A.WO.L
Issue #4 April 28, 2021
DALLAS AREA MODELS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS ARE TEAMING UP TO BRING AWARENESS TO SOME OF SOCIETIES DARKEST ISSUES
BRINGING THE UNTOLD STORIES OF INCREDIBLE PEOPLE TO THE SPOTLIGHT!
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IMPACTFUL INDIVIDUALS USING THEIR GIFTS TO IMPROVE THEIR COMMUNITIES
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MODEL, SCARLET RAIN, TAKES A STAND AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING AS PART OF A SERIES OF AWARENESS PROJECTS HOSTED BY ADVOCATE NYCOLE REYES. PHOTO BY ALFREDO ARTETA
Art Lifestyle Inspiration Entertainment
Be amo CONTENTS “MY OWN UNIVERSE “ BY BRIAN G, HALL 4 What Is A.WO.L Media Welcome to our platform Photo By David Pinto
6 Desmond Witherspoon Young Entrepreneur Photos by Ruzoy @iamruzoy Article By Blake Baraka The Audio Plaza
8 Bizzy Thomas Models: Jamara Harrell, Brittanee Caldwell, and Olivia Brown
10 Bujee Marie Photographers: Bizzy Thompson, Ashley “Everywhere Networking”, and Images By Yvette
12 Carlos Moore Models: Ivy Reign and Vantasia land
14 Nycole Reyes Advocating through Art
16 Awareness Project Nycole Reyes Continued
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mong the few who dare to follow their dreams... 18 jhon jellicoe firmalan Artsts from afar
20 Eli Orellana Yolanda TheModel
22 Claudine Young Quill Artist from Canada
24 Lora Ebadian Aspiring Actress Photographer: Eric L. Robinson
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26 Ruben Anuario D Town, a Hard Lesson of Life
28 Trimika McGee Photos By The Studios of Alexander
30 Gracie Perez Photos By Images By Yvette
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Photo By David Pinto IG @ katsumi.images
A.WO.L Media
Ambition WithOut Limits
We are a company that has made it our mission to bring ex ceptional
individuals into the spotlight! We focus on those innovators, motivators and goal setters, who are blazing their own paths to create and build in a world full of chaos. We want to give a platform to those who choose posi tive outlets of creative expression, rather than fall into society’s norms and expectations. We offer services and networking opportunities to hel guide, build and grow our communities through art, travel, mentorship
and like-minded connection building.
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nal ors, na osims help
hip,
Meet theFounder of A.WO.L Media
Yvette Todea Artist, Photographer, Entrepreneur
This 31-year-old single mother of 2, is a woman of many talents. Her journey in entertainment began in 2010, in the small desert town of Socorro, New Mexico. She followed in the footsteps of her childhood Idol, Tyra Banks, and aspired to become a fashion Model. Yvette left her hometown in 2012 to pursue Modeling as a full-time career in Dallas, Texas. Yvette left with only $500 to her name, her sons and her dream! She took a role as a Studio Manager and Booking Agent at North Texas Studio One in 2014 and fell in love with Photography. She was mentored by the studio owner, Charles Holland, as well as several other Master Photographers, who helped her develop a unique style and variety of shooting techniques over the years. Using the many connections and professional relationships she had gathered and built over the years, Yvette expanded her business endeavors to include other services as part of her media company (Ambitions WithOut Limits Media), which include event staffing and coordination, Photography and Video services, Talent Casting and Scouting, and even this very magazine!
Keep up with this Woman of the World by following her Flowpage.com/ytodea @YTODEA / @ImagesByYvette / @AWOLmedia on all social Media Sites. or visit www.ImagesByYvette.com
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DESMOND WITHERSPOON
ARTIST, MUSICIAN, BUSINESS OWNER
DESMOND PICTURED WHILE ON HIS LATEST ADVENTURES IN EQUADORE
ARTICLE BY BLAKE BARAKA THE AUDIO PLAZA
It has become more understood as time passes and the music industry gets further and further decentralized: You can’t make much happen with talent alone. Competition is high. There’s so much to know and keep track of. Not everyone has your best interest at heart. It’s better for a talented artist to know what they are really doing out here. Many veteran artists have diversified their skill sets to accomplish the goals they have in the music industry more efficiently. Easier said than done, of course, but all one needs is a good example. And for that, we can look at what Desmond Witherspoon is doing. Having groups like UGK and Outkast among the artists that helped shape his creative perspective, Desmond is an appreciator of art - his own and the work from the hands of others. He’s teamed up with a few like-minded individuals to assist other artists to help curate their audio and visual content. By interacting with these burgeoning artists in various stages of their careers, he’s able to conceptualize how he wants to navigate the industry as an artist and better instruct other artists on how to do so. Coming from a city that has a music industry constituted of individuals rumored to not work well with one another, Desmond and a few associates took a couple elements; actual teamwork and consistency to create an entity with a name that grows stronger as time passes, Media Sensei where Desmond serves as Chief Officer of Operations.
