Dr Rene Level invites readers to embrace their inner light in ‘Shine Like You’
Published:Saturday | January 17, 2026 | 12:05 AMKeisha Hill/Senior Gleaner Writer
Educator, international academic adviser, and inspiring poetic voice Dr Rene Level continues to leave an indelible mark on readers worldwide with her latest work, Shine Like You: There Is a Light Inside You.
Following the success of her earlier collection of poems, Dream Code, Level’s newest offering is a bold, reflective collection that blends poetry and motivation to encourage clarity, courage, confidence, and authentic self-expression.
Her poetry featured in the Atlantic International University Magazine, is deeply shaped by her professional journey in education and academic advising, where she has worked closely with learners from diverse cultural and social backgrounds.
“My journey in education and international academic advising has granted me a deep understanding of the human spirit and its resilience. Working with learners across diverse backgrounds highlighted the universal need for affirmation and self-worth. Those experiences shaped my writing into a platform that uplifts, heals, and motivates,” she said.
While Dream Code focused on unlocking potential, Shine Like You represents a shift towards embracing identity and inner truth.
“ Shine Like You emerged from the desire to go beyond personal development and step into self-acceptance. It is more reflective, more intimate, and anchored in emotional truth,” she said.
The title itself speaks to authenticity in a world that often rewards conformity. “To shine like you is to live with intention, aligned with your values and voice, without apology or imitation,” she said.
At the heart of her recent book of poems is the belief that everyone carries an inner light, though many struggle to recognise it. “Past wounds, societal expectations, and lack of encouragement often cause people to question their worth. Many have never been told they are enough. This book serves as both a reminder and a mirror,” Level said.
She believes poetry offers a unique gateway to clarity and confidence. “Poetry captures emotion in a concentrated, relatable form. It does not tell people what to do; it invites them to feel, reflect, and arrive at their own truth, quietly but powerfully,” she said.
SELF-EXPRESSION
A recurring theme throughout the collection is the importance of voice and self-expression. “Voice is identity. It is how we set boundaries, share our stories, and assert our dreams. Personal growth requires the courage to articulate who we are and what we believe,” she said.
The fusion of poetry and motivation, she explained, was a deliberate choice. “I wanted the poetic form to be more than artistic, I wanted it to be transformative. The rhythm of poetry allows messages to linger. I hope readers feel both affirmed and activated,” Level explained.
Writing Shine Like You also became a journey of self-discovery for the author.
“It required vulnerability. It made me confront my fears of visibility and helped me claim spaces I had been shrinking in. It was both healing and empowering.”
One poem in particular, Be Kind, Be Bright, holds special significance for Dr Level. Rooted in her personal philosophy and lived experience, the poem reflects her belief in the transformative power of everyday kindness.
“Transformation doesn’t always begin with grand gestures, it often starts with small, intentional acts. A gentle word or a moment of compassion can change the trajectory of someone’s life,” she said.
The line Shine with kindness every day encapsulates her approach to leadership, service, and education. “Leadership and service are grounded in empathy. Through kindness, we connect, inspire, and empower,” Level noted.
Ultimately, Level hopes readers finish the publication with a renewed sense of self-worth and purpose. “I hope they walk away with the unshakeable belief that their light is valuable. They are not here to imitate, but to shine. Not like anyone else, but like themselves,” she said.