Preventing Coronavirus, Celebrating Black History and Understanding 5G

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Black Pepper Magazine

Black History Ghana : Kwame Nkrumah Brazil : Nzumbi dos Palmares Mali : King Mansa Musa Congo : Queen Nzinga

The Art of Self, Health Ireland : Ken Lomena Madagascar : Irina Soa Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate How to Prevent Coronavirus

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Music, Hair & Media The Voice duo: Hello Sunday Spring Hairstyle Ideas Cover Story: Sol & Jennia Aponte

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Business & Tech How to stay relevant in Business The next Generation : 5G BPMAG Affiliate Program

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elcome back to Black Pepper Magazine. In this month’s issue we are talking about Black History, Coronavirus, Black Love and the next generation 5G and many more. All these topics have a high relevancy in the black community worldwide. Let me explain why. This issue is dedicated to all those strong individuals who have shaped the society in different ways.

Dedicated to all those who have fought for our liberation. For those who are still setting an example, it is like paving a new way of massive opportunities for others to walk on such as our cover stars the power couple, Sol & Jennia Aponte in their Anatomy of Black Love.

Second cover star comes from ireland, Ken Lomena who travels the time like a free and empowered bird.

All stories are carefully chosen and assembled for you to feel entertained, educated and elevated. Enjoy !

Yours truly,

Amina Jealinho, Editor-in-Chief, CEO, CoFounder

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1957

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wame Nkrumah was born in Ghana as Francis Nwia-Kofi Ngonloma on september 21, 1909 and died in Romania 1972. He became the first president after Ghanaian independence in 1957. On top of that he was very well known for his panafrican leadership. He studied in the U.S, and England to attain his PhD. Dr. Nkrumah was also called the fore father of African unity that later became the African union. Here are some facts to know about Kwame Nkrumah.

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Kwame was once a preacher, and actually earned a degree in theology while at college. He was preaching the word in New York and Philadelphia His administration has proved to be one of the least corrupt, and many Ghanaians hold this belief even to this very day.

He was a huge advocacy of socialism and undertook many development projects that helped in turning Ghana into one of the most influential states of Africa Kwame Nkrumah organized a people’s assembly that consisted of CPP members (Convention of People’s Party), the youth, and a wide crosssection of different trades. Advocating for a universal franchise without property qualifications, and the immediate institution of a self governance status. This was quickly rejected and caused Nkrumah’s incarceration

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Who was Kwame Nkrumah ?

As all heroes , they have two things in common. One, they are loved and praised for their heroic action. Or two, their actions are not being respected and valued.

That doesn’t always mean a bad thing. It just can be a critical way of thinking rather than all emotional.

Kwame was criticized for sympathizing with socialist ideology that called himself a Marxist. After that statement he gained a lot of support but also enemies within, and outside his country. Despite that, Nkrumah has marked history. He created the flag of Ghana, required all children to attend school, especially women, Women got more jobs, made sure that the electricity was working, and equipped the country with military and legislative force.

Divided we are weak, but united Africa could become one of the greatest forces for good in the world. I believe strongly and sincerely that with the deep-rooted wisdom and dignity, the innate respect for human lives, the intense humanity that our heritage, the African race, united under one federal government, will emerge not as just another world bloc to flaunt its wealth and strength, but as a GREAT POWER whose greatness is indestructible because it is built not on fear, envy and suspicion, nor won at the expense of others, but founded on hope, trust, friendship and directed to the good of all mankind

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NZUMBI DOS PALMARES BRASIL One of Brazil’s greatest warrior figure who led a massive slave resistance in the 16oo’s. Since then Brazil has been celebrating Black Awareness Day on November 20 in honor of Nzumbi dos Palmares. Nzumbi or Zumbi was born free in Quilombo, Brazil in 1655 but was kidnapped as a child by soldiers, and given to the priest Father Antonio Melo. He was baptized with the name Francisco and taught Portuguese and Latin. At only fifteen years old, he fled and returned to his original home in Quilombo. He refused several proposals from the Portuguese, and insisted on full freedom for his people.

