When San Diego-based content creator Katrena first posted a video asking to be “adopted” by a Black mother, she never expected the world to respond with such warmth.
But just days later, she’s back with update that proves the internet can still be a place for genuine connection.
“My heart is completely melted,” she wrote in a new Instagram post. “I expected some help but not this big of a response. I’ve been seeing the messages come in, you all have been so kind. Happy to have all these new aunties, cousins, sisters AND moms in my corner.”
In a short video accompanying her post, Katrena appeared overwhelmed, but in the best way possible. She shared that she’s still sorting through hundreds of messages from women who reached out after her story went viral, saying she’s confident she’ll soon find the “Black mom” she’s been praying for.
“I had a feeling it would get a decent response, but I didn’t expect this,” she said. “All the offers for big sisters and aunties — it’s been amazing. I definitely think this is going to lead to that relationship I’ve been hoping for.”
Katrena, who lives in San Diego, clarified that her ideal match would be someone nearby, someone she could meet weekly or biweekly, not just chat with online.
She’s also drawn to women who never had children, explaining that she doesn’t want to “take time away from other people’s moms.”
But perhaps the most moving part of her update was her reflection on what she’s learned through this process. One comment, she said, made her think about how mixed women with white mothers and Black fathers often grow up missing certain aspects of cultural guidance that only a Black mother could provide.
“A Black mom helps to lead you into Black womanhood,” she said. “There are similarities we share — our hair, our bodies, our struggles, things only a Black woman can really understand.”
Her video has struck a deep emotional chord online. Many viewers said Katrena’s openness made them appreciate their own mothers more deeply.
“It’s made me think about my mom and appreciate her even more,” one commenter wrote. “Not everybody has that experience.”
Katrena ended her video with a touching reminder that has now become a rallying phrase across her comments section:
“Hug your Black mommies a little tighter today.”
What began as a heartfelt request has evolved into something much larger, a viral moment of shared humanity that’s bridging generational and cultural gaps.
In a world often dominated by cynicism and curated perfection, Katrena’s vulnerability has opened a door to something refreshingly real: the universal desire to love and be loved.
And in her words, that search continues, “with hugs and so much love to all of you.”
