Feb 2018 digital issue

MAGAZINE

BRONZE FEBRUARY 2018

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Sanaia Applesauce Founder

Keisha Jeremie her mission on making applesauce a healthy indulgence

London-based fashion label PrelimThe Kaya Collection 2018 Spring/Summer

Dr. Sheron Brown’s “Self Love Blockers” and how to eliminate them

“Fastest Woman Alive”

Carmelita JETER

the three-time Olympic medalist talks about how she made history and her passion for track & field FEBRUARY 2018

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BRONZE MAGAZINE

POP UP

GENERAL ADMISSION $5 https://goo.gl.com/N4H29x

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BRONZE MAGAZINE 4

FEBRUARY 2018 Editor’s Note Hello Bronze Beauties! happy Black History Month. Black History is celebrated every month by Bronze Magazine because there are so many amazing people of color who are making history and doing awesome things within the world. So, although there is one designated month each year that recognizes nationally the accomplishments of blacks in this country, we must continue to celebrate our own accomplishments and victories large or small, every single day.

COVER CREDITS: Photographer/Art director: Amina Touray, @aminatphoto Makeup artist: Niehla O, @niehlao Wardrobe stylist: Janel Styles, @janelstyles77 Assistant: Christina Touray Wrap silk dress design: Zilea, @zileaofficial.

Provided @pr_solo Earrings design: Jewelry Bar, @jewelrybar.usa Ring: @n.m.designs, Designs NMD Bracelet: @katongers. Designs by Kat Ong Silver necklace w/diamond.

Provided by @nowprla Designs by: @Jewlerybar.usa All jewelry provided by: @nowprla

CO-OWNER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Shawn Stuldivant CO-OWNER Barry Stuldivant COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Amina Touray GRAPHIC DESIGNER Sheena Tadifa WRITERS Shadea L. Blyther Dr. Sheron Brown Dakota Somerville Kit Stone Jamelia Thompson Farren Washington

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This month we have an amazing woman as our cover star, three-time Olympic medalist, Carmelita “The Jet” Jeter, the fastest woman alive and the second fastest in history behind only the late Florence Griffith-Joyner. Wow, talk about making history. Carmelita is such a perfect icon in black history that she is the perfect choice for our cover this month. And when you read her personal story of strength and triumph you will further understand why.

The stories and journeys of our other amazing featured individuals will inspire and empower you as well. I hope that you enjoy this issue and as always, happy reading!

xoxo, Shawn Stuldivant

CONTENT 6. Faith over Fear: And Interview with Jerlean Taylor

by Jamelia Thompson 12. Male Runway Models: The Eye Candy we Love to Hate on

by Dakota Somerville 16. 3 Self-Love Blockers and how to Eliminate Them

by Dr. Sheron Brown 18. Corporate Exec turned Entrepreneur Transforms Applesauce into a Healthy Indulgence

by Farren Washington 22. Prelim’s The Kaya Collection A Fashion Editorial 38. A Mother’s Love:

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Cover Story: Carmelita Jeter Interview by Shadea L. Blyther

The incredible journey of Deidre Gickson-Gilbert

by Kit Stone Photo Credit: Photographer/Art director: Amina Touray, @aminatphoto Makeup artist: Niehla O, @niehlao Wardrobe stylist: Janel Styles, @janelstyles77 Assistant: Christina Touray Ruffle tan dress. Provided by Now PR LA Designs: Adolfo Canaca, @houseofcanaca Provided by: @nowprla FEBRUARY 2018

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Faith Over Fear

Jerlean Taylor, A Remarkable Female Who Didn’t Allow Her Medical Circumstance to Define Her Life Written by Jamelia Thompson “Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go; they merely determine where you start” –Nido Qubein Quite often we don’t have control over the events that occur in our lives; however, what we usually can control is the way we choose to interpret and behave towards those events. For Jerlean Taylor, fashion model, author, business owner, and advocate, she is an individual who has interpreted a life changing event, that for most might be deemed as unfavorable, into a positive experience. Her encounter with Rhabdomysarcoma, a common soft tissue cancer found in children, was unfortunate but it certainly did not end her dreams and aspirations.

In a Q & A with Jerlean, she invites Bronze readers into her life as she revisits her past, triumphs her present, and looks forward to her future in this world.

Where were you born and raised?

(Southwest) Baltimore, Maryland You explained that you were diagnosed with Rhabdomysarcoma, or RMS at a young age, which ultimately left you with permanent ostomy bags. While growing up, how did you learn to cope with such a drastic change to your life?

Most kids at 3 years old are in daycare, but not in my case. I always wondered what my life would be like growing up having ostomy bags. I first learned how to cope with the encouragement from my parents. They taught me to love myself in spite of my ostomy bags. It was still hard for me dealing with peers, schooling, and just being a teenager. I went through a rough time, but hid it for a long time. As a young woman I learned what happen to me was nobody fault, life happened.

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Did you find it hard to have a normal childhood? Why or why not?

It was hard in the beginning of my childhood, especially becoming a teenager. The disease or treatments were not initially a problem for me, however, what came after was; my ostomy bags.

I did the best I could with my situation, but it still was not easy, especially when people do not know my health situation.

I remember kids teasing me, “she smells,” “I heard she wears a bag.” Most of my peers in school did not know about my ostomy bags. I had a few incidents in class and was teased. We were so young how I could expect them to understand what it was to have ostomy bags. That was the start of my low self-esteem. It was hard trying to fit in, so I just kept the words of my parents in my mind. I am beautiful from the inside out.

Vernon Davis Photography FEBRUARY 2018

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You’ve been modeling for 18 years, what inspired you to gravitate towards this path?

My modeling career actual was not a journey I desired. I like to watch other people model, but me as model, no way. You could say my routine visit to the mall was the start of my modeling career. A modeling recruiter invited me to a modeling open house. I was familiar with the modeling company, but in my mind I am thinking, can I do this? I went to hear what they had to offer. It was a great presentation. I am thinking, modeling and ostomy bags? not going to happen! However, I tried it and loved it. It would turn into my passion. It would help my self-esteem in different ways. And this was a way of taking the limits off what I thought I couldn’t do. It has been 18 years in the industry and I feel renewed. Now you can’t get me away from a photographer’s camera or runway. It is important for me to show others that all things are possible.

