Amy Sall, activist and founding editor of SUNU: Journal of African Affairs, Critical Thought + Aesthetics, spends her busy days writing cultural essays, exploring women's issues, and managing her worldly and stylish Instagram account. A first-generation American of Senegalese descent and a recent graduate of Columbia University's graduate program in Human Rights Studies, she is positioned at the intersection of art, culture and politics to be a voice and a sophisticated eye on this era of globalization.

We spoke with Sall, one of the faces of our Anniversary Sale, about her daily routine (which is anything but), the music she listens to, what keeps her grounded-and her footwear.

First thing I do when I wake up:

I have a tripartite morning routine: I say " Alhamdulillah" ("thank God") when I open my eyes, then I say " Bismillah " (asking for protection and strength to take on the day) when I put my feet on the floor, and then I make a cup of hot lemon water.

Three things that are getting me through the day right now:

A good workout, working on my journal ( SUNU: Journal of African Affairs, Critical Thought + Aesthetics), and a good, old-fashioned phone chat with a close friend.

TV or radio?

I watch TV for certain shows that I love, but I usually watch Netflix, or listen to SoundCloud or a good podcast. For radio, I really enjoy the Pan African Space Station program produced by the South African publication Chimurenga. They play the best African music!

Sneakers or shoes?

Ah, both! I love shoes (a girl's kryptonite), but I work out at least four times a week, so sneakers are a mainstay. I also sometimes like to incorporate sneakers into more polished, dressed-up looks.

Drink of choice?

I don't drink. I'm the girl ordering a cranberry juice.

Current life soundtrack?

I listen to almost everything under the sun, but currently I'm playing a lot of Benjamin Clementine, Kendrick Lamar, Buju Banton, Lion Babe, Nina Simone and Kelela.

Most cherished possession and why?

It would have to be my silver bracelet with my name engraved in it. I never, ever take it off. It was made in Senegal and given to me by my parents. It is a very Senegalese thing to wear one of these bracelets with either your name or initials engraved, from childhood to adulthood. Whenever I outgrew one, I got a new one.

Things I hoard when I find them on sale:

Books.

Style motto:

Less is more.

Style/life icon:

My paternal grandmother. She has always represented elegance to me, and she is compassion personified.

Words to live by:

Always do your best, and shrink for no one!

Shop Amy's Anniversary Sale picks:
Diane von Furstenberg double-breasted walking coat | Classiques Entier® faux wrap leather skirt | La Mer The Revitalizing collection