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Photos by Ruzoy @iamruzoy
The Dallas Texas based broad spectrum audio and visual creative agency is responsible for putting together presentations such as Bae or Boot, a reality dating series, and a cooking show entitled Screenshot Skillet along with hundreds of music videos from artists such as Smoody, Erica Banks, and Asian Doll. Through Media Sensei, Desmond along with C.E.O. Jalen Jones has been working to recreate a Hollywood situation in Texas by rendering their services to artists belonging to national markets, but also by imparting knowledge to their local market. Desmond warns, “It’s great getting numbers online, but there’s still a lot of power in having a group of people willing to show up and spend money for you. The ability to move even just 20-30 people like that shows that your music has real value and people are willing to take action for it.”
You can follow and keep up with Desmond and Media Sensei by logging onto mediasenseis.com W W W. I S S U U . C O M /AWO L M A G A Z I N E
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PHOTOGRAPHER
BIZZY THOMAS
“The hardest thing about pursuing your art as a business is
deciphering who is your ally and who is your enemy. You have to grind and put blinders on to the haters! Don’t do it for likes or fans, do it for the love of the Art and PRAY!!!”
Follow Bizzy at FB: Bizzy Thomas IG @Bizzybtee
Bizzy Thomas is a traveling Photographer based in Fort Worth, TX. He also owns a Modeling company witch helps models build their portfolios and get a head-start into the industry. We asked Bizzy what inspired him to pick up his 1st camera. “Honestly, I’d say that I was inspired by GQ magazine.” He says that he was fascinated with the images on the magazine covers, the clothing, and the intrigue of the designers. Bizzy tells us that he had a breakthrough moment in 2020. “People from everywhere started hating on me.” It was a new experience all together, but he knew that he had to be doing something right, to make people feel threatened or jealous, so he used that negativity to push himself forward instead of allowing it to discourage him in his work. He feels very proud of how far he’s come and says, “Getting my Models published and into big agencies, and making people emotional over their shoots make me happy.” Bizzy has a lot on his plate with shooting his own ideas and projects, as well as managing his Model squad. “I have a lot going on with my model team and we have a lot of different projects coming up, but I’m most excited about my domestic violence awareness shoot next week.” Bizzy’s goal is to continue to build his team, helping to develop their skills, build their portfolios, and to grow his brand. “I’m am thankful for my supporters and those who believe in me.” AMBITION WITHOUT LIMITS MAGAZINE
Jamara Harrell, Model and Actress Follow her on Instagram @Majmusiq
“Working with Bizzy has been nothing short of amazing! While brainstorming and collaborating on different styles and ideas; we’ve really been able to bring some amazing visions to life!”
Brittanee Caldwell, Model Follow her on Instagram @afro.333.deity
“Shooting with Bizzy was a lot of fun! He practiced using gels during our shoot and it was really cool seeing his excitement!”
Olivia Brown, Model Follow her on Instagram @Lenaaa_rose_
“Meeting Bizzy was a magnificent opportunity! He displays emotion, confidence, and passion behind his work. He sees art in the simplest things. I’m honored to be a part of his team.”
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BU’JEEMA’REE
MODEL, BUSINESS OWNER
Meet the Dallas, TX bombshell Bu’JeeMa’ree! Bu’Jee may be based in Texas, but she is an adventurous traveler and is always looking for new opportunities to expand and grow her network. She is not only one od Dallas’s hardest working Models, but Bu’Jee also owns multiple businesses and is an inspiration to her fellow female entrepreneurs. “Right now I have my own promotion company, Shero Promo, and a cleaning service, BusyBodyBuJee. I’m also the director of a record a label, MME - Money Major Enterprise.” Bujee says that she actually didn’t start to pursue her Modeling and business ownership into her mid 20’s. Some would say that is late in the game to begin such a dramatic career change, but not for Bu’Jee! She reminds us that it is never too early or too late to start fighting for what you dream of becoming or accomplishing. “I believe that as we grow, we work harder, we dedicate ourselves more internally over the course of time.” Bu’Jee says that she is most proud of her success because she has been able to build her network with the individuals she has met and how she has become so professional, all around. “It feels so good to obtain that business mindset and turning it into a lifestyle. I accept all obstacles with positivity and grow.” Bu’Jee says that her long-term goals include, finish school for dental hygiene, buying her first home, and raise her daughter the greatest way she can. “I want to lead by example and make my daughter proud by succeeding in my busi-
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“ Keep an open mind, remain
humble, and be the light in this dark world.”
“Stay true to yourself ! It’s not easy, but if you don’t do it, who will ?”
Follow Bu’JeeMa’ree on all social media @bujeemaree Booking or business inquires may be sent to Bujeemaree@gmail.com W W W. I S S U U . C O M /AWO L M A G A Z I N E
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PHOTOGRAPHER
CARLOS MOORE “Find what works for you, stick to it, never give up, and never let someone else determine your value.”