Can you recall your first modeling audition?

What were your thoughts going into that audition? What was the outcome?

I do remember my first modeling audition. It was for a big show in D.C. The designer only chose the best models. I knew I was a good walker, but please don’t let it be in any garments that were not conducive for my ostomy bags.

Can you say dilemma? I found a trick or two for securing my bags well. I still was not quite comfortable telling designers about my ostomy bags. But when your talent speaks for itself you have to look beyond those insecurities. I was chosen and kindly explained about myself.

Let’s just say I was called by that same designer for others shows. Like momma said, FAITH over FEAR works every time.

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In spite of your medical circumstance, you have maintained a successful modeling career. How do you remain positive about your modeling journey when there are so many fixed standards and expectations of beauty and body image today?

I know the industry has it’s “standards,” however, my standards have not changed either. Be who you are from the inside out, accept that no one is perfect, become a positive role model to yourself and then to others. The advice I would give to upcoming models wanting to get into the modeling industry is be yourself, never let anyone dictate the essence of who you are internally, and know that your possibilities are limitless. Reach for your destiny and know that every closed door does not mean no. We are more than our external appearance. There is a soul that lives in us. Take the limits off, go for your dreams, and never apologize for being the person God created you to be. I know all things work together for the good. I’ve searched for opportunities to advance my modeling career and the results have been wonderful.

Was there ever and/or are there moments where you feel as if your medical circumstance disadvantages you from pursuing more?

I use to think about what I might not be able to do and will I have problems achieving certain things. When I look back over my life and see how far God has brought me, I know for a fact all things are possible. In life certain things are delayed, but sure not a denial. If something does not happen, it is not the time yet. My medical circumstance is not a hindrance to my future, it never was. My aspirations give me inspiration to do more; to want more, and get all God has for me.

What made you realize that it was important for you to share your story with others?

I realize it was important for me to tell my story because my story just doesn’t belong to me. It is for others who dealing with cancer, someone who has ostomy bags, that person dealing with low self-esteem, or anyone suffering with any kind of sickness. My story touches people in ways that I never imagined. Before I was in my mother’s womb God knew the plans he had for me. I am prepared for this. My story give inspiration, encouragement, strength, and a sense of no matter what the circumstance is you can make it.

I will continue to give of myself so others may be encouraged. My accomplishments and blessings are overflowing into other opportunities. I will continue to be the “shining light” to others.

You mentioned that you “learned how to be a survivor,” did you ever feel alone as you were trying to overcome this battle? Why or why not?

In the past I use to feel alone. If you never walked in my shoe you could not understand. When I was younger I never went to any support groups.

The only people I saw that look like me was pediatric patients at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. The doctors and staff helped me medically and physically, but did they prepare me psychologically? A survivor is a person who continues to function or prosper in spite of opposition, hardship, or setbacks. I learned my opposition turned into opportunities, with every hardship God never left my side, and those setbacks set me up for my blessings. Who would not want to be a survivor? We all have a survivor in us.

What was it like meeting people that shared

similar cancer survival stories to yours? How did it change your own perspective about yourself?

About others?

It is awesome meeting others survivors, especially with similar situation. I meet a wonderful group of women that is blessing in my life. Not only do we share being cancer survivors, but they have ostomy. I was happy to share, express my concerns of having ostomy, and importantly a sisterhood. Well that sisterhood turned into Osto Beauties. Our mission is to embody the phrase “each one, reach one” as we step out of our comfort zones to impact lives through our personal stories/testimonies. We hope that by sharing our stories it encourages others to share their story as well. What I learned from them and other survivors that we all have a story of victory. I look at myself and feel grateful about my journey. I learned that what we go through is not for ourselves, but to help others get through their challenges.

What message or messages do you hope people will take away from you being vocal about your health?

By sharing my story, my desire is to inform readers that while life will happen to all of us, we have the power inside to survive and overcome any obstacles. Our challenges in life build, groom, and grow us to be conquerors. Even through our pain, weather it is mentally, emotionally, or physically our story has a purpose. We don’t have to be defined by our situations or circumstances.

If anyone is facing similar difficulties; whether it is a disease, low self-esteem, or life challenges it will build your faith. Those adversities you have overcome will allow you to inspire and encourage others to tell their story. I am living my life on purpose with a purpose for a purpose.

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Are there any quotes, songs, phrases or people that help you stay motivated and continue your journey?

situations do not have to dictate our future.

My insecurities did not change overnight, but I learned to be a “SURVIVOR.”

When we have life challenges, we try finding an outlet for peace. Our emotions are often all over the place. I remember recovering from a major surgery while my divorce papers sat on my night stand. I was literally going crazy in silence. I was hiding it from family. How did I find help?

I had to go back to my foundation, which was my relationship with God. He is our refuge in time of trouble, but I couldn’t see light at end of tunnel. My mom taught her children early about having faith. She gave us encouragement and the word of God to help us through anything we were facing. I started listening to songs that helped lift my spirit. I listened every night to Yolanda Adams song, The Battle is Not Yours, It’s the Lords. Then I started putting affirmations of songs around the house, “moving forward,” it won’t always be like this,” “this too shall pass,” I’ll trust him, “my testimony,” my name is victory,” I had to go back to my foundation of my relationship with God. The more I was able to feed my mind with the word of God, the more I realized there was nothing I could not face. I am thankful to family, friends, and my Pastor of 26 years. I am going stay motivated and strive for excellence on my journey.

During your spare time, what do you enjoy doing?

Can you talk a bit about Pretty Girl Blues? How did you come up with your book’s title?

Pretty Girl Blues is my autobiography. Pretty Girl Blues is how I felt most of my life. I am a pretty girl with the blues of wondering why me? In this autobiography I detail my life as a cancer survivor and having ostomy bags. I journaled how it affected every aspect of my life. It was not until I was in my late 30’s I finally felt an internal change. I was home feeling sorry for myself because I just could not handle life. I remember tears falling like a river, so I took one of my journal books and began to write. I began to write about everything I ever felt about my sickness with cancer and how I really felt about having ostomy bags all my life. That was my breakthrough of accepting me as I was, “bags” and all. That journal would become my internal healing. My candidness and transparency will shock some, while inspiring and empowering others. The message I wanted to convey is that miracles still happen and our circumstances or

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In my spare time I love to travel, spending time with my family, relaxing, and still very much in love with modeling. I really do love going to church. It’s not a hobby, but I am involved in different ministries and it makes me happy in doing something that can make a difference.

