December 2022 Issue

Model: Macy Jahoda @macethadon Photo by: Davinci @framedbydavinci Location: Vision Haus Studios

Yulia Kravtsova Don’t wait for the right moment, it may never come

Elwa Selah The power of images and social media

Gemz Musician & social media success at only 20

Vihakha Raghav India’s most promising young star

FRONT

Photo by: Laura Penaloza @laura_pza_

Model: Laura Penaloza @laura_pza_

Photo by: Kash @kash.kreation Location: Oahu, Hawaii

Halee Green Lunsford Model, cosmetology wizard and mom

LAURA PENALOZA

Laura Penaloza – Model, Influencer and Mom at Only 22

Laura Penaloza is not like most 22 year olds you will meet. Where others are partying hard, and still figuring out what they want to do with their lives, Laura is a go getter who’s already hard at work. She is a fashion and lifestyle influencer, as well as a hobby model. To date, she has achieved some of her (many) dreams by working with some of her favorite brands, like Tranquila Swimwear, and Zaful. Not only that, but she is also a recent graduate in UX Design. But most importantly, she is a mother to her two year old.

Originally from Germany, Laura currently lives in Oahu, Hawaii, together with her husband, and their child.

For Laura, every day is a blessing, but also a reminder that the hustle is real. Crediting social media for much of her success, Laura confesses to not expecting such a hugely positive reaction to her content, when she first started posting.

“I didn’t know that my pictures would reach so many people all over the world because I mostly started with social media just because I liked to dress up and take pictures but surprisingly people seemed to like it and my account was growing and I was able to get to know so many kind and amazing people.”

On the subject of how she got her start in the fashion industry, we wanted to know what, if anything, Laura wishes she’d done differently in regards to her blossoming career. “Starting sooner,” she says, although to be where Laura is at only 22 is as impressive as it gets.

“Not listening to the people that throw a lot of negativity your way,” she adds, on the topic of things she’d do differently. “And taking more of the opportunities that were offered to me, instead of being scared of what others might think about it.”

Laura began sharing content after her son (whom she credits as her biggest inspiration) was born, in 2020. Aside from her son, she credits her family, friends and community for the daily love and support that’s helped her grow. She confides Instagram continues to be her “safe space”, and a lot of inspiration comes from other creators. For Laura, an important aspect of her work is working with other female professionals.

“I love that there’s so many other amazing women out there that support you and inspire you with their own content.”

Of course, it’s not always easy, balancing personal life and work, especially as the mother of a toddler.

“I plan ahead, I have days that I strictly spend with family and friends without working or checking my phone often and other days where I create a lot of content for brands or plan future collaborations etc.”

In the next few years, Laura’s setting her sights on reaching her fitness goals (as a motorcycle enthusiast and fitness lover, we’ve no doubt she’ll succeed), traveling more, supporting more women in the business, and spending time with her number one priority her family.

A beautiful creator both inside and out, Laura’s focus professionally is on inspiring and spreading joy. To her audience, as well as to young creators just starting out, she says:

“Never give up! It sounds really cliche, but it really is important to never stop despite what some people might think or say! Do what fills your heart and soul with fire! Life's too short to worry about the what ifs and should be more about loving yourself and those close around you and love a life that fulfills you and going after your dreams and goals!”

YULIA KRAVTSOVA

Model: Yulia Kravtsova @imkrvtsova

Photos by: Lutsiv Yulia & Kravtsova Tatyana

Yulia Kravtsova is one of those indomitable people who’s got several things going for her all at once Living in the United States, though originally from Ukraine, Yulia has been a Social Media Marketing Specialist for the past four years. And one way or another, social media is profoundly at the core of everything she does

“I never have a day off; I can lie on the beach, but I must be with my phone or laptop. To some it seems like a nightmare, but I love it and devote myself to this work because I like it.”

But of course, a Social Media Marketing Specialist is only one of the several hats donned by this wonderfully talented young woman Yulia is also a model, working with various online sportswear stores In her native Ukraine, she worked with Lotto Sport and Babolat, and now, in the U.S, Yulia is currently taking collaborations.

Yulia is a driven, and highly passionate young woman She’s also very active, having practiced dance and drums for the last five years She is also an avid reader, and loves writing poems In her spare time, she likes to relax by turning up the volume on some of her current favorites, which include artists like George Michael, KOLA, 50 Cent, Kalush Orchestra & The Rasmus, and of course, the all time classic, Elvis Presley

Having celebrated some impressive achievements in her career, Yulia counts her journey towards self acceptance and love as her biggest success.

