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TABLE OF CONTENTS
What’s INSIDE
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Beauty, Fashion, and Lifestyle We are introducing you to Charlton Inije, who is this month’s Beauty of the Month. He is an up and coming photographer who likes to capture the world through his lens and isn’t afraid of stepping in front of the camera. Special spotlights are on some amazing men doing great things in the areas of beauty and fashion, from celebrity makeup to working with huge brands, creating fashion content. It’s Spring time, so we want to get you ready with some quick circuit routines by fitness trainer Delroy McDonald.
Travel This month’s Black travel section is dedicated to the gentlemen who are showing us how to travel internationally in Central America, the UEA, and Africa. Our Travel and Leisure Editor Bri Ric is letting us in on her secrets on where to travel domestically. Sometimes, you just need a quick getaway trip that doesn’t break the budget.
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Black fatherhood is such an important conversation topic within our community, and we wanted you to hear from two amazing fathers who brighten up our days with their social media posts. Read what it means to be a Black father to them, and why it’s important to set a great example for their kids.
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Conversations on Black Fatherhood
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Cover & Feature: Vernon Davis We are delighted and blessed to have the powerhouse that is Vernon Davis to grace our cover. From winning the superbowl to multiple deals in television and film, there is nothing he can’t do. He is a man of manifesting what he wants and doesn’t settle for anything less. We checked in with him and how he has been able to manifest EVERYTHING HE DESIRES.
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It’s About the Brand This issue is full of brand builders and we want to give you some insights on how to build your own brand, how to tell your story and pitch it.
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Entertainment and Music
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You are all in for a treat as we have interviewed some of your favorite celebrities in acting and music. Learn why Salli Richardson-Whitfield is Hollywood’s most sought after TV director, and the revolutionary program that is Inside The Black Box hosted by Joe Morton and Tracey Moore. Learn from their successes and how they keep true to their brand.
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People Who Inspire Us
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It’s about their stories and journeys which inspire us, and we want you all to get inspired to take the chance, leap of faith, and do what you were called to do. These people aren’t just living the dream, they are the dream because each day they are doing what they love and making an impact. www.theofficialblackmagazine.com
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How to Manifest Something by Writing it Down in 6 Steps
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Ever wanted something so badly, but it never comes to be? Then, maybe it’s time to try and manifest it into your life. We receive the energy we put out into the world, so if there is something you really want, it’s time to align yourself with your goals. Have you ever asked yourself, ‘how can I manifest something on paper?’. Well, using the power of the written word, we are going to explore how to write down the things in your life that you want to manifest into existence. So, open your mind, grab a pen and let’s get manifesting! What is manifestation? Manifestation is an interesting aspect of the law of attraction. Essentially, when you want to attract something into your life – for example, money, relationships, or a new job – you visualize yourself already having that thing so that your energy aligns with a state of being that is open to receiving what you want. The philosophy is that when we are in a mindset of scarcity – in this case lacking the thing we want – our energy does not match the energy we would have if we attained it, and so the universe doesn’t know how to bring it to us. It’s like having two magnets. In your current state, you are repelling what you want. But when you change your mentality to align with a state of being where you have what you want, your inner magnet flips and attracts precisely that. So how can writing help you manifest what you desire into your life? The 6 Steps for Manifesting Something By Writing It Down 1. Choose your journal You are going to be using this journal daily, so make sure it’s a journal you enjoy writing in. Also, make sure you choose a notebook with quality paper that provides a pleasant writing experience.You’ll also want to consider whether you prefer lined, dotted, or plain paper. And make sure you have a pen you love using too! 2. Say it in a sentence Like a headline on a news article, start by summing up what you want in one sentence. This will give you a base to develop from.Don’t worry about writing it properly or wording it correctly; just get something written down.It can feel overwhelming to start writing your inner desires, which is why starting with one sentence will help you ease your way in.
3. Expand your thoughts The key to manifesting what you want is specificity. You need to know exactly what you want and why you want it. Otherwise, you may end up manifesting something you weren’t expecting. Start with your what. What exactly do you want? For example, if you want money, how much do you want? If you want a new job, what career field or position are you looking for? Pinpoint what you want as precisely as you possibly can. Next, write down your why. Why do you want to manifest this? What will it add to your life? Continuing with the examples above, if you want money, what do you want to spend it on? If you are looking for a new job, why do you want that specific job? What attributes attract you? Your answers should be so specific that you are able to create a clear picture in your head of exactly what you want. 4. Create mantras and affirmations Now you have the specifics nailed down, it’s time to start the manifestation process. Experienced manifesters will know that affirmations and mantras are integral parts of the process. That’s because these words and phrases serve as reminders to yourself of your overarching goal. You can search for affirmations and mantras to use online, but for the best success, you should try and create your own that are relevant to the thing you want to manifest. A good number of affirmations is three to five. 5. Daily repetition Every morning, crack open your manifestation journal and re-write your affirmations. By doing this, you are reminding not only yourself but the universe at large, your intentions for your life. It sets the intention for your day and serves as a reminder to live your day in a way befitting your desire. It will also help you guide your actions to align with your manifestation goals, making it more likely that you will attract what you want. 6. Regular reviews Manifestation takes work. Every day, you need to repeat your mantras and act in alignment with your “new life.” Usually, the things you want manifest gradually as opposed to in the blink of an eye. As such, it can be hard to track your progress. So make sure you check in at least once a week to see if you are making any progress in your manifestation goals. And if you aren’t, how can you tweak your actions, so your energy better aligns with it?
