Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Media Women In Media Special Edition

Special Edition July 2021

WOMEN IN MEDIA

Women In Media www.vandpmagazine.com

5502 Silver Hill Road District Heights, MD 20747 Owned and Operated by Trevelle Harvey

VISION & PURPOSE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

CONTENTS V&P Special Edition 4 Kyonna F. Brown 7 Brandi Cummings 10 Jacquie Gales Webb 13 Krystal Glenn 17 Molette Green 20 Nicki Mayo 23 Kimberly Holmes-Iverson 26 V&P Media 29 Karen McConnell-Jones

Women In Media

32 Dr. Sharon H. Porter 37 Dominique Massaquoi 40 Breana Ross 44 Cynthia J. Terry 47 Terri Tolliver 50 Simone Walker JULY 2021

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July 2021 Founders Karen McConnell-Jones & Dr. Sharon H. Porter

Editor-In-Chief Dr. Sharon H. Porter

Deputy Editors Karen McConnell-Jones Marjorie Middleton Seth Washington

Featuring

Women In Media Kyonna F. Brown Brandi Cummings Jacquie Gales Webb Krystal Glenn Molette Green Kimberly Holmes-Iverson Dominique Massaquoi Nicki Mayo Karen McConnell-Jones Dr. Sharon H. Porter Breana Ross Cynthia Terry Terri Tolliver Simone Walker

Layout & Design Dr. Sharon H. Porter

Contact www.vandpmagazine.com info@vandpmagazine.com

Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine July/August Issue also available

@vandpmagazine

V&P Service Page Special dedication to Donna Harris and Krystal Glenn

The V&P Team is here to be a positive voice for our community through the stories that are shared in our magazine. In addition, we would like to provide services for our community to continue to help build our community one VISION and one PURPOSE at a time!

For services and pricing, please contact us at infor@vandpmagazine.com.

Karen McConnell-Jones Dr. Sharon H. Porter Krystal Glenn Karen Clay Stevie Gaymon Domminique Massaquoi Deven Richardson Jason Greene Kyonna F. Brown Dr. Essie McKoy Marjorie Middleton Antonio Turner Martina Turner Seth Washington Candice Camille Donna Harris Michelle B. Hauser

Inspirational Speaker and Business Development Consultant (Marketing & Branding Specialist) Educational Consultant, Panel Facilitator & Book Publisher Graphic Designer Website Designer Photographer Photographer Sports Consultant Chef & Catering Service Inspirational Speaker & Social Media Specialist Inspirational Speaker & Educational Consultant Writer Hair Stylist & Hair Care Products Hair Stylists & Hair Care Products Vocal Artist & Master of Ceremony Personal Trainer Tax Accountant Virtual Assistant

Vision & Purpose LifeStyle Magazine "Inspiring Our Community" www.vandpmagazine.com

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Kyonna F. Brown

Kyonna F. Brown...

Daring. Unique. Creative.

VPLM: How and when did your media career begin?

KFB: My media journey just sort of fell in my lap. I was in a book anthology and had to figure out what my next move would be after the release. I prayed to God and after waiting to hear from Him I was moved to start doing Facebook lives every Friday and to call my morning segments Forgiveness Friday. After months of being faithful and my audience growing, I was invited to a platform to be interviewed. This location housed shows just like mine. It was a platform that broadcast on digital outlets and social media. I was approached by the owner about bringing my show to the platform and that’s when my show really took off.

This is how I started my journey as a field correspondent for a local magazine, doing red carpets, and interviewing people I thought I never would have had the chance to meet.

VPLM: How do you use your media platform to be a positive voice for the community?

KFB: I use my platform to share the message of Forgiveness globally. Connecting with many women to share their healing journeys in hopes that it will inspire others to take a leap of faith to forgive.

VPLM: What advice can you share with aspiring and novice media personalities and/or journalists?

KFB: Go for it! Listen we only have one life. Any goal is attainable if you keep putting one foot in front of the other. Most reality’s started as a dream. If it is your dream don’t let anyone or thing discourage you. My life has continually flowed because I decided to make one decision that leads to another, and another. Sometimes the decisions we make may not pan out the way we want them to, but if we never try then you’ll never know what could have happened. We live to learn. We live to grow.

We live to experience. Are you living in these areas? Don’t limit your possibilities. Get to it right now. Your next decision could JULY 2021 SPECIAL EDITION change your life forever.

