Entertainment Issue

SEE what's AHEAD

Consistency

is the KEY

'Con Funk Shun'

L E GEN D

Felton Pilate

SHARES HIS JOURNEY

CONTENTS

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16 FELTON PILATE VICTOR RAYMOND 4 ELEMENTS BRYNJA WE'RE WOLVES SHAVEE HO LUNCH & NIQUE T’MIL BROWN SKIN BRUNCHIN SUNNY JORGE CHRISTOPHER MARTIN ONYX KEESHA DARIYONNA JOHNSON RAMON RAY

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W.I.B (Where It Begins) is an Independent agency with the aim to always be innovated in each approach taken to projects and making sure excellence is given in a projects execution when it comes to media marketing, branding, networking and management.

Founded by the well experienced and ever growing force; D.C native - Cece Hymes, the most important and integral aspect of W.I.B is that branding for both Creatives and Businesses is taken to the next level with each and every project undertaken.

We’ve continued to represent a very diverse and well acclaimed roster of emerging talents in the entertainment, and businesses!

With a determined persistence for continued excellence, our Founder – Cece Hymes, with a college Degree in Business Management, has also worked within radio and with many companies such as: RDE Entertainment, H.I.G.H Entertainment and Caribbean Gospel Records Ltd.,

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Cece Hymes Founder

38 Keisha Evins

Contributing Writer

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"It has been such a huge blessing to be able to be a part of your lives, thoughts and emotions"

Felton Pilate 4 WIB PROMOTING NETWORK

Tell everyone who you are and what you do?.

My name is Felton Pilate and I’m one of the original members of the group ConFunkShun.

Let’s talk about your journey and how you got to where you are today?.

My mother was a music major, and I was introduced to music at an early age. I took private piano, trumpet and voice lessons for several years. A friend of mine, Alan Gurlin, gave me an electric guitar for Christmas one year and I began to teach myself how to play. At 16, I was asked to play guitar in a band that my neighbor was forming.

After auditioning to sing one of the songs we were learning, I was told to “stick to playing guitar because I would never make it as a singer”, I quit immediately and decided to start my own band. Someone telling me that I couldn’t do something it wound up being my biggest motivation.

We began playing army bases, school events, parties, and occasionally participated in local Battle of the Bands (we never won). One of the competing bands in town that I admired was a group called “Project Soul” headed by Michael Cooper.

In 1969, “The Soul Children”, a popular group on the STAX label, was coming to the Bay Area to do a concert. Project Soul was chosen to back them up and Michael recruited me to supplement the horn section and play additional keyboards. Norman West, the leader of “The Soul Children” and one of the lead vocalists, was very happy with the performance and promised to keep in touch.

When my group disbanded in 1970, Michael Cooper asked me to join Project Soul officially. We continued as a top 40 band until “The Soul Children” chose us to be their permanent backup band in August of 1972 and we moved to Memphis, Tn. We quit the Soul Children in “74 and decided to stay in Memphis to pursue our career there. We got signed to Freetone Records, released two singles, then got signed to Mercury records.

Our second album went gold, propelled by the single “Ffun”. By the time I left in 1986, we had recorded 10 albums for Mercury (Polygram) and were blessed with 4 gold albums and one platinum.

Michael Cooper also left the group in

late “86 and ConFunkShun officially disbanded in 1987.

When I left the group, I opened a commercial recording studio and went into engineering and producing full time. At that time, I hired a very talented young man, James Earley, to be a second engineer at the studio.

He and I both got signed to Volt records as recording artists. Through a friend, Fred Pittman, we wound up meeting and recording a rapper who called himself “The Holy Ghost Boy” who then later changed his name to MC Hammer. When the album “Feel My Power” went gold, Hammer hired us to work for him exclusively and record his next album out on the road. We installed a studio inside the back room on a tour bus and recorded and mixed “Please Hammer Don’t Hurt “Em” which featured the song “You Can’t Touch This” for which we got a Grammy nomination for producing “Album of the Year.”

James left, but I stayed on to produce “2 Legit 2 Quit” before Hammer and I parted ways and a lengthy legal battle in an attempt to collect unpaid royalties resulted in my filing for bankruptcy. I continued producing and writing for other people (including jazz legend Stanley Clarke).

In 1993, Cooper and I put ConFunkShun back together with two of the other original members and began touring again and it’s been going strong ever since.

Tell us one of the most memorable moments you’ve had in your career?

Wow… there have been several, but I’ll just do three…

The first one happened 3 weeks after we left to go on the road with the Soul Children. We played at the LA coliseum filled with 104,000 people, backing up not only the Soul Children, but also Rufus Thomas, at the WattStax festival.

We filmed a movie and recorded a live album at the same time!! That was huge!

The second was just getting mentioned in the same sentence with one of my idols, Quincy Jones, when I got the Grammy nomination. I lost to him, but hey… if you got to lose to somebody, it’s even an honor to lose to him!

Number three was watching Silk Sonic perform “Loves Train” at their show in Las Vegas. Over the years, I’ve heard many bands play ConFunkShun

stuff in clubs and such, but this was different. The experience of being in the audience and watching the audience respond so positively to a major artist performing something I wrote is really difficult to describe… very emotional, indeed. It was different with MC Hammer because I was so involved with the creation in the studio and being the music director on stage that it made me kind of…. numb is the best word I can think of.

Cooper and I had a chance to meet Bruno Mars and Andersen Paak before the show and to thank them personally for doing their cover of the song. We were greeted very warmly and were surprised to find that they were just as excited to meet *us* as were we to meet them.

What has been the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

This was the most significant… I was feeling very discouraged about the first contract that I felt that I was being “forced” to sign. I don’t specifically remember who said it, but their words were” … it’s called the music ‘business’ for a reason… respect that…”. That has been my mantra ever since.

Out of all the places you’ve performed, which one has been your most memorable place?

That WattStax festival we played for in 1972 in front of 104,000 people was our transition day… we had gotten hired just 3 weeks before, but that was the *official* day we graduated from

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just being a cover band to something more. We didn’t know what yet … we just knew that something magical was in our future!

performing is an expression of love, from us to you! It has been such a huge blessing to be able to be a part of your lives, thoughts and emotions.

How do you feel about the Silk Sonic version of your song and how did that come about?

It came as a complete surprise! On Valentine’s Day, Mike and other friends had sent me a text asking me had I heard it. I followed the link I was sent and was blown away! I had to listen 3-4 times before I could separate myself from my emotions and listen objectively. I think they did a spectacular job of respecting the original vibe while adding their own creative spin.

Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events?

My single, “Here’s What I’d Do For You” has been out awhile now and seems to be doing well internationally.

I’m currently mixing a new single and planning the video for the next one.

While finishing my new solo album project, I’m also putting the finishing touches on the Christmas album ConFunkShun started last year that has 4 original songs. Mike and I are putting material together for a new ConFunkShun album for early next year and I also just signed a contract to compose music for both a children’s series and a dramatic series. It’s going to be a VERY busy year!