If you could go back in time and change anything about your life or do something differently, what would it be and why?

I don’t what to change anything about my life.

I don’t even want to change having ostomy bags. It has made me who I am today. I have endured a lot in my life. Who I was before and who I am now is a woman of strength and courage that is able to help others know they are fearfully and wonderfully made. I did do something different, I stop being afraid. My fears were being rejected, but my faith showed me cast my cares upon the Lord, for he cares.

I know the world needs to hear my story. I am doing well, feel good, my health is great, and God is showering blessings beyond all I could have imagined.

Do you have any special upcoming projects that you are working on? Can you share some details?

I have more speaking engagements in coming months, a television appearance (Aspire TV), another billboard feature and this year will be my first time as a volunteer at a Youth Rally Camp. It provides an environment for adolescents living with conditions of the bowel and bladder that encourages self-confidence and independent living. Most of them are living with ostomy bags.

I am working on a second book. I don’t have a release date, but am very excited. I will continue to travel, share my story with cancer survivors, mentoring up and coming fashion models, and giving encouragement to those suffering with low self-esteem. I am still promoting my book “Pretty Girl Blues” (www.prettygirlblues.com).

In addition, at age 50 years old I still love gracing the runways. I am imagining greater. I see it!

Vernon Davis Photography FEBRUARY 2018

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MALE RUNWAY MODELS The “Eye Candy” We Love to Hate On

Interview by Dakota Somerville Happy 2018 Beautiful Bronze Readers! Recently I caught up with a few of Virginia’s hottest runway models for some male dominated chit chat. The guys are magnificently preparing for one of the biggest male fashion shows to hit the runway circuit, MEN’S FASHION WEEK VIRGINIA, during the week of April 10, 2018 thru April 15, 2018. I personally have attended a few of the fashion events in the past, and excitement

doesn’t begin to describe my mood for MFW 2018.

I am blown away with the level of integrity displayed in this interview….bravo to the male models for this opportunity to share with our readers a reflection of the real life nuts and bolts of being a male runway model, one who also has to manage life just like any and all of the rest of us. Thank you for showing up and showing out.

RICHARD MICUCCI What gives you the most satisfaction when walking the runway?

The most satisfaction I get when walking the runway is the reaction from the audience. The cheers give me the most amazing adrenaline rush; I find it somewhat unexplainable. It’s like scoring a last second shot at the buzzer to win the game. Knowing the audience appreciates the designer’s fashion pieces being presented assures me that I am doing my job effectively.

How do you juggle work, military, children and home life while perfecting male runway modeling?

The juggling of being in the Military with three kids can be challenging in perfecting male modeling. The daily activities for myself start at 4am with a visit to the gym, and then to work by 630am. After work the hectic day continues with picking up my daughter from daycare, rushing home to cook dinner, checking homework, coaching both son and daughters basketball teams, giving my toddler a bath, and then taking care of me. All this would not be possible without mentally preparing myself for what my day will include, more importantly creating a schedule to meet these demands. When having children they ultimately come first in everything. Until I am presented with a contract to model full time, it’s rather easy to manage runway modeling on the side, as I take care of work in the military and home life.

What’s next on your male runway model agenda?

Photo Credit: Josh Boone Photography

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Next on the agenda as a male runway model is walking more bridal shows, I love the professional feeling of wearing a good suit. I am stoked to participate in Men’s Fashion Week Virginia 2018, with this being my first one. I look forward to strutting my stuff on the runway with high hopes of doors opening for me as a male model and beyond.

J. Ortiz How do you juggle work, military, children and home life while perfecting male modeling?

I’ll tell you this much, it is definitely chess, not checkers. One way I manage to juggle modeling/acting, including my daughter and personal life is to incorporate family and friends, leaving no one to feel left out of the loop. As for work, having a good amount of communication related to your personal endeavors works for me.

What is it like being a sexy single male runway model? [smiles] It is very different! The attention is different, the audience reactions are different, and the expectations are different. One thing I’ve learned from a young age is to be humble, it goes such a very long way.

Photo Credit: Muse Photo Underground

JARED HOWE Are you excited about the 2018 return of Men’s Fashion Week Virginia?

Yes! Most definitely. I can’t wait to see which designers are going to be involved. I’m excited to walk the runway again, in hopes of being featured in our local news media, The Virginia Pilot. Last year I was selected and it was very rewarding as a male runway model.

What’s next on your male runway model agenda?

Right now I’ve been modeling Bridal Fashion Shows, those are always fun because you are not required to be so serious. I feel more relaxed. My upcoming goals are to focus on modeling in other cities in the future.

What advice would you offer to the younger generation who may be interested in becoming a male runway model?

To make sure this is what you really desire. You need a strong love and passion for runway modeling. It takes lots of networking; even more of a consistent grind. At times it can be discouraging, yet well worth all the time and effort.

Photo Credit: Jay’s Creations

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ERIK CASTANO What gives me the most satisfaction when walking the runway?

Walking the runway allows me to experience a dream and demonstrate my passions all at the same time. I have always loved fashion but I never knew Id be working within the industry this way. I feel the thrill and blessed to do so.

Tell our readers, how do you keep a happy wife when walking the runway?

It starts with trust. Without trust you have nothing. I make sure to maintain the highest level of trust, so that no one feels taken for granted. I am fortunate to have a wife who supports my vision and who has helped me to be a better person time and time again.

Communication is a key element. I make sure not to omit any runway event information, leaving no room for error.

Photo Credit: Erik Castano

RICHARD SENKBILE What gives you the most satisfaction when walking the runway?

The most satisfaction I get while walking the runway is that I am actually being used in several different ways. The first being used

by God to present a designers work, and I walk with that thought in mind. It is extremely humbling to be able to use my look to display someone else’s work, to bring their talent to the runway. I enjoy the opportunity to meet new people outside of the military community.