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VPLM: Who has influenced you as a media professional?

Oprah Winfrey has been my model for many years. I honestly never saw myself as a talk show host, but she helped me to believe in myself. She looked just like me and captivated so many households, but she was also a source of help for the community. She paved the way for many others and does it all while moving in excellence.

VPLM: What do you see for Women In Media in the future?

KFB: Women are going to be unstoppable. For years companies were established by men.

Women are stepping out to become leaders in this industry. There is a bright future for women who deserve and desire to be at the table and have authority.

VPLM: What is one of your memorable moments from being in media?

KFB: I would have to say covering the 2018 Stellar Awards. That is when I knew there was only one place from here and that was up.

What’s that song say… “I'm all the way up”. My hip-hop fans will understand that one.

Seriously, it was the event that shifted my entire mindset.

VPLM: What is your favorite pastime?

KFB: I am truly a nature girl. I love going deep into the woods to discover the hidden gems in the woods.

VPLM: Tell us something about you that many people may not know?

KFB: I’m shy. Believe it or not, I’m seriously shy, but when there is great purpose behind a task I get a wave of confidence. It just takes control. I sometimes can’t even believe what I just did or said.

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Brandi Cummings

V&P SPECIAL EDITION I WOMEN IN MEDIA

V&P LifeStyle Magazine

Brandi Cummings, M.S. - TV News Anchor/Reporter...Blessed Beyond Dreams VPLM: How and when did your media career begin?

BC: In high school. I was a reporter and I anchored our school’s live daily morning news program.

VPLM: How do you use your media platform to be a positive voice for the community?

BC: My role as a journalist is so powerful and important. I don’t take that for granted. I use my position to champion young women and minority journalists. I use my experiences to mentor young people and guide them toward success.

VPLM: What advice can you share with aspiring and novice media personalities and/or journalists?

BC: Don’t let the challenges stop you. Be true to yourself. Remember that sometimes you’ve got to do what you have to do, in order to one day be able to do what you want to do!

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VPLM: Who has influenced you as a media professional?

BC: There are too many list to list here. However a few influencers include: Carole Simpson, Jackie Reed, Fredricka Whitfield, Gwen Ifill, and all of the National Association of Black Journalists Founders.

VPLM: What do you see for Women In Media in the future?

BC: I see more opportunities. I see women creating new paths and charting new territory in media.

VPLM: What is one of your memorable moments from being in media?

BC: Being honored with a Resolution from the South Carolina Legislature for my contributions to the young people of that state. Knowing that my name and my work will forever be part of South Carolina history is incredibly remarkable and humbling.

VPLM: What is your favorite pastime?

BC: Spending time with my husband, 2 year old son and 9 month old daughter.

VPLM: Tell us something about you that many people may not know?

BC: I’m no professional who needs a record deal, but I can sing.

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Jacquie Gales Webb

V&P SPECIAL EDITION | WOMEN IN MEDIA

Jacquie Gales Webb -Producer, Performer and Host

Godly. Honorable. Dynamic.

V&P LifeStyle Magazine VPLM: How and when did your media career begin?

JGW: My love for media began when I was a child.

I was inspired by the men and women I listened to on the radio while I was growing up in New York and by Rod Serling whom I learned had not only created "The Twilight Zone" TV show but also hosted every episode. Something in me told me that I was born to do that. I started practicing my craft when Westbury High School accepted my offer to volunteer and allowed me to spin music that my classmates would enjoy over the intercom during lunch periods in 1972.

As I was looking for colleges to attend, I noticed that Emerson, a small college in Boston, had given TV icon Rod Serling an honorary degree. This led me to apply to Emerson College where I received a degree in Communications, work in the college's radio and TV stations, start a commercial radio career while I was a college junior at WILD-AM, and eventually work at the progressive rock station WBCN-FM and TV station WSBK. VLPM: How do you use your media platform to be a positive voice for the community?

JGW: Every listener to my Gospel music program on WHUR is special. Every request for music or the recognition of birthdays, anniversaries, or memorials has special meaning and should be honored. I am privileged to be able to provide my radio listeners with news and information that educates and inspires. As Vice President of Radio for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, I am responsible for developing and implementing strategies to strengthen the ability of the nation's public radio stations to create high-quality, multiplatform content to serve their audiences.

VPLM: What advice can you share with aspiring and novice media personalities and/or journalists?

