Nzinga Imani is stepping into a new chapter and her most defining role yet.
The actress, best known for her portrayal of Angela on BET’s Tyler Perry’s Sistas and its spinoff Zatima, is having her first child with her longtime partner, music artist and photographer K. Lindo. Imani is sharing her joy exclusively with ESSENCE, along with the breathtaking images the soon-to-be dad captured himself.
“I’ve always wanted to be a mother,” she says, “so stepping into this season feels both exciting and grounding.” Imani has been preparing mentally by releasing the pressure of perfection, leaning on trusted women for wisdom, and trusting her instincts. Additionally, the actress has been reflecting on her upbringing, strengthening her prayer practice, and becoming more mindful of the energy she brings into her home.
She is also embracing the idea that motherhood and career pursuits are not mutually exclusive. For Imani, this pregnancy is an expansion of what she’s been diligently building as a plus-size model, actress, and content creator.
“There is no single timeline or definition for womanhood, success, or motherhood,” she says. “You can build your dreams, heal, grow, love, and still step into motherhood without feeling like you have to choose one version of yourself over another.”
Pregnancy has been a muse for the Zatima star. Her single “Drown,” released in February, was brought to life during this season. The multi-talented creative also has a full-length EP set to release later this year. Imani’s germinating creative expansion is a necessary reminder that children can be a source of inspiration rather than a hindrance. Likewise, pursuing your dreams as a parent gives your kids a chance to see what it looks like to bet on yourself.
“I feel empowered by the idea that my child will grow up seeing a mother who is passionate, creative, and unapologetic about her dreams,” Imani says. “That example matters to me.”
She also has the unwavering support of her partner, creatively known as GawdsVision, as she embarks on this new journey. Imani says their three-year relationship has deepened, and they’ve been more intentional about each other since learning that they’re becoming parents.
“There’s a new level of softness, patience, and partnership that has naturally shown up. You start realizing that you’re no longer just building a relationship, you’re building a family, a legacy, a safe space for someone who will be watching and learning from how you love,” she explains.
For the pair, creating a loving environment for their little one to grow up in is essential, and that starts with them. They recently enjoyed a baby moon in Jamaica, which enabled them to connect and further nurture their bond.
“It gave us the opportunity to step away from life’s distractions and truly reconnect before stepping into this next chapter,” she says. “That time to reset, laugh, dream, and just be present with each other was incredibly grounding.”
The beauty is elated about this chapter. Despite it being riddled with unknowns that leave her both “excited” and “anxious,” she’s ready to meet her greatest blessing.
“The love I already feel for you is greater than anything I’ve ever known,” Imani says, sharing sweet words for her unborn child. “I pray that your father and I can show you, through both our words and our actions, what it means to love fully, create fearlessly, serve others, lead with integrity, and never stop growing into the person you are meant to be.”