Meet Akiela Mbodj | YouTube Streamer & Senior Technical Recruiter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Akiela Mbodj and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Akiela, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I’m originally from Boston, Massachusetts, raised between there and Atlanta, Georgia, and I now live in Miami. My background and upbringing played a huge role in shaping who I am today and the kind of content I create on my YouTube channel, Privileged Black Girl (Formerly known as Akiela Galore).

Growing up as a Privileged Black Girl—which to me means having the courage to live freely, authentically, and on my own terms—I’ve always valued self-expression, independence, and leveling up mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. That journey started early, navigating different environments, cultures, and expectations, and I learned quickly that mindset is everything.

Now on my channel, I share those lessons through storytimes, mindset shifts, lifestyle content, and open conversations. I want my audience to feel empowered, seen, and inspired to become the most unapologetic version of themselves—no matter where they come from. So yes, my upbringing gave me the edge and perspective I needed, and I’m proud of every part of it.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I came to Miami as a Senior Tech Recruiter—corporate, buttoned-up, and focused. But shortly after relocating, the role came to an end, and life pushed me in a different direction. Instead of folding, I started hustling. I leaned into what I knew best: people, presence, and purpose. That’s when everything changed.

I began streaming under the name Privileged Black Girl, and the consistent grind officially started on Mother’s Day this year. What began with faith and a mouthpiece has grown into something real. I now go live twice a day (except Saturday evenings and Sundays), and over 20,000 people have tuned in so far. My biggest day? 29,960 views. It’s proof that when you show up authentically, your vibe really does attract your tribe.

What sets me apart is that I don’t wait for perfection. I show up as I am—raw, evolving, unfiltered—and that’s exactly what resonates. I mix real talk, spiritual awareness, humor, healing, and hustle all in one space. I’m not here to pretend. I’m here to be—and to inspire others to do the same.

This journey hasn’t been easy. I’ve dealt with instability, reinvention, and having to rebuild from scratch in a city where I knew no one. But I’ve learned that being seen starts with seeing yourself first. And that faith isn’t about knowing what’s next—it’s about moving anyway.

I want the world to know this: I’m just getting started. Privileged Black Girl isn’t just a brand—it’s a mindset, a movement, and a reminder that we get to define our own version of luxury, success, and freedom. No handouts—just hustle, heart, and alignment.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Honestly, I am my own best friend—so when I moved to Miami not knowing a single soul, I took that as an invitation to date me. That means creating the kind of life that excites me, and I’ve found some incredible spots that I love and would definitely take an acquaintance to if they were visiting.

Here’s how a week with me in Miami would look:

Day 1 – Arrival + Vibes
We’d settle in and start with dinner at Smith & Wollensky right on the water. The views are immaculate, and the ambiance is a whole mood for sunset conversations and catching up.

Day 2 – Wellness + Elegance
Morning rooftop yoga or spa time at The One Hotel, followed by brunch at Casa Madera—because the vibe is luxury boho and the energy is high frequency. If we’re feeling it later, we’d slide into MILA for dinner or stay for the nighttime party. The food, the lights, the people—it’s giving “main character.”

Day 3 – Chill + Classy
We’d hit Level 6 for drinks and fire rooftop views. This spot is sleek, sexy, and perfect for those Instagram-worthy moments. It’s where chill meets classy with the right soundtrack.

Day 4 – Artsy + Inspired
A Wynwood stroll to check out the murals and hit some galleries. Maybe dinner at KYU or a pop-up event, because there’s always something going on in this city.

Day 5 – Taco Tuesday Ritual
No Miami week is complete without my personal tradition—Taco Tuesdays at Mexican Lime & Grill. The food is bomb and it’s become my midweek celebration spot.

Day 6 – Beach + Sunset Vibes
A beach day to recharge, followed by light bites and cocktails near South of Fifth. Maybe even sneak in a yacht moment if the stars align.

Day 7 – Reflect + Reset
End the trip full circle with brunch again at Casa Madera or somewhere new we discovered during the week. A little toast to friendship, self-love, and new chapters.

Miami is full of energy, but when you move with intention, the city becomes your playground. I create moments wherever I go, whether I’m solo or showing love to someone who matters.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Shoutout to LB—your presence, wisdom, and consistency have made a lasting impact. You’ve shown me what grounded masculine energy feels like, and for that, I’ll always be grateful.

But honestly? Aside from that, it’s been me. The sleepless nights, the risks I took, the boundaries I had to set, the mindset I had to rewire—I had to show up for myself when no one else did. I’ve learned that while support is beautiful, self-accountability is what truly transforms you. So, shoutout to the woman I’m becoming and the girl I had to heal to get here. Every step, every lesson, every moment of silence—it’s all been part of the journey.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akielagalore

Twitter: https://x.com/AkielaGalore

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Akielagalore

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@privilegedblackgirl?si=nMXYgXfzc9yYFrjl

Other: Please note that I will not be attaching my LinkedIn profile, as I prefer to keep my professional network separate. However, my social media platforms are linked for reference. Thank you for your understanding.