CONTENTS
7 10 11 13
SKYE SAYS... Trent “OBN” Brown is rising in the fashion industry Dr. Heavenly Kimes is ready for “Freedom” in 2023 Author, Educator, Keynote speaker, and Host Dr. Michael D. Finkley
Editor-In-Chief Amani Sams Graphics Department Alyssa Hill Writers Skye Miller Photographer Shaunelle Murphy
03 | AMAN MAGAZINE | AMANMAGAZINE.COM
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR And just like that it’s another year!I hope that you’re continuing to be steadfast in your goals as the excitement of the New Year starts to wear off. As many women around the world commit to a new year’s resolutions; ours remains the same. We promise to continue bringing our readers inspiring and motivational stories from their favorite celebrities and influencers. This issue is packed with people making an impact in their fields! Dr.Heavenly has graced this cover for the New Year and she exclusively told us about her new business ventures and how she continues to balance it all with style and grace. The interview continues on our YouTube channel so be sure to also subscribe there for exclusive content and interviews. Don’t forget to interact with me on social media and let me know what your favorite article was by tweeting me. You never know when your comment might be retweeted or published in the next issue!
XOXO , Amani Sams @Aman_Mag @Amani_Sams AMANMAGAZINE.COM |AMAN MAGAZINE | 04
SKYE SAYS...
ISSUE 4: I FEEL LIKE I AM IN A ‘SITUATIONSHIP’…HELP! -‘’I have been talking to someone who wants all of the benefits of me being his girlfriend, but he is also really flaky and wont fully commit. This has been going on for well over a year and I think I love him. What should I do?’’ – Chelsea
-‘’I started sleeping with a close friend of mine, she wanted to stop as I had caught feelings and she hadn’t, but I didn’t want to end it because I wanted to be with her and hopefully change her mind. The inevitable happened, and it ended in tears’’ – Marty
Skye says… the minute you said the word ‘but’ I wanted to say to you: stop pouring your energy into a situation that clearly isn’t serving you. In this life we don’t always give to receive, should always be willing to compromise somewhere down the line and never put too much pressure on a situation, ‘BUT’ you also have to weigh up the benefits of what this relationship in particular is serving you? You say this has been going on for over a year, and he will not fully commit? Ask yourself is that what you want, especially so far down the line? Is he respecting what YOU want?
Skye says…Sometimes in situations like this, the reason why it hurts so much is we know it is wrong, we know how its goings to end etc, however we genuinely think we can change the person’s mind by loving them more, in every sense of the word. Unfortunately, loving someone harder will not make them love you. With this situation I like to think the lesson has been learnt? For future similar scenarios, remember that a short-term pleasure can last a longer-term pain so think with your head and not with your…. heart.
If you both aren’t speaking at the moment, as I always say in my Skye says, First of all, ask yourself what you time is a healer! People need time and want from this situation seriously, and space to figure out what is best for then address the issue if you haven’t them, and that’s ok! By the sounds of actually done that already. If you have things, you also need that time and and it’s been a back-and-forth situation space to step away from the situation. I would walk away, never let a man tell you twice that he’s not into you [the same way you are him].
07 | AMAN MAGAZINE | AMANMAGAZINE.COM
SKYE SAYS...
ISSUE 5: HOW TO USE A BAD SITUATION TO EMPOWER YOU? -‘’I came to the end of a long-term relationship recently and I found out that he apparently didn’t enjoy a lot of what we did together / what I enjoy, for example going out drinking, or meeting up with friends / going to parties. It’s made me feel a bit deflated.’’ – Maria
-‘’I have always felt like the black sheep of the family. Nothing I ever do seems to be good enough compared to my other siblings and I feel like it really gets me down and makes me feel so stuck. What do you suggest to help get me out of this mindset?’’ – Jasmine
Skye says… It is a shame to find out that someone that you spent a portion of your life/ time with doesn’t share the same interests as you, you may have grown into different people finding different interests, or maybe they did these things for you because it made them happy to see you happy. However, the lack of effort, or interest on their part does not take away from what makes you happy.
Skye says…The thing with having siblings is sometimes everything can feel like a competition. You could have won a trophy and your sibling won two, you can run fast but they can run faster. You get the picture…Although it is hard to get into this mindset, try to view your aspirations through the eyes of someone that doesn’t care what others are doing and start to do well in school / work etc. because YOU want too. Do you even have the same ambitions as your siblings?
I would use these next few months – or as long as you feel – to explore the things you enjoy solo or with people that enjoy those things too. Make this your party year! The year you dance like no ones watching! Use this situation to really do the things that make your heart sing. You never need a partner or another person to enjoy these things with, and aren’t you glad that you have found out now then even further down the line? Maybe also explore places that you haven’t been before such as restaurants, clubs and cities!
