Issue 15 - DomiNque Perry

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Table TofContents able ofContents

Stars

CEO & Publisher

Michael Cox

Chief Operating Officer Anthony

Director of

Curtis J Moore

Contributors

Gloria Peebles

Fashion &

Director Jazmine Hill

Director of

Tffany Coffman

Director of

Cammie Johnson

Director of

Kalika Hastings

Cora Stephens

Editor

NaShaye Jackson

Sports Editor

Marcus Greaves

Editor Danita Rodriguez

Travel & Leisure Editor Bri Rice

Arts &

Tre'lon Grant

Allison Chick

Tyroneca Booker Griffin Christine Black Juaneca Harris Taylor Michelle Kaila Haith Tre’lon Grant

D’Andre Head Ramona Rodgers Sabrina Carrington Zachary Weg Marquis Taylor

Dominique Carson Lareashia Jackson

Photography Credit

DomiNque Perry Cover Shoot

Photographer Curtis Moore Stylist Jazmine Hill MUA Londyn Juwelz Hair Lace Miller

Iyana Halley Digital Cover Shoot

Photographer Curtis Moore Stylist Tosha Hartzog Assisting Stylist Heath MUA Kimberly Slack Hair Lace Miller

BlueDress Dress: RC Caylan Atelier Jewelry: The Gabrielle New York Shoes: Twelve AM

YellowDress Dress: Bani Pasricha Earrings: Anna Zuckerman luxury Rings: The Gabrielle New York Shoes: (not shown at all)

OrangeTwoPiece

Two piece: Harbison Necklace: Pave the way Jewelry Rings: Adore Adorn & The Gabrielle New York Shoes: Jessica Rich

THIS ONE IS FOR THE Dreamers

This issue is for the dreamers. Those individuals who never give up on their pursuits because the road gets tough or they have setbacks. As an Entertainment and Lifestyle publication we interview a wide variety of people. The one thing they all have in common besides exemplifying black excellence, they never gave up. Their stories and journeys illustrate how much one has to believe in themselves to make it. This belief has to be met with an uncompromising level of determination.

There is something special about a person who never quits even though that option seems like the only one available. They persevere and stay the course even when they don’t feel or think they have arrived YET.

But I think we should change that mindset because the moment we make the decision to pursue our dreams we are on the way or as I say “arriving.” Now this arrival time isn’t preset by Google Maps so you don’t know the exact ETA and just like when we travel sometimes we might need to take a few detours. But in the end we arrive at the destination we set.

For those reasons, I chose DomiNque Perry aka Dom as our Cover Star for Issue #15. She represents most of us who are still figuring it out on a daily basis. Giving up is never an option for this dynamic beauty with a bigger personality to match. In an industry with many moving parts the one thing that will remain the same is Dom staying true to herself and her Hollywood pursuit. If a door won’t open for her then she is ready to make her own door that she can open without anyone's approval.

I hope that within this issue and all issues past and future you are in continued inspiration through the stories. Stories are one of the strongest examples that bonds us and reminds us that we aren’t alone in what we are experiencing.

CEO & Publisher Michael Cox

"I TRY TO LIVE IN THE MOMENT, IT DOES NOT MATTER HOW SIMPLE IT IS"

by NaShaye Jackson

Do you think with your heart or your head? And how has that helped or hurt you?

I think with my head, and I am very logical. Thinking with your head keeps you balanced. It allows you to think about your interactions, relationships and things of that nature from a more logical perception. And probably the safest way to think. I feel the heart can be stronger than the head sometimes, so it is a challenge. Sometimes, the heart will take over, and in those times you have to say forget it and go the opposite direction. I'm a cancer and we are emotional at times. I recognize this and I try to lead with my head.

How does Deji LaRay begin his morning, and how do you keep it balanced?

That's a good question because I've been trying to find more of that balance. I get emails, text messages and all of that in the morning that I respond to immediately. So, that's the first thing I do when I rise. And once I get that out of the way, I'm dedicating time to myself. Now, I can go on my hike and hit the juice bar. I try to catch up with family members, and sometimes I follow up on what's happening in the world. After all of that, I'm back to work. Either I'm writing, on zoom calls and things like that.

What has been the biggest lesson for you since being in the industry?

The biggest lesson for me is you have to be satisfied with where you are at all times. You have to be. We often compare ourselves and our careers, saying we'd trade this position for that when there are so many people who want to be in your position. I'm satisfied right where I am. That doesn't mean I don't want more or that I am not striving for more. But at this moment I can't find myself unfulfilled. I have no room. I have to count my blessings because at the end of the day, none of this matters. So you have to celebrate your every accomplishment at every level. Success only lasts as long as you're alive to enjoy it.

Has your pride ever got in the way and caused you to lose something important?

Naturally, I'm very proud. I can say that my pride gets in the way sometimes. I am not sure if it caused me to lose something really important but maybe it's got to a point where it caused disruption. But again, thinking with your head allows you to overcome your pride. I see thinking with the heart as pride. Pride is an emotional reaction to something. Pride is the downfall of so many people. It is the downfall of relationships. Although, It could be a negative thing and a positive thing. I think it's important to have pride in yourself, in your thoughts and opinions. But it's only important when you have control of it.

Let's talk about your show Johnson, and the brotherhood among you four. Is it true that brotherhood is formed in the adult life of men or does it begin in an adolescent stage? Yes, we had a unique opportunity with this show to highlight Black men and women in a way that reflects the mass majority of us. I had a brotherhood in middle school and high school. Though, I understand how relationships aren't connected as they are once you mature because when you're young you're not necessarily mature enough to see the value. When you're young all it takes to be friends is to hang out, party, pick up on girls, go to basketball games and everything within that. Once you get older, those friendship dynamics change because now you or most of your friends are married, have families, and own multiple businesses. So the conversations are different.

In the show, we have Black men being more vulnerable, who also have pride and sometimes have to put pride aside. As men, we become a little more emotionally intelligent and learn how to express ourselves a lot more. That's why I think the concept of "Brotherhood" is stronger in men. That is when we began to experience the world as Black men in America. And we're recognizing the importance of having someone to share those expressions and having a safe space to do so. Brotherhood is for sure a stronger bond as you get older.

Hollywood's newest IT Girl

Iyana Halley is making her way to becoming Hollywood’s newest IT Girl. With movies under her belt like one of the most loved dramas True to The Game as Bria, Nineteen Summers as Porsha, an appearance in The Hate U Give and starring as one of the main characters in the new action movie, Beast, released in August of 2022. Iyana plays Meredith Samuels, the oldest daughter of Dr Nate Samuels (Idris Elba), whose fearlessness and tenacity are tested by the wildlife of South Africa. She's now the IT girl that you once overlooked but her star power, dedication to her craft and her charismatic personality made it quite impossible to do so. Iyana is letting the world know that she's in this game to win and as long as the ball is in her court, she's going to continue to play.

Moving to L.A is believed to be one of the best routes for those who're chasing a dream bigger than themselves because of its unlimited opportunities, the city is a hotspot for actors, actresses, producers, directors, designers, models etc. L.A is an entire community of success of its own. "I feel like L.A is the hub for actors, in my opinion. I felt like it was the best move I could have made professionally. Even when I first came out here it was a little slow but it started picking up, and 99% of my acting jobs have been here in L.A. So I think moving here was a pretty solid move."

As exciting as the Land of Milk and Honey is, and the plethora of experiences it offers for your career, there are a lot of stars and influencers residing there. But Iyana has scored her way to working with household-named actors and actresses such as Vivica A. Fox, Columbus Short, Megan Good, Lance Gross, Starletta DuPois, Bre-Z, Rotimi and more. Well, as the greats say you are who you hang with, and being the It girl was recently added on to her resume."Oh my God! It's super, super, super exciting. Everything just feels amazing. I'm still new and certain things make me nervous. But it's a good nervous." Iyana expresses the high life of her career.

How do you take care of your mental health now that you have so much going on?

I try to meditate every night, and I mean try because sometimes I get a little busy. So, at least ten minutes to just zone out from the world. I'm very spiritual as well. So, I thank God every day for the blessings. In this industry, everything doesn't go your way and that can take a toll on your mind. So, I thank God every day for what I do have. Understanding that everything is God's timing and in God's plan, and at the end of the night realize that everything will be okay. So, I have to meditate.

Your role in the newest action movie "Beast" is very active, very intense. Even though the lion wasn't real, did you ever become afraid of a potential lion that was chasing you? Girl, I was really scared Let me tell you! South Africa is really like Africa. As I'm running, I'm like, oh my gosh what if I fall and hurt myself? Also there are wild animals out there. I was nervous. But it worked for the character too because she's scared and she's gone through a lot. So, a lot of the real emotions would translate on camera. I was like the lions are just going to have to eat me because I was really scared! The character Mer is so fearless, that nothing can stop her. But Iyana is the total opposite. That was the funny part about it too.

by NaShaye Jackson

Iyana shares some of the things she wished she had learned before she made her way to Hollywood to help her further success in her career.