MANSA MUSA

QUEEN NZINGA

MALI EMPIRE

CONGO EMPIRE

Mansa Musa I was the ruler of the Mali Empire in West Africa from 1312-1337 CE. He controlled gold and copper, as well as monopolising trade between the north and interior of the continent, the Mali elite grew extremely wealthy. Mansa Musa, a muslim man that brought back architects and scholars from his pilgrimage to Mecca who build mosques and universities that made such cities as Timbuktu internationally famous. Rudolph Butch Ware, associate professor of history at the University of California stated on BBC that “ contemporary accounts of Musa’s wealth are so breathless that it’s almost impossible to get a sense of just how wealthy he was “.

The West African ruler was so rich, his generous handouts wrecked an entire country’s economy.

1581-1663

Queen Ana Nzinga was one of the great women rulers of Africa. She was famous for fighting against the slave trade, and the influence of the Europeans. She held off Portuguese invasions and slave raids for 30 years, and fought to keep what is now Angola. She was born with her umbilical cord wrapped around her neck but still managed to survive. In the Kimbundu language (one of the language of Mbundu people, Angola), the verb ‘kujinga ‘ means to twist or turn, and that’s why she was named, Nzinga.

If a real-life princess ever deserved a Disney movie or an Animation film, it’s Queen Nzinga.

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NIGHT SKY , BLACK PEARL POEM

Stars abound the smouldering sky, Lucently knitted with light, so grand; Our blackness soars likewise -- so high O, the night sky must understand: It’s blackness shines just like ours; It’s stars glister like our men, Our women, safe in nightly hours. O, the night sky has black skin: Langston is Orion, shimmering, Hear our poets, they sing their worth, They see their worth -- worth in their history. O, the night sky is a comfort: O, the night sky, it never doubts O, it seems to never shout But their eyes were fast on God, Though upon ourselves, we trod- God is yourself, the woolly haired, (Sacred skinned - tough skinned) Firmament of shining abundance, O, the night is black and reflects our power and it’s circumference.

Christopher Pavonine

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Black Pepper Magazine

IRELAND’S HIDDEN TALENT : KEN LOMENA

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n artist who expresses himself naturally effortless for him. It feels like That’s the creative side, but Ken does in the aviation field. You know what ? world from the bird perspective ( plane analeverything and he will never forget where he Africa, DRCongo. He was born and raised in

through the imprint of time, photography. Posing in front of a lens is home, where he can just be himself. Dancing is also one of his forte. also enjoy logical and structured thinking. He is currently studying After exploring his world, you will hopefully notice that he views the ogy). Free, independent, smarter than you might think, family over comes from. Talking about home. The 21 year old has roots in Central Ireland. Now, it is his turn to present himself .

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Hi I’m Kenneth Lomena , I’m 21 From Dublin Ireland & I’m an Aviation Student/Photographer & Dancer.

Just call me creative!

What is your favorite song at the moment?

Right now I love bopping to Minor gangsters by Hare Squead.

Whenever a song can make me dance i’ll repeat it everywhere.

How would your friends describe you in 3 words ?

If my friends had 3 words to describe me they would probably say Independent, Childish & Nerd

What’s your perspective on how Black Irish support each other?

What does photography mean to you?

For me, photography is a way for me to just have fun & play with all the images and colours that I’m always seeing in my head. It’s also a way for me to connect with people which I also really like. Whether it’s working with models or just shooting birds somehow when doing photography your always meeting new people everyday & getting to create & share experiences. Thats definitely my favorite part

What is your favorite quote ? Please elaborate My favourite quote is from a conversation between a songwriter named Tsunku and a singer where at one point he says to the singer - ‘Stop trying to make people decide for you’. I really like this because in life we all get to a point where we have to make a serious decision that will affect the way we live, whether its starting something new like a project, a dream, a relationship or even ending one. We often hold back from making these decisions by ourselves and try to get the answers we want from the people around us even though 9/10 times we already know in our what it is we have to do. This quote reminds me that if I have a dream or a goal it’s up to no one else but myself to decide that I’ll make it happen & to not rely on others to live out my life the way I want

In my opinion how black people are supporting each other in Ireland is changing for the better. Growing up in a city like Dublin is very intersting because even though it’s a capital city, it’s still quite small & often times you get that ‘small town mentality’. This was especially true for the african community because there was so few of us. Back then if i would try something new whether starting a business or following a big dream people would be quick to criticize & there wouldn’t be alot of support besides friends & family. Over the years many changes have happened & there is much more cultural awareness. Today I see many black people supporting each others projects & it gives me hope that the diaspora will really thrive 8

Black Pepper Magazine

We have a feeling that the black community in Irish is pretty much invisible in media. How are you contributing to change that ?

