Aliyah Battle
Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Aliyah Battle. I am a rising sophomore at Monacan High School. I’m a young African American female DJ in RVA, and I’m passionate about music. It feels good to know that music touches so many people, from generation to generation.
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Describe Richmond in 3 words.
I would describe Richmond as progressive, culturally-diverse, and vibrant.
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From sun up to sun down, what’s your ideal day in RVA?
My ideal day in Richmond would include spending time with my family. I would begin my day at Starbucks with my mom, her drinking an Americano and me drinking a Frappuccino. We would people-watch, talk about plans and schedules for the upcoming week and she would give me and my sister, Alexis, positive affirmations. We would then take my brother to the park, push him on the swing, watch him slide, and Alexis and I would chase him until he asked one of us to pick him up. I would then spend time with my sister, talking about high school, new songs, and whose turn it is to wash dishes. We would cool off in the shade, at a table outside with our favorite treat, ice cream from Cold Stone Ice Cream. Once home, I would organize music with my dad, and end the day with dinner at the kitchen table with my family. They are my foundation. Some of my favorite places to visit are The Urban Hang Suite, Mama J’s, Exit 94, and World of Mirth.
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What would you say is Richmond’s best-kept secret?
I would say one of Richmond’s best kept secrets is the view of RVA at the top of Libby Hill Park. You can exercise, have a picnic, or sit quietly.
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BLK RVA is all about supporting the thriving Black businesses and culture in the Richmond region and encouraging tourists to do the same. What’s one thing every visitor MUST do/see when they come to our region?
I would say every visitor can’t have the best experience until they go to Carytown. The shops and restaurants are unique, and I love walking up and down the streets. The Watermelon Festival is the best.
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You’re originally from Chesterfield. What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re staying close to home?
Being from Chesterfield, I enjoy riding down Midlothian Turnpike and Hull Street, going to the Metro Richmond Zoo, Pocahontas State Park, Chesterfield Towne Center and of course, hanging out with my friends at Sky Zone.
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When we say the name BLK RVA, what does that mean to you?
When I hear BLK RVA, it makes me think about Black entrepreneurship, Black excellence in my city, our intellect, style, and evolution. I feel like the fabric of BLK RVA is woven into each of us. I love it.