"A lot of people like to use you, and sometimes because I'm so sweet and friendly people have tried to take advantage of me. So today, I'm asking questions like okay, are you trying to be my friend? Or are you trying to gain something that you shouldn't be trying to gain? You always have to remain humble. I see people coming up and I'm like okay, they're doing too much. Just seeing that from other people reminds me to be humble, solid and to be yourself."

If you were to meet yourself, how would you describe Iyana?

If I was to meet Iyana, I would describe HER as someone who is very, very focused and motivated. Very driven and talented, of course. Also, just very creative. Even when she's not acting she does something that keeps her creativity flowing. Whether that's sewing, making shea butter or whatever the case may be.

RUCKER

by: Michael Cox

This is a show about power, influence, and community. There are secrets kept and secrets told but one thing for sure is the Johnsons and Brittons won’t back down from one another.

I spoke with Lamman Rucker who stars as tech mogul Anthony Johnson. The Black Hamptons is the modern day Dynasty and Dallas with several twists included. Amongst the families there's a new element of money, tech money. The Brittons are led by the matriarch Carolyn Britton played by Vanessa Bell Calloway who is head of the bank in the community so all monies go through her.

Cox: Lamman, how important is a mini series like this that depicts new and old money with black people at the forefront and with the extra element of technology to keep it current.

Rucker: Both elements are important to me, which is what attracted me to the story beyond the amazing partnerships involved. I adore working again with Tri Destined Studios because I’ve done some significant projects with them and big shout outs to BET + and Paramount Global.

The Black Hamptons lets us re-image what it looks like for a wealthy Black community with families who have legacies that extend generations. It’s not just old money versus new money, it's the battle of traditions and seeing Black people in roles such as tech startup founders.

His character comes from a long lineage of brilliant people who didn’t have the access to capital so you see what it looks like when our community has access to capital and resources to start and grow a business.

“What I really look forward to beyond the four episodes is hopefully being able to show a deeper side to Anthony.”

Cox: So this tension between the Johnsons and Brittons, how would you describe it?

Rucker: There is a very common parallelism to both families when you actually look at it. This level of pride, protectiveness, responsibility, obligation and sometimes fear covering what you have rather you earned it or inherited it is what actually connects both families.

Rucker explained that this is a show that isn’t just about Anthony and Sydney (played by Elise Neal). It’s about them, their two kids and trying to fit into a new community. They just get off on the wrong foot and ruffle the feathers of the wrong family, which unfortunately is a way we learn sometimes.

Cox: From the trailer it looks like drama unfolds later for both families.

Rucker: With Anthony and Sydney you get to see wonderful, beautiful and positive things about their family but we might get to see a little of where they might need to work on some things. But with the Brittons they like to put a perfect image out there to the world but there's some dissension within the family. There are some secrets being kept that have been brewing for a while.

So Bank money versus Tech money?

The real question is who has the biggest power of influence and how will it be used to reign supreme.

“I have such a big broad personality and I’m a character within myself”

In a tough and competitive industry, DomiNque Perry strives to show that you can be authentic and transparent with your journey. She wants her journey to inspire others to keep going and never to give up because their time will come. In the world where many are playing checkers she is playing chess because she is thinking about what her next move will bring months and years from now. This is her life, journey and story!

Cox: Before we get into this interview I just have to say you are hilarious!

Perry: It’s because I’m from the South. We are loud, country and tell it like it is.

So I’ve never let that leave me. It’s part of my personality and it’s me. Honestly I think about a lot of people in this social media world and how everyone is focused on showcasing perfection. So I’m transparent because I want people to know it’s okay not to just show the highlights. Also sometimes I make posts just to remind people to laugh.

THE LOVE FOR ACTING & ENTERTAINMENT

“When I saw that video I said oh I’ve been drama, I’ve been the drama and I’ve been extra.”

Cox: Let’s get to it where did this love for acting come from.

Perry: I’ve been doing this since I was young. Real quick story! I have a video that my mom recorded on VHS at my second birthday party we had at Chuck E Cheese. My mom opened up a card from my grandmother which had 10 dollars in it. My mom showed me the money and you see me pretending to faint and everything because I acted like it was a million dollars.

Cox: What is it about acting you love?

Perry: I just love entertaining. It gives me joy when I make people happy, sad or mad with the roles I play. It let’s me know that I’m doing my job! I love to engage people! It’s been a part of me forever and I have never thought about doing anything else EVER!

Cox: So DomiNque with your love for dance and acting is there one you prefer?

Perry: I love them both equally. I would love to do something where I could showcase my talent in both fields. I would have to say acting because it’s more of a career for me and has always been at the forefront. Mikey I just love being in front of the camera.

Cox: So tell me how did you get to LA? Perry: I moved to LA in 2016 after living in Atlanta. I moved to Atlanta to get my career going because sadly in Houston there isn’t any filming happening. After a few years in Atlanta I was able to land a role in Get Hard starring Kevin Hart and T.I. So I told myself I was going to use that bit of momentum I had and move to LA so I could be an audience for things during pilot season.

DomiNque hustled her way while living in LA during that first year. She gave herself three months to try out the city. Within those three months she was staying at an Airbnb and even worked at the infamous Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffle off Pico and La Brea. It was her determination that made her say she wasn’t going back to the A and was going to make LA work for her by any means necessary.

by: Michael Cox

CONVERSATIONS WITH

Cox: This business is tough and you never know when your next gig will come, how do you deal with it?

Perry: I’m a believer and we don’t know what God and the universe is doing with our lives and has in store for us. There is so much that goes on in this industry so I just talk to my mom and God when it gets tough. I talk to my mom because she is my best friend and God because he is my creator. It’s hard to talk to other people at times and I know God is going to be the one to make the changes in my life that I need.

“I have to have God in my life.”

DomiNque said that it doesn’t matter if she is in a joyful spirit or one of sadness she talks to God and gives it all to him. But she has started something different where instead of asking him for what she wants, she thanks him for what she's going to get. She is thanking him and changing the way she prays so that she attracts and manifests what she wants.

Cox: God is really the center of everything for you in this industry?

Perry: He is because you never know when you will get that role that hits. I’ve learned to talk and cry to God even more now because this is what keeps me in the race. My faith and his grace keeps me going and never to quit because those things might not happen right now that doesn’t mean my time isn’t coming.

Cox: Most people don’t know you are a dancer too! Perry: Yes I have been dancing all my life as well, but acting is my career!

Cox: You really approach this industry as a business!

Perry: I love dancing, don't get me wrong but I also have to think about longevity. With acting I can do that until I’m in my 90s. This is a career that can take me to producing and directing one day! I always think about the future and where I can go with my next steps in the long run!

Cox: You mentioned you want to produce and direct later, why is that?

Perry: I just feel for me producing is the next step after acting because you get to create more and from your own perspective.

As a natural entertainer DomiNque doesn’t just want to be in front of the camera she wants to be behind it. Her love for entertaining goes far beyond just seeing herself, she wants to create and tell stories that aren’t told or haven’t been explored.

For me DoM as I call her now after getting to know is the true Hollywood dream. She represents the thousands of individuals who come to LA to make it a never give up! She is the epitome of perseverance, determination and faith.

PhotoCredit:IanMaddox

by: Michael Cox

I had the pleasure of speaking with Thomas Q. Jones whom you either know from his professional football career or his thriving career in acting that currently spans 8 years. From on the field to the big screens he makes it his business to leave his mark in whatever he does. Acting was only the catalyst in his journey to tell the stories of others because now he is producing them. The field is where most of us met him but it is the screen, the paper and pen is where we get to feel, see and hear his perspective and how he wants to change the narrative for our community, culture, and especially black men.

Cox: So Thomas let's get straight into it, how was it going from the NFL to acting?

Jones: Honestly I had to play catch up after retiring from the NFL. I studied for four years straight taking acting classes for six hours a week year round. I was able to study under some amazing coaches and with talented actors. I had to humble myself to know that I was learning something new and that I wasn’t going to be great initially.

“This is what I was able to do as an actor and why I think I’ve had some success in my career”

In most professional sports athletes review the plays of the competition. This was the same strategy he applied to studying other actors in TV shows, stage plays and films. It would allow for him to react in a natural way rather than thinking of his next line or movement. Like in sports he wanted to make sure everything was second nature to him with any character he plays.

“I didn’t come into this business with a sense of entitlement”

Cox: How did you get the industry to take you seriously?