What is one message you would like to leave with your fans?

Simply, “thank you” I told an audience recently, “…over the last 4 days we’ve traveled about 6000 miles, been in 6 different airports, 4 different hotels, done 5 shows, had about 20 hours of sleep and we couldn’t be happier to be here!”. It’s true for me. All the hours spent writing, recording, touring, and

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Where can the readers follow you?

I am so easy to find!! Since I’m the only Felton Pilate in the US, simply type in my name on Facebook. Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and you got me!

"Tech Leader Making a Difference."

Victor Raymond 8 WIB PROMOTING NETWORK

Lighthouse 1893, a neighborhood organization and community center for at-risk kids in Philadelphia.

Tell Everyone who you are and what you do.

My name is Victor Raymond and I’m the CEO of Triumph Tech, a cloud computing organization of over 200 talented individuals. I am one of the many passionate leaders working to help customers, businesses, and industries modernize in the cloud.

Let’s talk a little about your journey and how you got to where you are today.

I’m a lifelong entrepreneur. From a young age, all I ever wanted to do was run a business. I started my first business at the age of 13: a hot dog cart called… “Hot Dog a La Carte.” My dad supplied the initial equipment, but I had to handle everything else: billing, supplies, food preparation, and staffing (it was just me).

From beginning to end, the whole thing was fun as hell. I credit my father for my motivation and decisiveness. He taught me responsibility, yes, but he also instilled in me a sense of loyalty, leadership, and vision. But in order to succeed, I had to first believe in myself. So, I went to work in the tech field. From DevOps to sales to staffing services, I’ve worked every single job I’ve asked my employees at Triumph Tech to do.

How do you define your purpose?

I want to impact the lives of those around me. I understand the challenges that come with a life in tech, and as a leader, I want to be there to help my employees on their journey, especially as they’ve been there to help us on ours. I want to support those who find themselves in need and give opportunities to those who are often forced to do without. Because of our success, Triumph Tech is able to work with organizations such as The

Tell us about Triumph Tech and the motivation behind it.

Right before the company’s formation, I began to hear my friends and colleagues talk about moving their workloads to the cloud. From my corner of the industry, I saw many businesses not only consider but begin to transfer their resources fully online. And before you knew it, I started noticing a gap in staffing trends: those who migrated to the cloud vs those who did not.

This was an incredible development, if I’m being honest, and I was inspired.

James knew modernized cloud workloads, and I knew the industry. If we could work out the right plan, then we could help customers migrate and modernize their critical infrastructure to the cloud.

Flash-forward to 2018-2020, prepandemic, when James and I were running the business — born from James’s initial consulting company — with no one but ourselves and 20 contractors.

Things were going well, but slow.

But then in 2020, COVID hit, and other companies began to shut down.

It was during this time we saw another opportunity. We could offer valuable

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cloud resources and solutions to a world that was changing right before our eyes.

As remote work became the new normal, the pandemic became a catalyst for our industry’s growth.

What are the services that your team offers?

Triumph Tech is a Premier Tier AWS partner, certified as one of the most experienced partners within the Amazon Partner Network.

Our goal is to help solve realworld business problems with AWS cloud technology, assisting customers with migrations, optimization, modernization, data & analytics, machine learning & artificial intelligence, rendering services, Amazon EKS & data lakes, SaaS transformation, and cloud native development.

What are some of the goals you want to accomplish for 2023?

We have a lot of goals at Triumph Tech.

Over the next 12 months, we aim to grow Triumph Tech’s revenue by 125 percent, and we plan to add 100 new employees and team members to our headcount. We also intend to continue our business and brand expansion into Canada.

Philanthropically, our goals include helping improve the lives of as many kids as possible in Kensington, Philadelphia through sports rec and STEM learning (in association with The Lighthouse 1893 and Guiding Light, two great community organizations).

Can you give us some tips on finance and wealth?

Never be scared to take calculated risks, always have a plan about the direction you’d like to grow, and save, save, save.

More importantly, be sure to diversify your investment portfolio across many different sectors and investment classes (equities, businesses, etc.). Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.

What is the best piece of advice you ever received?

Never be scared to bet on yourself.

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Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events?

Triumph Tech is currently embarking on an expansion into Canada as “Triumph Technology Solutions LLC Canada”.

We also have hundreds of new projects in the pipeline, from webinars to conference demos to ML/AI services to customer-facing AWS meet and greets. 2023 is also the year we continue our focus on startups. Triumph is the number one systems integrator in the

entire AWS startup segment of North America, and we want to continue helping those companies find solutions to their worldchanging ideas.

Where can the readers follow you?

Readers can find and follow me on my personal LinkedIn, Triumph Tech’s LinkedIn, or through Triumph Tech’s website.

4 Elements 12 WIB PROMOTING NETWORK

a singer (Nino Dzotsenidze, Magda Vasadze, Bako Alania) participants, and winner of the TV projects Voice, X-factor, and so on ... Our songs people sing, not only in Georgia but also, abroad out of Georgia ... When we thought about creating the music band project, the first important issue was that we wanted to reach and cover listeners of all ages.

Why world golden hits?

All of us grew up on the songs of Whitney Houston, George Michael, Aretha Franklin, Michael Jackson, Ella Fitzgerald, Rey Charles, and so on ...

They still awake memory and feelings at any age, and we want to reach and share them with audiences of any music taste, and character. This is the music without borders that will be acceptable in any country of the world.

Music as the universal language of mankind

M

usic is an essential element of culture and plays a symbolic role in making an event successful, it can bring together people of all ages, races, ethnicity, and gender...

Let’s talk about “4 Elements” Where did the idea come from to create a band?

We are 4 Elements from the “Republic of Georgia” Georgia is a country in the Caucasus region, on the coast of the Black Sea, it is located at the intersection of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, and is today generally regarded as part of Europe.

The idea to create a music band in 2019 came out to Mr. Archil Meparidze, also a member of the band. Each of us is

What are some of your goals you want to accomplish?

Music production is great and is a creative work process. We are glad that we are in communication with different countries, negotiations are underway and we will be happy to introduce our show project to foreign viewers.

This is a show which must go on …

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ band4elements YouTube: https://www.youtube. com/@band4elements/videos

One of the reasons music excretes barriers among different nations and cultures are that people enjoy music from every part of the world, and it speaks the same language, which embodies human emotion, joy, love, and sorrow, especially when you attend an event that plays world golden hits, which loves and knows everybody and is perfect for all kinds of events.

“Where it begins” had a chance to talk to and introduce our reader to the Music Band “4Elements” from Georgia, it is not the USA Georgia it is a country at the intersection of Europe and Asia, and Black Sea beaches.

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"Knowing what I want and staying true to my sound is an accomplishment to me."