JGW: Be yourself and be open to new ideas and new platforms. Understand yourself and what you stand for. Understanding what is good for you and having standards in your life will help guide you toward what is best for you. Balance your standards with staying open. Be careful about giving priority to what "was" over what "is."

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V&P SPECIAL EDITION I WOMEN IN MEDIA

VPLM: Who has influenced you as a media professional?

JGW: I thank God for giving me the mission of service and the energy to do it. Legendary radio performer and programmer Frankie Crocker was an influence because his talent and innovation allowed a Black-owned radio station (WBLS) to become #1 in New York. The talented Vy Higginson & LaMarr Renee showed me and the world the power of the feminine voice. I was influenced by Cathy Hughes through her entrepreneurial wisdom and courage, Maureen Bunyan through her talent and grace as a pioneering African American TV news anchor, and former WHUR General Manager Jim Watkins through his faith and support. I thank legendary radio broadcaster Bobby Bennett for encouraging me to produce the Peabody Award-winning radio documentary, "Black Radio: Telling It Like It Was" for the Smithsonian and CPB CEO Patricia Harrison and SVP Kathy Merritt for their faith and support. I thank my parents, Wesley and Indiana Gales, for giving their full support to a daughter who wanted to work in media when the chances for success were slim.

VPLM: What do you see for Women In Media in the future?

JGW: I pray that the contributions of women in media will have a positive impact on this country and the world and will bring us together peacefully.

"Give her the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates." Proverbs 31:31 VPLM: What is one of your memorable moments from working in media?

JGW: Early in my career I was a trainee at W*USA-TV, the CBS affiliate in Washington, DC assigned to the daily, live talk show "Morning Break" hosted by the beautiful Carol Randolph. One of the "Morning Break" episodes I produced was nominated for a local EMMY. Tap dancer Maurice Hines was in town in a production of the musical "42nd Street." For the "Morning Break" TV episode, I combined Carol's interview with Maurice with vintage clips from the Hollywood movie and in-studio dance performances by Hines and local students. The memorable moment was when it won the EMMY...and I was a trainee!

VPLM: What is your favorite pastime?

JGW: I love music, the theater, and reading good books.

VPLM: Tell us something about you that many people may not know?

JGW: The Jacquie Gales Webb Collection of audio and images from my career is housed at Indiana University's Archives of African American Music and culture. aaamc.sitehost.iu.edu/Collections/Jacquie-Gales-Webb

Jacquie Gales Webb Gospel Music Host 96.3 WHUR, Vice President, Radio Corporation for Public Broadcasting

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Krystal Glenn

V&P SPECIAL EDITION I WOMEN IN MEDIA

Krystal Glenn-Owner, Content Creator...

Creative. Positive. Funny

VPLM: How and when did your media career begin?

KG: My media career began in 2007 when I started producing and host the internet radio show, Can We Talk! Radio. I was actually was on another radio show to talk another business venture and was introduced to internet radio.

From there, I went own to get a degree in digital cinematography in 2015. Over the years my contributions to the world of media span from on-air talent, behind the camera to Producer/Director.

VPLM: How do you use your media platform to be a positive voice for the community?

KG:I use my media platform to discuss and address important topics that are not really talked about on the mainstream media platforms. I like to focus on organizations that are helping the community and people who inspiring others. I also like to educate and share information about history that are not so commonly known.

VPLM:What advice can you share with aspiring and novice media personalities and/or journalists?

KG: The biggest thing I found useful in my pursuit of a career in media is that you have to be comfortable with who you are, especially as a women. You will be tested on many aspects of your morals and you have to be confident in who you are, or you will become what they want you to be.

VPLM: Who has influenced you as a media professional?

KG: Ava Duvernay has been great influence and inspiration to me.

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VPLM: What do you see for Women In Media in the future?

KG: I see women owning more media outlets. I also see women leading the way in transforming the way that the world receives news and media. It will be surrounded by facts, integrity and the nurturing spirit that women naturally have.

VPLM: What is one of your memorable moments from working in media?

KG: My most memorable moment in media was attending the protest in Washington, DC at the United States Capitol. I was there to capture the emotion and reactions of people surrounding the killing of unarmed black men and women in our country. It was able to be at ground zero (at the capitol steps) and hear and feel the emotions of people across the country who wanted their voices to be heard.

VPLM:What is your favorite pastime?

KG: Listening to music! I love music it's my therapy. I also love the outdoors and being near the water.