That’s very true! Whenever I leave the country & ask people what do they think about Ireland they usually respond with Leprachauns or the Great Famine. Alot has changed since those days & the country is alot more colorful too. Making youtube videos at home is where I get to talk and interact the most with people from around the world. It’s also great because I get to show people that yes, black people do exist in Ireland!! lol. Doing this also gave me a chance to be an official vlogger for the EU in 2018 as part of the Road Trip Project. Through this I was able to go on the road & represent Ireland to millions of viewers & help to show

In celebration of Black History Month is there one person, you would like to teach us about? Maybe someone the mass don’t know about,

In celebration of black history month i’d like to tell you

about someone who I see contributing everyday. A political activist & my own dad Paulin Lomena. We come from the Democratic Republic of Congo, a country that has offered the world so much but has gotten back so little. Himself along with a large community of people are working hard everyday to try & move not only the country foward but are working hard to give a future for Africa. Even though the media doesn’t publicise these things because they rather focus on the negatives, the work of activists in Africa does not go un-

Is there anyone you look up to ?

My mom. I love her!

If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?

If I could change one thing it would be ignorance. I feel like if people weren’t ignorant then many of todays problems wouldn’t even exist

IF I COULD CHANGE ONE THING IT WOULD BE IGNORANCE. I FEEL LIKE IF PEOPLE WEREN’T IGNORANT THEN MANY OF TODAYS PROBLEMS WOULDN’T EVEN EXIST

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In 5 years I see myself finishing college & working in dance while also going to flight school. I’ll make that happen

IG : https://www.instagram.com/ken.lomena/?hl=de

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MADASCAR IN THE BUILDING !

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adagascar the soil of the baobab tree. Branches like roots reaching for the sky. No other African tree is shrouded in so many stories and legends as the baobab tree. Like an old African proverb

says :

Wisdom is like a baobab

tree. No one individual can embrace it This is how we felt while interviewing Irina Soa. She has a lot to offer and has not spread her wings yet. We found out that her favorite color is yellow. Yellow means joy of life, imagination, and wisdom. As she describes the color yellow which goes hand in hand with radiant and funny personalities. Those qualities visionaries have, like their adventurous mind, are in perpetual quest for renewal and self-fulfillment.

I am really enthusiastic about the idea of ​​becoming a professional model, because in 5 years, I see myself as by being persevering opportunities such as managing certain projects like my own clothing store (African textiles) in Madagascar. I was lucky to have some ideas about it during this year because it is an opportunity for me to become my fulfilled self and to see people wearing my own brand is for me a real motivation. In short, By being patient and making an effort at the same time and by being persistent, one ends up succeeding in achieving its goal.

Credits : Jimmy Fotso, jfartfotography.com h t t p s : / / w w w. i n s t a gr a m . co m / s o a _ irina_/?hl=de

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IRINA SOA Hi Irina , welcome to Black Pepper Magazine ! Please introduce yourself I am irina. I am 19 years old.I come from Madagascar. I am student in languages and working as a model at Model agency #Prestige #modelmanagement. I live in Germany. My hobbys are dancing, singing, cooking, travel & taking pictures

You’re from Madagascar and we want to know how is it there?

Please describe in 3 words Madagaskar is an island situated off the Southeast cost of Africa and the fourth largest island in the world. As the biggest island in the Indian Ocean, Madagascar is famous for its unique wildlife and biodiversity. With breathtaking views of nature, white sand beaches, stunning rainforest and delicious local food, this spot offers an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. in 3 word: Happiness, Solidarity, and love

What is your favorite malagasian food ?