Brynja 14 WIB PROMOTING NETWORK

with her. I‘ll never forget that. I told her I wasn‘t sure I could do it but I could try.

Turned out to be a lot easier then I thought. We basically lived in the forest and had unstable internet, so with all that free time on my hands I decided I‘d learn some chords on the guitar. I came back home from that trip a very different person. Someone who sang and wrote songs about her feelings.

That summer was kind of unreal and I couldn‘t understand where I was pulling these songs from.

Tell everyone who you are and what you do?

Hey, I‘m Brynja and I‘m a musician from Iceland.

What motivated you to be a singer/songwriter?

It was very unexpected. When I was 20 years old, I decided to join my friend and musician, Ósk, for a street theater workshop for a month in Norway. During the first week there was a talent show and she asked me to join her on stage to sing harmonies

Let’s talk about your single “Breathe” and the motivation behind the song.

That song was so different from anything I‘d ever written that I didn‘t understand where it was being pulled from... kind of like when I first started writing. I think my frustrations towards society and my fear about global warming were the fuel for that one.

What song was the most difficult for you to write?

Aftur & Aftur was a challenge. I wanted it to be kind of nonsensical but yet with some meaning. And that was a challenge. Your mind always wants to make sense of things but the song is about not having to understand everything.

What goals do you want to accomplish for 2023?

I want to play live. I‘ve spent a lot of time in the studio, a lot of time working on the productions, recordings and mixes. Now I want the songs to have a life on their own.

Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events?

I have a release of concerts coming up in March which I‘m very excited about it. I have some more upcoming projects, follow me on my socials to get notified!

If you could perform anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Ohh wow good one. You know what?

The first thing that came to mind was Tiny Desk. Let me stick with that. That would be a dream.

Where can the readers follow you?

On Instagram and TikTok @ brynjabrynja And of course if you follow me on Spotify you‘ll get notified about new releases.

What makes your music unique and different than others?

The album Repeat mixes some unexpected genres; I used to make folk music and all of a sudden I got super inspired by rap and rnb. So the album ended up being a mix of that.

Tell us what your greatest accomplishment has been in your career.

I‘d say staying true to yourself is an accomplishment. In an industry where there‘s a lot of push and pull and people telling you where you should be heading as an artist, it can be tough to hear what your heart is saying through the noise.

Knowing what I want and staying true to my sound is an accomplishment to me.

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"It's become an extension of my identity."

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Tell everyone who you are and what you do?.

My name is AJ and I’m the vocalist of the band.

Tell us a little about your journey and how you got to where you are today?.

I’ve been playing in bands since I was a teen. It’s been a huge part of my life, and I’ve been chasing this dream for about 20 years. I had some mild success with my old project “A Dream Of Reality”, but nothing has ever felt righter than fronting this project. It’s become an extension of my identity.

How did the name “We’re Wolves” come about?

I’ve always been a big fan of satire and growing up my two favorite all-time films were An American Werewolf in London and Teen Wolf. The juxtaposition between horror nightmare fuel and zany outlandish comedy describes a lot of what we all agreed would be our identity.

The name just seemed to fit that idea perfectly.

Let’s talk about the album “Evil things” and the motivation behind the album.

Evil Things is a concept record, we based the whole album on Donte’s Divine comedy “Inferno”. It was a chance for the band to flex their writing abilities more and for us to take more chances with our sound. Each song on the record is based on a different layer of hell both sonically and lyrically, which gave us an opportunity to give our sound more diversity.

What are some things the band wants to accomplish for 2023?

Honestly we’re just looking to create as much content as humanly possible.

The creation of songs and the recording process of bringing those creations to life are really what fuel us. We’re in the process of working on a lot of new music right now. Trying to make at least 40 new songs, and figure out what to do after that. Also looking into possibilities of touring as well.

What’s the creative process like when you make a new song?

Generally, songs start with some killer

riff. Either my guitarist will bring me one or my producer will. We’ve always written music first and vocals second.

I have a philosophy that if the music is awesome then the vocals will be too.

No matter how the creation of the song is, it always starts that way before I go off and write lyrics and melodies. I like the song to take me on a journey and tell me its story.

If you could perform anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Hands down it would be Japan. I’ve always been in love with the culture and the beauty of the architecture.

What do you like to do outside of music (hobbies, activities, etc.)?

Honestly, I would love to get into directing music videos and films. It’s been a passion of mine my whole life.

I’ve been on a lot of sets, written a lot of treatments, and done a fair share of acting. Being behind the camera fascinates me, and eventually, I would like to have the opportunity to create for others.

Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events?

Right now, just working on as much new music as humanly possible, outside of that I can’t really get into too much detail about what we have going on behind the scenes. You can expect a lot of content this year and next.

Where can the readers follow you?

You can follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter @werewolves_FL there’s a link in all our bios that will take you to all our music, accounts, and merch.

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"I empower, connect and serve women authentically."

Shavee Ho 18 WIB PROMOTING NETWORK

Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

I’m Shavée Ho, a multifaceted entrepreneur with a passion for helping others become their most confident self. By fusing life coaching, and beauty, I encourage women to embrace their true reflection, to grow in confidence, and change their mindsets to find a path to true success.

Let’s talk a little about your journey and how you got to where you are today.

Born in Houston, Texas, I grew up learning lots from my grandmother: my greatest inspiration. From a very young age, I began working with hair and make-up and instantly fell in love with beauty.

As my journey continued, I grew more and more fascinated by the beauty of the mind and the psychological effects it has in our lives.

How would you define your purpose?

Everyone has a gift, and it’s our job to service and help those you can with the gift you’ve been blessed with. My gift happens to fall under beauty. I have a passion and talent for enhancing a person’s image and it truly makes me feel great to see a person’s confidence come alive. My goal is to impact as many people as possible without even meeting them.

Through S.H.E Beauty Defined, I will make that happen.

Where do you see your brand in the next three years?

In major retail stores across the USA. What keeps you passionate about helping people look beautiful?

I know how hard life can be and it brings me happiness to know I impacted someone to make their life worthwhile for a moment.

Tell us one person you would love to makeover.

Beyoncé Knowles- Carter. I admire her and it would be an amazing experience. We’re best friends, we just haven’t met yet.

What has been the greatest achievement you’ve received in your career?

Simply creating my business. I followed through with something I desired which is huge for a recovering perfectionist. There is no perfect way to do things, trying to be flawless will slow you down. It’s through the flaws that you build a stronger business, so just go for it.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Vietnam I want to see where my husband is from and be able to show my son as well.

Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events?

Being active in the community is very important to me, so events, pop-ups, and community service are our top priorities at the moment. I’m also working on launching a new beauty line called S.H.E Beauty Defined where I will empower the everyday woman. My brand will focus on real women, real lives and real beauty.

Where can the readers follow you?

IamShaveeho on all social media platforms, and www.ShaveeHo.com.

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Lunch Nique

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Tell everyone who you are and what you do?