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SKIN DEEP Written by Beauty and Skincare Specialist - Danita Rodriguez
I’m not sure how deep we’re diving, but if we can just get our big toe in the water with this one, then we’ve got somewhere. So for anyone reading this, give yourself a round of applause, we’ve taken the first step together on a subject most of us try to avoid. Let’s face it, men are very simple when it comes to skincare and male grooming. What I have learned in the Beauty Industry might be very interesting for most of you. Most men go for what they think works, and really that is it. It’s been a 50/50 draw on my experiences, working and teaching men how to properly work on skincare and grooming techniques. Some facts I’ve learned include; • Most men don’t like using 5 skincare products. • Most men will wash/scrub with a rag and maybe put body lotion on their face, or just do nothing. • Most men look at male grooming and get scared believing it’s too feminine. • Most men do not know how to properly apply products. • Most men do not know the difference between an eye cream, serum, daily moisturizer, and night cream. • Most men just simply don’t believe in it. Then, there are these kinds of men…. ; • They know skincare. • They know routines. • They know products. • They know grooming. • They are open to learning. • They are willing to learn. So here we are, and now you know the differences and preferences. If you are willing to learn how to enhance your routine, to learn some beneficial information, or just read thism for fun, we’re not diving today but we are touching the surface and that’s what it’s all about. First, let me say this, I really enjoy teaching and working with men in the industry on skincare and grooming. The fact that a lot of men are very open, and do want to make adjustments and changes they haven’t been taught, sounds like a theory on another subject. Ok! let me stop. So yes guys, let’s break it down for facts: You should definitely INVEST in: • Cleanser: it helps wash dirt/oil and dead skin cells away. • Serum: Most men will not take this step. However, if you do, then it will be beneficial for anti-aging, fine lines and wrinkles. • Moisturizer: This is vital for daily moisture and to protect the skin’s moisture barrier. • Eye Cream: This is an area that is constantly forgotten about, but it is the first area a person look at. It’s so important as we age to care for this area, as it is the thinnest, most fragile skin of our
entire body. If you didn’t know that, now you do. Now, I understand most men have facial hair and it’s either they keep it well groomed or they shave constantly, which could cause other issues such as; • Razor bumps • Ingrown hairs • Textured skin • Black heads • Hyper-pigmentation • Dry/ Rough Skin If you have any of these issues make sure you are using products that contain salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, and Hyaluronic Acid. These acids might sound scary, but trust me they will address a lot of issues at hand. Also, an astringent and toner is always good to clean pores and close them up. It’s ok to have a routine that you want to stick with, however, if you incorporate one of these steps and add them into your routine, it will only benefit you. If you are in the industry as an actor, artist, entrepreneur, face of a company, or just even in the public eye, these are enhancements that will definitely help and give you the confidence you desire and need to look your best. Your face, hair, and grooming should have that same energy put into it. If you are a busy man and you feel you have limited time and can’t get into a routine, the best advice I would give you which would have major benefits is to invest in a skin care specialist and book a facial or two, in a month. Facials are beneficial and amazing at the same time and can also be a nice stress reliever because we know you all work hard! The kings deserve the same beauty treatments as women, and deserve to be pampered as well. So ladies and gentlemen, I hope this article was beneficial to you, a partner, or a friend. I’m excited to get my legs in the water next time, but we need to test the temperature first.
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Black Fatherhood As a black man what does it mean to you to be both a father and a husband? As a black man, to be a father and husband is a gift and privilege. It means that God has entrusted me enough to give me the opportunity to guard, govern, and give to my children and wife. Both titles are my greatest achievements in life and keeps me grounded and humble because I understand not everyone gets this opportunity. My goal is to lead by example for my family and for others that aspire to become a husband and father someday.
What are some of the joys of fatherhood? Some of the joys of fatherhood are endless. I love laughing and joking with my children. We try to say our affirmations daily and the coolest thing about this is I start catching them saying them on their own. I love to give them flowers and ice cream. One of the biggest blessings is the ability to mold them in a way that will eventually make them successful adult. I love to teach them things that I wish I knew as a kid. Watching them grow is a huge joy but also sad at the same time, but hey I guess they can’t stay small forever. I am their biggest cheerleader and supporter.
