is a superstar strategist; she gets grants approved for so many people because she has the vision to know exactly what will work. She is on point 90% of the time! She helped design the very foundation of Saffron and turned my dream into a vision.
As the CEO of 212 Catalysts, Bini is a well-known leader dedicated to community development and systems support for nonprofits. Our dear friend Heath Creech always got choked up when mentioning what a blessing she was in the creation of the African American Leadership Institute (AALI), which does vital work increasing civic awareness and leadership opportunities for Austin’s Black community.

I love this sister to the end, and her baby girl as well. While the world might know "What Love Looks Like" as a song or a film, to me, this photo is the true definition. It’s a hot summer day in the Hill Country, sipping refreshing drinks and watching the golf tournament with a woman who has been a constant blessing in my life. I am so glad she is now moving vision forward with 212 Catalysts and making so much happen for all of us in Austin. Love you, Bini!

05/17/2026

At 67 years young, I just did something I never thought I’d do—I went kayaking for the very first time!

For too long, many of us have felt like the great outdoors wasn't "our" space. Between Racialised Outdoor Leisure Identity, recreational constraints, and a lack of representation, the barriers to entry felt real. But Black Women Who Kayak+ (BWW) is changing that narrative.

Tanya Walker, Fyah Bal, is doing incredible work to help us see ourselves in these spaces. Whether it’s archery, tennis, horseback riding, or being out on the water, Black Women Who. Black Women Who - (Austin, TX) BWW is breaking down those generational barriers and ensuring Equity in Leisure Experiences for all of us.

I am so grateful for this supportive, safe space to learn and grow in this 2nd half of my life. This may have been my first time in a kayak, but I can promise you one thing: it won't be my last!!

Thank you, Tanya, for helping me—and so many other Black women—reclaim our place in nature. 🌿🐎🏹

05/16/2026

Thought it was a good time to repost❤️

https://www.facebook.com/share/1H1d6X7oxg/?mibextid=wwXIfr

The question posed by Phyllis Everette is one to ponder. "Loving without rules asks something fierce and tender of us. It asks for the private surrender first. It asks us to loosen our white-knuckle grip on being right. To lay down grudges like stones. To catch our judgments in midair and decide not to throw them."

You will want to read the full article here: https://tinyurl.com/4n7enccd

How often have you loved without rules?

05/15/2026

About five years ago, I met Rhea Rose, the CEO of Phoenix Art Studio, and the wife of my wonderful photographer, Blue, at a Starbucks in Round Rock. We sat together for hours, discussing her dreams, and I have had the privilege of watching her explore and unfold her incredible artistic talent ever since. Her artwork is MAGNIFICENT!! Our relationship has evolved into a deep partnership and friendship marked by major milestones and global adventures.
One of our proudest accomplishments was being featured globally during Black History Month 2024. With the national theme focused on "African Americans and the Arts," we had the honor of featuring the work and stories of Valentino Dixon, Amanda Gorman, and Misty Copeland.
Our bond has taken us across the globe, most recently to London, where we were art enthusiasts, travel buddies, and roommates. We immersed ourselves in the history of the Tower of London and the Crown Jewels, explored the Paradox Museum and Buckingham Palace, and even made our way to the Louvre. Paris to us was as sweet as a peach! This photo is a snip of "What Love Looks Like" from the Golden Eye in London—a perfect representation of our shared vision, our travels, and the beauty of watching a friend’s talent take flight. Love you, Rhea
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05/05/2026

This is what love looks like: whale watching in the stunning coastal regions of British Columbia. From the Salish Sea to the nutrient-rich waters of Northern Vancouver Island, experiencing the majesty of orcas and humpbacks together is truly world-class
God sends angels, and He chose to send Kim. Kimberly Holiday, The PFaith House

While the sights from the Whale Trail or an Indigenous-led tour in Tofino are breathtaking, it’s our coffee table talks, our shared cries, and the encouragement we give each other that mean the most. This is the kind of support and connection that Black Leaders yearn for—a space where we are truly seen and knitted together by God.
Whether we are watching for the peak season of orcas or the steady presence of humpbacks, I am so grateful for this journey with Kimberly Holiday. God really did knit us together!

05/05/2026

Saffron Trust is launching a new photo series. Entitled "What Love Looks Like". 1st acknowledgement is my sister, Belinda Sylvester Clark. This is what love looks like to me: it’s found in the still and quiet moments of presence, the loud bursts of laughter, and the unwavering honesty we share.
Thank you, Belinda. I am so incredibly glad you love me. You don't have to, and knowing that you choose me every day makes me feel like such a precious blessing. I feel truly blessed to have this kind of loyalty and acceptance in my life.

04/16/2026

We are always excited to be with our community friends. The PFaith House. A great performance to join

04/05/2026