Jones: My first step was to convince everyone that I’m actually a good actor. They had to believe I know what I’m doing. This means they have to believe I’m the character I’m playing. I had to make sure that they could emotionally connect with me and live vicariously through the character on a certain level. This was necessary l so that I could earn the respect of other actors watching the television shows or films I’m in.

Cox: Where did this love for acting come from?

Jones: I’m a music guy and I had a music label for a few years while I was in the NFL. I loved managing artists and I actually had a record deal with Universal Music when I played for the Jets in New York. I never thought about acting until I produced a project and played the nephew of the legendary Clifton Powell. He was the one who encouraged me to take acting seriously because he thought I had some talent. Clifton kept pushing so I dedicated myself to get a manager and see what can happen next.

It was acting that helped him grow more than he knew! This journey led to him reinventing himself because he was exposed to different perspectives, cultures and people in a way that was never available to him in the NFL. In the NFL the only perspective and culture is to win, but in acting he had to read and learn to understand, adapt and form to characters who at times are completely opposite to who he is fundamentally as a human being.

Cox: So tell me about the highly anticipated show Johnson Jones: In 2017 I met Deji who had already created Johnson. After he introduced it to me we agreed to produce it at the same time. Johnson is a dramedy about four black men who have been friends since elementary school. They all just so happen to have the last name Johnson.

Cox: What is something you love about what Johnson brings to television?

Jones: You get to see four black men who have different essences, complexions, energies, conflicts. With these characters you get to see black men being more than one dimensional as you usually see on the screen. The beauty comes from them all clicking together when you see them together even though they are all so different.

helped

connect

How did you get started on Youtube?

I technically didn't start on YouTube. My first food reaction video was made in November 2017. It was not something that was intentional. I just happened to come across a video and something in my spirit told me to record a video reacting to this. I recorded the video and posted it on Twitter. When I woke up the next morning, it had gone viral. After that, I decided to make more. I started YouTube because I thought I should have a library where these videos can be. I also put the videos on Instagram and Facebook. I've been able to diversify the content and have a strong following on several platforms because I made sure to share it on each platform and create a community in each place.

You’re extremely popular on all social media platforms. Do you have a favorite when it comes to expressing yourself?

I don't have a preferred platform, per se. I think I just know what content works best, depending on where it's going. Also, I think I often write very differently because I consider myself to be more of a hybrid creator because I work in TV, as well as with digital content. I worked on the Ellen DeGeneres Show for five years, and now I'm at Food Network doing shows with them I don't necessarily create or curate specific content. I make content based on what I'm feeling at the moment or something in pop culture that's trending. I think it's about being strategic and figuring out how different formats can work in different places.

You have expanded your career to unbelievable heights, even doing correspondence and co-hosting on the Ellen DeGeneres Show. How were you able to branch out onto other mediums of entertainment, including television?

I was only doing the food videos for a month before I got a call from Ellen. So I think the answer to your question is manifestation. I knew what I wanted and I aligned myself with what I knew I wanted. I told myself, “This is where I'm going to go ,and I'm not going to accept anything less than that.”

What is your advice for up and coming Black content creators? Youtubers, TikTokers, etc?

Do everything without expecting to be appreciated or rewarded? And that does not mean that you won't ever be rewarded or that you won't ever be appreciated, but find the audience that does appreciate you and just continue to make great content. Network horizontally. Find people that you can partner with. Find a cohort that you are able to make magic with. There's a lot of resources in that.

You are also a very talented singer. Was singing something that you were always interested in?

Singing is actually the first thing that I ever did I used to sing at multiple events in my hometown, Kansas City. I used to sing the national anthem at my high school basketball games and at Temple University. I've also done over 25 musicals and when I was in college my major was Theater.. Music has always been in my genes. It's something that has always been a passion of mine. I do not want to be a recording artist, but it’s a way for me to express myself creatively as an artist. I released a Christmas EP, For Christmas Sake in 2020 and now I'm working on another one called Growing Up Christmas. Also, on December 2, I'm going to do a Christmas show at 54 Below in New York City.

Do you think social media has created a space for Black people to be themselves?

I think social media has absolutely created a space for black people to be themselves. However, I do not believe that social media is paying us adequately and providing us with the same exposure and opportunities that are offered to our counterparts. and I don't know about you, but I get tired of having to work twice as hard, even with the privileges that I have had. There is a lot of having to prove yourself. When I am in a lot of these spaces, I notice that there are very few people that look like me that are getting the same opportunities. A lot of Black content creators that we still reference today have not been paid adequately and are struggling in their day to day lives today. I think it's unfortunate that black creators are often only used for laughs but never given the rewards.

What’s next for Kalen Allen?

I promise you you're gonna see a lot more of me on Food Network. Also, please get your tickets to come see me at 54 Below in December is going to be an absolutely wonderful experience and Holiday Spectacular that I'm so excited for. Now that Ellen is over and I am living in New York City, I'm in the space of figuring out, “Who is Kalen at age 32? And how do I get there?” I think now I'm in a space of producing more of writing more of finding my own products. Someone that is a big inspiration to me is Quinta Brunson. Watching her journey from making viral videos to creating content for Buzzfeed to starring and creating Abbott Elementary, is proof that there is so much left that you can do and that you do not have to be stuck in a box. No matter how many times someone says no, someone will eventually say yes, and you have to trust your timing for your own journey.

PhotoCredit:EmilyAssiran

Mel’s tweets have continuously gone viral for the past several years. From Morris Chestnut replying to her tweet about him to blogs stealing her comedy and claiming it as their own. “ The blogs would steal my tweets and take my name out of it and use it as their own,” said Mitchell. It became a snowball effect for her because the more she shared the more things would go viral and the more everyone would reshare her content as their own.

She didn’t just have to face her content being plagiarized but things being taken out of proportion. “It was a joke, and they were tripping on that song,” said Mitchell when told me about the time her tweet on how absurd parts of Cater 2 U by Destiny’s Child were.

The last several years Mel had been working tirelessly to find her niche on the internet something that would make her stand out. As she was scrolling through Instagram and saw a woman do a skit as a teacher on Europhia and she heard a voice in her head saying do it but make her black. “ It's going to be funny and change your life. I was like okay Jesus and I set up my tripod,” said Mitchell. Trusting her gut, intention and faith paid off for her because more than fifty videos later, celebrity reshares, and likes it's only the beginning.

Mel keeps it very black with her comedy skits and we love her for it. From Best Man to Player’s Club she will take us down memory lane with every post. “Because me watching it with my 28-year-old eyes is not the same as me watching it when I was younger,” said Mitchell. After analyzing these classics over, she makes references and points that make sense once you really look at some things such as Big Mama’s cooking didn’t look that good or the women in Two Can Play that game being well established in their careers at 28.

As she continues to grow in popularity on all social media platforms the opportunities and blessings keep coming her way. She would never have imagined that it would have gone this far where people are reaching out to her and talking to her about business opportunities for her because of her videos alone. Her advice to those who are looking for that break on social media is to trust your own instincts, keep working at it and try to find your THING. “You won’t know what the formula for success is, but once everything clicks you will know,” said Mitchell.

M I T C H E L

by: Michael Cox

You might have discovered Mel Mitchell on Instagram or TikTok because of her infamous Black teacher at Hogwarts, but her journey in virality started way before that. It was in the twitter world that she captured the attention of everyone, especially the blogs. Twitter is where she took her comedic genius and turned her twitter page into her own standup set made of black cultural tweets.

“I’ve been able to find my niche this year which you can’t take away from me. You can’t steal my material and crop my name out of it. This is my face, my voice, and I’ve written these jokes.”

“I make these skits for Black people.”

“My name is in a lot of rooms which I do not know about, which is amazing to me.”

A pioneer of the new rap era in his city, Kay Bandz is on a mission to put Montreal on the map and make international waves with his upcoming album “Charge it to the Game”. The Haitian-Canadian rapper is one of the only rappers from Montreal to have had collaborations with major artists such as Gunna, Lil Baby and Pressa. Influenced by musical movements in Chicago and Atlanta, his music initially attracted the attention of members from Chief Keef’s label, Glory Boyz Entertainment, leading to collaborations with the likes of G Herbo, Capo and Tadeo.

Beyond his music accolades, Kay Bandz is a fashion enthusiast known for his distinct fits. If you follow him on Instagram, you’ll find him decked out in some fly designer pieces with icy chains around his neck; he's come a long way from his humble beginnings. Growing up in one of the roughest neighborhoods in the city, the rapper became resourceful at a young age attributing hard work and hustle to accomplishing his dreams. We chopped it up with Kay Bandz about his new project, how he stays motivated and his personal style.

Thanks for coming through, Kay Bandz! Let’s rewind and start from the beginning. What made you decide to rap in English when most artists from your city speak French?