What are some of your concerns and worries raising your black children in this world? I don’t have any worries or concerns. The reason for this is I am rooted in my faith and I don’t walk in fear, therefore I am instilling the values of confidence, faith, and no fear to my children. The scripture that I live by is “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love and a sound mind.” -2 Timothy 1:7. I have conditioned my mindset to not allow the worries of this world to sway who I am and what I believe. My goal is that my children will inherent this same mindset in how they carry themselves and walk in total confidence and control of themselves.
What examples do you strive to showcase your children so they understand how they should be treated as well as treat others? Some examples that I strive to showcase for my children are to: • Always be respectful • Lead by example • Always show gratitude • Be diligent in your work •
Affirmations to instill self-confidence and a strong belief in
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themselves Love yourself first so that you can love others accordingly Foster a motivating, positive, and encouraging environment
Character and integrity is non-negotiable Promote healthy and respectful boundaries with themselves and people
When it comes to a positive role model why is it important that you are one of the first positive images they have? As their father, I am the first to show them what right looks right. I take this role very seriously and pride myself in leadership by example. If they don’t learn what’s right at home, then the world may have its way. I am not leaving this up to chance, although all things in this world is not bad, what’s promoted tend to be not fruitful for any child’s upbringing in my opinion. I strive to show them how to be loved by how I express my love to my wife, the manner and tone that I communicate to them, things we learn together, and the positive environment that we create.
For other fathers who might have difficulties adjusting to fatherhood what advice would you give them? For fathers that may have difficulties adjusting to fatherhood, understand that there is no manual or one size fits all approach to fatherhood. Be gracious with yourself and understand that we are not perfect and mistakes will happen. But, keep your head in the game, you are needed and extremely important to your family’s dynamic and success. Being a father is the most challenging title you will have but you are up for the challenge, you are leader, your children believe in you. You will make it happen! Believe in yourself, keep a positive attitude and outlook, and always strive to become a better man daily. Make it your purpose to get 1% better everyday, brick by brick, so that you can become your best authentic self for your children.
Lastly, what is something you want your children to take with them through life? Some things that I want my children to take with them through life is to have unwavering faith, walk in their purpose, be confident, and financial literacy and behavior will make your life 100x more successful.
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“I think my first words were, I want to be an actor.” Growing up in a small town in Ohio, Danielle Nicolet always had her eyes and heart set on Hollywood. At a young age, she tried to convince her mother to move them to San Francisco because her favorite show was based there. “()I thought if I lived there, then I could be on the show,” said Nicolet. Even then, she was ready to take on Hollywood. Luckily, as a kid she was a gymnast, which allowed her to visit Southern California frequently to train. Danielle said, “ It was off to the races from there,” because when she was fourteen, she expressed to her mother that she wanted to pursue her acting dream. Her mother supporting her dream made it happen for her.
“I get to play characters on television like the ones I watched growing up.” Danielle has acting credits that range in all genres of television and movies. You can watch her on something sci-fi one day to something more comedic, which is a testament to her versatility as an actress. “Part of it is dumb luck and the other half is just enthusiasm,” said Nicolet when I asked how she has been able to not only sustain a long career but a diverse one in Hollywood. When these type of roles come her way, she takes them with honor because she becomes that representation she needed as a kid. Danielle said, “it’s fun to see ourselves as Black women represented on television in a way that is fun, quirky, and cool.” These roles mean she can continue to inspire kids who look like her across the country to see themselves and see the opportunity to pursue their dreams of acting. She is determined to make sure representation is there, so she will work multiple jobs and sacrifice sleep as long as the representation is made on her part.
“I turned my career into a tortoise and the hare situation.”
Danielle Nicolet sets her own boundaries in Hollywood by: Michael Cox
She doesn’t just take any job as she has turned down multiple opportunities that didn’t align with her brand. “I could have been a lot more famous, a lot faster,” said Nicolet. When she speaks about representation, she also means representing herself in such a way that she is comfortable with the character and story being offered. There were some high-profile role opportunities she turned down because they didn’t align with her principles. Danielle said, “I had to know that meant I would have to go on more auditions and trust that the appropriate roles would come to me.” This is important to her because she wants to make sure boundaries are set for writers, directors, and producers to know what she will and will not take as an actor. These boundaries are set to protect not only her brand but her peace of mind in knowing she can always look back and be happy with the decisions she made.
“Be willing, be present, and do your job well.” She wants actors, new and veterans, to remember not to block their blessings. It’s easy to get caught up where you think you should be or in what roles should have been yours. “Some things just don’t work out the way that we intended them to and there is nothing we can do about that,” said Nicolet. You just have to trust the process, keep pushing forward, and show up as if it's your big moment each time. But remember, it’s okay to say “NO" to a role that doesn't represent you well and if it’s not what you want to put out there. Danielle said, “the internet is forever, so that’s something we have to always think about.”
Actress + Writer + Advocate
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