Follow Carlos on Instagram @seemoore_photography To book a shoot, Call or Text 817-353-0185 or email Seemooreportraitphotography@ gmail.com Carlos Moore is a traveling Photographer living in Oklahoma City, OK. We sat down with Carlos at one of his Photoshoots and learned what makes him tick. “Photography is my life passion! I love to capture a model at her best and seeing the reaction on her face when she sees the final images is what drives me to keep shooting and to get better and better with every new concept and project.” Carlos says that he is determined to never stop learning and to reach his maximum potential as a creator. We asked him what inspired him to pick up his first camera. “I started out on the other end of the lense at an early age. I was a children’s suit model for JC Penny’s and that’s where I got my first taste of the set life!” Carlos grew up and took on a series of jobs, as most do. Something inside him still longed for a more creative career. “One day working, I realized something that changed me! I thought to myself, “why am I helping someone else achieve their dream when I can achieve my own?” and I knew at that moment, that I needed to make some changes.” He dreamed it, spoke it, and DID IT! Carlos would go on to teach himself everything he needed to know by watching Youtube tutorials, attending shoot workshops’ and hands-on experience with fellow Photographers. Carlos has big plans for his future! “I want to branch out into more media production with video projects, and one of my goals is to reach a point where I can start mass distribution of a clothing brand that I am currently affiliated with called The Nuggs.”
Carlos wants to give a shout out to Ambition WithOut Limits Media, Hgang, Young Invent, Soopa Bottoms, Beats by Sammy, up-and-coming pro skater K3, Ivy Reign , Travus Smalls, Ci’year, William belle & The Nuggs inc.
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Model: Ivy Reign IG @madebymothernature420 “I met Carlos at a tattoo party out in Dallas. He was the photographer for the event and he asked if he could photograph me as I got my new ink. We exchanged contact info and set up a shoot a few weeks later. Since then, Carlos has coached me and really helped me to perfect my poses and expressions! He is building my portfolio up with so many different looks and locations! He has taken me under his wing and taught me a lot. I love working with this man and his creative mind!”
“My proudest moments are when my work makes it to magazine publications! I also love working with influential artists, other creators and even celebrities! The hardest part, in my opinion, is remaining optimistic through the trials and tribulations that come with owning my own business, But that won’t stop or slow me down! I am determined and confident that I will never stop improving my skills and bringing my ideas to life through my work.”
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Model: Vantasia land IG @Im_melanin_ “I met Carlos back in January after he made a post to do a shoot with some snakes. When we met up the vibes were instantly dope! We both are big on energy and have the same values in life and taste in music! He instantly made me feel comfortable to shoot with and I love his eye when it comes to being behind the lens. That man is gifted with his camera and editing skills. We have created a strong bond through our shoots that we just hit each other up for a good laugh and smoke session. He’s definitely worthy of your time, let’s hope he feels the same about you!”
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NYCOLE REYES
ADVOCATE, HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST
MODEL: NYCOLE REYES PHOTO BY MILITZA ARENAS
“The absolutely best saying that I live by is, “If your dream doesn’t scare you then you aren’t dreaming big enough.” Not that we want to live in fear, but only when you dream beyond what you are capable of can God take it to levels you could never obtain on your own.”
Nycole Reyes is a Hair and Makeup artist, using her talent to shine light on some important topics in society! Nycole is a mental health and human rights activist, based in Dallas/Fort Worth, TX. She is not your typical glitter and glamour beauty professional, In fact, most of her work highlights the ugly truth of some of the biggest issues we have today! Her work covers topics such as Domestic Violence, Human Trafficking, Depression and so much more. Nycole and her team have done several Awareness shoots around Texas and she has dreams to expand and travel for future shoots. “I am hoping to be able to do some traveling this summer. My photo shoots are completely free to all of the Models, Photographers, and Hair and Makeup Artists. Everything comes out of our own pockets. Traveling will take some planning ahead, but it’s definitely on my to-do list! I have been putting in the work, connecting with people all over the United States so we can do photoshoots nationwide! It is a very big undertaking, so it may take a while to get that planned out.” Nycole has even included her family in her shoots and enjoys sharing her passion with them. “I have 2 children that are both Models. My daughter has been in all of my awareness shoots and my son has been able to participate in 1 so far. My original goal for the awareness photoshoots was to start using our platforms for something important. Most of the Models and Photographers we have come in contact with are only focused on building their portfolios with typical pictures. Not that there’s anything wrong with doing that, but we wanted to do something bigger, something important. We still do different types of photo shoots to add variety to our portfolios, but we want impactful work in there as well.” AMBITION WITHOUT LIMITS MAGAZINE