Trying to get approval from other people, especially parents or siblings, can be so tough because you feel like you need to prove something but ultimately you are the one on this journey and you only have one life so make sure you are doing what you love, without letting the comments get to you or how well your siblings are doing. It isn’t a race, and it will work out for you exactly how it should. Fuel your hopes and dreams by how high you set the standard for yourself and nobody else.
AMANMAGAZINE.COM |AMAN MAGAZINE | 08
TRENT “OBN” BROWN is rising in the fashion industry
When did you first realize your love for fashion? I discovered my love for fashion in 2011 my freshman year of high school. Standing in line for a pair of black cement 3 Jordan’s with my cousin that I couldn’t afford at the time. But indulged in the conversation being had around me by my peers. This started a period of researching and designing sneakers which later evolved into my love for clothing through blogs like tumblr.
As a designer, Where do you feel that fashion is headed within the Hip Hop industry?
Fashion is becoming more gender neutral and slowing transitioning to oversized fittings again. “Many artist are sharing clothing with their girlfriends” paraphrasing a lyric from ASAP Rocky’s DMB song. There are less social rules with what is considered strictly male or female attire as the Yeezy/Gap/
Balenciaga showcased balanced clothing can be made. Artist like Lil Uzi Vert are pioneering oversized Y2K styled clothing. Fitted clothing will not be dying off soon however there will be a wider diversity.
Who has been your favorite celebrity to work with and why? My favorite celebrity to work with has been K Camp. We’ve started developing a relationship outside of just fashion and music which I’m grateful for that.
Tell us about your upcoming grand opening of your storefront “Heart & Sew”. Will it be in Atlanta?
I’m not in a rush for the establishment of the storefront. I have a few goals I want to achieve on my online store first. However, storefront is projected within in the projected 5-8 years.
AMANMAGAZINE.COM |AMAN MAGAZINE | 10
Dr. Heaven
is ready for “Freed
You may know Heavenly Kimes as the assertive powerhouse from Bravo’s hit show “Married To Medicine but she has so many more sides to her and she is ready to take 2023 by storm; and she wants you to succeed as well! I recently sat down with Dr. Heavenly to discuss what she has planned for this New Year. Interviewed by: Amani Sams
nly Kimes
dom” in 2023
What will be your word of the year for 2023 and why?
I only get one word? Freedom because I am developing a total freedom challenge to get people’s mindset [right in] business, money, relationships, and investments total freedom in every way. So 2023 is going to be a total freedom challenge.I’m calling this year “freedom” to realize my calling.
Many people’s New Year’s Resolution is to be organized. As a busy entrepreneur, tv personality, mother, and wife what is your advice for women that are trying to find balance in the New Year.
Balance…there is no such thing. It’s prioritizes. You know people say the same thing.. It’s prioritizes. It’s all about what is most important to you. [Has] a man ever told you that he didn’t have time, he was doing something else? He doesn’t want you. You’re not his priority. But I do say every year [to] set up your year [or] set up your day the night before your week, your month, your year. Millionaires are not made overnight. Never think about doing something quickly. Work hard and I have several jobs so ‘why can’t you’? Everybody cries that they are broke but they only have one job. I [have] four jobs. Kandi [has] six. You are no better than us. Get you another job.
Married To Medicine Fans saw the ladies schedule an intervention for you. What can long time fans of the show expect on the next season from you and your family? I don’t know. We haven’t even secured a date yet for our start of the season but whatever is going on in my life ; probably my five day challenge. My mindset motivational series called, Dr. Heavenly University, where we train people how to buy and sell businesses, how to run money, how to make money and how to invest. So that’s what I’m doing, that is what will be the season. Tell everyone how they can sign up for Dr. Heavenly University Right now [they can go to] Dr. Heavenly University.com. That’s the website. Right now it’s set up for dentists. I have been coaching dentists for years. [it’s been] a decade so now I’m opening it up for everybody because business is business and we have opened up every type of business and we know what to do.
You started a new business venture last year, Heavenly Beauty Supply, what are your goals or plan for this year?
That was for my daughter actually to show her how to start and run a successful business. Usually I wouldn’t recommend to start a business that you know nothing about.But I was doing that for her because business is business and I am a business, money, and relationship expert. I was just trying something new and it’s very exciting and very rewarding.
AMANMAGAZINE.COM |AMAN |AMANMAGAZINE MAGAZINE| | 12 12 AMANMAGAZINE.COM
Author, Educator, Keynote Speaker, and Host Dr. Michael D. Finkley
From Educator to Entertainment Host, Dr.Michael Finkley is making an impact by showing others that one career doesn’t have to define your path! He is impacting the lives of youth and young adults with his educational consulting firm, The Finkley Experience, focusing on low-income and first-generation students; while also maintaining a number one entertainment show on several digital platforms including the RAZB2K network!