We’re Lunch & Nique, and we do music.

How did you two end up collaborating together?

We’ve been working together for years already as solo artists but decided to come together as a group.

Let’s talk about your single and the motivation behind it.

We’ve dropped a few singles the past 6 months, but our latest single is “Rick James.” We were inspired by the 80’s lifestyle and music.

What are some of your goals you want to accomplish for 2023?

We want to tap into the overseas market and start touring a lot more. We also are dabbling in movies and films.

If you could perform anywhere in the world, where would it be?

We would love to go to Dubai.

What has been your biggest accomplishment in your career?

Not ever giving up on ourselves.

What do you think is missing in today’s music?

Originality and substance. A lot of music sounds the same these days.

Tell us what makes your music unique and different than others?

Being comfortable with who we are makes us unique. And we believe that shows through the music.

Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events?

We’re working on our album and some film projects.

Where can the readers follow you?

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lunchandnique/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2cdtLD kCamKeGcs8CSD9az?si=gUW4-EhrR2NYYnc8gLlJQ Other: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/lunchnique/1625134871 https://linktr.ee/lunchandnique

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"I believe I was created to help make others' lives easier and create a smile in the process."

’ T Mil 22 WIB PROMOTING NETWORK

Who are you and what do you do?

I am the solution. Lol Let me explain. I strategize naturally and I believe that give me the ability to be the answer for my clients and anyone that I can collaborate with. I always speak with intention to impact for the good. So, I have taken my natural gifts and talents and created a stream of income from them.

Let’s talk a little about your journey and how you got to where you are today.

I arrived here by force. I became a liability for a 9-5 job of any kind because of a condition I have. As a result, and to maintain financial stability to be able to eat. I needed to utilize what I could, in one of my weakest seasons of my life which was my mind. I was able to consult with music artist first, then media, then literary work. That evolved into consulting with small business owners and entrepreneurs, and finally churches. I arrived here by force.

How do you define your purpose?

I define my purpose as what I said in the beginning, I am here to be an answer. This answer can be by way of a hug that someone needs in a moment. The answer can be by mapping out a full business launch or church

plant. That answer can be by a comedic relief by way of social media. I believe I was created to help make others’ lives easier and create a smile in the process.

Tell us what Trigeminal Neuralgia is and the experience you’ve had with it.

This is a chronic pain disease that is dubbed as “the suicide disease”. The Trigeminal nerves are the three nerves on the left and right sides of our face. One is connected to our brain, then upper jaw and lower jaw.

I have an acute version of this because all three of my nerves on the right side of my face are damaged. This means that there are days that I cannot talk. There are days where I am not able to brush my teeth, wash my face, or even put on make-up, you know things that others may take for granted. I had to learn about this condition because when I was diagnosed there may had been 100,000 cases worldwide. I had to learn from trial and error. I found that one of the triggers for me is spicy foods. The weather could be a trigger. For me it can be rainy seasons, and I love thunderstorms. It could even be snow. It could also be triggering to have normal human emotions, like getting angry or excited. I have had to learn to navigate the good, the bad, that comes along with having a chronic pain illness.

One of the biggest things are because it is not physically seen in that capacity, it can be perceived or assumed that a person with a chronic illness is lazy or doesn’t want to work, or that they are depressed. Battling everyone else’s assumptions while trying to maintain positivity can be a lot! I’m finally at a point in my life where if it’s a day that I can’t win, that there is always tomorrow.

What are some of your goals you want to accomplish in 2023?

2023 is the year that I want to become a published print author. I have a total of 28 eBooks, workbooks, planners, and journals that are out there, but that’s digital. I want to put ink to paper in 2023. Something else I want to do in 2023 is change the ratio.

95% of my travel is always business related.

In 2023 I want to do more personal travel that is just for T’Mil.

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Let’s talk about VGNBAE Music Group and what to expect from them this year.

VGN Bae Music Group is a black owned independent record label imprint based out of Houston, TX that is the baby of Dominique Side and Anthony Hall.

VGN Bae was originally created for the two of them to get back to created music themselves, their own way without any engines or execs telling them what to do or trying to control their sound. That quickly evolved into them signing some new and upcoming artists as well as some very established

artists in Houston. The label has evolved tremendously now to where we are a distribution entity for other independent artists and imprint, and we also have an 18,000 square foot multimedia entertainment center that is VGN Bae studios based in Houston, Tx. You can do everything from audio, to video, photography, and everything in between that is creative, can be done here as a one-stop shop.

What has been the biggest accomplishment you’ve had in life?

My biggest accomplishment has been

not quitting when I lost my parents.

My mother and father died a year apart. My dad in August of 2021 and my mom in August of 2022 and everything that I am is because of them—music, media, marketing, ministry. All those M’s reflect who they are and things that I loved to do that they did. Literally not quitting when I lost my heroes and understanding that for some of us, greatness is on our lives, and we really don’t tap into that greatness until the thing that we needed to most to succeed is gone.

One fun fact about you?

One fun fact about Lady T’Mil is that I love cartoons. Give me bugs bunny, adult swim on cartoon network, South Park, and honey I will be in seventh heaven.

Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events?

In relation to projects, I’m looking forward to by the fall of this year I will be able to offer accredited certifications through one of my companies, The Ministry GPS, and something else that I am looking forward to is working on more movie and television productions in 2023 as well as some international travel that is in the waters.

Where can the readers follow you?

As a marketing strategist I am a firm believer in making it easier for those to follow you. So, across all social media platforms using a universal hashtag #ItsLadyTMil on Instagram, twitter, clubhouse, Facebook and LinkedIn. Also, you can find me at one of my two websites, the ItsLadyTMil.Agency and TheMinistryGPS.com.

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Are you young, talented and need a space to pursue your dreams? Welcome to The Vision Room, where creativity comes alive. www.visionroomnj.com

@_thevisionroom

"We foster a culture of connection, community, and enjoyment."

Brown Skin Brunchin 26 WIB PROMOTING NETWORK

Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

Brown Skin Brunchin’ is a founder funded global technology and social group, founded in 2018 by Lillian Jackson and Melissa Mason around a simple idea - brunch. Brown Skin Brunchin created a space for minority women to come together over a good meal & drinks, to meet other amazing minority women, and expand their personal and professional circles.

grateful they are that something like this exists in their community. Using this platform to build their sister circle has changed their lives and we are grateful to be a part of it.

What inspired you to come up with “Brown Skin Brunchin”?

Lillian and Melissa met in the second grade at Blackwell Elementary School located in Richmond, VA. The two became inseparable and built a lifelong friendship that would face its first challenge when Lillian moved away for a job opportunity. It was through that distance that the pair realized that finding genuine friendships during adulthood were not an easy feat, and thus Brown Skin Brunchin was born.

Out of all the places you’ve been which one has been the most memorable one?

There’s no way to pick just one. Every city has its own vibe, and one experience cannot be compared to the next. Every event we attend is memorable because of the people we meet and the connections that are made during each one.