MODEL: DIXIE LEIGH
MODEL: KAI ECHOLS
PHOTO BY MILITZA ARENAS
PHOTO BY MILITZA ARENAS
THESE 3 IMAGES ARE PART OF NYCOLE’S “MENTAL ILLNESS” AWARENESS SHOOT, DEPICTING EACH MODEL AND PHOTOGRAPHER’S OWN INTERPRETATION OF WHAT SUFFERERS OF MENTAL ILLNESSES FEEL. CONTINUE TO THE NEXT 2 PAGES TO SEE HER TEAM’S ORIGINAL PROJECT “HUMAN TRAFFICKING”. We asked Nycole what inspired her to begin hosting the Awareness Shoots. She said “At the beginning of the Corona Virus quarantine, there was so much buzz about Human Trafficking, I began thinking about it and this was really not a new issue. This had been an issue for hundreds of years! Everyone knew about it, it was just never really discussed. I wanted to “discuss the elephant in the room.” There are so many topics that everyone knows are there, but no one really talks about them. Most people don’t know what it “looks” like. My number one goal at each event is for it to be personal to all involved. I want people that have either personally gone through it or someone close to them has gone through it. To get realistic images, the real emotion of the theme has to be there.” When Nycole started this journey, she had no idea that it was going to grow and turn into a multiple shoot project involving so many amazing people. She mainly wanted to bring attention to human trafficking through her first shoot, but she had such a great response from everyone, that she decided not to just stop there. There are so many other issues that are hidden in plain sight, and Nycole wanted to let her work speak! “When I was planning our last photoshoot, I accidentally posted in a nationwide Facebook group and was blown away by the response! Everyone wanted to help! That motivated me to want to do this nationwide and maybe eventually worldwide. I love hearing people say that we are making a difference.” W W W. I S S U U . C O M /AWO L M A G A Z I N E
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NYCOLE REYES AWARENESS SHOOTS MODEL: SCARLET RAIN
MODEL: S.C.
PHOTO BY WENDY SMITH
PHOTO BY KRIS MILTON
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With things growing so quickly for Nycole’s projects, there are some parts of the process that are harder than others. “The hardest part is in the days leading up to the shoots. I typically get between 60 and 80 people that tell me they will definitely be there, but by the day of the shoot, we only get about 15 to 20. I never know until right at time of the shoot, how many people I will actually have. I always plan accordingly though. I invite about 300 to each event, about 80 respond, so about 20 or 30 will actually be there. I just never know and that definitely makes it more difficult. My latest photoshoot was based on Child Abuse and Trafficking, from the perspective of the parents trying to protect their children. This one was inspired by another photographer who had posted pictures of a similar theme, and it went viral. I absolutely loved her work and decided to recreate it with a little bit of a twist. I had custom shirts made for this shoot for the parents and the children. I am offering these custom shirts for sale, to help fund future awareness shoots nationwide. These shoots are very therapeutic for people that have gone through some of these things. They get to tell their stories with every detail from the way the makeup is done, to the way they pose in each picture. They can be real and themselves at all times. Typical photo shoots would have the Model sit a certain way and smile a certain way and position your body a certain way, but with these shoots, everything is completely natural and real.
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MODELS: BREE CAST AND DIXIE LEIGH
MODEL: LYBERTEE HOWARD
PHOTO BY ALFREDO ARTETA
PHOTO BY SELORM DZAKA
MODEL: SCARLET RAIN PHOTO BY ALFREDO ARTETA
MODELS: JENNIFER GARZA AND ASTER-ROSE PHOTO BY ALFREDO ARTETA
My biggest shout out is God, always first in my life. Second, would be my husband and kids. Organizing these shoots and preparing the website take a lot of time, but they always support me in my vision. They help pick up the slack around the house when I get too busy to get things done. And third a HUGE shout out to everyone that has participated in the awareness shoots. Everyone has been so awesome donating their time and supplies to bring the vision to life. No one gets paid so the hair and makeup artists are using their professional supplies on the models to get them ready, the models buy new outfits for the shoots, the photographers spend hours sorting and editing the thousands of pictures they take. I am so glad to be a small part in the process by just organizing to get everyone together at the same time for the same cause.
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For anyone interested in participating (locally, nationwide, or worldwide), you may contact Nycole on her website. https://nycole1984.wixsite.com/ awarenessphotography view Nycole’s Project galleries, make a contribution, and shop the Awareness Projects merchandise at their site to support her future projects.