My favorite malagasian food is (Ravitoto au coco) .A stew made by blending green vegetable and coconut, mainly served over rice. The rich flavor of green vegetable and sweetness of coconut makes it a splendid dish altogether

Do you have one favorite Malagasy quote, and if yes please explain?

My favorite Malagasy quote is,” Ny mahasoa aloha vao ny mafinaritra” its means (you have to focus on the future because the pleasure will never run away) When I was 17 years old, I had met my father in law for the first time, i was with my boyfriend (his son) and he said this Malagasy quote and now I realize that what he said is totally true and i still apply it till this day.

What does ‘Black History’ mean to you?

Black History is a time when African-Americans Can take the time out and see what the people before Them fought for. Black History is a time of rejoicing, celebrating And thanking those African-Americans for giving Us hope or a life lesson that could be used

If you could change one thing in the world what would it be ?

I can not even decide, they are so many. There should be education, housing, healthcare for all and unconditional love

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Black Pepper Magazine

COCOA, CAN YOU BE MY CHOCOLATINE ?

CHOCOLATE IS BAE

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n this following article I’m going to explain why chocolate, especially dark chocolate is good for your health. It contains proven benefits like improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure, protecting your skin from the sun and other surprising benefits that I will touch on today.

Okay, we all know dark chocolate is not at the top of our list of favs. But let me explain this : You probably don’t like dark chocolate because of that distinct and slightly bitter taste. It’s the alkaloids and flavonoids which are plant based antioxidants found in cocoa plants.

Now check this out! Chocolate has at least 70 percent of cocoa or more. The cocoa that’s in dark chocolate helps improve blood vessel.

In the 2013 study “British journal” found that dark chocolate elevates your mood, if consumed daily.

The British journal went further to say that dark chocolate stimulates the production of endorphins. Endorphins is like a natural feel good chemical that our body produces for a better mood.

Dark chocolate also contains serotonin a natural antidepressant that raises our mood as well. If there is not a more qualified candy to be our feel good bae, it’s dark chocolate.

Did you know that dark chocolate also weakens our cravings of other sweet, and salty treats , which is often linked to belly fat ? You’ve guessed it right ! It does help fight belly fat. Although it is high in calories but eating one square of it daily, won’t hurt you.

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BY LALA @LAREASHIA31

I urge you to eat one ounce of dark chocolate as a daily ritual to feel your best mentally.

Oh yeah! Quick tip : Feed bae some dark chocolate as part of your romantic evening

Happy Valentine’s Day

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Black Pepper Magazine

HOW TO PREVENT CORONAVIRUS ?

New Year’s was literally yesterday and bad news are already circulating in the world wide web. Brexit, Trump, Iran, Congo, Kobe and Gigi Bryant plus 8 more people died in a helicopter crash . Just to name a few. Two weeks prior the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global health emergency over a new virus, called Coronavirus. The outbreak started reportedly in a chinese city , Wuhan. More than one thousand people died due to the infection.

What is Coronavirus and where did it originally come from ?

Coronavirus is a family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as SARS (Severe acute respiratory syndrome), and MERS (Middle Easter respiartory syndrome). It came originally from animals, and transmitted through food and physical contact.

The word Corona-virus is derived from the Latin word corona, meaning crown or halo. The name was given after a laboratory observation. Through the microscope the virus look like a solar corona.

These are the common signs : Fever, Cough, Shortness of breath and breathing difficulties.

5 Antiviral Herbs 1. Licorice

2. Ginger

4. Sambucus

Licorice has been used in traditional Chinese medecine and in other ancient cultures for centuries. Its antiviral properties are Glycyrrhizin, liquiritigenin and Glabridin. Licorice roots are highly effective against herpes virus and severe acute respiaratory syndrome related coronavirus (SARS-CoV). As stated in National Institutes of Health.

Test-tube research confirms that ginger extract has antiviral effects against avian influenza, RSV, and feline calicivirus, which is similar to human norovirus.

It is a family of plants called elder. Elderberries are found in medecine to cure viral infections such as flu and cold.