Thanks for having me! I always wanted to be different growing up. Since I only listened to American rap, I decided to push myself and stick to English. It worked out well because I tapped into a different market. It sets me apart.

Today you’re considered a pioneer of the new rap era in Montreal with heavy collaborations such as Gunna, Lil Baby, Pressa and others. What advice do you have for up-and-coming rappers looking to work with big names in the industry?

My advice for them would be to network as much as possible. You have to connect with people in your industry. Also, when you get an opportunity to travel, do it. I travel a lot. I love to see new places, that’s how I stay creative and motivated. I just got back from Barcelona and Paris, it was a vibe.

Did you ever think about giving up and doing something other than rap? If so, what?

Yes, I love the real estate business, and it’s always been something that I was interested in. Right now, I’m focusing on my music career and I’m more focused than ever. I’m putting Montreal on the map.

On days when you’re not feeling motivated, what do you do to get back in the zone?

It happens. I just push myself to go to the studio because that’s where I need to be and I create or just listen to music. Music is my motivation. If you really want this, you gotta lock in and go hard. Just keep going even when you don’t feel like it.

Let’s get into this new album dropping later this month. What can you tell us about the making of the project?

This project took me two years to finish. I wanted to take my time and get the right sound and producers and I also got a new team, which helped me with my new direction. It’s gonna be crazy. Can’t wait for people to hear it.

Your fits on Instagram go hard. How would you describe your style and what are some of your favorite brands right now?

Thanks, appreciate it! Need my bling for sure, lol. I honestly just get up and however I’m feeling that day is what I’m gonna rock. My fave brands right now are Amiri, Palm Angels and definitely Balenciaga.

We’re looking forward to the album. Keep shining! Before you go, please tell our readers how they can keep in touch with you?

Appreciate you having me. You can find me on IG at @real_kaybadz and Kay Bandz on Spotify and YouTube.

It may take some time before landing that dream partnership or major collaboration with brands like McDonald’s, Mastercard or NFL Canada, but with the right amount of discipline, consistency and creativity, this Montreal-based content creator turned serial entrepreneur is convinced that anyone can do it too. Meet Steve Daniel, an award-winning blogger, content creator, entrepreneur who is on a mission to share his knowledge with the next generation of influencers.

Whether he’s creating viral social media content, working on collabs for some of the world’s largest brands, hosting private brunch events, or managing photo sessions at his charming new studio, one thing that’s a constant is his knack for storytelling and love for connecting people with good food and great experiences. We caught up with Steve to find out how he became one of the most sought after influencers in his city…

Thanks for coming through, Steve! Let’s start with the question everyone wants an answer to. It seems like being a content creator/influencer is a dream job these days, what advice would you give to someone just starting out?

Be patient, it takes time to actually become successful in this space. I like to say, think of it like a professional sport you won’t make it to the NBA simply by waking up and deciding to play basketball. Being patient will give you time to work on yourself, work on your craft, develop meaningful relationships and trust me, hard work always pays off!

What has been the most challenging part of getting your career as a creator off the ground?

There have been so many challenges, it would be difficult to pinpoint one, but I can definitely say that the main issue was actually believing that it could be possible for me. Growing up in Montreal, I never really saw anybody doing what I currently do so it was difficult for me to look up to someone and have a mentor to help me. When I initially got started as a blogger and influencer years ago, it was not a career that was popular so there wasn’t much information available on what exactly you need to do to succeed. This left me on my own to learn from my mistakes

Looking into the future, where do you see yourself in the next five years? What do you hope to achieve?

In 5 years, I will be a mentor for up-and-coming content creators. I’d like to launch an online academy and be a resource for anyone who needs some guidance in the field. Being a content creator is truly amazing but can also be isolating when people around you are working “regular jobs” and might not relate to what you do. I look forward to helping people by offering tools and strategies that worked for me. With consistency and creativity you can get there!

Just last year you opened up your own photo studio ''Archetype Studio'', tell us your reason and inspiration behind this.

Archetype Studio is a photo and video studio I founded with my friend Pavel. Since we’re both content creators, we realized that it was important to have our own headquarters so that we wouldn't be limited. Imagine an artist who constantly has to rent a studio versus one that actually owns one, it makes a huge difference in the development and in the production. Archetype is the home of creators and it is part of my larger plan to help others.

Steve Steve

Wishing you much success in all that you do! Please tell our readers how they can keep in touch with you?

Thank you for having me, you can connect with me on Instagram @iamstevedaniel and LinkedIn, Steve Daniel!

DANIEL

What's your daily source of inspiration?

As corny as this is, Jesus. Jesus is my daily inspiration. You know why though because he's such a good human being. I know he has to be because he's the son of man. But he's so good that it inspires me every day. It humbles me and helps me not to be cocky! It is so humbling knowing who Jesus was and what he was made with. Especially being in this industry it becomes a lot about self. The interviews are about you, everyone around you is about you, your team is about you and it's you, you, you. But when you have Jesus you just remember that it's not about you.

Did you grow up having that strong connection and understanding of him or was that something you came into as an adult?

Wow! I love it! Well, when I was fifteen, I began going to a church in San Diego called the Rock Church, and that was the first time I understood exactly who God was. I understood the foundation of Christianity, Jesus and him dying for my sins. Then and there I went down and laid everything out on the altar.

Lucy Conrad is a phenomenal role for you in The Porters. I think you completely executed that character. In one scene your character said she was "betting on herself." That felt like a real-life moment because to move forward you have to leave certain people behind. What was that like in knowing that you had to bet on yourself and distance yourself from a few people?

I can honestly say that I'm trying to get better at betting on myself, and I love Lucy's strength to always choose herself. I think a lot of women struggle with that. Trying to put myself before other people's opinions is where I kind of struggle. I simply know that a lot of the time what you want for yourself is right. Your discernment is right. So, I'm learning to trust that more and hopefully be more like Lucy in that sense.

Being in the public eye do you have

a sense of I have to do more? I have to be more?

Girl, oh my gosh. Yes! Yes! (Laughs). That goes back to having discernment and that foundation because you will want more which could cause you to become ungrateful. You're looking at your peers and comparing your things to their things, and that's from the enemy. I realized that what I have I could enjoy and allow God to continue to expand my territory. So this question is a real one. Especially with social media and also when you're so close to your giant break. So I have to always keep myself separate and I have a lot of pep talks with myself to stay sane.

You said that you were frugal with spending money. What advice would you give to those in the industry that thinks spending is key? I would say that this industry is faster feminine. I know that a lot of people think that money is never-ending. But until You are at a certain place, it can go away fast, and I've been so blessed to work consistently to afford a great life. But I don't take that for granted. On Broadway, you get to see first-hand that all those blessings are temporary because you can have a show today and no show tomorrow. It's fun to spend money but if you don't have a consistent paycheck coming in don't live as you do.

Explain to me how the dream feels. I know you haven't quite reached your peak but what's the feeling so far? Is it everything you've desired and more?

I would say that now it feels like everything I had prayed for I finally see the projection, and from all the hard work I put in. It feels like I've been on a steady road that is starting to incline. After years of consistent work and being good to people, it's finally beginning to pay off. It's all such a blessing which feels like God's hand is in it. Even when it feels like uh, I'm like you know what, No!. I'm so trusting God with my career and my life.

Li LiE U B A N K S

Let's talk about the upcoming series "Mike." You're playing Desiree Washington, a very sensitive role. How does it feel to express that in this character?

The idea of it was very heavy and the preparation for it was pretty tough. But for me I felt immediately connected to it when I got the audition. The material sent over to me was for a very short scene but then I found out that the episode was her episode and from her point of view. When I realized that I had a conversation with myself about honoring her story because she was only eighteen when this happened and she hasn't spoken about it since. So being sure to be delicate with the way I told her story. And this is still happening to women all over the world, making this role much bigger than me. I want to send a clear message that women are heard.

Were you familiar with her story or did you learn about it because of the audition?

I did not know of her story until the audition. And just looking through her archival footage and doing my own research is how I came to know this woman.

What's a home remedy you grew up with that actually worked?

I would say the aloe vera plant. Anytime we had a scratch or a cut that's what we would use. I think it worked, laughs. But I also use it for my hair and my scalp. Because sometimes your scalp can get irritated and I find that it helps with any inflammation.

How do you keep yourself motivated to keep going? Honestly, I try to keep my intentions in mind. I don't know exactly what my purpose is but I have a few ideas. I try to remember what I'm doing and the hardwork it takes to do it. And how much further I have to go with it. Also staying protective of my energy is really important to me. Creating a space where I feel free, peaceful and where I can flourish keeps me focused.

What's some advice you were given before you made it into Hollywood?