VPLM:Tell us something about you that many people may not know?

KG: When I was younger I wanted to be a teacher and a painter.

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Karen McConnell-Jones & Dr. Sharon H. Porter

www.vandpmagazine.com

Molette Green

Molette Green-Reporter and Anchor...

Nice. Down to earth. Compassionate.

VPLM: How and when did your media career begin?

MG: I started anchoring and reporting out of college in Meridian Mississippi VPLM: How do you use your media platform to be a positive voice for the community?

MG: I am lucky to cover good news stories in the community. These are stories that uplift and inspire people.

VPLM:What advice can you share with aspiring and novice media personalities and/or journalists?

MG:You have to be ready for an industry that’s always changes. What remains constant is all the hard work that comes with the job.

VPLM:Who has influenced you as a media professional?

MG:Local media journalists such as the late Jim Vance and former DC anchor Maureen Bunyan. They were solid story tellers who cared about educating and informing the public.

VPLM: What do you see for Women In Media in the future?

MG: It’s always been hard for women but the job opportunities are widening and pay equity is improving.

VPLM: What is one of your memorable moments from being in media?

MG: I was covering a story in the Gulf of Mexico about a beached baby whale. I almost ended up in the water with the whale and I cannot swim.

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VPLM: What is your favorite pastime?

MG:I love to watch trash tv and soap operas.

General Hospital is still my show.

VPLM:Tell us something about you that many people may not know?

MG: I am outgoing at work but I can stay inside my home on the nicest weather day and be just fine. I value my personal time.

Molette Green

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Nicki Mayo

V&P SPECIAL EDITION I FATHERS & DAUGHTERS

V&P LifeStyle Magazine

Nicki Mayo-Multimedia Journalist... Creative. Courageous. #ForTheCulture.

VPLM: How and when did your media career begin?

NM: My journalism career kicked off when I arrived at Syracuse University. I fell in love with the National Public Radio member station on campus that allowed students to cover real news beyond the university. I started at WAER 88.3 at 17 years old and I’ve been reporting ever since. This #JournoLife has carried me from Baltimore, Syracuse, Sarasota, Appalachia, Buffalo, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C. covering general assignment, crime, politics, and Pan-African beats. I launched a 24-hour news channel, hyperlocal news website, and a national entertainment news show all before I turned 40. Creating things is my thing.

VPLM: How do you use your media platform to be a positive voice for the community?

VPLM: VPLM: What advice can you share with aspiring and novice media personalities and/or journalists?

NM: As for aspiring journalists, I advise them to take a deep look into why they want to enter this profession.

Journalism is a constant quest for answers and shining light on the truth.

The craft calls on journalists to attempt to eliminate our bias in order to present an objective story. But the reality is our experiences will always shape how we cover the news.

Aspiring journalists should enter into this profession knowing the truth is seldom pretty and our reports should be solutions-driven. .

NM: Much of my #JournoLife career is dedicated to serving Pan-African people. My #ForTheCulture approach to helping Black people control our narratives is my passion.

I’m careful to always emphasize the humanity in the people that entrust me with their stories.

Every story I report is researched and intended to provide as much information as possible to the audience in an effort to educate. From voting to health equity, informed citizens are better armed to make conscientious decisions.

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V&P SPECIAL EDITION I WOMEN IN MEDIA

VPLM: Who has influenced you as a media professional?

NM: I grew up in Baltimore watching a lot of local tv news. My favorite journalists were Beverly Burke, Sandra Pinkney, Janet Roach, Lisa Robinson, Tim Tooten, Terro Owens, and Vic Carter. I got to meet these journalists on trips to the stations and ask them tons of questions about their careers. From oratory contests, fashion shows, and concerts, several of these journalists were MCs at events I participated in as a teenager. Their willingness to share their #JournLife experiences with me back then helped shape how I operate today.

Watching them made me want to join the National Association of Black Journalists and become a leader in the organization. I'm very servicedriven with my craft. The work I do should empower others.

VPLM: What do you see for Women In Media in the future?

NM: More Black women are needed in decision-making managerial positions. Whether it’s a seat at the table or creating our own tables, Black women need the power to call shots and cultivate a healthy accurate narrative that truly tells our story. Every day I work to grow my company into a multimedia empire that advocates for equity. My passion fuels my mission in this #JournoLife VPLM: What is one of your memorable moments from being in media?