3. Dandelion

5. Lemon Balm

SOURCE

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It is proven that dandelion may combat hepatitis B, HIV, mosquitoborne virus, and influenza

Lemon balm is a plant that is often used in teas and seasonings, but it has also medicinal qualities such as the antiviral effects against the bird flu, HIV-1, herpes viruses and enterovirus 71. All these viruses can cause severe infections in infants and children

Of course they are more herbs and oils like oregano oil, sage, garlic and many more to prevent and in some cases, it depends on the severity of the infections, can combat viruses.

Please consult your healthcare provider to ensure safe usage .

QUICK TIP : Keep calm in all circumstances and don’t forget to wash your hands, and keep your it clean

Hello Sunday, the young & dynamic duo : The Voice , Purpose & New Life

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wo young ladies named Chelsea and Myla better known as Hello Sunday, decided one day to come together to re-give people the joy of life. Last year they’ve participated in the Voice season 17, unfortunately the 14 year old duo didn’t win, but made history. “ There’s never been a Hello Sunday on the Voice.

They are incredible. They’re not even sisters but they have this sister-like vibe and harmony” as Kelly Clarkson revealed. Teenagers who are just starting to explore what the world has to offer. While living their teenage life dancing, having fun with friends, enjoying pizza, Chick-fil-a , and reading . Talking to them was such a great experience. This is how it went down.

How did you ladies feel when Kelly Clarkson turned around ? Chelsea : It

was shocking for the both of us when her seat turned around there was a lot going on. that we are grateful, and feel humble for.

And how did you’ll came about with your name ? Myla : We wanted a name that symbolizes positivity, a new day, a new beginning, and we felt that Hello Sunday is just a perfect embodiment of all that.

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How do you want Hello Sunday to be remembered for ?As

positive music that can reach everyone.

Who inspired you to sing ? Our family supports us a lot and they are always motivating us to be the best version of ourselves.

How do you manage going to school, being on stage, and in being constantly available ? Chelsea : Our parents play a big part

in organizing and helping us with our schedule. Myla : I’m homeschooled and I’m pretty much flexible, but I must say that, yeah, our parents and manager do help us a lot in organizing and managing everything.

After being in the spotlight, how do you plug-off to recharge your energy ?

Chelsea : A good sleep . Myla : Yes, I have to agree on that.

What is one core value you both always hold on to ? Both : To stay humble, because being arrogant doesn’t get you nowhere. And be grateful for everything.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years ? Myla : I see us still doing music together. Chelsea : I see ourselves getting a record deal and going on tour together.

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Black Pepper Magazine

HAIRSTYLES TO ROCK THIS SPRING

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AIR is one of the most important asset a black woman can have. Whether it’s bald, natural, braided short or long, wearing a hijab in style, weave bundles or straightened, you have multiple choices on how to style your hair. Black hair has been an integral part of black history. From African tribal styles being rejected at first to now being rediscovered and celebrated like never before. The creativity in doing hairstyles still speaks volume in the 21st century. Here are some inspirational hairstyles and ways to decor your head with twists, hijab, braids, short cut or a sleek weave.

Here is the first example (top left). Halima with a hijab gracefully wrapped around her head. Halima stays true to herself and is unapologetically in her element. A strong woman who is not afraid to show that she believes in Allah and that my friend is something you have to deal with it, whether you like it or not. That’s her belief, respect that . To see more of this international Model, click here : https://www.instagram.com/halima/?hl=de Yellow splash with actress and entrepreneur Marsai Martin. You can get creative this spring by adding a little bit of color into your braids. Marsai Martin is the epitome of young class. In her age, she carries herself like a young lady, articulates herself with poise and a sprinkle of VIBE. Be a part of her colorful world : https://www.instagram.com/marsaimartin/?hl=de Try something new with twists and twist-outs. Half up half down with a twist . Blogger and photography lover, Nelly is the queen of Natural hairstyles . Her hair is always moisturized, well brushed and styled. Her pictures are like digitalized nostalgic paintings from Louvre. A genius in her field.