The greatest advice would be to always remain humble and to always have gratitude. That has stayed with me for so long Even when I'm on set, I try to be the easiest person to work with. I show up on time for everything to make everyone else's Job easier as much as possible And the glam and everything that comes with all of this is great but everything is for a much bigger purpose.

The movie Dolomite featured many seasoned actors and actresses. Did any of their qualities rub off on you while working amongst them? Yes. Just watching Eddie Murphy work and seeing him in his zone was so inspiring. It was just amazing because he's been around for so long. And Ruth Carter ,the costume designer, was magical with her craft. It felt like everyone was so intentional with their work.

How do you balance your personal life and your career?

I would say it's a very healthy balance. For me I'm always going to get my work done because the career I've chosen is what I want to do. And knowing that I don't let anything or anyone come in between that. I also know that I can't stress out because of the two. I can't stress about what is going on in my personal life while auditioning for a role and vice versa. I just let things be as they are. So I keep a healthy balance in mind and body. Which is something I had to learn. Learning your triggers plays a huge part in a well balanced life.

ALWAYS

Sometimes we don't apply ourselves to a goal simply because of self made fear. As we know fear is the number one enemy to the human mind. But the one thing all of the greats and upcoming successors have in common is their overcoming of it. We can include actress Racquel Palmer in the pool of successors. With a strong faith and courageous heart she distanced herself from fear and set the standard for applying herself. Known for the famous "Hire Me Tyler Perry '' billboard, Racquel caught the attention of the icon and others. Now in 2022, Racquel stars in Tyler Perry's BET series, "All The Queens Men '' and more to come. So it's safe and accurate to say setting aside your fear plays a huge role towards achieving your goal or purpose.

How is playing the character Blue? Are there any similarities between the two of you?

Yes and no. As far as the yes, Blue is extremely strong and she’s very loyal. When I was developing her as a character I took pieces of women that were in my life, like my mom, my sister, my aunt, strong black women, who had that loyalty. For the no, I’m a little softer than Blue.You may be able to get something over Racquel but Blue that’s not happening. So there are parts of her that are the same as me. And there’s somethings that are different that I get to see and appreciate.

It's fascinating that you've always known this is what you wanted to do at the age of twelve. Who were some of your influencers coming up?

Laughs.. My mom says I came out of her womb acting like a fool. So this has been all I've done. Even before twelve. I was always acting and performing. My mother was my influence.. She was a woman of faith. She was a strong black woman who took care of business. She always showed love to her children. She was amazing. My mom was my model. I never looked to outside influences because my mother was everything I needed, she was my example.

You're a married woman, do you feel marriage is as valued as it was fifty year ago?

Marriage is a trend now. Laughs. No, I don't believe marriage is the same way that it was some years ago. In my first marriage I was fairly young, nineteen. And I divorced young simply because I didn't know what marriage was. Which is the world's issue today. And having married my husband now, it's a totally different ball game. He and I aren't just husband and wife, we're partners. He's my bestfriend and I learned to fall in love with him and rock out with him in this life.

Being in the industry, what have you learned about yourself ?

Well, I'm still learning the industry. It's only been four years of me being on this level, so my perception is it is not for the weak. You have to have tough skin and a thick backbone to stand in this industry. But what I learned about myself is that I always prove myself wrong each and every time. Whenever I think I can't do something, I do it.

What's one life lesson you teach your children on the daily?

Even thought they are different ages, I teach them to serve God, love God and love themselves and to go after their dreams. I told my sixteen year old son who wants to be a performer, that if you're not out there going after the dream like your mother did, I don't want to hear anything less. I teach them everyday to go after anything they want. Even my four year old knows that. Because that's what my mother taught me, that I could be anything I wanted to be.

What did you have to release to be who and where you are today?

Fear. Worry. When you put yourself out there on the line as I did, you really have to let go of those aspects. Fear and worry couldn't have a place for what I wanted to accomplish and what I did accomplish. I really had to let those go. And it was difficult because I do have a family. And a lot of my decision making affects them. So letting go and letting God was what I had to do.

Photo Credit: Antoine Verglas

WHEN A BAD GIRL GOES GOOD, SHE'S REALLY GOOD

Since the Oxygen hit, Bad Girls Club, Jonica "Blu" Booth caught our attention by displaying her cool and outgoing personality back in 2014 on season twelve. Being the most chill, laid back, and vibrant bad girl in the house has brought her a strong following and platform that follows her faithfully to this day. Fast forwarding to 2022, Jonica’s debut as a fulltime actress. Starring in the new Issa Rae summer sizzle Rap Sh!t as Chasity. Who is the Duke of Miami with the perfect plan to chart the career of a hip-hop duo. The former bad girl is about to show us that you simply can't put labels and limitations on anyone because you never know when someone will pop out to prove you otherwise.

What brings you the most inner peace?

My family brings me the most peace. I have an eleven-year-old brother who I love so much. I won't just say my family, I'll say kids as well. They are innocent and they have the most authentic energy. (Laughs). They don't care about anything. Social media, followers, anything. They just care whether you're going to make their sandwich or not. I love the energy.

What have you learned about yourself in a major way?

I'm learning more about myself in its totality. Learning to give myself grace. When I think about the things I'm doing in life, I have to stop and remind myself of grace. I'm also learning to heal myself. A lot of people go through life without actually doing that, and I'm glad to discover that at an early age. So that I can become a better version of myself.

Rap Sh!t, let's talk about it. Can we agree that Chasity is the perfect role for you? How can you correlate your role and your personality? I know you're not a madam or duke in real life but where's the correlation?

(Laughs). You don't know me NaShaye. You don't know if I'm a madam or not. But I can correlate because I am in the community. Though I'm not a stud, I had to tap into the layer. I feel as if Jonica and Chasity connect because they're both driven Chasity isn't giving up on herself and she's a hard worker, and that's how I move in life. But Chastity is something else, I'll tell you that.

HTOOBo n ica

o n ica

Did this role appear to you ? Or did you go after it?

This story is crazy. The role came to me, through my manager. But they didn't give me a call back from my audition in December. So I was in the mirror one day, taking on the character of Chasity. In January, I directly messaged the casting director, Issa Rae, a video of me talking about how they didn't give me a call-back. I don't know what energy I had for that video, I wouldn't even recommend anyone to do it. But two days later my manager called me and told me I had got a call back for the show. Her team saw the video but Issa didn't see it until I was hired. She was humored and I was so embarrassed. But it worked.

I think that's a dope example of you wanting something, not getting a response from it but still going after it anyway. Eventually achieving it. Does that inspire you to go after things more head-on like that? My mindset was, what's the worst that could happen?

They already didn't call me. What are they going to do? Double not call me? Yes! I remember the feeling of wishing that I had done something and I didn't like it. So now I do what I feel. The problem with us as humans is we fear the answer ‘no’. It's always either yes or no. So why not just try? That's where I am with it. ‘No’ makes me want to continue trying and move on to the next thing.

Was acting always a part of your plan? No. I have played basketball since I was six. So I always thought about going to the WNBA. I was good at it. About six years ago, I spoke with my dad and told him that I wanted to play in a celebrity basketball game. Meaning I had to get out and become a celebrity. His exact words were "That's so backwards. Who thinks that?" So I began to try everything, stand-up comedy and commercials, and then it transitioned to acting. I believe if you keep throwing something on the wall, it's going to stick.

What's the ultimate goal for Jonica Booth? I want to win an award. I don't know what for but I want to win one. I want to walk up on stage and give my speech. My ultimate goal is to give my thank you's on a wide platform because I want to give everyone their flowers, and of course, I want to continue to accumulate wealth and success. To continue to put the people around me in a position to be greater!

Olympic Athlete Twanisha Terry is one of the most loved and youngest female sprinters in the sport. Twanisha "Fear Nothing" Terry mirrors an attitude of grace, favor and hard work. With a strong support group from her fans which she calls "Teebabies" she continues to motivate and empower them by displaying all that she has done. Twanisha is only twenty three years old and her mindset is that of a mature adult. That and her work ethic will take her far and we're honored to witness it first hand.

Tee, you started this course when you were nine years old. Your of age now, what has been the most significant discovery about yourself?

I think the most significant discovery about myself is how I appeal to others. Especially outside of the US. I knew that I was well known in my sport but I only counted the US. When I made my first US Junior team, which was in 2018. There were so many athletes from other countries that recognized me and they wanted to take pictures with me. I didn't know I had so many supporters. And not just kids but the adults as well. So that was an interesting thing to find out.

Tell me who Tee Tee is outside of the sport.. What do you enjoy? What don't we see?

