This year Ex Fabula gained four new amazing board members! We asked them each five questions about who they are, what inspires them, and why they are excited to take on this important role in our organization!

Meet Alexis B. Outlaw

What five words would you use to describe yourself?

Energetic, kind, positive, chic, maximizer.

What things are you passionate about?

I’m passionate about celebrating the human experience. Exploring God’s Bounty via mountainous views, hiking, plants, and blue waters. I am also a passionate fan of the Seattle Seahawks and our illustrious NBA champs, the Milwaukee Bucks.

What is your most memorable experience at Ex Fabula?

Doing a joint story, a Rashomon, on the theme of “Our Little Secret” at my alma mater, Alverno College, the same day I was moving. Ex Fabula called, and despite movers at the house, I had to share a story to build community! Taking time out of a very chaotic day of moving to stop and address an audience of people was not only refreshing but gave perspective to the phrase “I hate moving.” Following the completion of my shared story, the audience was moved with applause and appreciation, and if I did not make the space to attend, despite what was going on, I am not sure if I would have been able to experience what I consider one of my best moments with Ex Fabula!

Who is a storyteller that has inspired you? And why?

I think anyone making space around mental health care and access for black and brown people have been some of my favorite storytellers as of late. That vulnerability and acknowledgment has made for some honesty amongst my community, and I am all about it! Janelle Monae, who is a Grammy winner, actress, and singer, has been a person I have looked to in terms of someone I see and hear speak about mental struggles and triumphs often. My friend group is a reason I journal, it’s a space for me that clears my head and heart daily, and Janelle Monae has spoken about her journey in putting thoughts to paper, and how while traumatic, it’s healing too. I am learning that for me, creative expression through music, storytelling, and connecting are ways I show up for my own mental health. My connections to Ex Fabula feed that need as well.

Why are you excited to be on the Ex Fabula board?

I am excited to be on the board at this time post-Covid because the ability to make connections through sharing our story kept us all going these past 3 years. However, the concept is really one that’s been the center of Ex Fabula since its start, so for me, everyone else is catching up to Milwaukee’s best-kept secret. And boy, do we need to tell it!