For a different way of styling natural hair look no further , https://www.

instagram.com/musesuniform/?hl=de

Miss France 2017, Alicia Aylies with her natural crown in all its glory. We all have those days where you just don’t want no twist outs, braid out or whatsoever. Those days are not called lazy days, but simply wash-and-go. Her Instagram , https://www.instagram.com/aliciaaylies/?hl=de Next up is our absolutely fave in fashion. Her Instagram timeline is giving us the utmost vibe. She is living her best life through the art of fashion. Her name is Didi-Stone Olomide from France. Not only a fashion icon but also a huge hairstyle inspiration. Didi-Stone rocks it all, natural, straight, short, long and luscious, coloured or afro. If you’re not following her, you definitely should by now : https://www.instagram.com/olomidedidi/?hl=de Isn’t she lovely ? Chanel Ambrose is a UK based blogger and is always blessing us with entertaining Try-on hauls on youtube. Blessing us through her charme and boss moves. For those curvier women who are clueless how to carry themselves in a feminine way, without looking uncomfortable. Do you need a dose of confidence ? Here is your destination : https://www.

instagram.com/chanelambrose/?hl=de

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Black Pepper Magazine

THE ANATOMY OF THE APONTE’S LOVE

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o you still believe in marriage ? In this day and age where technology gets more attention than ever, everything is fast. Fast food, fast fashion, and fast love. It is well known that millenials and generation z have this one thing in common ; If one is temporarily unhappy instead of repairing, they throw it away. They lack the patience, endurance and emotional intelligence. According to a recent report out of the Urban Institute, an unparalleled number of millenials will remain unmarried. The marriage rate is predicted to drop to 70 % , and this is 10-20% lower than the last three generations. Does marriage have an image problem ?

Especially ‘Black Love’ has been disregarded, and given less respect. Now is the time to change the narrative , and to give ‘Black Love’ the attention it deserves. It is normal

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ol and Jennia are committed to telling stories that inspire and uplift couples and others around the world. As a power couple, collaborating team and owners of Full Frequency Media, the dynamic duo has worked with the likes of, Kevin Hart, Tiffany Haddish,Usher,Teyonah Parris, Pauletta Washington,V Bozeman, Akon, Miguel, Estelle and many more. Individually, Sol is a two-time Emmy Award Nominee with 17 years of experience in the television industry. Jennia is an accomplished actor and has held series regular and recurring roles on NBC, CW, ABC, BET, Centric and more. Her love for the arts has moved her into writing and directing, a passion she is equally excited about. Collectively, the award winning power couple, has found their strength in creating “projects with a purpose”. Their newest partnership with REVOLT TV is the Anatomy Series, a six part docu-series created to elevate and educate the audience on the wealth of the black experience, with Jennia as the director and writer of this series, and Sol as the producer. The next series “Anatomy of a Black Love” will air Feb.14th on Revolt. Producer Sol and Director/Writer Jennia Aponte are not waiting for the change to fall on their lap. They have both decided to create, and not to let themselves drown in the ocean of yesterday’s grief. The Aponte’s are setting an example to all of those, who lost their faith in love. Balanced, caring , and purposeful are the perfect description of the power couple Aponte.

Right picture , photographed by Luc-Richard Elie IG @LRisMyName

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Hi and thank you for marinating us with Black Love this month ! Before we dive into these questions. We want to know how long have you been together and what is the purpose of your union ? We’ve been together for 12 glorious years.

Our purpose as a couple is to do what we came here on earth to do, and that is to live intentionally our purpose together.

How did y’all feel when you first saw each other? Jennia : It felt

kind of weird but still familiar, because the moment I saw him, it felt like home. A beautiful vibe, you know. Sol : I went to an event with my friend and there she was. The first time I saw her across the room I felt like “ I’m supposed to be here”.

Even though there was another guy trying to get her number or whatever , I still approached her and it felt like destiny.

Describe your partner in 3 words.

Jennia : Kind, caring and hilarious. Sol : Woman from heaven.

And that’s also what her name, Jennia means in Arabic.