Let’s talk about the experience you’ve had with the movement of the “Brown Skin Brunchin” you do all around the world?

Creating and watching Brown Skin Brunchin’ has been an amazing experience. We get to see people walk in not knowing anyone, but feel comfortable within minutes of engaging with others, and leave feeling like they’ve met their new best friend. We receive a ton of feedback from women about how much they’ve needed something like this, and how

How would you define your purpose?

Our purpose is to create organic connections and change the narrative around friendships amongst women of color, one brunch at a time.

Where do you see this movement in the next five years?

Brown Skin Brunchin is currently working on its goal to reach 100 cities, with plans to expand to 130 cities, domestic and international, by 2023.

There are also goals of increasing international expansion, supporting women in their entrepreneurial journeys, and creating scholarships and opportunities for young women of color.

Melissa and Lillian see the Brown Skin Brunchin movement changing the lives of millions of women across the globe.

Can you tell us some of the things that these women get out of your “Brown Skin Brunchin”? –

Women leave our events feeling confident in themselves, because for most, stepping into a room full of women they don’t know to share a meal is completely out of the box for them.

Women also feel empowered because they share their experiences, challenges, and successes with people who understand where they are coming from, and gather support in ways they didn’t have before. Women leave an event with a new connection, whether it be personal or professional, and we’ve witnessed people leave with a new lifelong friend, leads to a new career, guidance on how to start their own businesses, etc. The list goes on.

What advice can you give to the next generation of female leaders?

Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone, have an open mind, and know what you are looking for. Take a chance on you. If you don’t, no one else will!

Are you working on any new events or upcoming projects?

We are always working on creating new events and experiences. Brunches are held monthly in each city, so every city has an event to look forward to.

We are also working on expanding our reach across the globe by kicking off our launch in Europe in 2023.

Where can the followers follow you?

You may connect with us via our website, https://www. brownskinbrunchin.com, via our app Brown Skin Brunchin’ in the App and Google Play stores, via social media, at Brown Skin Brunchin’ on Facebook, @brownskinbrunchin on IG, and @brownskinbrunchin on TikTok.

WHERE IT BEGINS 27

Sunny Jorge 28 WIB PROMOTING NETWORK

“They called Recording Artist Sunny Jorge Superman”.

Up, Up, and away is what we usually hear a Superhero’s say when he or she is about to rescue someone. Last year recording artist Sunny Jorge heard a teenage girl calling for help in East Orange, New Jersey. Sunny was waiting for his music session with one of his producers when he heard a teenager yelling for help from the roof top of a commercial building he was in front of. What an incredible artist! He jumped to action to save her life on a very cold and rainy day. The commercial door had locked on her and she had no way of opening it. It is nice to know in this time and year that we still have a good Samaritan.

This story was aired on the local news on channel 12. He was interviewed by reporter Marci Rubin. It was mentioned across social media on Facebook and Instagram. They called him Superman.

Sunny Jorge is on his way to making it big in the world. His style of writing is incredible, and he is a complex writer. I would not call him a hip hop artist. His music is very diverse and has a sound of its own. Sunny is blowing up the airwave with his incredible music.

Where it Begins Magazine reached out to Sunny and requested an interview with him. We asked for an exclusive interview so we could get to know him better.

Sunny, when did you learn that you wanted to become an artist?

“I have always been interested in trying different forms of art; watching

my older brother draw as he watched cartoons sitting on the couch amazed me. One day I found myself in chill sitting at the desk drawing a picture of an animated character I believe was “Sylvester the cat” and it actually came out good. From drawing I always felt as though that was not enough to keep me settled down and out of trouble.

I started to write poetry. I did not imagine becoming who I am today by expressing myself openly. In 2019, I found myself loving the art of music and entertainment.”

Now it is clear why he is an incredible artist who thinks outside the box. I believe we were only touching the surface of learning about Sunny. I asked Sunny the magic questions, Who is Sunny Jorge the Artist?

Sunny Jorge the artist, is like a breath of fresh air. Imagine yourself walking on the beach, or when the Sun warms up the side of your face as it is rising. You know like the window drapes slightly opened or something like that when you see the sun. I really cannot describe sunny in any other way but Multi talented, consistent, persistent, and real. There is not any category in music that I cannot fit into.

I have the ability to create different sounds and I hear. I would say I am an artist who will make all genres of music.

When I am in the studio, I catch the vibe from the instruments, and I will match it in vocals. I will sing the melody of the instruments I hear. It is like I am in the movie and I am telling the story with my vocals.”

Wow, Sunny you are incredible on how you create the style of your music.

Let us talk more about your artistry.

Your style of music is different from other artists.

What makes you different from today’s HipHop artist?

“Sunny said, I call my style of music “Reality Rap” using “melody”. I am not a singer, but I can create harmonies that go along with the conversation/concept of my music. If I have not been through it or I have not been around any of what I am discussing in my music: then, that means, I honestly can’t connect to my core audience.”

I developed a creative concept as to where I wanted to be mutual in a relationship and not take sides With men or women on how their relationship should really be is the concept of my new song called

“Venus”. I released it on September 30th, 2022. Venus talks about the expression of true love that should be given from a man, on how he should love a woman. Women should never settle for less and she should know her worth. When you look at my artwork of my song called “Venus” it symbolizes me holding and embracing the planet of Venus. Mentally to me make me feel like I am symbolizing it as though it is a woman that I love, caring for her and having her in my hands.

Soon to be released my 2nd project titled: “From- Venus 2-Mars” is planned to be released January 31st, 2023. “Venus 2”, is about Men that treat their significant other good but sometimes good isn’t good enough for them and the saga continues.”

Your song is called Devil.

Explain to our readers what your song is about.

The song Devil was based off the narrative of one’s mindset. I wanted to break the illusion of when a person feels as if they cannot let go of a bad relationship. It hurts when you are on the other end and you are reciprocating the pain of the relationship. Hurt people hurt other people. We must learn to come into a new relationship without baggage. It is unfair to the next person when you have not healed from a bad relationship and now that the damaged person walks around acting like the character traits of what the Webster Dictionary defines as the Devil. Now they pretend to

WHERE IT BEGINS 29

Even those who may not be fans of rap music find my music worth listening to.

love someone and becomes the lover moving wicked like the Devil. They start afflicting pain and heartache to their new lover because of the past.

I still believe in romance, and I was taught to love a person unconditionally.

No matter what happens in a new relationship. Let go of old baggage and do not hold on to it. Just let it all go.

Murder She Wrote is about a female that just literally takes your energy from her beauty, her mindset, and the way that she takes care of her responsibilities to a whole different level of just wanting to give her everything. Murder She Wrote is about that one female who is going through a bad time in her relationship. She knows she could definitely be treated better by someone who wants to treat her better without caring if she has a man or not.

If you had a chance to go back in time, what would you change in your life?