I am retired Army, and still working for the Army as a federal government employee. Runway modeling provides a wonderful opportunity to meet like-minded individuals with great attitudes towards life, in a fun social setting.

Does age become a competitive factor in male runway modeling?

I don’t like to think about my age, that is, until I get in front of the younger models. I make sure to let them know how old I am, just as a motivational/inspirational factor to ponder on. I like to share my mantra,“ You are never to old to pursue your goals and dreams in life.”

Tell our readers, spill the tea, are you single or married?

I am single at the age of 51 years old.

Photo Credit: Carlton Hart

“Ladies…Ladies…Ladies, how about that eye candy we love to hate on, because they look soooo yummy, let’s keep it real bronze beauties, where and when is the fashion show again .”

I am blown away with the level of integrity displayed in this interview….BRAVO to the male models for this opportunity to share with our readers a reflection of the real life nuts and bolts of being a male runway model, one who also has to also manage life just like any and all of the rest of us. Thank you for showing up and showing out. ~ Dakota

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3 Self-Love Blockers & How to Eliminate Them Written by Sheron Brown, Ph.D. Sheron Brown, Ph.D. is the owner of Sweet Eden by Sheron, a wellness education company. She is also the author of The Wellness-Purpose Connection™: The Ultimate Guide to Maximizing Your Life Experience.

As a certified integrative nutrition health coach and yoga instructor, Sheron teaches mindful practices that helps you heal your physical, mental, and emotional well-being so you can fully live your purpose with joy and vitality. Connect with her online on Facebook and Twitter @sheronbrownphd or Instagram @ iamagirlfrombrooklyn. You can also email Sheron for help with your organization’s or individual wellness goals at info@sweetedenbysheron.com.

BONIATO RECIPE Ingredients • Boniato (or any variety of sweet potato) • 2 tspn crushed garlic • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary • 2 tbsp coconut oil • ¼ Red onion • ½ Red bell pepper • ¼ tspn ginger powder • ¼ tspn crushed red pepper • Dash of Himalayan salt Meal Creation Instructions BONIATO • Pre-heat the oven to 425 degrees.

• Wash and dry the boniato. Use a knife to safely create 4 to 5 slits in the boniato. This will allow it to breath while baking.

• Cover a baking tray with foil then place the boniato on the tray. Put it in the oven and bake for 45 minutes. Check to make sure it is soft before removing it from the oven.

LOVE • Put the coconut oil in a small to medium sauce pan with the heat on high medium.

• Chop the red onion and bell pepper.

• Place the chopped vegetables and all of the other ingredients, except the boniato, in the saucepan when the oil is heated.

• Mix until everything is coated with the oil and allow the mixture to sauté for 2 minutes SERVE • Open the boniato down the middle and with a knife. Be careful. It’s hot!

• Pour the sautéed love mix down the middle of the boniato.

• Eat and enjoy!

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Do you love yourself?

Most people would answer yes, and believe they mean it, but what does it really mean to love yourself?

Ask anyone, what does love mean to them? You might agree that there would be a pause, followed with ambiguous statements like, “You just know it when you feel it,” “It’s a feeling you can’t describe,” or maybe even “a strong desire to be around someone you care about a lot.” So then should we agree that self-love is a feeling you have for yourself that you just can’t describe and you want to be around yourself a lot? Probably not.

Then what is self-love and how do you know if you really do?

It is true that love is accompanied by emotions, but beyond the feeling, love is a force that connects you to another for the ultimate good of their soul and yours.

If you agree, then you can say that self-love is a force that connects you to yourself for the ultimate good of your soul. So, I ask again, do you love yourself?

You might still say yes—and I believe you—but there are three areas in your life where you might not be showing yourself love: thoughts, relationships and food.

Something to Think About • Sweet potatoes are comfort food. They calm stress and fight the harm it causes in your body. If sugar is your concern, they have a low glycemic index. So, eat and feel good.

• Rosemary has a powerful aroma that is emotionally soothing. Take the time to enjoy what it offers you as you eat.

• Coconut oil is excellent for your heart and brain health, so think of it as healing your body, mind and soul.

Unloving Thoughts Holding on to or consistently thinking negative thoughts about yourself and/or others is unloving to you. Are you holding a grudge against an estranged lover or friend or current co-worker? A thought that you revisit most days of the week?

Or are you mostly untrusting of people you deal with every day, and so you tend to focus on how much you don’t trust those people? If you can identify, then you are not loving yourself. Here’s why- hostile thoughts and consistent cynicism can increase your chances of poor heart health and a stroke. Likewise, negative thoughts about yourself that you ruminate on every day have the potential to trigger depression and that has been connected to Type II diabetes, and heart attacks.

In short, unloving thoughts harm your heart.

Unloving Relationships Perhaps the two of you argue often, or there’s a little voice telling you “this isn’t it,” or deep inside you sense that what you are receiving is not love. Whatever it is, you are allowing the temple—the body and mind—that houses your soul to be violated. This consistent violation has a similar effect on you as the unloving thoughts.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, o n g o i n g s t re s s c a n t r i g g e r headaches, chest pains, stomach aches, fatigue, tense muscles and even a heart attack! Staying in a relationship that you know is not right for you is not a demonstration of self-love and should be remedied as quickly as possible.

Unloving Foods What the Health is a documentary on a streaming service that has gotten much attention, so much so, that people who haven’t seen it know about it. Everyone who I’ve met who has not seen it says the same thing when encouraged to watch: “No. I don’t want to stop eating (fill in the blank.)”

The documentary doesn’t tell you to stop eating anything. It only provides information, yet people are afraid of the information. Essentially, they are afraid to hear how they are harming their bodies.

Without watching the documentary, they can claim ignorance, but does ignorance prevent the harmful effects of poor food choices? No. So, let’s get beyond the documentary to answer, why do they (or you) want to continue choosing poorly, knowing that you are causing yourself harm?

You Can Choose Differently I believe you don’t want to harm yourself. I believe you want to make a new choice. I know that you can.

If unloving thoughts, relationships or foods are doing you harm, you have the power to change that. Here are three things you can do to get on the path to unblemished love.

