Aikisha Holly Colon quickly became a fan favorite on OWN’s popular reality show, Belle Collective. However, after three seasons of inviting people into her daily life, the multi-hyphenate star decided to publicly part ways to prioritize her peace and continue to follow her purpose.
“Life hasn’t changed for me since Belle Collective because I’m still living the same life you saw on the show,” the Jackson, Mississippi native shares with BrownStyle Magazine exclusively about her viral exit from reality TV. “I’m still working with our foundation, revitalizing the Farish Street project, and bringing businesses to the area. I’m still a mother, a wife, and balancing all my responsibilities.”
For Colon, stepping away from the cameras wasn’t about change, it was about elevation. While the entrepreneur says she is excited to explore new ventures and businesses, her journey remains the same. “What you saw on Belle Collective was my real life, and I’m just continuing to build on that,” she adds.
Protecting Her Peace & Prioritizing Health
If there’s one lesson she holds dear, it’s the value of peace. “Protecting my peace is my top priority. Honestly, it’s one of the main reasons I stepped away from Belle Collective,” she reveals. “Family always comes first for me. As long as my children are safe, my husband is secure, and our home is taken care of, I can truly feel at ease. Their happiness brings me happiness.”
When asked how she prioritizes her peace, Colon explained that it is rooted in balance and self-care. “I’ve learned that to continue helping and supporting others, I must first take care of myself. If I don’t prioritize my well-being, I can’t effectively show up for those I love. I take time for myself, whether it’s an hour a day being still, reading a book, or listening to an audiobook,” she explains.
The happy wife continues, “My husband [Willie Colon] and I prioritize date nights and trips together, separate from family vacations, to nurture our bond. Prioritizing my well-being allows me to show up as my best self for my family, and that’s what truly matters.”
Reality TV Lessons & Business Growth
The entertainment industry can be draining, especially when drama goes viral. “I don’t mind entertaining—that was never an issue on Belle Collective. However, I learned that controlling my narrative is key,” Colon explains. “I approached the show as a job—I came in, did what I needed to do, and ensured that my real-life story was represented.”
Still, reality TV came with its challenges. “It became difficult when my husband, Willie, was pulled into the drama. He showed up thinking he was contributing to the fun, just as the other men did. When I saw that he was being unfairly targeted, that’s when I started having real issues with how things were unfolding.”
These lessons have fueled her next moves. “I don’t want to engage in reality TV that focuses on tearing people down for views,” she points out. “I want to be part of projects that uplift Black families, empower Black women, and showcase the real work we put into our businesses and communities.”
Breaking The Silence On Menopause
One of her newest ventures? A game-changing collaboration with bamblu Sleepwear, inspired by her menopause journey. “I had no idea what was happening to my body. I was never prepared for what I’d physically endure during the change,” she admits. “No one ever tells you how much menopause can impact your confidence and relationships. As a mom of toddlers, I had to find a way to stay present without snapping at my kids or feeling exhausted all the time.”
Her experience opened her eyes to a silent struggle many women face when trying to get a good night’s rest— overheating. “When I discovered bamboo fabric for sleepwear and bedding, I knew I had to be part of the movement,” she shares about the fabric that’s both breathable and comfortable.
This partnership is bigger than fashion—it’s about education and awareness for Colon. “Too many women go through menopause alone, thinking they just have to deal with it. It’s time to break the silence. Menopause isn’t something to suffer through in isolation—it’s a necessary conversation.”
Love, Marriage & Keeping The Spark Alive
Balancing an active career with marriage and motherhood isn’t easy, but Colon says she makes it work by keeping a clear line of communication with her husband. “No matter what, when Willie leaves work, he calls me, and we talk about everything,” she explains.
When it comes to intimacy, the couple is intentional about spending time together. “Willie prefers things to happen naturally, but I know we need to be intentional about prioritizing our relationship,” she discloses. “It’s easy to let everything else take over, but I make sure to be present for him, just as he does for me.”
Faith, Family & Fertility
The proud parents recently announced the publication date of Faith and Fertility, a book navigating the couple’s journey to parenthood after failed IVF treatments, endless consultations, and heartbreaking setbacks.
“I had seen my son in a dream before this journey began, and that vision kept me going,” Colon explains, noting she recalls a time when doctors told her that she wasn’t producing healthy eggs. “I knew I had to trust that God would keep His promise.”
Today, the couple is parents to two beautiful young children: son William IV and daughter Holly.
For women facing fertility struggles, she offers heartfelt advice. “Don’t give up. Get more than one opinion because many IVF clinics prioritize their stats over your needs. Find a place that focuses on you. And most importantly, surround yourself with a supportive partner and community.”
The Legacy She’s Building
As she continues to evolve, the philanthropist’s mission remains clear. “I want to uplift, educate, and empower women,” Colon says with enthusiasm. “Whether it’s through business, television, or personal advocacy, I want to be part of conversations that matter.”
The drama? Colon says, “That can stay on TV. I’m here for purpose, power, and peace.”
Be sure to check out Willie and Aikisha’s show, F IT! w/ Aikisha & Willie on YouTube.
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Editor’s Note: This story has been edited and condensed for clarity.
By BrownStyle Magazine in Special Editions
72 pages, published 1/17/2025
