FAMILY DEFINED is on a mission to celebrate ALL families, one story and one quote at a time.
Nia
CHIEF FAMILY OFFICER
Co-Founder
Meet our CFO (Chief Family Officer), Nia. An energetic and adventurous 5-year-old, Nia constantly reminds us that everyone is in our family, including Chuck E. Cheese. Everywhere we go she asks, “Momma, they are in our family, right?” Nia celebrates family every day, reminding me that family is whoever you want it to be and that a new family member can be right around the corner.
Javier
FAMILY QUALITY CONTROL
Co-Founder
Javier is a nature-loving and inquisitive 6-year-old. As our head of Quality Control, he ensures that family is really family and that each member meets a certain standard. In Javier’s words, “Nia, not everyone is our family!”. If someone meets Javier’s qualifications – including being nice, loving and hanging out with us – they can become an honorary member of our family, too.
Ruby L. “Sunshine” Taylor, M.S.W.
FAMILY IN CHIEF
Co-Founder
Family Defined grew from my belief that our relationships are our greatest blessings, and that they deserve to be celebrated every day. With this blog I hope to foster an ongoing discussion about the importance of family, and a platform where people from all walks of life can join voices in the name of love.
Throughout my life, even in the face of overwhelming adversity, family and friends have been constant sources of empowerment. Nicknamed “Sunshine” by my mother, I grew up in the Bronx as the youngest of eight siblings (it’s my belief that God saved the best for last!). I also have strong Southern roots, and am a proud graduate of both Howard University and Virginia Union University.
Today I live in Baltimore with my partner and two children. In addition to holding a Master’s in Social Work, I am an award-winning filmmaker, author, and the creator of an app called Smope, which has been featured in numerous media outlets. Above all else, I am passionate about helping make the world a more positive and loving place.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. I look forward to learning about your unique story, and working together to bring even greater meaning to the word “family.”
Love ❤,
Sunshine