“Before, I often did not like myself, went on diets or vice versa. Now I say to myself "Yulia, I love you" every morning. I advise everyone to do it.”

Now, like anyone who’s faced this battle, Yulia’s journey hasn’t always been easy Assailed by doubt and insecurity, particularly in the early stages of her career, she looks back on those times with compassion and confidence.

“I was afraid to express myself and often held back my ideas. Because of this, I wasted a lot of time, now I don't do that. Even if the idea turned out to be a failure, it does not upset me, because at least I tried.”

Although vastly more confident and bolder than in the beginning, Yulia has learned many valuable lessons down the years. She admits that now, she only expects the worst, because that way, you can only be impressed, but never disappointed

She credits much of her confidence to her father, from whom Yulia admits she got her sense of style.

“I got a sense of style from my dad since childhood. Dad always dressed me in sports stores: Adidas, Puma, Nike, etc. I always felt stylish because I knew that dad would not let you down).”

Deeply devoted to her family, Yulia’s main focus in the near future is helping her relatives still living in war ravaged Ukraine. On a more global level, she hopes to help and inspire other young women to follow their dreams and start working on that today

“I would advise girls who are starting to work as models to never compare themselves with others, you are unique, unique and inimitable, all people are different, and it is normal if someone likes you and someone does not.”

DARENIA ALARCON

Styling: Quinn Cabie @__stylegod__ Lighting: Angel Martinez @famousangel Location: Co.Lab Studios @co.labstudiosmiami

Model: Raphaele Dossou @rebellefleur42

ELWA SALEH

The Power of Images and Social Media with Elwa Saleh

Elwa Saleh is a full time social media blogger, whom we were lucky enough to catch up with recently. With over 500k followers on Instagram, Elwa is quite the sensation across social media platforms, and for good reason. Her engaging content, and unique style definitely set her apart as one of the most exciting social media personalities of the year.

Of course, we had to start by talking about Elwa’s specialty social media, namely the role it’s played in her career.

“Social media has opened many doors for me. Through my platforms, I have been fortunate to work with the best of the best brands and artists. Being a social media blogger and model has also allowed me to build a deeper connection with my audience and connect with fellow artists across the world.”

To date, Elwa has worked with some of the biggest brands in the beauty market, including Sephora, Fenty Beauty, and TooFaced. As a model and actress, Elwa has also collaborated with musicians Post Malone, Ty Dolla, Diljit Dosanjh, among others.

Like so many out there, Elwa started by posting her own beauty content, mainly hair tutorials to her social media. From there, she got her first gig with a hair extension brand.

“If I were to go back and start over, I would do the same exact steps. I remember starting it as a hobby and wanting to share my passions as an artist.”

Although Elwa has no regrets, looking back over her career, she admits she wishes she hadn’t cared so much about growing on social media. However, she then admits that anxiety was a double edged sword.

“That same anxiety did motivate me to make a brand and succeed as a content creator. So, all in all I wouldn’t change a thing. Now I am more relaxed and have faith in my path.”

In time, Elwa has learned to navigate anxiety and difficult situations better. An adept of self help, Elwa enjoys spiritual therapy, such as Tae Chi therapy, and chakra alignment. A firm believer in holistic healing, her spirituality isn’t something Elwa talks about a lot on her social media, but it is an important part of her personal life.

She also enjoys sports, being a skillful volleyball player, a hiker, and a paddle boarding enthusiast. But most of all, she enjoys her work, since she’s one of the lucky people who do what they love for a living. Speaking on the differences between modeling and acting, Elwa says that actually, modeling is a lot harder.

“As a model you have to tell a story without speaking a single word. In acting there is more to play when it comes to telling a story.”

For Elwa, being a model and social media personality is about spreading positivity. She takes comfort in knowing that at this point, she can empower and inspire young girls who enjoy fashion, much like she once was. She also hopes that in the future, she may open an NGO with a focus on empowering women. Her positive attitude shines through in her love for her supporters, whom she credits for supporting her and helping her share her passions.

Elwa is also deeply encouraging of anyone who dreams of working in fashion and social media: “Focus on yourself. Share what you are passionate about. Do not compare yourself to others and KEEP GOING.”