Has there been a time when you both wanted to give up on your marriage? If so, how did you overcome this temptation? Actually no, it such a blessing to have someone you’re equally yoked with. It has been a great journey so far, it doesn’t even feel like 12 years.

To honor and celebrate our love again, we are renewing our vows this year.

How is it like to work with your wife/ husband? Jennia : It’s amazing, I

love working with him, because we both do what we love and it makes things easier, we do communicate a lot, when we’re working seperately. Sol : Working with her feels like purpose. It’s so important to have a partner you can talk with on the same level of passion and interest

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In honor of Black History Month, who For Sol : Do you think chivalry is still a stood out the most for you in history ? thing these days? Sol : In my life it Jennia : For me the person who stood out to me for this month is Kobe Bryant. For 3 different reasons. One, he was an amazing father. Second, he did so much for the community and lastly the love and adoration he received after his death was so heartfelt . I highly value seeing a positive and uplifting image of a black man in the media.

Sol : For me I have to say, King Mansa Musa from the Mali Empire. He is the richest man to ever have lived.

His story is helping to change the narrative and perspective on how well structured black people can be.

Why did you decide to be a producer/ writer or let me ask the question this way. What has inspired you to choose this career path ? Jennia : I started writing at a very young age. My mother got me my first journal when I was 7 years old.

As a teenager I’ve started acting but over time I was dissatisfied with the roles I was being offered. Always the girlfriend, the fiancee, the angry black woman.

I’m much more than that and me deciding to be behind the camera as a director was the best decision for me. The purpose behind that is to be able to navigate storytelling from our perspective in a beautiful way, so that our people can feel uplifted and proud.

Sol : Yeah same here, changing the narrative one project at a time, little by little is what fulfills the purpose of this carreer path as a producer in television.

What is one thing you argue the most about ? We don’t argue much. We’ve learned over the years that trying to express your emotions while you’re angry is the wrong way to solve a problem. Forcing someone to understand your toxic emotions will lead you nowhere. One thing that has helped us to communicate better and understanding the language of love is by reading books together. Such as : Spiritual growth by Sanaya Roman, listening to Esther Hicks for motivation. Focus on the positive and stop blaming your partner to feed your ego. Oneness and love is the key.

definitely is a thing. I didn’t grew up with my father until I was 16, so I had to learn it. Being chivalrous is a form of giving and an expression of love. To love requires axtion and there is nothing wrong in showing a woman that attention. I think nowadays, especially in this generation images and music plays a big part to what we are programmed to vibrate to. It’s not that cool to treat and honor a woman like that.

For Jennia : What does ‘Love’ mean to you ? Jennia : Love is purpose,

partnership, individual growth, contagious, universal, can cancel out thousands of negativity, it is powerful and it heals.

You guys have written & produced your newest 6 part docu-series called ‘ The Anatomy of Black Love ‘ that aired yesterday on RevoltTV. Why do you think promoting Black Love is important for the culture?

Jennia : It’s time to focus on loving ourselves and each other. Although some stereotypes about the broken black family, the black man and woman may be true. I understand that, I grew up in Gary,Indiana and got to witness all of that. To change something requires another perspective and method. To celebrate our love and greatness is a part of that change. Sol : It’s normal and okay to feel comfortable and free to show who you love.

And i think the fact that it is written, directed and produced by a black couple is powerful and empowering for the culture.

How do you want to be remembered individually and as a couple ? Jennia: I want to be remembered for the woman who made life easier, better and fun. A woman who offered her talents and gifts to the world. Sol :I want to be remembered as a man of integrity who used his talents to change the world of others for the better.

Both : Collectively, we want to be remembered for the depiction of possibilty love can offer limitlessly.

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Black Pepper Magazine

3 Key Steps To Keep Your Business Relevant

By Rosalyn L. Farmer @msrosalynofficial

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onsumers demand a great customer experience, strong brand values and, often, the ability to influence and shape the products they consume.