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JECOE FIRMALAN
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ARTIST
“Do what you love! It’s way easier.” Jecoe Firmalan is an Artist from Romblon, Philippines, who dreams of taking his hobby to a professional level and turn his newfound passion into a full business. “To be honest, I only recently started doing paintings, when the pandemic hit.” Jecoe says that his regular income was directly impacted by the pandemic. As a result of these hard times, He was inspired to look for new ways to earn a living, while being isolated in the imposed quarantine. “I was forced to get creative and at least try to earn money during the lockdown.” With all of the world making adjustments and being separated, Jecoe turned a natural talent into a way of helping himself and his family survive. Although it wasn’t his intention at first, His passion and talent for painting helped keep him entertained, focused and quickly became an extra and muchneeded source of income! “I get a lot of joy from selling my art!” he says. “I was so proud of my first drawing. I did not expect that I could do such a thing until I started last April!” He says that he had a little bit of success selling drawings online, before the pandemic, but once he started taking his art more seriously and focusing more on his paintings, the sales increased and so did his confidence. “Actually making my paintings and earning from them is my most proud accomplishment yet.” Since Jecoe started pursuing his art as a career, he has transitioned from drawings into more advanced mediums including some current projects like hyperrealism oil paintings and digital illustrations. “I am so inspired and surprised by my own success as a new artist. I just want to continue to sell my art to people who truly enjoy my work! I hope to one day be a well know artist and have a full business around my artwork! It would be an honor to be a real business owner!” - I’d like to thank all my supportive friends and my family Follow This Artist Facebook @Jecoe Firmalan Instagram @jecoeloco
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ELI ORELLANA Eli Orellana, also Known as Goat God By Design, is a Music Artist turned Photographer, living in the Dallas metroplex. His story began with a Dream and a cell phone full of amazing Photos! “I’ve always had a love for art and a unique eye for visuals.” Eli tells us that he began taking behindthe-scenes photos and creative portraits right off of his cell phone. He was inspired by the day-today beauty he encountered in and around the city, through casual encounters with strangers in parks, to bands and models at events. Although he was using his smartphone to capture his images, the end results of his creative eye and unique editing techniques quickly became popular and he began to book more and more referrals from people wanting to add his unique visuals to their portfolios and photo collections. When it comes to Eli’s personal Photography style, He is a fan of vivid colors and dramatic scenery.” My biggest inspiration would have to be high-end and luxury magazines. I love seeing bold colors, and brave color palettes, seeing how things can seem so chaotic yet perfectly symmetrical at the same time.” Some people may think it’s strange to book a photographer with no professional high-end camera, but once they see the final images that Eli creates, they quickly understand why he is in high
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PHOTOGRAPHER demand! “ I am a phone photographer. that means my vision is in the future. I have been envisioning the future of phone photography for a while now, but it wasn’t until I started taking pictures of my own, that I started seeing the real potential.” Eli says that having not only friends, but strangers, be so amazed by the work he has produced is the best feeling he can have. He says it’s that feeling of accomplishment and appreciation that is his biggest motivation.” Eli mentioned that his goal for the future is to push the limits. “I want to test the limitations of myself, my art, my locations, the Models, and the overall art process. I want to see how far I can push technology, software, and art. I want to do more shoots that get me out of my comfort zone.” We asked Eli to share a bit of advice with anyone that is considering a career in Photography. “Don’t listen to anybody. It’s ok to ask for opinions, thoughts, and advice, but ultimately, your art is your own! If it makes you happy, keep doing it! Don’t be scared to learn from other people, mimic other styles. Emulate other people’s work. we are all standing on the shoulders of giants, and it is extremely rare to do things that honestly have never been done before. Learn from the ones that came before, and once you learned the basics of your craft, only then will you be able to create
“My proudest moments are when I capture the perfect shot. more often than not, when someone sees that I am shooting from a phone, their first reaction is a little off-putting and questionable. When I finally get that one shot that barely needs any touching up, I love seeing all the subjects fears and doubts wash away as their face floods with excitement and confidence.”
MODEL: YOLANDA THEMODEL
INSTAGRAM: @YOLANDA_THE_MODEL
“Eli is the truth. He is number 1 in my book. We haven’t skipped a beat since the day we met. As a photographer he is great he has such a great vision and dope with concepts, he is a great listener, and has an eye for creativity. He is truly an amazing photographer and friend!”
“I want to give a shout out to Yvette Todea and A.WO.L media, for giving Artists and Models more opportunities. I would also like to thank my wonderful wife, Rebecca, for always being supportive, and all the friends that ever encouraged, motivated, and taught me things along the way.”
Follow Eli on Instagram @GoatGodByDesign W W W. I S S U U . C O M /AWO L M A G A Z I N E
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Meet Claudine Young, an artist living in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Claudine recently chatted with us about her Art journey and how her life has changed because of her passion “I love creating!” she says, “I adore the immediate gratification that comes from creating something new. I’ve been painting for many years now and I learned to quill during the pandemic to keep my hands and mind busy.” Claudine says that she has been painting for years, with no real intention of selling her art. Her paintings started as just a creative outlet and hobby. “I met another artist who convinced me to apply to a gallery and to my surprise, I was accepted! The high of my first sale to a stranger was fantastic! It feels really good to know that my art is appreciated and enjoyed by others.” We asked Claudine what was one moment she can remember, where her art made her the most proud. “a few years ago, I brought my kids to an art show where my painting had made the front window display of the gallery. The pride on their faces was the best!” she says. Having her children see their mother’s work displayed in the Gallery window was just as inspiring to them as it was to her! We are also so proud of Claudine! We found out that she was recognized as an honorable mention at the 2014 Emerging Toronto Artists (ETA) awards and was recently featured on “Stella’s Studio” a show on Camoes TV!