If I could change anything in my life, I would change the way I loved myself growing up. I do not mean the mindset I was in as a child and as a young adult.

Even still on this current date, I feel as though there is no need for me to be in the forefront. Somehow, I always become “center staged”. Everything that I have been through in my years of living has molded me not only into the artist and the man I am today.

January 9, 2022, you are had a listening party what songs will you be releasing?

Yes, I was elated by the feedback and praise of my work. Knowing my work has a message that can impact all ages.

30 WIB PROMOTING NETWORK

Do you have a mentor that you look up to?

I have several mentors that I look up to. They do not even know that they are my mentors. I do acknowledge them as such. I watched them work and how they are great listeners before they act on any instruction that is given. I have seen them lead multitudes of people and bring communities together to stand up for at-risk students in the surrounding districts and the focus on a better education which will and can bring a better and more stable environment.

What can you express to a new artist on what they can do to become successful with Koolaidbaby?

The picture that you choose to paint with your thoughts, should speak to me “personally”. It should move me “unknowingly”. It should catch me instantly and grab my attention. This is the first thing. The second will be now that you got me, how do you keep me?

Keep it consistent. It will happen as much as only “you” want it to happen, and your stardom and success can only be measured by your needs and wants.

What hip hop artist do you look up to?

I look up to God for creating all of the ones inclined musically and viewed as one voice. It may be a different sounds but the messages are the same. I am honestly an individual who does not listen to other artists that may also be just as “authentic” as I am based on my research as a song writer. I may really end up liking a song from someone else. I would not want my work to come out sounding similar or maybe better.

Why do they call you Sunny Jorge?

The name Sunny comes from my childhood days. In my neighborhood, the individuals that I hungaround called me Sunny because of the yellow diamonds I used to wear. They were fascinated by me and how I kind of moved like one of those mob bosses.

I am basically quiet and honest.

Koolaidbaby and I adopted the name Jorge to add to it because of my grind for the music. It reminded me of the movie which starred George Yung “Boston George” because of me moving from place to place, state to state, and finding a way to get my product across the borders without any incidents. This was for the well-being of my daughter. Sunny Jorge is more than just a name. It is a community of one person who’s overcoming the everyday process of life.

Sonny Jorge is not your typical rap artist; he is eclectic with music that can have the flavor of reggae, smoot jazz, R&B, just to mention a few. The rapper that exceeds and goes beyond rapping. In addition, Sonny Jorge is a man with a heart and a spirt that exudes love. As a father he recognizes his responsibility to his daughter and I can only imagine he chooses to be the example of the man that will one day be the husband of his daughter.

Sonny Jorge sets an example for other rappers of all ages to be the best version of themselves to help make the world a better place. Thank you, Sonny Jorge, for being the artist and person that you are.

You can follow him at sun Jorge on Instagram , Facebook at Sunny Jorge and he is represented by the public relations company called “MizMacMarketing LLC”.

Written By: Vera Thomas

KPLUXSHOP

KPLUXSHOP

KPLUXSHOP

KPLUXSHOP

SELF LOVE

STYLE OF

Christopher Martin 32 WIB PROMOTING NETWORK

Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

My name is Christopher Martin “The Fashion Plate.” I am an actor, MC, and Live Wire. I am out here entertaining all around the United States.

picked up tips along the way to add to my acting arsenal. The different exposure it has brought to my career such as this interview we are doing right now.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be in the film industry?

The main thing is that you have to put the work in, and it doesn’t happen overnight. You have to work and hone your craft. You have to make sacrifices and be ready for rejection.

You’ll need to have thick skin and be comfortable with yourself. Know that you’re good enough and that you have more than just talent. Don’t do anything that is going to lessen your morals, principles, or values. Speak up if you don’t feel comfortable about something.

What made you want to pursue a career in film?

It basically almost came out of necessity to find something to do. I got introduced back when I was in college, which was more on the broadcast side. I have always wanted to act, and I pursued that dream more when I moved to Atlanta.

Since you’re talking about Atlanta, what are the three things you love most about Atlanta.

First, I love the nightlife because there’s always something to do, Second is networking. This is one of the best cities in the U.S. for networking. The last thing that I have really come to love about Atlanta, and I am really unapologetic is black people in power.

Amen, amen and amen!

What is your favorite film and who is your favorite actor?

My all-time favorite, and this is going to show how much of a cornball I really am lol, is Ace Ventura: Pet Detective. I could watch that over and over again.

It’s hilarious! Jim Carrey, all the characters and how he laid that down.

You can tell that he is all in. He is definitely one of my favorite actors. If I had to choose a more serious movie and it has another one of my favorite actors is Glory with Denzel Washington. I do dig Sean Penn as an actor and Damson

Idris, who plays Franklin on Snowfall.

Let’s talk about the musical film “The Sound of Christmas” and the experience you had in it.

‘The Sound of Christmas’, BET plus, and Booker T. Madison (the director), shout out to them. It’s a great film with a great storyline that stars Ne-Yo and Serayah.

I play Brother Odom, a choir director, and have a few funny lines. I get to play it a little bit with some comedy. I enjoyed my day on set. We shot it early in 2022 and it came out this past holiday season at the end of 2022. I’ve got some great feedback where people have been hitting me up. I feel really blessed to have booked it and be a part of it. Chances are that it’ll play on year after year and the work will live on.

Tell us some of your goals you want to accomplish this year in 2023?

I want to continue to book more shows.

I’m getting some great opportunities, already auditioning and I have already booked something for this year. I am going to be in a very great gut-wrenching play called “God Guys.” It has to do with four black men and mental illness. It’ll be at Little Five Points this summer.

Out of all the films you’ve been in, which character was your favorite.

I would say little Jordan’s dad in the Will Packer blockbuster major motion picture ‘Little.’ I loved being around some bigname actors and actresses like Regina Hall and Issa Rae. I learned things and

What is one fun fact about yourself?

My nickname “The Fashion Plate.”

I absolutely love clothes and I could shop all day from Nonstardom to Marshalls to some shop in Little Five Points to Neiman Marcus. My dad was very sharp dresser and he instilled that in me. He got me GQ magazine and told me that it would teach me how to dress.

If you could trade places with one person for one day, who would it be and why.

It would be Michael Jackson. Purely his entertainment, stage, and dancing. If not him, then it would be Prince. Playing that guitar one time in front of millions.

What is the best piece of advice that you have ever received in your life?

It came from my dad. I really loved my dad. He told me that there’s nothing wrong with doing right. My dad instilled in me that it’s not weak, lame or uncool to do things the right and honest way. He said it’s actually a great way to gain what you want out of life and stay out of trouble.

What are your social media tags?

Instagram and twitter: (@Cmartinatlp) Facebook: (@theatlfashionplate) Thefashionplate.webs.com.

WHERE IT BEGINS 33

Onyx Keesha 34 WIB PROMOTING NETWORK

Tell everyone who you are and what you do?

