With skin the tone of dark chocolate and a smile that radiates quiet confidence how can you not be enthralled by the lovely Danai Jekesai Gurira? I often keep my opinion of women to myself since it terribly confuses things to have a Black woman compliment another women with anything deeper than a cursory fashion observation but today you’ll all have to just get over my appreciation of beautiful black women.

What is it about a Black woman that causes such a stir in folks?

Don’t answer that just yet!

The answers would take on a life of their own. I’m not one to be easily impressed by pretty faces, but I just couldn’t resist developing an interest in the character Michonne on AMC’S Walking Dead. The Valentine’s day baby that grew up to play the character who wields a sword and the coolest of cool demeanors was born in Zimbabwe and relocated to Iowa during childhood.

A graduate of New York University with a Master’s in Fine Art, this phenomenal woman is very active in her support of indie production pieces. She has appeared off Broadway and has earned many awards in her young entertainment career, including a Obie Award in 2006.

She had the leading role in Mother of George, which premiered at the 2013 Sundance Music Festival, to an eager audience. She has won awards for her work as a playwright, and does community support work for people with Aids and children in her home country through her non-profit  Almasi.

Find out more about the lovely lady at Danai Gurira dot com.

I’m often amused by folks who think short haircuts and strong features on a woman is masculine and unattractive. I beg to differ, the strength that you see in the lack of child like attributes and bone structure that denotes indigenous heritage is the pinnacle of a woman’s beauty. In your face and undeniable power. I would even go as far as to say that a skull and a face are more human than the veil of hair and coy facial presentation. Strong features are just as beautiful to me as a bright smile or wide eyes.

Dark women have a power unlike any other woman. Black as night, mocha, blueberry hued woman startle you with every inch of their skin. People stare at dark women because they are noticeable. That’s a fact. Wearing one’s skin like a luxurious cape is something certain women do without a thought. Why be scared of colors, or the absence of color when the results are as gorgeous as this. This entire image is shimmering, enhanced by her complexion, and not in spite of it.

Follow her on Facebook and on Twitter and on Instagram. Watch her interview with Tavis Smiley here. Learn all about her Katana skills and what workout helps her keep her safe from Walkers here.