NM: There are seriously too many to count. There were times when I met all the famous people that came through BET headquarters in Washington, D.C. I’ve chatted with Busta Rhymes. Met Destiny’s Child.

Prepped Queen Latifah and Erykah Badu. On the flip side, I’ve met too many people on the worst day of their lives after the killing of a loved one or their home burning to the ground. Since 2012 I’ve seen more #BlackLivesMatter videos than I care to admit. I’ve memorized their faces and the sounds of their torture.

News will expose you to A LOT. VPLM: What is your favorite pastime?

NM: I enjoy running and walking in parks or at beaches.

I don’t know why, but these two natural landscapes really centers my soul.

I also love playing retro video games and dancing.

Wii for the win!

VPLM: Tell us something about you that many people may not know?

NM: I was a very young high school teacher. When I was about 24 years old I taught in Prince George’s County, Maryland at Gwynn Park High School, then later at Charles Herbert Flowers High School. Today I frequently run into former students all over the place. Some of them look super confused and seriously think we went to high school together. When I respond with, “No but I probably taught you,” the look on their face is priceless. I later returned to the classroom to teach STEM students the humanities at the Cheverly STEM Education Center JULY 2021 SPECIAL EDITION V&P MAGAZINE I 22

Kimberly Holmes-Iverson

V&P SPECIAL EDITION I WOMEN IN MEDIA

V&P LifeStyle Magazine

Kimberly Holmes-Iverson...Determined. Resilient. Unique.

VPLM: How and when did your media career begin?

KHI: It began with my first internship back in 2001! I was a junior in college and had an unpaid internship at my hometown NBC affiliate, KXAS-TV. From there, I had internships at WTVD in Raleigh-Durham & Bloomberg News in Washington, D.C. My first job after graduate school was an associate producer/writer position in Miami.

VPLM: How do you use your media platform to be a positive voice for the community?

KHI: Over the years I’ve experienced more than my fair share of heartache and pain. I’ve been able to tap into my personal platforms to share my (and others) stor(ies) to inspire & encourage. I became a widow in 2016. Friends encouraged me to start a blog, which led to speaking engagements and even workshops and ultimately allowed me to help shape and change the narrative on grief while also helping my own heart heal. Most recently, I remarried & gave birth to a baby girl! My new story has been an interesting one to share that has allowed me to continue to help encourage grieving hearts.

I absolutely love and feel honored to be able to help people around the globe feel connected and empowered to keep going- especially because I know the hopelessness they feel. That’s the beauty in our business. We can shape futures and encourage strangers by using the right mix of words and images.

Our stories truly can change lives!

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VPLM: What advice can you share with aspiring and novice media personalities and/or journalists?

KHI: Keep going! It took me years to get my foot in the on-air reporting door, but I did it! It required persistence, prayer and hard work, but most good things do.

VPLM: Who has influenced you as a media professional?

KHI: I still treasure the connections I made early in my career. Picking the brains of the brilliant and bold women I’d see on air in the top 30 markets at the NABJ conventions I attended every summer inspired me and kept me going! But two of my favs who still speak life into me are Neki Mohan and Rikki Ragland.

VPLM: What do you see for Women In Media in the future?

KHI: I see them taking on more leadership roles in every area of the industry.

VPLM: What is one of your memorable moments from being in media?

KHI :Flying a plane, working with the FBI on a child sex trafficking sting, helping a homeless teacher get a home.

I’ve had a number of stories that have changed me.

Those stories make the long hours and difficult moments worth it.

VPLM: What is your favorite pastime?

KHI: Quiet moments: watching my newborn laugh in her sleep, baking, reading, sitting outside and feeling the breeze on my patio. I also count eating a good meal, traveling & dancing in the top tier, as well!

VPLM: Tell us something about you that many people may not know?

KHI: I grew up in Saudi Arabia. My dad worked for an oil company, so I lived my childhood overseas.

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Karen McConnell-Jones

Dr. Sharon H. Porter

V&P Lifestyle Magazine and Media is now located in the New Downtown Prince George’s County, Maryland

Vision & Purpose (V&P) Lifestyle Magazine and Media, serves as an ALL THINGS media company with a variety of media amenities to be able to service our community. With the need of today’s society to be more audiovisual as well as to employ virtual media messaging, V&P Lifestyle Magazine and Media is highly capable of achieving our client’s media needs while being a positive voice for our community and providing high quality service on demand.