Award winning international director and producer of film and stage, I am clear that my calling in life is to heal through the arts. With dozens of films, series, and theatrical projects under her belt, I have made “creating” my career.

With over 3 million YouTube views, with almost 100k social media followers across my platforms, I know the power of creating your own lane. No stranger to struggle, I use my life experience to inform my art. I am passionate about telling stories, representation, and providing opportunities to emerging artists through her nonprofit M. Power Arts. Currently contracted with Jupiter Entertainment, I had the pleasure of producing and working on shows such as For My Man, Snapped, and Fatal Attraction which can be seen on Oxygen and TV One. I am also super excited to be named Vice President of Productions and Content at iElevate+ TV, a new platform that highlights the LGBTIQ+ and Same Gender Loving community of color. With iElevate I have already produced several docu series, talk shows, and more. I am proud of all that has been done and aware there is so much more in store for me. I am excited about my continued journey to heal the world through the arts, blur the lines that divide us, and create work that has true impact.

Let’s talk a little bit about your journey and how you got to where you are today.

It took a lot of hard work, a lot of tears but most of all a lot of Faith. I always knew I wanted to have a career in the arts. For many years I thought it would be on stage or in front of the camera.

Acting brings me such joy. I found out through the years that producing, directing, and hosting is truly where

my passion lies. I spent a decade in the theater world in New Jersey. I had a successful performing arts school where over 300 students came through my program, and I mounted dozens and dozens of plays. I woke up one day and decided I wanted to try my hand in film, specifically documentaries.

I closed up shop, packed up everything I had and moved to Atlanta, GA and started film school.

Atlanta was such a budding film industry and I found myself on many sets and learning more on indie projects than I could ever learn in school. I caught the BUG - the film bug - and soon film became my life. Fast forward years later, I have several awards under my belt, had the opportunity to direct a web series in Paris, France, I have several films on streaming platforms, and produced for some of the top true crime series on several major television networks. That performing arts school I closed back in New Jersey, has reopened with branches in the North, South, & West Coast. I am most proud of the launch of my Talk Show “Faith It” The one thing that has been constant in my journey is God. I aim to show creatives that the notion of “The Starving Artist” is dead - you can truly make a living doing what you love and the key is to keep God in the center of it all. Faith It is a talk show that features successful artists who have had to lean on their faith throughout their journey to success.

What are your goals you want to accomplish for 2023?

My goals this year are to continue to produce films that make a difference. I want to grow my platform to include a coaching program for creatives who want to make a living and an impact doing what they love. I recently opened another office in Atlanta, GA and I want to continue to expand my brand and business.

Let’s talk about “Faith It” and the motivation behind the show.

Well, I am crazy about Faith, truly. When you come to my home or office, I have a jar of mustard seeds. I give them out to remind people that you can have the Faith the size of a mustard seed and still watch the miracles happen in your life.

I wanted to show people that those who believe are successful have had their

own journeys. I wanted to not just talk about Faith but to also give real tools and examples of Faith in action that others could relate to.

What has been one of your most memorable moments in your career?

There are so many, but what comes to mind is the day we signed a multifilm distribution deal. My best friend and business partner and I have been working so hard to get a footing in the industry, when we got the news it felt like we were finally seeing the fruit of our labor. It inspired us. We hopped in the car, blasted music, drove around and celebrated. I cried; lol I am a big cry baby.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Honestly, I would go anywhere where my loved ones are. I have grown to realize that being with family (blood or chosen) is what brings me joy.

What do you do in your spare time?

In my spare time I love to bake, I love going to church and watching sermons online, I love shopping.

Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events?

I have several things in the works. I cannot wait to get the ok to announce them all.

What is one message you would like to give your fans?

It is ok to FEAR IT (whatever it is) but you must FACE IT (allow yourself to feel it and face that fear) the FAITH IT (the lean on your Faith and push through).

Where can the readers follow you?

I am @onyxkeesha on all social media platforms.

WHERE IT BEGINS 35

"GO where you GLOW."

Dariyonna Johnson

LASH INVASION 36 WIB PROMOTING NETWORK

Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

I’m Dariyonna Johnson CEO of Lash Invasion where we supply high quality products to lash technicians worldwide.

Who or what motivated you to be a beauty influencer?

I was motivated by movies to become a beauty influencer, I’m very cinematic and being younger movies captivated my imagination in a way that nothing else did. When you think of beauty you think of women, and I love the old fashion style of how women wore simplistic and chic types of makeup. I started selling wigs and now I’m doing lash supplies because I love to add the finishing touch to already beautiful women.

Let’s talk about your business and how it got started.

My mother started a business, and she definitely inspired me to start my own business. I saw my mother get up every day and get it, she didn’t make excuses and I wanted to be just like that. I started lashing in my parent’s basement and I grew into a sixfigure business in less than 4 years. I graduated high school and didn’t know what the next thing was going to be but I knew I wasn’t working for anyone else. I started training inspired lash technicians and turned those training into an academy which has graduated over 200 students so far. I always want my customers to look and feel the difference with my brand.

Tell us about some of your best products and what they are used for.

Lash Invasion is completely for lash technicians and catered towards lash technicians solely.

I started off as a lash technician, so I know first-hand what type of products are needed in order to give your clients the best results. My products are created to be efficient and supply lash technicians with the best. We serve our lash tech community with training and courses while supplying the best high-end products to continue their lash journey. We sell products that are made for lash extensions and lash extensions only.

Our top three products we offer our lash technicians are lash trays, retention bundles and of course our famous lash lockers but of course we have more. We specialize in creating an experience with each product. I understand what tools and products are needed in order to have your clients walk away with long lasting and beautiful lashes.

My goal has always been to increase the value and quality of our products lash technicians receive and I believe Lash Invasion has reached that. Our products are made to give lash technicians high-end quality products while making their shopping experience fast and easy.

What are some goals you want to accomplish for 2023?

My main focus this year is to take my time, give myself patience. I know it can be easy to get wrapped up in the glitz and glam so my goal is to remain humble.

I’m not listening to anyone else on what I should be doing but God. I’m 23 years old and yes, I’m successful and I know I have more to come but if I only focus on what’s next I miss what’s happening right now. I want to enjoy my journey and I realize the best thing right now is right now.

How would you define your purpose?

I feel like my definition of my purpose is honestly whatever God says. I focus on my why and that’s to stay in my calling of helping others achieve their goals while remaining authentic to myself in the process.

What keeps you passionate about helping people look beautiful?

I love when women stop and see themselves and they are in awe with what they see. I honestly believe that life is good when you feel good.

When you invest in yourself, it’s the biggest ROI in my opinion.

What is one fun fact about yourself?

I am the queen of ping pong. I won a church tournament when I was younger and I’ve been hooked ever since. I literally had a forest gump moment, I never played before but I beat everyone.

Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events?