Outside of my sport, Tee Tee loves kids. I love babysitting kids and spending time with them. Eventually I want to open up a daycare center. I also love helping people without expecting anything in return. You know, doing things out of the kindness of my own heart. I enjoy crocheting here and there. I also love watching movies. I'm a candy crush addict and I love dogs. I have a frenchie named "Prada" who is like my son now.

Okay, how do you stick to your grounds? How do you stay true to yourself?

I stay true to myself because I know how I was raised and I know the things that I want. I always tell myself don't compare your journey to other people's journey because we never see what they're going through behind closed doors. No one knows what I goo through behind closed doors. So I do my best to wait my turn and be happy for others and clap for them. So when my time comes I know it was for me. I don't push myself to be like the next person.

You specialize in the 100 meter distance and you stick to it. You mentioned that you tried other distances but eventually you chose to do the 100 meters. That shows great discipline! How important is it to know what you want and to stay committed to it?

It's very important to know what you want! Track and field is an unpredictable sport, everyone wants to be the best. You know everyone wants to be great. But if you're doing it just for that praise and you have someone else doing it because they love and know all about the sport that makes all the difference. There's a small thing that people don't see that separates the great from the average.

Photo Credit: Joe Hale

Ayrel better known as “Iknowayrel” on Tik Tok is climbing the charts with his Loyalty Test game videos. With over 3 Million followers he has made a career as an influencer from creating content to keep his audience engaged. Ayrel is from Michigan and decided to move to LA once his career started to take off.

What made you take a leap of faith and move to LA?

I felt like I reached the maximum amount to grow in Michigan, and there weren't any other influencers around. I wanted to keep growing and see what experiences I can create. I came to LA and took a leap of faith. I didn’t know what to expect, but I am glad I did it. I don't regret it for anything.

How has your life changed since you became a Tik Tok legend?

It changed drastically in a short period of time. It took me a long time to get used to it. I was popular before and never had any fan pictures and no type of fan base. All of a sudden, we got popular and the internet gave us a huge fan base. I like to say thank you to my loyalty game family because I have better finances , a better place and it's all thanks to their support. It's been crazy and a huge drastic change but I love every minute of it.

What is your future as a Social Media Influencer in the next 10 years?

I keep trying to advance myself. In the next 10 years maybe I will be working with a TV network, hopefully a Netflix show or being in movies. I still want to do social media stuff because I love it. I plan on an advanced version of the loyalty test of more mature versions. Also I'm trying to drop merchandise for my fans because I always wanted a clothing line.

What are some of the challenges you face with being a social media influencer?

I'll say the hardest thing right now, which I'm working on heavily, is time management. A lot of people don't realize how much time and effort it takes into being a social media influencer is not as easy as it seems. There's so many different things to keep track of and getting the content together and making sure it's quality content.A big thing for me is managing my time and making sure that everyone can get what they need on every platform. It's been extremely busy and I don't know how to balance my free time and work life. That's what I'm working on.

How do you deal with criticism and negativity?

To allocate it to LeBron James, Rihanna, Drake, and any big social media influencer, I'll say every single person gets criticism, no matter what. It doesn't matter what you're doing, you want the best thing in the world, but you're still going to get criticized on such a large platform. I just do what makes me feel happy. People that want to hate or anything I literally could care less, honestly.

Any advice for people who want to pursue a dream of being a social media influencer?

Make sure you really want to become a social media influencer because you have to put the time and the effort into creating because it doesn’t happen overnight. It really takes a lot of tips, patience and discipline. If you are not willing to commit, it may not be successful. Put your 100% all into it, and that goes for whatever you're trying to do. You have to put your all into it and be consistent because there's so many people that are trying to do the same thing. Really try to set yourself apart from the rest because that's the best way to grow. At the beginning, you're not going to get millions of views, it's a slow gradual process. You might get a couple 100s or 50 And then maybe like 100,000, it snowballs! Be aware that the process takes time to grow because it's hard work.

IknowayreIknowayre

Brittney

What's been the most fun part of your career?

The most fun part about it is just seeing God answer the prayer. When you set out to do something and it happens the moment is full of thoughts like God you do love me, you do want this for me. It's the greatest. To see it all manifest and see it all happen is awesome.

What's been the most challenging part?

Everything about it was challenging. For me, being from Fairfield, Alabama there weren't a lot of programs for performance when I was coming up, and there aren't a ton of opportunities for kids to see the art or participate in it.

Though, I've always had the thought of moving to Los Angeles. I've always felt that my dream was bigger than in Alabama. There wasn't a blueprint, I had nothing to follow.

I just knew that I needed to get out to Los Angeles and just trust God for the best, and just that first step initially was hard. I knew nothing about the business at the time. But I still decided to leave. I had to get out of my way and walk by faith.

Did you always have this dream to become an actress or did this niche come at a later date from an influence?

I had always known that I loved the art of performing but I think it became clearer as I got older. I loved writing, and storytelling and I had a big imagination. I knew my dream was to move to L.A but I didn't know exactly what was calling me to that particular place. But as I matured it became more apparent that acting is what I wanted to do. I felt that acting was my passion and that's what I was going to do.

Do you ever have a moment of self-doubt or that you're being too hard on yourself?

I did at first but not anymore. God will send you reminders along the way, and my dad would always remind me that I'm not on anyone's time but God's time and He doesn't wear a watch. (Laughs). That's self-explanatory.

How did you land the role "Aleesia" in the summer sizzle Rap Sh!t?

I had an audition for P Valley and I was so upset that I didn't get it. Then my agent sent me the audition for Rap Sh!t. I did the role for Shauna, I didn't get it but they still wanted me for another role. I auditioned in front of Issa and made her laugh. So, I was confident but I didn't get that role either. Vicky told me that they went another route for the character but that they loved me and they had another role in mind for me and I was like yes, what’s for me is for me!

So what have you learned about yourself being in this newly elevated place?

That's everything I need, I already have it in me. Everything that I thought I lacked God had already put inside of me and I trust that he will continue to reveal it to me.

What story from your childhood brings you comfort?

It's not a childhood story, to be honest. I moved to Miami for a guy, and God had begun to make me uncomfortable which is what He does when He’s ready to move you. I went to Miami because I was frustrated with my career and things weren't going as I had planned. I then moved from Miami back to L.A and I prayed and asked God to show me what He wanted from me or what He wanted me to do. I was working a part-time job and one day a customer came in fifteen minutes before it was time for me to go, and I was one of them workers like no, he was about to get this attitude, and the guy prophesied to me. He began saying things to me that I knew were from God because all I said to him was "how can I help you?" I was like Woah. He said to me, "what you came out here to do, you are going to do it." Then he mentioned a breakup and said ''because you chose God, God chooses you."

I always go back to that moment because he sent a stranger through to answer my prayer.

What's the ultimate goal for Brittney Jefferson?

To be a vessel and a witness that God can do it for you. That's my ultimate goal, to reflect on how good God is and what He can do for you, if you let Him because there's nothing special about me. I eat and sleep just like everyone else does. Once things began to unfold and I had to realize that it wasn't any of my doing. So giving the glory back to him is my goal.

Seaburn Seaburn

THECIRCLECHANGEDMYLIFE,ITHELPEDMEGROW

Your name is very unique. What's the origin of it if it has one?

My name is pretty much a family name. I am considered the third Seaburn Williams in my lineage. But the meaning is two earth elements, which are water (sea) and fire (burn)., and they collaborated it all into one. My full name is one big history book, and I've certainly gotten to understand every aspect of my name. Knowing that, makes me even more dope because learning where you came from opens the path to where you're going.

What do you do in your free time? What's a normal day for you?

A normal day for me is to wake up, meditate, work out, get out and get some work done. I'd read my favorite books, write in my journal and practice my comedy. I'm learning that balance is key. Especially with my meditation because if one thing is off, it shows and I can feel it. Meditation helps me with not just my physical but also my mental and my spiritual.

Was your elevation due to all eyes being on you or just going to that next level in your life?

I've had some elevation (Laughs), and yes it came with a new level because there were a lot of things that I wasn't aware of. So two years ago, I hit the mark,

I got my first big break and it was bittersweet because now everything and everyone else around you have shifted. You're vibrating on a higher level which won't allow you to lower it for that shift, and it's like your whole foundation of what you knew is rocking, causing chaos. I'm still learning amid my elevation but now I know how to handle it.

When you look back on your time with The Circle do you see a Seaburn you recognize or does it make you cringe?

Truthfully, I'm grateful for it. It was a part of my growth and to know that it put me in a position that forced me to grow makes it all the better. As I stated the only unrecognizable aspects are the people or things that were there that are no longer here. But, I know that I'm a diamond regardless.

Playing Rebecca required you to tap into the femininity of women which men have a hard time expressing due to pride. Was it all an act or are you understanding of the female mind?