Model: Halee Green Lunsford @halee_lunsford

Photos by: Angel Samples

Halee Green Lunsford is a 28 year old who really has her hands full. A veritable magician when it comes to hair styling and make up, Halee is also a model in her own right, competing in various pageants. She is also rapidly growing into a popular social media personality, inspiring young women everywhere with her unique, fashionable sense of style. Most importantly, she is a wife and a mother to her 11 month old daughter.

For Halee, dressing well and putting a lot of care and thought into her outfits has always been a non negotiable. Long before there was talk of modeling, or walking runways, Halee was the self described “chick that wore high heels to school every day”. Voted as the “best dressed” at her high school, Halee always knew she wanted to go into the world of fashion, and for a long time, that was through cosmetology.

When talking to her, it’s clear to see Halee is one of those people who love their field of work deeply, though she does admit there are a fair few misconceptions about cosmetology abound. One of Halee’s own pet peeves is that so many people assume that “you can go from the darkest black hair color to platinum blonde all in ONE session.”

Rather, one lesson that Halee has learned in her work is that patience is a virtue, and that if you want strong, long lasting results (in anything), you need to put in the work. An attitude that can definitely be seen both in her personal life, and in her modeling work.

In her career, Halee has already achieved some major accomplishments, which include being signed by the John Casablancas Model and Talent Management Agency for the next three years, as well as reigning as the Miss North Carolina Petite in 2022. Halee has also placed in the Top 15 in the national U.S. beauty pageant of this year.

At only 28, Halee has achieved a great deal, both professionally and on a personal level. And yet, she is one of those people who’re always on the lookout for more. In the years to come, she’s got her sights set on the prestigious New York Fashion Week, as well as collaborating with some of her favorite designer brands, like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, or Victoria’s Secret. She also has high hopes of operating her very own luxury salon, where she can showcase her notable cosmetology skills.

However, though highly ambitious, Halee also takes a very positive approach to her life journey. Asked whether she’d do anything in her career differently, she says,

“No, I believe everything happens how they are supposed to. I don't ever wish to go back; I reflect and move forward acknowledging what I can do differently in the future.”

When she is not working, in any form that might take, she enjoys relaxing, whether it be prepping for a marathon (or her own personal goal, a Spartan Race), or kicking back to the music of Josh Turner. She also enjoys spending time with her husband, whom she dubs “her biggest supporter” and their daughter.

On a more public plane, Halee is committed to inspiring young women everywhere, and helping them achieve their goals.

“Never underestimate your ability. It’s about staying dedicated regardless of how many times you hear "no." If at first you don’t succeed, try again!!”

GEMZ

Model: Gemz @localgemini

Photos by: Davinci @framedbydavinci

Styling/Wardrobe: Daniela @grimnela

Only 20

Musician & Social Media at

Lighting: Angel Martinez @famousangel

Location: Co.Lab Studios @co.labstudiosmiami

You might have heard of GEMZ in your wanderings online; if you haven’t, you will soon. At only 20 years old, Melissa, known professionally under the alias GEMZ, is a model and influencer based out of Miami, FL She is also a passionate musician, who uses every moment at her disposal to create music and art, mainly focusing on the R&B/pop side Taking a page out of the books of artists like SZA, Paloma Miami, Rosalia, and Kali Uchis, she hopes to delve into Spanish music and reggaeton in the near future But until then, she was kind enough to sit down for a chat.

As an artist who loves nothing more than connecting with her fans, GEMZ understands the importance of social media in her life

“Social Media platforms like Instagram are also one of the ways I've booked gigs and found castings for some major jobs like Miami Swim Week.”

She also credits social media for getting her first modeling work.

“My first paid gig was actually sent over to me via Instagram from a non-exclusive agency. They hit me up for a music video gig and were requesting my pictures/comp card as well as measurements, and then told me what the job was. I was like sure why not?”

GEMZ also dove a little into her beginning as an artist. Previously employed at a medical center, Melissa herself admits to missing opportunities for fear of risking her day job. In her work, however, she’s found a wonderful sense of completion and gratitude and says everything’s meant to come in due time

In a way, Melissa has always been interested in the world of music and fashion As a young girl, she was a keen dancer, something she still hopes to incorporate into her art at some point. She was also a deep lover of fashion, taking any opportunity she could (like her sister’s soccer games) to parade her unique sense of style Years later, it looks like it paid off

Much as she loves her work, GEMZ is the first to admit “it’s not for the weak” She says a big part of adapting to this kind of life was learning to prioritize and do a sort of balancing act between jobs, as she tried to find fame.