Of course, we’re always working on something. We are working on an event for the Lash industry launching by 2024, dedicated to the lash community. I have new ideas everyday but I try to take it one step at a time.

Where can the readers follow you? www.lashinvasion.com Instagram @lashinvasion Facebook @lashinvasion Tiktok @lashinvasion Youtube @lashinvasion.

WHERE IT BEGINS 37

Ramon Ray 38 WIB PROMOTING NETWORK

Tell everyone who you are and what you do.

I’m Ramon ray. I like to impact the lives of small business owners and I’m an entrepreneur that started five companies sold three companies, author, writer, event producer, speaker and the publisher of BWC Daily.com and Zone of Genius.Com, But I think the, “what I do” are two things, I work with large brands and mid-sized brands who market to small businesses.

Companies like Zoho or Salesforce or AT&T or Verizon, Microsoft, Dell. Many brands like that and they’re looking for those who have stories to help them add value to small businesses. That’s one thing and I do that as an event host and speaker. Then the other thing I do is build media companies. So, I’ve started several media companies where I’m providing value producing content.

That content is usually sponsored by a brand that would supply value added services to the community via premium content. That’s the two broad things that I do if that makes any sense at all.

Tell us who are some people that inspired you to get to where you are today?

That’s a dicey question. Well, there’s two people, I guess. I was fired from the United Nations some years ago and there was a gentleman there named Chidambaranathan, Mr. Nathan for short. I can’t say he inspired me to be who I am today as it were. He’s the one who would tell me Ramon slow down. I know you’re frustrated. Slow down, be careful before you write that e-mail, sleep on it. Things like that then my good friend Yacov Sarinsky.

He and I are similar ages, but he was in the business world before me and just being able to be a bird on his shoulder and just watch him build his businesses, inspired me and I would be remiss if I didn’t, of course acknowledge my mother and my father and I’m a person of deep faith. So, God, I thank him for his ability. So, those are a few people who’ve inspired me.

So, what made you want to be an author?

Well, I didn’t have a PhD. I wasn’t very smart. I didn’t look very good, and I figured you know what, all the cool

people have books, so that’s it. So I wrote a PDF of about 30 pages, a long PDF and I was using that as a download on another company I started, Small Bids Technology.com and years ago I shopped that PDF to a number of publishers and one of them, AMAcom American Management Association, said, you know what, If you did this, I’m sure you could do a full book and they signed me on for my first published book by the American Management Association.

it’s not like a very thick book, but I must say to answer that question in a side way about writers block any time writer block comes you just take your time, breathe, do something else. Open Netflix or you can work with a freelance writer who can help with some of the details, but I don’t think I’ve suffered any writers block, but I did have a good editor and she helped me add life to it and gave me guidance.

Ok, Let’s get into your book. The celebrity CEO and the motivation behind this book.

The bottom line of the book is I’m a firm believer that small business owners need to be well known in their marketplace.

Celebrity doesn’t mean celebrity like Kardashian, Beyoncé or whoever the famous person of the day is, But that means you’re well known to your core target potential customer base. It could be in your local geography, in your small town. You’re well known, or it could be in your niche in your market. So that the purpose of the book is to give people kind of a road map to how I built my business, and how to become well known to large brands who reach small businesses.

So, what are some tips you can give a person aspiring to be a small business owner and they are having some challenges?

Sure, what I would do, is go open National Geographic and watch a lion that is starving and hungry.

They go hunting because they must eat. So that’s one inspiration of these small business games, in the beginning you’re hunting. You must be nimble. You must be persistent.

The second thing I would do is go look at an eagle flying, and look at the freedom that eagle has. That’s the other side of success that entrepreneurship has, the freedom to dominate the industry you are in. To serve who you want, when you want, and how you want. On one hand it’s a struggle and on the other hand, once you get it running right, the sweet taste of success and freedom is beautiful.

Did you deal with any writer’s block when writing this book?

Not really, I mean, writing comes easily to me and I work with a good team. So,

WHERE IT BEGINS 39

Yes, and I love your examples.

So, what are some of your goals you want to achieve for 2023.

Well, I don’t know if it’s mainly for 2023 or not, but I would love to pay myself more consistent revenue so that I can possibly get some bigger accommodations for our family, and give away my time and my money to help those in need. I want to make the world a better place with my time and my mindset. That’s the end game for me.

Alright. I like that. So, what has been one of your most satisfying moments in your life?

Absolutely, when I was a speaker and having people come up to me and tell me how I transformed and helped them. That’s exciting! People don’t understand when you’re on stage, at least for me, there’s always these little thoughts, you’re not good enough, you’re not impacting, it’s stupid what you’re saying. It happens. When people tell you, “Ramon, when you said this to me, it encouraged me”! It makes it all worth it, so that’s kind of one of the impactful things that happens to me.

Well, what was one of your challenges being an entrepreneur?

Sure, I had a whole lot of challenges, being strategic. The beauty of Ramon Ray is I can think and move very fast.

The challenge of being Ramon, is I could slow down just a bit more, so I wish sometimes I’d slow down a bit more, and as my friends Lolita Walker and Larissa Harrington would say, slow down or pause to speed up. There’s power in the pause.

cheer you on. So, suck it up and move forward. Know why you’re doing what you’re doing. Let that be your guiding light and seek to encourage and inspire others because this world is a jacked-up place. People have gone through trauma, abuse and lives that we can’t imagine. So, if the people listening and people reading this can be a small ray of light and encouragement every day, we will make the world a better place.

All right, so who is one of your favorite authors?

Seth Godin! That’s my guy. For some reason, I guess it could be his quirky glasses. Could be his quirky socks. Could be how he presents himself. Could be how he speaks. His slides are full of color and vigor. Could be his cadence, how he talks. But Seth Godin, I’ve just admired his vibe. His books are all kinds of different colors and shapes and sizes.

Of course, as a marketer that just spoke to me.

What can we expect from you coming up?

Yeah, the biggest thing I’m working on is a community that I’ve been leading, that has been around for about two years. It’s called breakfast with champions and people can see that at BWCdaily.com, where every day we motivate, educate and inspire through a lens of activity to help people live a better life and grow their business.

We have events people can see on the menu. We have a podcast. We have live programming with 60 experts. 8 hours of live content a week. So, we are a fast-moving ship, moving full steam ahead and we invite people to have their lives changed.

What is one message you would like to give your fans right now.

Be persistent. Few people are going to

What makes your podcast unique and makes it stand out differently than others?

My podcast is the funniest, fastest, most informative, high-energy Podcast you will ever get in your entire life. Guaranteed if it’s not, I will give you your money back.

Shout out your social media where everybody can follow you.

They can find me on LinkedIn. Ramon Ray smallbiz. Instagram, Ramon Ray smart hustle. If people want a list of some of the top small businesses, they can just DM me on Instagram. Best books, e-mail me DM me for a list of my best books. I’m happy to send that to them for sure.

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