1. Begin your inner work to change your thoughts. This is a process that isn’t always easy, especially if you’ve been thinking the way you have for years. It isn’t easy, but it can be done.

You can start with the Coherence Technique created by Heart Math found online. Doing this short technique daily can help you release stress and stop giving energy to negative emotions like frustration, irritation, anger and fear. Over time you will create inner harmony.

2. Evaluate your relationship(s). Be honest with yourself when answering, “Is this relationship serving my soul for my good?” If it is not, create your exit plan and get out! (By the way, the Coherence Technique can also help you in this area.)

3. Eat your way to love! There’s nothing wrong with using food as a comfort, as long as it’s food that loves your body—connects with you for the good of your soul. It is okay to nurture your body, soul and mind with comfort food, and there are grounding foods that come directly from nature to serve you in this way. Bananas, avocados, papayas and sweet potatoes are a few. In fact, try the Boniato Love recipe and see how good it will make you feel. (A boniato is sweet potato that’s white on the inside.)

Do you love yourself? Absolutely! With all of your heart you do, so let that declaration align with your actions. Show yourself some love.

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Corporate Exec Turned Entrepreneur Transforms Applesauce Into a Healthy Indulgence

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Written by Farren Washington

avvy, high-powered business woman and owner of Sanaia Applesauce, Keisha Jeremie has been making applesauce for 20 years and loving it!

“I started making it in college, actually it was bit of a fluke. I am originally from the Bahamas and went to college at the University of Virginia where, I experienced this culture shock in terms of temperatures and seeing snow for the first time. The first winter that I was there I was homesick, to say the least. And so I think, really, without putting a lot of thought into it was trying to make something that felt like home.” In the Shenandoah Valley (where UVA is located), green apples are what’s in abundance.

One day, she decided to make some homemade applesauce, and left the skins on. “It just tasted really different; green apples. I didn’t know at the time, but most people make applesauce out of red apples. It had more of a tart taste and leaving the skins on gives it some texture. And you get these really nice chunky pieces in there as well so it doesn’t feel like baby food. That’s been the style of applesauce that I’ve been making for 20 years.” Sanaia offers the following flavors (with more to come in the near future): Guava, Tamarind, Sweet Ginger, Lychee, Hibiscus and Lavender Pear.

Sanaia is Jeremie’s first run at entrepreneurship.

She’s been an executive in corporate America

for two decades. “As far as preparation is concerned, it came from a couple of different places.

Thirteen years in the banking industry has given me a very astute and objective lens about whether or not something is worth being a business at all. In other words, I’m not going to launch an applesauce company just because I personally love the stuff and enjoy making it. I would not have launched Sanaia unless I thought that there was actually a problem that I was solving, or a market that wasn’t being addressed. The lens of being and thinking really gives me very objective, critical and quantitative decision-making skills, which is hugely useful for when you’re taking on a business of your own.”

According to Jeremie, the brand can be found at the Fresh Shop in Charlotte, North Carolina.

“Our goals, obviously are for significant expansion. We just launched in July. So right now,

consumers can find us on sanaiaapplesauce. com. So it’s direct to consumers through our

website. We make the applesauce fresh every day, and ship 5 days a week.” The company is currently in talks with wholesalers like Whole Foods, Starbucks and Foragers.

Instagram by far, has been the most successful marketing channel for Sanaia, and for a couple of reasons. “One, it allows you to have direct interface with consumers and also allows them

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to be champions of your brand. People are seeing in a very visual way how they interact with the product, what they eat, which flavors they love.

There’s really nothing better than having someone you know, who a potential consumer trusts say, “Oh my god, you have to go get this. Like, I can’t stop eating it.” There is no amount of cute advertising or a picture that somebody could see that makes them do that other than their friend saying, “No, you need to go get this.” Instagram essentially allows the natural tendency for enthusiastic consumers to refer brands. That’s essentially what Instagram is doing all day. So that’s been by far our most successful channel.”

A typical workday for Jeremie starts at 5 a.m. “I start off the day by putting together the production schedule for the team and ordering product items (such as: apples, spices and botanicals). At the moment, we’re using a commercial kitchen but cooking fresh every day. It’s also up to me to make sure that we get all our ingredients delivered on time and stuff like that. I’m doing that in the very early hours of the morning. The team is chopping, slicing and preparing; I work handin-hand with them during the day and they bring to my attention any issues in the kitchen or with shipping packages.”

During the evening hours, she focuses on strategy with the marketing team. They discuss everything from how many views did the online shop get that day, what did views look like on the company’s social media pages, and what ads are doing well on Facebook and which ones aren’t. “The evening is when I’m basically looking at the postmortem of the day on marketing. And then I’m talking with our COO who is helping us focus on the next phase for Sanaia (future plans).

We are in the midst of assessing manufacturing plants. In a couple of weeks, we’ll actually be out of the commercial kitchen and in a manufacturing facility which will enable us to partner with a large chain like Whole Foods and do that sort of volume.”

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Jeremie has the following advice to give to aspiring food entrepreneurs: “For food entrepreneurship, in particular, I would say read, read, read, read, read. Whatever the area is, I’m sure there are books written on whatever your vertical is. The book that I read was called, “Good Food Good Business” by Susie Wyshak. And that was literally the first thing I did when I decided I was going to launch this company. So before figuring out the name, packaging, or anything of the sort, I stated to myself: “I’m sure somebody has written a book about how you get something from the kitchen to the shelf. “ And that’s literally the title of her book.” The reason why (particularly with food), is because there is a huge amount of safety issues, and you have to be meticulous about the various processes to be able to produce food for consumers and for commercial purposes. And you can waste a lot of money if you don’t do things the right way.

The long-term vision for Sanaia is that it becomes synonymous with applesauce in the way that people say Mott’s. “I want them to say Sanaia. I think that’s really the ultimate goal. And that applesauce is no longer relegated to 8-year-olds or 80-year-olds, but that it’s returned to a prominent place in the lives of people who want be healthy as well as indulgent.” The company is rethinking applesauce as something that can be a prominent part of an adult’s diet. It is designed with adults in mind. “That’s really the idea that we’re trying to get out there. I really believe that Sanaia will do for applesauce what Chobani has done for yogurt. And that is to say it elevates the experience of applesauce. It brings it back to the forefront with multiple ways of consuming it, flavors that are much more sophisticated, and a much more robust and exciting experience with the product.