The owners of V&P Lifestyle Magazine and Media, Karen McConnell-Jones and Dr. Sharon H. Porter, both originally from Winston Salem, North Carolina referring to themselves as the 2NCs. Combined; they both have over 13 years of experience in the media arena while celebrating their one year anniversary of the launch of their magazine and media company.

“In spite of the uncertainty times with COVID-19, my partner and I moved forward with the VISION and PURPOSE that God had placed on our hearts. We have been able to be a positive voice for our community as well as being uplifting and inspiring, especially in these unprecedented times. Our overall objective here is to be up close and personal with our readers, our viewers, yet more importantly with our community as we give them a platform so their voices can be heard” said Karen McConnell-Jones.

Yes, said Dr. Sharon H. Porter, “our target audience ranges from 21 to 70 years of age. Their profession can range from the aspiring and emerging entrepreneur, to the young professional, well-established business owner, executive management, educator, and even the home-base business owner. We seek to inform, educate, uplift, and inspire our community.

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Karen McConnell-Jones

Karen McConnell-Jones-Host and Owner...

HIGHLY DRIVEN. VERY FOCUSED. COURAGEOUS. VPLM: How and when did your media career begin?

KMJ: It started when I was a young child. I was very inquisitive and curious about everything and remembering how I always use to ask a lot of questions. One would say either I was interrogating you (being a lawyer) or I was interviewing you (being a reporter), and the interviewer in me won out.

In 2012 is when it all began. Being the leading host for our internet radio talk show at the time for my women’s organization (S4SN) and after two years I spanned off with my own show and team and that is when the Voice of Class Act was birthed.

Now, nine years later, being Co-Founder & Co-Own of V&P (Vision & Purpose) Lifestyle Magazine and Media is a VISION come true!

VPLM: How do you use your media platform to be a positive voice for the community?

KMJ: By creating the different show topics, the live show events, and focusing on the different awareness, as well as highlighting the individual that is making a difference in our community. All these things help to make up a healthy community. When you are able to recognize the positive work that is being done in the community and giving the community a platform so that their voices can be heard is where you can find the true blessings and healing that is needed.

VPLM: What advice can you share with aspiring and novice media personalities and/or journalists?

KMJ: Be authentic in all your ways and to never waver on your belief. To make sure you are always of principle and of integrity.

VPLM: Who has influenced you as a media professional?

KMJ: Cathy Hughes and Oprah Winfrey. Cathy Hughes because back in her time, she was the QUEEN of talk radio. Especially, as a Black female coming into a field dominated by white males in 1969. She found her niche, stood her grounds, and built her an empire in the radio and television entertainment industry. Oprah Winfrey because she came on the daytime talk show scene and commanded the attention. This QUEEN brought a shift in the atmosphere.

She was definitely the new QUEEN in town! Knocking Phil Donahue off his number one ratings slot. I personally love her unique interview style and felt very honored when world-renowned motivational speaker George Fraser called me Baby Oprah on the mic of interviews. Now, Oprah has also built her an empire in the television entertainment industry. Two dominate queens in their own rights. I love them both.

VPLM: What do you see for Women In Media in the future?

KMJ: We are a force to be reckoned with. We will continue to climb the ladder and hold top positions in the media industry. Breaking the glass ceilings and shattering the stereotype of “Women In Media.” Especially Black women in media.

VPLM: What is one of your memorable moments from working in media?

KMJ: Wow, I have so many it is too hard just to pick one so I must share a few.

When I was just starting out to hear my commercial on mainstream radio for the first time was amazing to me, getting that first interview of someone I admire, and lastly, having that person walk up to you and say I heard your interview or that they saw one of my interviews and to keep up the good work, you are doing a great job, being positive and a strong voice for our community. That just warms my heart.

VPLM: What is your favorite pastime?

KMJ: Creating my next big adventure, exercising, watching sports (Mainly football and tennis), but more importantly, studying God’s word and listening for the next PURPOSE that he will have me to do.

VPLM: Tell us something about you that many people may not know?

KMJ: As a young child and well into my teenage years that I use to stutter.

Even now as an adult I still may stutter when I get too excited. I have to remind myself to slow down and not to get too anxious. Now, looking back on hindsight I know this is part of the reason that I use to be shy when I was a child. I now share this with the world to show we all can be an overcomer of the things we let hold us back (Consciously or subconsciously). As God will have it He can use your imperfections for the good of His purpose and make of positivity. Just know, we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.