“I think just learning to manage your time wisely will make a big difference as well as remembering to care for your loved ones since they are the main people supporting you.”

Finding people who love, support, and motivate you to move forward is also a big deal GEMZ credits her boyfriend as her main source of inspiration As a 2X platinum recording artist, he motivates and pushes her to do her best. GEMZ also thanks and credits her mom with undying support, without which the job would be infinitely harder.

In the future, GEMZ has some pretty impressive goals for herself, including running some major NYC fashion shows and collaborating with her favorite brands, like Chanel She also hopes to be able to give back to the community On a final note, asked what she’d tell her young fans, GEMZ offers some memorable, heartfelt advice.

“Learn, learn, learn. Doing your research will never cause you any harm and will benefit you in more ways than you can imagine. It's also important to be open to critique and hearing advice from your peers. You will never get anywhere without putting in the work and don't let partying get the best of you.”

ROBIN ANN MOORE

Style with Culture

Wardobe:

Photographer: Robin Ann Moore @armorrestudio

Creative Director: Namdar @namdarcommercialrealty

MUA: Destiny Grimm @glamaethetics

Sassy by Car

DARENIA ALARCON

Styling: Quinn Cabie @__stylegod__ Lighting: Angel Martinez @famousangel

Location: Co.Lab Studios @co.labstudiosmiami

VISHAKHA RAGHAV

India’s Most Promising Young Star

Model: Vishakha Raghav @vishakharaghavofficial

Photos by: Himanshu Sharma @himanshusharmaphotography

Photos by: Munavvar Munna @munavvar_munna

MUA: Shaifali Nagpal @shaifalinagpalmua

You might know Vishakha Raghav as one of the hottest young faces on India’s MTV She is a phenomenally talented young actress and model, who has been featured in numerous music videos, promos, and ads for various reputable brands She is by far one of the most promising trend setters and influencers that India has to offer, and currently enjoys a rather impressive following of 850k people on Instagram

On her social media, Vishakha mostly shares fashion inspiration, putting to good use her enviable fashion sense, and regularly posting outfits for her followers. Here, she also shares bits and snaps of her personal life, touching on everything from what it means to be a public personality, to clips she finds amusing Through her social media, Vishakha is more than just a model for her followers Here, she is able to connect on a more personal level and build a stronger following

The reality star, born in Mumbai, one of India’s biggest cities, first rose to fame when she was cast on the third season of MTV India's Love School as a “wild card” Aged only just 19 at the time, Vishakha rapidly won the hearts of young viewers across the country and became one of the most popular faces on television.

Her unique, compelling features rapidly earned the young reality star contracts with numerous important designer brands in her native India, but also earned her international acclaim

On top of being a successful model, Vishakha is also working as an actress. Having discovered her love for acting at a young age, she is pursuing both more traditional roles, but also performing in various videos and skits on her social media, much to the delight of her cult following

Vishakha Raghav is also a wildly talented young musician Though still in its infancy, her career as a singer is one of the aspects that Vishakha is most keen on exploring in coming years. The young reality star has gone to great lengths, following her appearance on MTV India’s Love School, to prove that she is more than just a reality TV star She is a singer, she is an actress, and a deeply versatile model While preferring to keep a tight lid on the projects she’s got in the pipelines, it’s safe to say you’ll be seeing a lot more of young Vishakha Raghav over the upcoming year.

At present, she’s working with some top designers, and being featured in several photo shoots, set to go out, both in India, but also across the globe, to her international following

A deeply driven young woman, Vishakha Raghav aims not only to succeed and impress as a model, actress, and singer, but also to inspire the young people who turn to her content every day She is a wonderful model for youth everywhere, and a very promising public personality, whose social media following is threatening to surpass a million followers in the coming year.

DARENIA ALARCON

Styling: Quinn Cabie @__stylegod__

Lighting: Angel Martinez @famousangel Location: Co.Lab Studios @co.labstudiosmiami

JUSTIN COVINGTON

Nelli in the Secret Garden

Model: Nelli Lem @nellilemus

Photos by: Justin Covington @meistercrassus

LISHAN DANIEL New Chapter

Model: Lishan Daniel @simplylishand_ Photos by: Sean Diamond @seandiamondto MUA: Briana Smith @audaciousartistry.gta