Certainly, big successes for us in the future will be, you know, wholesalers and buyers partnering with Sanaia. What does success look like? It’s us going into the wholesale market.

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PRELIM PRELIM PRELIM PRELIM PRELIM PRELIM PRELIM PRELIM KAYA, meaning ‘home’ in Ndebele, is the Spring/Summer 2018 collection

by London label Prelim.

Featuring a 17-piece assortment of high energy ready to wear looks from dresses, jumpsuits, body and swimsuits to kimonos, mini bomber coats and wrap jackets; the KAYA collection explores a spectrum of tones through dark autumn hues to colourful summery prints using custom made opulent fabrics and patterns.

Inspired by the great South African Ndebele artist, Esther Mahlangu, including the cultures and traditions taught by her Zimbabwean grandmother, coupled with her experiences living in the inner city of London, fashion designer Preline Martha began to create the follow up to her highly anticipated second collection, in her most personalised and intimate collection to date.

“KAYA, is the perfect fusion of my Ndebele childhood mixed with my experiences and influences living in London now. It’s a reflection of my culture combined with my present day life celebrated through bold lines and fabric prints. I wanted to create a collection that embodied my African heritage but also represented modern day fashion, allowing the pieces to be complemented by an array of styles from vintage to punk fashion. This collection is for the woman who loves prints and is not afraid of colour,” said Preline Martha.

The KAYA collection is available at www.prelim.co.uk and is now housed by the Kach Me If You Can Showroom in New York created by AmericanNigerian celebrity wardrobe stylist Kanayo Ebi. Photography by Fraser Taylor

For more information including loans/styling requests please contact Francesca Adjei at the Kach Me If You Can Showroom on pr@ kachmeifyoucan.com.

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Prelim Playsuit 24

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Prelim Cream Playsuit

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Prelim T-Shirt Dress

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Zulu Wrap Jacket

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Carmelite Jeter is

The

JETSETTER Written by Shadea L. Blyther C armelita “The Jet” Jeter is a top American sprinter who runs with a vengeance both on and off the field.

Growing up as a young African-American L.A. girl in Southern California, Jeter proved to herself and the world that she made history by crowning the title of “The Fastest Woman Alive.” Her passion for track and field started during her freshman year of highschool.

It was new to her but she quickly over excelled. Jeter was the 2011 International Association of Athletics Federation(IAAF) World Champion in the 100 meters plus a three-time Olympic medalist. Although Carmelita Jeter has retired from competing, this natural athlete continues to give back to the community by training others to if not be as good, but better than she was on the track. I got the inside scoop on Jeter’s life and what it felt like to dominate the world one jet speed at a time.

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Photographer/Art director: Amina Touray, @aminatphoto Makeup artist: Niehla O, @niehlao Wardrobe stylist: Janel Styles, @janelstyles77 Assistant: Christina Touray Ruffle tan dress. Provided by Now PR LA Designs: Adolfo Canaca, @houseofcanaca Provided by: @nowprla Jewelry provided @nowprla Bracelet: @N.M.designs Gold ring: @goldphilosophy, Designs Gold Philosophy Gold ring /w yellow stone: @N.M.designs Provided by @nowprla FEBRUARY 2018

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Wrap silk dress design: Zilea, @zileaofficial.

Provided @pr_solo Earrings design: Jewelry Bar, @jewelrybar.usa Ring: @n.m.designs, Designs NMD Bracelet: @katongers. Designs by Kat Ong Silver necklace w/diamond. Provided by @nowprla Designs by: @Jewlerybar.usa All jewelry provided by: @nowprla

“You know, I’m a very confident woman.

My number one strategy was to train hard and win.”

Congratulations on winning a collection of awards such as The Shanghai Golden Grand Prix and many other achievements to currently hold the title of “The Fastest Woman Alive!” How did it feel for you the first time you ever ran a 10.6 seconds in the 100 meter-dash?

So the first time I ran was a 10.67 for a competition in Sicily, Greece.

I received a bronze medal and this was after winning a gold medal at the World Championship in Berlin.To be honest, I was pissed off and mad that I got a bronze medal. I felt like I should have won the race but I didn’t execute and do the things that I was taught.

Coming off of only winning that medal and off of being upset with my performance, I went out to run even faster that next race. My mindset was to kill everything walking and beat that 10.6. And when that gun clicked and I ran a 10.67, I cried and screamed because I knew that I didn’t run my best. So I went out for vengeance and when I ran 10.6. I asked myself, “Okay did I run a 10.6 just because I was mad? I had to prove to myself on the next race that I could do it again.

A week later in Shanghai, I ran a 10.64.

A lot of that built up anger was me proving that I could beat the time and shut up all of the haters that said I couldn’t do it or felt like it was a lucky race for me.

Now you have the opportunity to travel and compete all over the world in London, Japan, Russia

and many more. What challenges did you go through being such an ambitious and inspirational woman of color and how did you overcome any obstacles that you may have had?

achieve anything. You have to block out the negativity. If you know what you’re doing and that you’re running and practicing every day, that’s all that matters. You got to be your biggest and loudest cheerleader.

The one thing that was a challenge for me was when I did run that 10.6, I constantly had to defend my 10.6. There were other women that resulted in dirty tests. I was one of the only athletes constantly being tested from 2009 to 2013 because I ran 10.6.

You had men who were breaking world records every year, but I was the person that was tested the most in the U.S. as an American sprinter because I ran a 10.64? That upset me more than anything. It was a challenge to always defend myself and to let the world know that I am clean and that I did this naturally. The other one (chuckles) was living overseas for weeks and not having a hairdresser especially when you had short hair and needed a perm.

What do you feel is your biggest accomplishment that you achieved so far in life?

What are some strategies you have used to remain focused in order to compete in USA and International championships?

I wouldn’t say that I had strategies.

You know, I am a very confident woman. My number one strategy was to train hard and win. And that’s the only strategy that you can have. If you start letting all of the outside noise affect your inside beliefs then you’re not going to win, you’re not going to make it and you’re not going to

You know, I have a lot of achievements so it’s kind of hard for me to pick one. But I would definitely say that graduating from California State University, Dominguez Hills was one of my biggest accomplishments.

