Joy in Pajamas: Kinston Organizer Brings Internet Star Shamar to Local Kids for Christmas

KINSTON, NC — In a city where opportunities for youth are often scarce, one woman decided to flip the script — and she did it in pajamas.

Nikisha Williams, a Kinston native, pulled off a free Christmas event that brought laughter, light, and internet personality Shamar to the halls of Kinston High School. The event, styled as a community pajama party, was open to local kids and families, offering a safe space to celebrate, connect, and be seen.

“In a place like Kinston, where there’s not much for the kids to do, this meant everything,” said one parent. “She gave them joy.”

Despite some pushback over Shamar’s appearance — rooted in bias around gender expression and sexuality — Nikisha stood firm. She didn’t just host an event. She made a statement: every child deserves joy, and every person deserves dignity.

The night was a success. Kids danced, laughed, took photos, and got to meet a viral figure who’s known for being unapologetically himself. For many, it was their first time seeing someone like Shamar celebrated in a public space — not mocked, not excluded, but embraced.

“We don’t get this kind of love often,” said one teen. “It felt like we mattered.”

Williams handled the logistics, the promotion, and the crowd — all while navigating criticism from those who questioned whether Shamar was “appropriate” for a youth event. But she never wavered.

“You don’t get to decide who’s worthy of joy,” she said. “Especially not in a town where our kids are begging for something to believe in.”

The event wasn’t just a party. It was a lesson — in inclusion, in courage, and in community leadership. And for the kids of Kinston, it was a Christmas they’ll never forget.

In a city where opportunities for youth are often scarce, one woman decided to flip the script — and she did it in pajamas.

In a community like Kinston, where young people are constantly searching for something positive to hold onto, she gave them a night they’ll remember forever.

And the truth is simple: if more people stepped up with the same heart, the same courage, and the same willingness to try — even when others criticize — then we would be Kinston Strong for real.

Written and Inspired by: Quarla Blackwell