“Quilling is the art of manipulating strips of paper. Each circle I make consists of 1 - 12 strips of paper that are glued together then rolled into a circle.”
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ARTIST
CLAUDINE YOUNG
FUN FACT: ALL MY QUILLING PIECES, SO FAR, HAVE BEEN NAMED AFTER BEATLES SONGS.
Claudine is always creating new pieces! She just completed a huge 40x30 gallery canvas of an exploding/dissolving heart “It’s Only Love” (Pictured above). It can be seen as a heart falling apart or coming together. The word “love” is hidden in braille within the circle. Her hidden messages can be found in other pieces as well! She’s recently completed a 36x24 gallery canvas of an exploding mind, titled “Help” The word “help” is hidden within the circles in braille. “I have so many ideas! I’d like to put together a big collection of large-scale quilling circles art. Like my paintings, all the large-scale quilling pieces have a hidden word or message, written in braille.” Follow This Artist Instagram - flowykloee Facebook - flowykloee Etsy shop - www.etsy.com/ca/shop/flowykloee Contact - flowykloee@gmail.com www.downtherabbithole.ca/art W W W. I S S U U . C O M /AWO L M A G A Z I N E
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Never doubt whether you fit in. Being raised by a Hispanic mother is not out of the norm in Texas, but also having an Iranian-born father is just plain different. I was picked on a lot as a kid by friends and family alike. I longed to be normal, like everyone else. Many people pointed out my differences and tried to use them against me because they were afraid of something they knew nothing about. It’s funny now...they were the ones lacking while I had a wealth of culture, language, and cuisine! It wasn’t until 6 years ago that I realized that my differences were beautiful. My sister and I are unique, and we have a very different story to tell when it comes to family norms. I wouldn’t trade my childhood or family for anything.
PHOTOGRAPHER: ERIC L. ROBINSON
Meet Lora Ebadian, an aspiring Actress and Cosmetic Tatoo Artist based in Dallas, TX. Lora lives and works in Corsicana, but travels to the metroplex often for filming and photoshoots. Acting has been her dream since she was a very young girl, but that dream, like many of our own, was a fantasy and was put on the back burner as she grew up and had to focus on day-to-day life. It wouldn’t be until much later in life that Lora would decide to take a leap of faith and start pursuing her dream! “After my divorce, I decided that I was going to try all the things I never got around to. I made it a huge priority to dive back into the arts as I had set those hobbies aside to raise my children and build my career and education. I started with learning to tattoo permanent makeup and creating a small business to provide services. Less than a year later I heard about a casting call and figured I’d check it out. Much to my surprise, I received a callback. About 8 months later I was asked to model. It’s been interesting, to say the least. I never thought I’d have so much success so quickly, especially at my age! “ We asked Lora if there was any specific moment that made her wake up and start pushing harder for her dreams and goals. What she told us was shocking! “ I was attacked about 2 years ago. I remember thinking I was going to die that night, and begging my attacker not to kill me. Thankfully, he snapped out of it and fled the scene. After asking someone to spare your life, there’s not much you are afraid to say or do. I no longer fear being told I’m not good enough. It really was a light in the dark type of situation, and I couldn’t be more thankful for the way it changed my life. I have a new found freedom that most of us don’t ever get to experience.” Lora reminds us that life is precious and fragile, but that we cannot let fear hold us back, because tomorrow is never promised. We need to live every day with passion and purpose.
AMBITION WITHOUT LIMITS MAGAZINE
“Take every opportunity you are given. It’s never too late to live your dreams!”
ACTRESS
LORA EBADIAN
Though chasing any dream can be tough, Lora has had some great memories and moments. “Being able to work through my first monologue is probably my most proud moment.” It was a long and very emotional piece, Lora says. “Between crying, really feeling the emotions, and trying to stay on track with the lines, I was worried I wouldn’t be able to complete the delivery in one take.” To her surprise, she pulled off the emotion and remembered her lines. This boosted her self-confidence and gave her even more motivation to keep going. “ I’m also proud that I’ve begun modeling...at my age, it’s not very common for someone to start at almost 40.” We love seeing Lora’s new images, and are so glad that she began her Modeling career! She shows us that it’s never too late to do what you love! Lora didn’t just start strong, but is still going full throttle! She has been in many acting projects and Modle shoots, and continues to work on a regular basis, releasing consistent content and continuing to perfect her skills and grow her network and portfolio. “I have several indie films, full feature and shorts, that will be released soon. These include Forever and a Day, There is No Sanctuary, 10 Days, and New Year’s Evil just to name a few. I was also in Harmini’s music video for “Godly Woman” and it is due to be released soon.” Lora hopes to continue working in the entertainment industry. for many years to come. She says that she really enjoys directing as well as being in front of the camera, and even has some ideas for sitcoms of her own. Lora says that she’d like to be remembered for her work in this field and to continue to bring her personality and skills to different audiences around the world. I would like to thank Fred T. and Zeke Jeremiah for always allowing me to be a part of their work, as well as for not only coaching me along the way, but also for teaching me multiple facets of the film world. I would also like to give a huge shout out to Eric L. Robinson for his creativity behind our Chicago shoot. He is one of the most talented photographers I’ve had the privilege of working with.