Yes, I have won gold medals, yes, I’ve ran fast, and yes, I’ve done all of these amazing things to win the championship. But I was a girl that didn’t even like going to school. I was a girl that failed out of school and had to take a semester off and go to a junior college to take a class just so I could go back and finish at Cali State. And most people don’t even know that. I nearly flunked out a full semester. Like how do you do that? I don’t know how but that was me. But for me to get back into school and to be the first person in my family to graduate from college, that was a huge accomplishment considering I was not a school person. What that did was set up for both my little brother and sister to go to college.

So yes, I ran fast and yes, I was great on the track, but I did something that I didn’t even think I could do. I graduated college with a Kinesiology degree.

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#TEAMJET Tell us about the time how you went on to win a bronze medal at the 2013 World Championships in Moscow, Russia while injured.

I got hurt right before the tryouts. In May 2013, I tore my right quad. I was the champion since 2011 and having the heart of a lion, I still went to Russia to race and ran on a torn quad. And this is my biggest accomplishment on the track because I got a bronze medal on a completely torn quad back in 2013. And that medal meant more to me than my Olympic medals or than my 10.6. I remember during the first round, I lined up,had tape on my quad and I said to myself that if I make it to this semi- final, they’re in trouble!

In the semi-final, I took the tape off, I raced and I won. I ran a 10.9 and from there, I said, “Well hell they are in trouble! They done let my broken self make it to this final with a torn quad!”

But I didn’t care and that didn’t stop me even for a second. In the final I’m lining up with all of my heart. You know, realizing now, I shouldn’t have gotten a bronze medal; I shouldn’t have been in the freaking finals. And when that gun clicked off, I’m in second place up to 75 meters and then my leg completely goes numb.

So at this point I’m literally dragging it for the rest of 25 meters. I crossed the finish line with a bronze medal and ran a 10.9. I ran a 10.9 three times in one championship on a torn quad.

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That was my biggest accomplishment on the track and field. I tell people all the time, mind over body. Your mind is the strongest thing that you have.

If your weak minded, you’re never going to accomplish anything.

What are your aspirations now that you are no longer competing?

Well I’m still on the track and field. My aspirations right now are to make other athletes great. I’m managing athletes on track and field. I’m managing TEAMJET and I’m also coaching some athletes. So you might not physically see me on the track, but you feel me on the track. You see my energy on the track. Everybody that I train, people would call and ask, “Are you training this person because they act just like you.” My energy is contagious. So all of my athletes, I feed them Carmelita, I feed them Jet and give them that aura that they need. So I might not be running on the track, but I’m running the track. My next chapter in my life is to make someone else great and someone else better than Carmelita Jeter. To teach you to bypass some of the mistakes that I made and the flaws that I had and to get you ahead of the game. I am working with Total Sports agencies which was the agency that I was with from 2007 to 2016. I have my own agency inside of an agency, and that is TEAMJET. TEAMJET is about mentoring, managing, coaching, and

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creating athletes into savages.

I also work with an organization called Step Up and it’s a class that actually is nothing related to sports, but is more about classroom and life. So I do a lot of mentoring with them once a month. I actually have a class January 31st where we visit several different Charter schools to speak to underprivileged high school girls from 9th-11th grade. My lecture coming up is about defeating the odds. A Lot of people like to place me in the bubble of sports, but I’m that one girl that made it out of the hood. I’m that girl that also achieved things that she probably shouldn’t have if you’re looking on paper at my life. So when I go back and talk to these young ladies, You know I tell them, “Don’t let the red bottoms fool you, I was once you.” So it is a great time and a great feeling to give back.

I’m in the process of writing a book of memoirs of my life and everything that I went through not having the glitz and the glamour with a silver spoon given in my mouth. I didn’t have any of that so the book is going to be a great one. And I hope it feeds people that need that feeding and that need to eat and need that energy or motivation. I plan for it to come out by the end of 2018.

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Did you feel like you had support from family or friends during your time of training and competing?

I had a very supportive father and moved in with him and my step-mother when I was 11 years old. He came to all of my track meets and fed me my motivation that I needed because he was a pusher. He wanted me to be great and to be the best. When you’re lined up on the track, you already know that you’re great, you just had to show the world.

What advice would you give to women around the world that may want to compete in something and be the best at it?

The only advice that I can give, that I even gave myself was that no one else can believe in something that you don’t believe in. You need to believe in something so strongly that people may think your crazy. You can’t expect someone else to believe more than you. And if someone believes more than you then chances are that it’s not going to happen. You have to believe in yourself or believe in what you want until it

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sounds freaking crazy. You have to cheer for yourself more than anybody else. Why are you waiting for someone else to clap for you or why are you waiting for someone else’s approval? If you believe that you’re the best at something, then you get up and grab everything that you want and everything that you deserve.

People are always going to talk. You have to be strong enough to walk your own walk and just be you. If you have something to say then say it. Stop being afraid to speak. Nothing is going to change or get done, if you don’t speak your mind. My father always said, “ A closed mouth don’t get fed.” If you can’t elaborate on what you want to say or do, then this is going to be a tough world for you. You have to be able to say what you want to say and then move forward.

For more information about Carmelita Jeter and/or how to join Team Jet, visit her website at CarmelitaJeter.com.

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Shoes: Iconic rainbow shoe designs JF London @jflondon_official Shoes provided @pr_solo

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A Mother’s Love Written by Kit Stone Deirdre Dickson-Gilbert is a multi-talented woman of faith. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Gilbert was the only child of mother, Lovella “Hayes” Dickson who exposed her to arts and culture at an early age. A self proclaimed “spoiled brat,” Gilbert has walked through life with a confidence to achieve each goal she set for herself. Whatever she wanted, she would get.

evident that he would be but a passing moment in her life. Gilbert had always been a strong woman and with the help of her family, she felt confident in her ability to be a single mother.

As confident and sure of herself as she was, not

On March 13, 1988, at 8:58 a.m., after twelve

“When my daughter was born my life changed, and it changed for the better. Even though we struggled quite a bit,” said Gilbert.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

— Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) even Gilbert was prepared for the direction her life would take; a detour that began with the conception of her daughter.