My mom helped me with that growing up, and I'm so grateful for her. Growing up I was that individual that had learned how to express himself in that manner.

I also went to an art school which allowed me to utilize my voice and be unapologetically myself. I am a natural-born artist and leader. I'm in charge of creating dreams and I can't create dreams from a place of ego. Operating in that macho man mindset is ego and at that point your dream no longer serves others. I knew that my dream was bigger than me and I knew I had to chase it properly.

Photo Credit: Montague Photograhpy

Nova Stevens was ecstatic and deeply humbled when she was crowned Miss Universe Canada beauty pageant in 2020 and went on to compete at the renowned Miss Universe competition that same year It was indeed a historic moment for her, becoming the first South Sudanese native to enter the competition. She ripped the runway proudly and unapologetic with her short hair after realizing it was essential for her to present her natural God-given state. However, Stevens was not hiding behind her hair after watching South African model Zozibini Tunzi win with short hair in 2019.

"I saw myself in her. She is a black woman from Africa with short hair, the same texture as my hair, and the same complexion as me. This is why representation is so important; she inspired me to be my best self," said Stevens.

NOVA STEVENS SHECAME,SAWANDCONQUERED

Stevens wanted her winnings to remind girls that the word, impossible should not be in their vocabulary and go after what they want if it does not work out in their favor for the first time. She knows from experience that it's a test from God to see how badly you want something in life. Stevens' appearance in the 2014 Miss Universe was a mere introduction and an eye opener as far as funding the competition and confirming societal beauty standards by wearing weaves. But her hard work and diligence made her make it to the Top 12 and prompted her to participate four years later. Finally, she was ready to embrace her natural beauty and was awarded the Miss Photogenic award and a Top 20 contestant.

"If you want something, keep going until you get it. And it's not always your timing; it's God's timing," said Stevens. "So if you want it, keep going until you get there like, I know, there will be a lot of potholes and hurdles. You might be running out of water as you're running the marathon but keep going and believe in yourself."

Before moving to a nation that would be a catalyst for her hopes and dreams, Stevens resided in Kenya with her South Sudanese parents. Then, in 1999, South Sudan experienced a volatile civil war which led to Stevens' parents sending her to live in Canada at six years old with her cousin for better opportunities.

"So I didn't realize I would be here for 20-plus years. At the time, I thought I was going on a little trip with my cousin. Perhaps see my family, and you know, months passed by years. And then before you know it, it's like decades," said Stevens. "I didn't understand what it meant to leave Africa to go to Canada, which was my thought process as a young girl. I thought it was a vacation and not a long-term stay."

After Stevens arrived in Alberta, Canada, with her first cousin, her parents arranged an arranged marriage with a man who had a lottery to come to Canada as an immigrant. She was separated from her family, unsure of their existence, yet adapted to her new environment.

"I came with them because my family didn't want to ship her to a new country alone or make her feel abandoned," said Stevens. "My parents thought it would be best because I was the most traveled out of all of my siblings."

For years, Stevens' family was a fading presence in her life; her cousin went to Social Services, became her guardian, and relocated her family to Ontario. But, she reunited with her family ten years later when she was enrolled in high school. "They all thought we were dead, and my dad, in his heart, he believed that we were still alive because everyone was telling him to give up, your wife is dead, just remarry, and he was like no, they are alive," said Stevens. "And thank God, we were still alive, and we were able to find them after years apart."

Stevens decided to live independently during high school after living with multiple relatives in Alberta and Ontario, Canada, and her cousin returned to Africa. She was employed at the Youth Transition as a manager in Alberta to finish her education. "I said, you know what, like who's better to raise me than myself? Because my family had not been the best. I can be honest, so I contacted the government about a youth home, and we had someone live with us to ensure we were coming home on time," said Stevens. "The age group was 15-18, and they were teaching us how to transition to adulthood. So I stayed until I received my basketball scholarship, which was great. I received a monthly allowance to pay my rent, phone, food, or whatever you said. But, of course, it has to be allocated and provided receipts."

Stevens endured hardships in her life, but she knows her journey will remind people that their past does not define their future. She knew she was worthy of having a better life, and the past would be no longer relevant to her future a few years from now. "Just because you come from an impoverished background, whatever struggles you've had, does not mean your life will forever remain that way. But, you have to make that choice. You have to make that choice of wanting better for yourself," said Stevens. "You can't expect others to want better for you. You have to want that for yourself. That's the first thing, I can want you to have the best life, but you have to want it for yourself."

AUSTIN DUNHAM

HOWHETURNEDSHARING INFORMATIONINTOALIFESTYLE BRANDANDBUSINESS

More than likely you have come across Austin’s social media page and seen the thousands of likes, comments, and reshares. From fitness tips to dating advice

Austin has created an entire lifestyle brand by just connecting with people and sharing advice, tips, and his own experience.

Cox: So Austin where did this all begin for you?

Dunham: My story starts when I was 18 and in the Air Force ROTC. I wanted to stand out from the other cadets so I googled how to perform push-ups better. This is when I came across calisthenics transformation videos and my fascination took off from there.

Austin has a natural inclination to dive deep into understanding whatever intrigues him This matched with his desire to encourage and uplift others led to him creating a lifestyle brand that was set in motion with the simple notion of push-ups. It was when he saw progress in applying it to his own regime that he started sharing with others.

“I started sharing because I wish I had known these things prior so I didn’t have to go through my trial and error”

Through sharing he could grow a following on social media especially on YouTube and Instagram.

Cox: Have you always look at life like a business?

Dunham: Yes I have always had this mindset because I never want to go broke so I’ve always had my own things going for me to generate income. I graduated with my undergraduate degree in business and I honestly didn’t know you could monetize your social media. It wasn’t until I saw others doing it and in 2016 people started reaching out to me to create fitness plans.

Cox: Did you know this would become your brand?

Dunham: I really didn’t know lifestyle and self empowerment would become my brand. If you asked me three years ago, I would definitely say fitness but it’s because I’m all about evolution. When I started I was 18 and I have developed. My audience has also developed with me so I tailor my content and everything around where we all are in life.

During this time he went on a leap of faith and changed the course of his life. Though he finished with his degree, he also had plans for the Army which is why he was in ROTC so he dropped it so he could work on life as he wanted.

“

I knew I had to take the risk”

Cox: Were you afraid of changing your content for your growing audience?

Dunham: I’m a very strategic person and I knew that with change I would lose some audience members but the loyal ones would appreciate the new content. Also, the new content represents where we are in life and our growth so I owe it to them to have new and ever developing dialogue.

He didn’t lose many followers but sometimes he receives messages where they tell him a topic was too cringy or they didn’t care for it. Austin doesn’t let it phase him because cringy or things they don’t like mean these topics need to be had.

“I’ve noticed that most men who follow me relate to the things I discuss because these experiences are things that most of us have experienced.”

Cox: So what’s next for you because you have already dominated social media?

Dunham: I will always want to grow and develop as a person and business. 10 to 15 years from now I want more businesses. I want to create more business models and become an educator on topics instead of just sharing content.

“I can start more businesses”

Austin is still quite young in his journey but with such a bright future ahead all he can think of is how he will make a lasting impact. It’s more than social media for him, it's about really giving people content that can help them or at least make them think. Social media for Austin isn’t just a tool for promoting a lifestyle brand but one to creating genuine connections with an organic community that is grown around his point of view and perspective.

Satisfyyourtastebudswith

Chef Gregory Gourdet

Gregory Gourdet is an American Haitian from Queens, New York who now resides in Portland, Oregon. He studied pre-med at NYU he also attended the University of Montana and graduated with a degree in French. But traded his scrubs and degree for a chef’s apron when he found his passion for cooking.

“When I was in college, I had to prepare my own meals because I was too poor to eat out. I would cook things like pasta salads and spaghetti, something that was economically affordable”. Said Gregory.

Gregory's cooking skills paid off when he competed on Bravo’s Top Chef Season 12 and was the runner up. Gregory was inspired to become a chef because he enjoys learning about different cultures, locality and eating healthy. Gregory believes to be a good chef you must be curious about food and want to explore different foods and ingredients.

When I asked what qualities he believes make a good chef? This is what he said. “You have to have compassion, believe in the people around you and lift up your team”. Gregory has a love for people and gets pleasure out of being able to serve and inspire others. “One of my proudest moments is being able to provide opportunities for my team and see them grow,” said Gregory.

Gregory has just opened a new restaurant in Southeast Portland, Oregon called Kann where he serves traditional Haitian dishes like Whole grilled fish, Tomato, cherry, and berry salad, Griyo twice-cooked pork served with fried green plantains and pikliz, Smoked Beef Rib with Ti Malice (Haitian coffee and spice-rubbed, slow cooked), Peanut Creamed Greens (collards slow cooked with spiced tomato and peanut; honoring the enslaved West Africans who were brought to Haiti by the French), and Grilled Pineapple Upside Down Cake (a Haitian dessert classic) and all his meals are gluten free.

