Porsha Williams has entered a new phase in her personal life with a surprising announcement. The Real Housewives of Atlanta star, aged 44, publicly revealed her relationship with girlfriend Patrice “Sway” McKinney through an Instagram birthday tribute that garnered significant attention on social media.
The post, shared on Friday evening, included a heartfelt message celebrating McKinney’s birthday, expressing wishes for a fulfilling year ahead. Williams added a lighthearted note about their plans for Saturday, highlighting the comfortable rapport between the two.
The accompanying carousel of photos and videos conveyed a narrative of their relationship. Images depicted the couple embracing in front of an ornate Christmas tree, and videos captured them dancing together at a club, offering a glimpse into the genuine bond they have formed away from public scrutiny.
A New Beginning After Divorce
This announcement marks Williams’ first public relationship since finalizing her divorce from Simon Guobadia in June. She filed for divorce in February 2024, concluding their marriage just 15 months after marrying the Nigerian entrepreneur. This separation represented a pivotal moment for the reality star, who is now committed to approaching her personal life with a renewed perspective.
McKinney, the founder of Encore Salon Suites in Atlanta, brings her own achievements to the relationship. She maintains a lower public profile compared to Williams’ previous partners, fostering a connection based on different foundations than those experienced in the past.
Exploring New Possibilities
During an October appearance at Culture Con, Williams discussed her dating life, revealing that she was connecting with both a man and a woman and had focused her attention on both. She expressed positive feelings about each individual, emphasizing her desire to find grounded partners as she reentered the dating scene.
Williams shared insights from her therapy sessions, acknowledging the difficulties of embracing healthier relationship patterns. She noted that her dates were asking meaningful questions, setting boundaries, and avoiding superficial connections. This approach felt unfamiliar compared to previous experiences marked by manipulation and love bombing.
Breaking Old Patterns
Williams recognized that these new relationships were challenging her in constructive ways. Instead of encountering individuals who mirrored her or did whatever necessary to secure a connection, she was meeting people with their own identities. This experience prompted her to reflect on her own patterns and what a genuine connection truly entails.
She acknowledged the necessity to soften her approach and embrace vulnerability, despite the discomfort it may bring. Williams understood that achieving different outcomes required her to present herself differently.
Prioritizing Healing Over Rushing
In June, Williams stated in interviews that she would not date again until she felt genuinely prepared. She expressed a commitment to solitude until achieving a sense of completeness, determined to avoid repeating past mistakes. This decision reflects a maturity regarding relationship dynamics that many struggle to attain.
During that same discussion, she contemplated the possibility of a romantic relationship with a woman. Williams candidly spoke about the post-breakup period when trust in others becomes difficult, pondering whether a relationship with a woman might offer something different, while acknowledging she was not yet ready but remained open to future possibilities.
Intentional Progress
The public acknowledgment of her relationship with McKinney suggests that Williams has discovered what she was seeking. The birthday tribute radiated a sense of authenticity and ease that stands in contrast to the often performative nature of celebrity relationship announcements. Rather than grand gestures, Williams expressed simple affection and enthusiasm about their time together.
Fan and follower responses have been overwhelmingly positive, with many celebrating Williams’ openness about her journey. Her willingness to share both the challenges and joys of navigating new relationship dynamics has resonated with individuals facing similar transitions in their lives.
As Williams continues to nurture this new connection, she does so with the self-awareness gained through therapy and personal reflection. Whether with McKinney or in future relationships, she has demonstrated a commitment to breaking cycles and choosing partners who encourage her growth rather than enabling old behaviors.
For now, the reality star appears content to celebrate life’s moments with someone who brings joy rather than chaos. The transformation from her previous relationship to this one exemplifies the power of intentional healing and the courage required to pursue authentic connections.