They are also able to dictate when, where and how they engage with brands, meaning businesses have to be more switched on than ever before. And, in a climate where independent reviews and recommendations hold so much sway, businesses simply cannot afford to ignore those voices. To be relevant, your brand needs to be affordable, accessible and show empathy. The price, location and trust are the key factors people consider when deciding what brand to buy, so businesses need to ensure they are addressing each area. Consumer expectations change over time though, which is why the establishment of a transparent relationship with customers is so crucial. Tracking what your customers are saying about your products, your services and your industry keeps you one step ahead and is your chance to learn about their behaviors, habits and preferences. By doing this you can adapt and change as needed, building trust and advocacy along the way. For a good example of this strategy in practice, look no further than Coca-Cola, who go one step further from listening to their audience by actually collaborating with them and utilizing user content in their marketing. Their years of running TV

commercials challenged the world through showing “sips” of “sharing what it feels like when they take a sip of Coke” and is a great example of a brand determined to connect with their customers. Collaborations are an effective way of remaining relevant in the eyes of your customers and crucial to the growth of businesses. Failing to listen to customers is a huge reputational risk and a missed opportunity when it comes to building customer loyalty. With consumers increasingly able to influence not only what they buy, but also what others buy, through customer reviews and social media word of mouth, it is becoming increasingly important for businesses to understand what their customers care about. Own your journey and stay constant through evolving to ensure that not only do you stay relevant, but lead the way in driving innovation in the field of customer relationship management. Ensure service remains the top-rated in your sector, but every innovation, tweak or change of direction makes direct connections. Your supporters will appreciate it.

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Black Pepper Magazine

The Next Generation of Cellular Tech, 5G

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oday’s mobile users want faster data speeds and more reliable service. The next generation of cellular tech, 5G. It promises to deliver that, and much more. With 5G, users should be able to download a high-definition film in under a second. Remember that long bus ride or when you came from work and had to take the train. Sitting for one hour , and doing absolutely nothing except from staring outside. A new episode of your favorite series is online, and you want to download it. A task that could take 10 minutes on 4G LTE. This problem is solved with 5G. IT Experts say that these networks will boost the development of other new technologies like Internet of Things, Virtual Reality and autonomous vehicles. Telecommunications companies agree on one matter : As the number of mobile users and their demand for data rises, 5G must handle far more traffic at much higher speeds than the base stations that make up today’s cellular networks. 5G represents increased economic opportunity through improved access to social services, such as health care, education, transportation, energy, employment, and even public safety for communities of color, and any other vulnerable group that lacks access to a reliable broadband connection. This attribute is particularly important for African-Americans and Hispanics who have become increasingly reliant on mobile networks for broadband connectivity, while experiencing a degree of isolation from institutional and social services.

Who created 5G ? China has launched its 5G national network and started commercial operation on November 1, 2019. Is it damaging for your health ? Although 5G may improve our day to day lives some consumers have voiced concern about potential health risks. Such as damaging DNA that can lead to cancer, oxidative damage that can cause premature aging, disrupting cell metabolism that leads to other diseases through stress. What countries have 5G already ? The top countries are South Korea, UK, Germany and the U.S .

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IN THE WORLD OF “5G SPEED”, HE IGNORED HER WITH “NETWORK ISSUES”

Black Pepper Magazine

BLACK PEPPER MAGAZINE

Thank you for purchasing a digital copy of the feb issue.

We appreciate your support.

We have one last annoucement to make. We’re introducing the Black Pepper Mag Affiliate Program.

Storytelling from every social milieu is rarely seen , and that is what seperates us from the rest. Afrogermans, African-Americans, Afro-Caribbeans, Afro-Latinos, Africans etc. have you seen that being promoted in the mainstream media ? Oh, I’m not talking about those ‘black is beautiful’ trends. I’m talking about being normalized. Just being human, you feel me ?

Great. Now that you’re ready to start the BPMag Affiliate Program with the right mindset. I almost forgot to say, remember to never loose yourself in the noise to appeal ‘as if’ on social media. If you’re a blogger already than this program is definitely for You ! But if you’re using social media just for fun than throw the whole partnership idea away.

Earn money while moving the culture forward. The change doesn’t happen unless we come together as one, start the partnership today : https://blackpeppermag.tapfiliate.com/programs/bpmag-affiliate-program/signup/

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