I was surprised to find out that Gregory considers himself an introvert and pretty much a loner. When he is not in the restaurant or doing business engagements, he enjoys spending time alone, running or working on his cookbook. Gregory loves to travel, explore different foods and his focus is being the best leader he can be.

PhotoCredit:EvaKosmosFlores

Photo Credit: Eva Kosmos Flores

PhotoCredit:Zach Lewis

Yves—you are one of the most beautiful and unique humans I’ve come across on the internet. We all have an open impression of you, but if someone was to ask you, “who is Yves?'' What would you say? What a kind thing to say. I really appreciate that, and as far as who I am? Haha, it depends on the day; some days I feel invincible, some days I wish I was invisible, but despite that duality of feelings, I’m just a guy who cares a lot, sometimes too much, and I love to dance haha.

How does one deal with the adversities of being a bi-racial, queer creative? What would you say is your biggest inspiration to continue to stand up for human rights, LBGTQIA+ rights, Black rights, women's rights, etc.?

I think that no matter how many people have walked your path before you, there’s always going to be intricacies and specific details to your life that make it your own, and I learned that and am learning that every step of the way; I see me being a beautiful dark skinned mixed race person and queer as a gift and a superpower, especially when there’s always so much against us, sometimes we face friction from our own people, that’s how I know we’re special, and also that some folks just won’t be understood, and I’m "some folks." So what inspires me to keep going are the folks who fall in between the cracks and get forgotten, just because they’re forgotten doesn’t mean they’re not fierce.

Your music plays a significant role in social media presence. What message do you want people to know and understand about it?

I love my music so much, I write every single lyric that you hear from me. I want people to know that you can sing a sad memory to a groovy tune, and if you fuck with it, then you’ve already won.

You also use fashion as a tool for advocacy. Can you explain how you incorporate modeling as a tool to make political statements? Do you collaborate with fashion designers or make your own clothes?

Fashion is like the lungs of pop culture, it breathes so much into how we navigate in this industry, whether it’s film, music, or theater, fashion is involved and I like to utilize my space in there to make people look but most importantly think. I collaborate and also make my own stuff and by make my own stuff I mean take a pair of scissors and snip until I’m satisfied haha.

What is your most significant take away from life thus far? Nobody knows what they’re doing.

What do you see yourself doing five years from now? Hopefully still alive, touring, working on getting a teaching degree.

Thank you for taking the time to interview me. What advice would you give those who follow you and want to get into advocacy work to help build and maintain a sense of confidence? Help your neighbor first.

Are there any organizations that you would like to plug for the audience to support?

Black trans travel fund, the transgender district, house of tulip

BERTRAMWILLIAMSJR.

As excited as I was to speak with Bertram about his start in acting, that immediately changed when I heard the excitement in his voice and saw the passion in his eyes when he started speaking about his civil work. “It’s been passed down to me from my ancestors,” said Williams Jr as he spoke about the work his grandmother Bertha Wilbert did in his hometown of Memphis, Tennessee specifically on housing reform. Civil work is something in his blood that he just can’t get away from and never will.

Bertram isn’t your normal person who gets into acting and wants to make it big. His heart, mind and soul are forever on making sure there is a future for the next generation to inherit. “I got a duty for my people,” said Williams Jr. For him to even leave the world of civil service behind he would need to still have things in place for others to support what he started. Bertram said, “it’s gonna take more than a few checks to take me away from my work.” This is because he believes that when he shows up, he shows out in all capacities and civil work is something that is a forever necessity for people whose voices they often ignore.

“We as a people and as a global community need to start thinking differently”

At a certain point in the conversation we both nerded out and laughed because it went from television to sustainability talk. “I’m thinking about having children one day and I want them to inherit a space that is livable and with food that is good for them,” said Williams Jr when I asked him why he has such a strong feeling of obligation to civil servant work.

“The social media world that we live in has its advantages.”

“ I’m torn in that regard and I really don’t want to leave this work behind”

Now if you follow him on social media one thing you will immediately notice are posts where he is out holding signs encouraging people to vote or in his garden planting and growing his own food. Bertram said, “this is an opportunity to leverage these tools.” He uses social media to not just promote causes but to show that he is actually out there with the people he is fighting for. He doesn’t knock anyone who only uses social media as a platform to spread awareness but he encourages others to get out there. “It’s doing community work in real time just as much as in virtual space,” said Williams Jr. This is because for him some of the most genuine conversations you can have are face to face with an individual in that physical space of what you are fighting for.

“Social entrepreneurship is our way out”

Unlike most of us who have this great generational debate on Gen Z vs. Millennials, he sees the beauty that all the generations are embracing the fundamental opportunity that is entrepreneurship. We can collectively think creatively to develop organizations and tools so that we can tackle the different issues we have. “It’s knowing that we got power,” said Williams Jr. that will allow us to get out of the current situation we are in globally. It’s being conscious of what we can do together rather than what we can do individually.

“I know the impact of mentors”

We end this joyful conversation with Bertram informing that within recent years he has stopped attending as many protests but put more effort in helping others develop programs that will be beneficial for younger people. “It’s because people have invested in me and I feel duty bound to invest in others,” said Williams Jr. He sees the light in young people and he wants his ultimate work to help their light shine even more.

Photo Credit: Valley in Film

D'Isjah Lyons The Black Love Series

D’lsjah Lyons is a travel wedding and portrait photographer based in Detroit, Michigan. She enjoys and thrives on capturing the pure beauty of true love. It’s her personality and affection for her clients that set her apart from the rest. Creating a loving and safe environment are extremely important to her. She wants her clients to feel at ease as possible.

Why Black love being captured is beautiful?

Black

Get to know

Antwon Maxwell

Antwon, when it comes to photography what is it you love the most? What I love most about photography is lighting. Lighting is everything when it comes to taking photos; lighting can make or break how someone feels about the image they are looking at.

How do you capture the perfect image in beauty and fashion?

Capturing the perfect image when it comes to beauty and fashion is having the right model, the right location, the right team and a great mood board. For me, having a great mood board really sets the tone for the start of a perfect shoot. This allows myself and my team to select the right model for the shoot; it also allows me to select the right team also, every makeup artist may not be the best fit for every job and the same goes for the hairstylist and the stylist.

How would you describe yourself as a photographer? I would describe myself as a (Get it right in Camera) type of photographer. I am really big on minimal retouching, I like when the photo looks natural with skin texture and great lighting. I love to balance strobes with natural light so that my images look the same way I see it through my natural eye.

Describe what it's like on set with you, paint the picture for us. On set I am extremely fun to be around; I love getting to the shoot when everyone arrives because I love to talk and get to know everyone. This allows me to have a great interaction with the model as well as the team that I’m working with on that day. I play music to get everyone in whatever mood we need to be in for the type of shoot that we are doing; if we are doing a beauty shoot then I tend to play music that is a little softer but we are about to do some high end editorial shoot where there’s a bunch of movement, then I am playing something that has more up-tempo to it. Finally I am a very accommodating person, so while on set I am always asking everyone if they need my help with anything. Even though everyone has their own skill set on the shoot, we are still a team and the easier we can make each other's job better the faster we can get through the shoot and everyone will have a great time and not feel that it's a job.

When it comes to capturing Black Beauty in particular in photography what are some of the important aspects a photographer must know and do?

For me, the 2 most important aspects a photographer must know and do when capturing Black beauty is:

1. Knowing your camera settings. This is so important because having the wrong coloration in camera can have an effect on your final image before getting it into a Photoshoot. I mentor a bunch of photographers and will notice the models skin tone is very Red or Orange and this comes from not adjusting the custom Kelvin to match your models skin tone.

2. Again lighting is another important aspect. As a photographer, you need to know when is the right time to use hard light and when is the right time to use soft light. Light is not a “one size fit all” thing.

Marquan Nesmith The Image of Black Men

"As an artist and black man I look at the fellow black man not based off of what I see on tv, not the negativity others have depicted us, but I have always looked at us as the closest thing to god. Not only in appearance, but in the way I feel when I am in your presence, your power, your orbit, your dominance yet tenderness, the intensity when you look at me and through me, your subtle nervousness, your curiosity, your ambitions, even without gold or money you shine. Black man I couldn’t exist without you. You are my lifeline, my true legacy. Through my lens, i capture you with the intent of showing the world my vision of you, in the rawest form, fully locked in admiring all the treasures the world have yet to see. Black man I celebrate you, not only when you win, but when you fight, when you hurt, when you’re unsure. I am with you black man, focused and proud to be US"

-Marquan Newman