Collections by Michelle Brown WSG Sandra Epps, Founder of The Detroit Doll Show

Collections by Michelle Brown

Many cultures associate the butterfly with our souls, as a symbol of resurrection, as representing endurance, change, hope, and life. Sandra Epps is all this and more. A survivor of Systemic Lupus (SLE) for which the butterfly rash is often a symptom, Epps has adopted the butterfly as a symbol of her strength, resiliency, and creativity. . Her triumph over Lupus inspired her first self-published children’s book -- Imani Has the Most Exciting Dream! Epps is an artist and author. She is also the Founder of Sandy’s Land LLC and the Detroit Doll Show. The Detroit Doll Show strives to inspire black and brown girls of all ages to “Love the Skin They’re In.” The charge is to celebrate history, culture, self-love, and diversity with the promotion of dolls of color. It is the largest black doll show of its kind. Epps also established SHE’S Empowered, (Sisters Helping Encourage Sister) which was an organization created to encourage women to live healthy in mind, body, and spirit and to increase lupus awareness. The Women’s Empowerment Conference BUTTERFLY BASH has been pivotal in providing empowerment from professional speakers, tackling health disparities with black women, intriguing attendees with creative fashions from local designers, and closing out the event with surprise entertainment. Epps’ story has been featured in the media locally and nationally. She has also been recognized for her work to help women to live their best lives on their own terms.