Similar to most women, Gilbert hoped to have the big wedding, handsome husband and a cute house with a white picket fence before having her first child but God had other plans. Early in her relationship with her child’s father, it was

hours of hard labor, Gilbert welcomed her daughter, Jocelyn Yvette Dickson into the world.

She came prematurely, weighing a little over three pounds. Doctors informed Gilbert that she had what they refer to as a “dry birth” — a condition where amniotic fluid leaks prior to uterine contractions, which would account for her painful labor.

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Moments after delivery, doctors noticed that Jocelyn was having difficulties breathing and took her to the ICU. They found that her esophagus was not connected and needed to perform a procedure to connect the esophagus to her stomach so that she could breathe on her own.

Jocelyn’s appearance was normal at first. As time progressed, her facial features began to change.

Soon after that, doctor’s discovered that Jocelyn had a condition called CHARGE syndrome.

CHARGE is an acronym for the various features associated with the condition. While each collection of medical problems can manifest differently in each individual, in Jocelyn’s case, The “C” stood for coloboma, an eye abnormality which caused Jocelyn’s eye to deteriorate which resulted in the removal of her right eye, which was replaced with a false eye. She also needed to wear glasses.

Gilbert gives a detailed account of the life and death of her daughter in her book, “Momma Help Me Please.” The book is a quick yet touching read with every word necessary in painting the picture of what life was, how it changed and what it will be due to the love Gilbert had for her daughter.

It was Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2011, when Gilbert lost the love of her life. Jocelyn loved parties. She loved to eat and was excited on this particular day because there was going to be a Valentine’s Day party at school. During the school day, Jocelyn got a piece of corn dog stuck in her throat while eating. Although she was breathing, she was in distress. This sort of thing has happened before due to Jocelyn’s esophageal issues. When Gilbert arrived at the school, she made the decision to take Jocelyn to the nearest hospital to get her relief as soon as possible.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”

— Matthew 5:4 (ESV) At birth, Jocelyn had a heart murmur which accounts for the “H”. The “A” represented atresia of the choanal blockage or narrowing of the airway from the back of the nose to the throat. The “R” represented retardation, the “G”, genital or urinary irregularities and the “E,” anomalies and hearing loss.

CHARGE was a fairly new condition and had just gained its name in the early eighties. “Back then, this was something that nobody really knew about,” said Gilbert. “It was eight to ten years before we found out that she had it.”

In the 80’s, most children didn’t live past infancy, and by five years old, have already experienced more than twenty surgeries. Gilbert’s daughter experienced 125 surgeries, most of which were performed during infancy. “My daughter defied the odds by becoming one of the oldest children with CHARGE syndrome and being able to move around and walk and talk, but still had some disabilities,” said Gilbert.

What should’ve been fixed by a simple solution, led to hours and hours of surgeries and procedures. Jocelyn was swollen and non responsive but the doctors insisted she was alright. They performed Cat Scans and other tests then returned insisting that Jocelyn have emergency surgery. “As a mother, you’re not really thinking because all of this stuff is going really fast,” said Gilbert. Later, they put Jocelyn in the Intensive Care Unit. She was in a plastic device but her foot was sticking out and Gilbert could see blood. Gilbert described the scene as something out of a horror film. Her daughter was bleeding from the eyes, ears and nose. “It was crazy,” said Gilbert.

Within 24 hours of her admittance to the ER, Jocelyn had passed.

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“And the LORD answered me: “Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it.”

— Habakuk 2:2 (ESV) “I never would’ve thought she would be gone.

This is something we’d gone through before and it would be a quick hospital ride and it would be fine and we’d be on our way home,” said Gilbert.

“Her last words were, ‘Mama help me please,’ that’s how I came up with the title of the book.”

Gilbert insisted that they perform an autopsy and found that the hospital left sponges in her daughter’s stomach. Jocelyn had three perforations and was totally brain dead but the hospital told Gilbert that she had choked to death.

“It still bothers me,” said Gilbert. “You just can’t imagine someone would do something to a person and then cover it up and move on with life as if life was fine, but that’s what happened.”

After the passing of her daughter, Gilbert threw herself into research to understand more and more about her daughter’s case and specific terminology used. As she dogged for answers, she wasn’t able to find an agency or organization that would talk to her and her family about the case. She began to feel alone. She kept coming across something called “tort reform” and no one would explain to her what it was.

So Gilbert started a blog talk show called, “Life.”

She began discussing medical malpractice and began to garner an audience of more than 30,000 people — hungry for information. “That’s when I realized this was an issue bigger than just my daughter at the time,” said Gilbert.

In response, she started the National Medical Malpractice Advocacy Association. “I started the organization because there was nothing out there that was helping those who were being harmed,” said Gilbert. “We need something. We need an avenue. So I created the organization and started getting other people to join the organization as

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chapter directors to talk to people across the country.”

The organization informs and educates people on what to ask for and how to get their medical records. Although the organization doesn’t have a lot of financial support, it continues to run off of Gilbert’s passion for helping others navigate through the medical system.

“Right now, wrong is the new right and many people are just doing whatever it is that they want to do with no consequences,” said Gilbert.

“I think it is time for change.”

Gilbert has dedicated her life to serving others, working with homeless veterans, the elderly and more — she continues to be a voice for the voiceless. Gilbert sees a world where people are in need of a new face for hope which has urged her decision to run for Justice of the peace.

“It’s a local race but it’s a powerful race,” said Gilbert. Most people assume that Justice of the Peace only perform marriages and handle small claims but they also have the power to place elderly people in mental institutions, deal with organ donations and other things Gilbert was drawn to because of her daughter’s death.

“We’re putting our hope into things that can’t do anything for us and so I am wanting to be a new face, a new start, not just for my community but for my friends, my church,” said Gilbert.

“As I walk along this earth, I want people to remember me as an advocate for right, at all costs — that’s who I want them to see me as. To see me as that fighter who would fight for you even when the odds are not looking good. That’s just who I am. That’s what I want people to know.”

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MAGAZINE

BRONZE @bronzemagazine

@bronzemag

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