For booking, you can message Lora at birdylee80@gmail.com. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram: @lora.l.ebadian
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COVER ART BY TIM FULTS
If you like throwback and inspirational movies, be on the look out for the Dtown “A Hard Lesson of Life” pitch trailer and hit that like button on YouTube. Every share is a chance to help get this trailer seen by the right person! AMBITION WITHOUT LIMITS MAGAZINE
AUTHOR
RUBEN ANUARIO
Never give up! If you believe in your dream, with all your heart, don’t you ever give up on it and continue to pursue it until it becomes real! Meet A.WO.L Magazine’s first featured Author, Ruben Anuario of Fort Worth, Texas. We recently got to interview this ambitious writer and learn about his life and goals. He is not only excited to share his book “D Town, a Hard Lesson of Life” but tells us that his dream is much bigger than the pages can hold! “My dream is to keep pushing my book until it gets into the right hands and one day my story will become a movie.” He wants to use his story to teach the youth in his community about the dangers of gangs and drugs, but most of all, Ruban says that he wants to show them that there is a way out of it and that it’s never too late for anyone to turn their lives around to become a better person. “I am inspired by young people that find a way to thrive in a troubled society. I know what it’s like growing up and facing the hardships of these cruel streets.” Ruban wants to lead by example and give the youth around him hope for a better way. He says that he had an awakening moment, after procrastinating from when he originally published his book in 2014. “A good friend helped push me to do something more with it. It felt so good to have someone believe in my book and want it to be successful! I gained a new wave of motivation and confidence and that’s how the idea to pitch it as a movie was born.” Ruben is proud to have his story published and bring his vision and story to life. He says that the hardest part about the process is trying to get the right production company to notice his efforts. “We are in the final stages of completing our pitch trailer project on the book. Now it’s all about finding the right people to believe in this project as much as we do, and help us take this to the next stage! Once we have completed the pitch trailer project we are going to upload it to YouTube and blast it as much as we can, to see if maybe a production company will find it and want to pick up the project and work with us to make this movie a reality!” “Shout out to Hector Torres, our film/camera guy who has really taken this project seriously after having so much work himself. Also, Oscar Zapata, he is the one that has pushed me to continue to follow my dream to make my story into a movie. Thank you guys so much!
Follow Ruben on Facebook @dtownanuario Contact this Author at ranuario3@gmail.com or (817) 856-8030
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TRIMIKA MCGEE
MODEL, ACTRESS
MAKEUP AND HAIR: BEAUTY BY MYIAH PHOTOS BY: THE STUDIOS OF ALEXANDER
“ I JUST WANT TO BE SUCCESSFUL! I WANT PEOPLE TO RECOGNIZE ME FOR MY WORK ETHIC AND SKILLS, TO LET MY MODELING ACTING ABILITIES SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES.”
Meet Trimika McGee, an aspiring Model and Actress living in Durham, North Carolina. Trimika says that she enjoys working locally with new Photographers and collaborating with fellow Models and Actors and she enjoys traveling for bookings as well. We asked her what inspired her to pursue her dreams, and she told us “I just wanted more in my life. I knew that I was equipped to do anything that I set my mind on, so I decided to stop dreaming and start making it into my reality!” She says that the quarantine imposed in her state, due to the Covid outbreak, was the push she needed! With all this new found free time, and most public and social activities at a standstill, she was able to focus and prepare for her own breakthrough. “I figured, there is no time like the present and Time waits for no one. During the Covid pandemic, I took advantage of the time I had to myself and was able to paint a clearer picture of my own personal goals and layed out a plan to get myself started.” She wants to share this advice with anyone who may be reading this story: “Never focus on what you have experienced in life. I’ve been through a lot but I decided not to allow that to define me. I’ve lost a child, I went through a hellacious divorce, I was broken and I thought I was going to die. I got up and began to focus on living my life to the fullest and here I am today. “ AMBITION WITHOUT LIMITS MAGAZINE
Trimika has done a lot in a short time, but some of her biggest accomplishments include being able to audition and landing a role as a Featured Actress in an upcoming TV series. “I’ve also been selected as a Featured Model in several magazines and I am getting so much positive feedback! It is so gratifying to see my images published and to know that my hard work is being appreciated. The hardest part is trying to get your work to the right person, waiting to be discovered, but I am confident in myself and my work, so I don’t let myself get discouraged. I know that patience is key, as long as I’m doing my best to perfect my craft, the right eyes will find me when the time is right!” Trimika is currently involved in The NC project and is booking consistent modeling gigs to gain the exposure that is needed in this early stage of her career.