How did having a Black male teacher inspire your educational endeavors? When I was in the 8th grade, I had the honor of having my first black male teacher, Mr. Edwards. I loved how he motivated, encouraged, and inspired my classmates and me. I knew I wanted to inspire and encourage others in my future career, so I knew in my heart of hearts I wanted to pursue education. How had education impacted your life? Education is everything! In life, you learn and grow each day; so education is everywhere! Education has impacted my life in a very positive way. I have been in education for the past 11 years in various roles. My goal within the education profession is to reach and educate as many lives as possible so they pursue and fulfill their definition of success. What jobs have you had in education? I have several positions within higher and elementary/secondary education. Within higher education, I have been employed in the following sectors: college admissions (enrollment management), career services (adjunct instructor/professor), and student services. Within elementary/secondary education, I was a teacher (English Language Arts & English Literature) and a College and Career Counselor. Tell us about your honorary doctorate degree! Where were you and how did you feel when you
found out you would be receiving your honorary degree from The Holback Institute? OMG! I am still in awe of this amazing moment in my career. I was sitting at home doing some work when I received a phone call from The Holback Institute. The conversation included that their Board of Trustees was impressed with my commitment to education, and I was considered to be awarded an honorary doctorate. I was so shocked but humbled. What impacted your decision to walk away from the school system? Education is changing, and I do not agree with some of these changes. I did decide to walk about from the school system. But, I still have my educational consulting firm, where I assist high school students who want to pursue college. Still working with students in this capacity gives me my “educational fix” and assists them in their college and career endeavors. How did the opportunity come about to have your show on Raz-B’s network? So! My team and I reached out to Raz-B’s camp for an interview for the Michael Finkley Show. I ended up directly talking with him about the details of the interview. When I arrived for the in-person interview, we had an in-depth conversation about this platform called, You42. He was starting his network on this platform with amazing creators, and he offered me the opportunity to be a part of his network family.
13 | AMAN MAGAZINE | AMANMAGAZINE.COM
It has been a great opportunity for networking and exposure! What do you feel is the biggest significance of your show? The principles of the Michael Finkley Show are to INFORM, EDUCATE, and INSPIRE. Our social media talk show provides opportunities for others to tell their stories. From this, I would say the biggest significance of the show is that we provide a voice to our community (FINK FAM); with these stories told, I feel encouragement and inspiration are felt from all who watch. Why is it important for you to maintain a platform for viewers of all ages to enjoy? Everyone needs positivity, and we provide positivity for all. We have all been through a lot these past few years, and social media can sometimes show a negative feed. Our platform will definitely make you feel great, inspired, and encouraged. What do you want viewers to take away from your show? My grandmother always said in church, “Don’t leave like you came!” This is how I want the FINK FAM to feel when they watch. They may feel confused, bothered, or even saddened; I want our FAM to leave encouraged, motivated, inspired, and uplifted. All the good stuff! We deserved it for ourselves. What interview has impacted you the most? I have conducted many fantastic interviews in my 5 seasons and almost 300 shows. Many interviews stand out, but one, in particular, includes the conversation with Bern Nadette Stanis. We discussed her mother, who suffered from Alzheimer’s Disease. This conversation really hit home for me because my grandmother suffered from this as well, and the conversation really got emotional. It was a great moment we shared on the show. Who would you love to interview? I have a list of individuals I still would love to interview. A few people on this list include Oprah, CeCe Winans, Tyler Perry, Michelle Williams (Destiny’s Child), The Obamas, Dolly Parton, and Reba McEntire (just to name a few).
What advice do you have for people in SC and other southern states who aspire to be successful in education/entertainment? I live by the Nike slogan, “Just do it!” COVID-19 has taught us so much, and I am learning more and more that life is too short. So with this, I am going to pursue every dream and use every gift I have within my being. So to those wanting to pursue education, entertainment, or anything, “JUST DO IT!” Tell us about your firm! What inspired you to start it? The Finkley Experience is an educational consulting firm specializing in FIRST-GENERATION EDUCATION. We assist high school students, who fit within the first-generation realm with the college process. The Finkley Experience was based on students not having the proper resources for their future endeavors. I was also a first-generation student who needed the proper resources in high school. My firm is an additional resource to assist students with their future endeavors. Why does your consulting firm primarily focus on low-income and first-generation students? The Finkley Experience focuses on low-income and first-generation students because I was this student, and I knew how it felt not to have the proper guidance and resources to guide me for my future. With my various positions, experiences, and education, I am equipped to assist students who want to fulfill their college and career endeavors. What are your future goals and aspirations for your firm, show, and beyond? For the Michael Finkley Show, I want a major network to pick up my show for daytime television. I would love to host a game show as well. For The Finkley Experience, I would love to travel nationally and globally to educate students on the college process and motivate and inspire people through speaking. Additionally, I would love to pursue acting; I was cast as the background for the movie, Girlfriendship on Hallmark, and this experience was fantastic. Lastly, I would love to complete an inspirational album because I sing and I am a songwriter. I want to use all of my gifts and talents this season in my life.
AMANMAGAZINE.COM | AMAN MAGAZINE | 14