“PLEASE DON’T GIVE UP. TRY AND TRY SOME MORE. I AM 51 YEARS OLD, YOU ARE NEVER TOO YOUNG OR OLD TO LIVE YOUR DREAM!” Trimika would like to first give honor to God, secondly, she wants to thank her closest family and friends that always push, and support her.
Follow Trimika on Instagram: Lilioukalanai50 Facebook: Trimika McGee Website: www.lilioukalanai50.com
For booings, you can contact Trimika directly at (704) 492-2751 or email: mcgeetrimika@yahoo.com
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GRACIE
PEREZ
MODEL
“The hardest thing for me, was when my own family didn’t believe in me and my dream. It hurt, but that made me stronger and more determined!” Gracie reminds us that our dreams are meant for US, and not made for others. We have to fight for what we want, even if others can’t see our vision!”
Video Model, Gracie Perez, snaps a selfie with Music Artist, Young Invent, on the set of his video shoot for “Other Side” shot in Las Vegas, NV.
AMBITION WITHOUT LIMITS MAGAZINE
“It’s not easy being a thick Latina in this industry. People will turn you down, doors will shut, but never give up because one door closes and ten more open! Always be confident and never ever doubt yourself. We are all unique and beautiful in our own ways.”
Meet the beautiful Model, Gracie Perez! She currently resides in Fresno, California. Gracie is originally from the central coast area a few miles from the bay. She loves to travel, especially when it’s for photoshoots or video shoots. “My dream is to be a well-known Super Model and to work with anyone who loves thick, curvy women like myself. I would love to be featured in movies or music videos and I am open to any type of opportunity that shows the world my smile!”
“My advice to anyone starting on a similar path in this career field, is to never give up! Believe in yourself because haters make us stronger, and don’t let anyone tell you that your body size is to0 small or big in this industry! All bodies are Beautiful!”
Gracie tells us that she was inspired to start modeling by her mother at a young age. “She always told me that the world needs my energy, my smile, my beauty!” With her mother as her biggest fan and a huge supporter of her dreams, Gracie began to build her portfolio and experience in California and surrounding areas. It wasn’t all glitter and glamour at first, Gracie tells us about a negative experience she had and how it affected her. “My breaking point was about 2 years ago, when an old friend said I was too fat to model! I was hurt of course, but I couldn’t let that get me down! Instead of accepting her view of me, I started to push myself even harder than before.” Gracie was determined to let that negativity feed her passion and was not going to stop until she proved that person wrong and show the world that curvy girls and beautiful, thick chicks are the new wave! Gracie tells us that 2020 was a slow year for progress, due to the Pandemic, but she has been making moves in the background and planning things out for this year. “Theses past couple years has been hard for everyone I think, but I know that 2021 is going to be a blessing! I have a few photoshoots with a couple of different clothing lines, and some companies that sell edibles, so we shall see how that goes.” Her goal for this year is to work even harder than she did in the past and to become more experienced, grow her network and following, and to improve on her art as a Model. “I would love to thank Young Invent and the Hgang team! Without y’all, we would not be where we are. I would love to thank Tg Flex, for allowing me to debut in one of his videos. Shout out to Dj Cool from WratPakdjs, for allowing me to be part of his team. Thank you to my amazing teammate and amazing beautiful photographer, Yvette Todea, for the amazing pics she takes and everyone else that’s been here every step of my journey! There are so many more people that gave me the confidence to be where I am at today!” Follow Gracie on Instagram @Ruthlesshortyg or Facebook @Gracie Perez
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Do you know someone who is inspiring positive growth and change in this world through Art, Travel, Music, Entrepreneurship or other creative lanes? Do you, yourself, bring light, joy and motivation to others? WE WANT TO TELL YOUR STORY! A.WO.L Media is constantly looking for exceptional people to add to our audiences watch list. contact us at Official.AWOL.Media@gmail.com Instagram.com/awolmedia or Facebook.com/awolmedia
ON BEHALF OF THE AMBITION WITHOUT LIMITS STAFF, CONTRIBUTORS, AND SUPPORTERS, WE WOULD LIKE TO TAKE A MOMENT TO EXPRESS OUR GRATITUDE TO YOU , OUR READERS, FOR TAKING THE TIME TO READ OUR PUBLICATION. WE HOPE THAT THESE STORIES HELPED SPARK THE CREATOR AND DREAM CHASER IN ALL OF OUR READERS. WE ENCOURAGE EVERYONE TO FOLLOW AND SUPPORT OUR FEATURED INDIVIDUALS AND CONTINUE TO WATCH THEM ON THEIR JOURNEYS. DON’T FORGET TO MENTION WHERE YOU FOUND THEIR STORIES.
AMBITION WITHOUT LIMITS MAGAZINE