Karen McConnell-Jones

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V&P SPECIAL EDITION I WOMEN IN MEDIA

V&P LifeStyle Magazine

Dr. Sharon H. Porter

Dr. Sharon H. Porter- Host, Publisher, Correspondent and Owner...

Grateful. Blessed. Ambitious.

VPLM: How and when did your media career begin?

SHP: My love for media and journalism began during high school. I served as a student journalist for my school's newspaper. As a career, I founded SHP Media and Broadcasting in 2014 as a podcaster and Media Correspondent and Perfect Time SHP Publishing in 2017. I interview participants and attendees at various events. I have served as a Media Correspondent for Emerge Maryland, Ujamaa Book Festival, Iverson Authors Book Festival, BER Inc, Another Level Empowerment LLC , PLE Annual Conferences, and various local events in the Washington, DC area.

My first podcast was The GRIND Entrepreneur Network Spotlight where I featured entrepreneurs who were a part of the GRIND Entrepreneur Network. After creating Perfect Time SHP Publishing, I started Write the Book Now Podcast, which featured my book publishing clients and Leadership Matters, featuring educational leaders. I was invited to bring my podcasts to live stream. This was a huge step for me as I enjoyed being heard and not seen. After transitioning to live video I created The I Am Dr. Sharon Show. This would house all of my shows. I began producing and editing podcasts for others after The I Am Dr. Sharon Show aired.

VPLM: How do you use your media platform to be a positive voice for the community?

SHP: I believe in giving back and paying it forward. In 2018, I began donating to HBCUs through my publishing company, Perfect Time SHP LLC and the HBCU Experience Anthology project Now, I am in the process of establishing an annual scholarship for select students who graduate from Carver High School in Winston-Salem, where I am a 1987 graduate. I have a special place in my heart for my home state of North Carolina and my hometown, Winston-Salem, NC. VPLM: What advice can you share with aspiring and novice media personalities and/or journalists?

SHP: Know who you are and what you want to accomplish. Be true to who you are without compromise.

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VPLM: Who has influenced you as a media professional?

SHP: Rolanda Watts. I was introduced to Rolanda by her father, Roland Watts who was one of my professors at Winston-Salem State University (WSSU). He was so proud of his daughter's accomplishments. She was not well-known at the time, as she had recently relocated to New York and was beginning her mainstream media career. I began following her career while attending WSSU. I was inspired by the fact that she was from my hometown and had begun to make a name for herself as a television host, radio host, producer, and actress. She started her career as an assignment reporter in Greensboro, North Carolina. She also worked as an anchor and weekly political reporter. During my freshman year at WSSU, she began working at Inside Edition as a senior correspondent. She was able to host her own show, Rolanda for four seasons, where she also was supervising producer and one of the owners. She continues to be one of my inspirations.

VPLM: What do you see for Women In Media in the future?

SHP: I see more women taking cues from media moguls Oprah Winfrey and Cathy Hughes. These women have elevated the media game. Hughes, the first African American woman to head a media company publicly traded on the U.S. Stock Exchange, and Winfrey forming her own network, the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) in 2008, allowing women in the media industry to see that you do not have to be one dimensional.

VPLM: What is one of your memorable moments from working in media?

SHP: I had the opportunity to interview one of my childhood favorites, Bern Nadette Stanis, the actress that played Thelma Evans on Good Times.

VPLM: What is your favorite pastime?

SHP: I absolutely love journaling and listening to all genres of music.

VPLM: Tell us something about you that many people may not know?

SHP: I am the first (and only to date) African-American school principal that has served at Kernersville Middle School in Kernersville, North Carolina, and the first (and only to date) female school principal that has served at Imagine Andrews Public Charter school on Joint Base Andrews in Maryland.

JULY 2021 SPECIAL EDITION V&P MAGAZINE I 34

I AM DR. SHARON

Dominique Massaquoi

Dominique Massaquoi, Photographer Focused. Driven. Passionate.

VPLM: How and when did your media career begin?

DM: My media career officially began in 2017 when I founded HawaDigital after I graduated college. My family gifted me an official professional camera and I knew then that I wanted to go further with my photography and my passion to capture graffiti and art was at it's high.

VPLM: How do you use your media platform to be a positive voice for the community?

DM: I use my platform to be a positive voice for the community by promoting new and old mural/graffiti street artist work. Also advertising our upcoming African American businesses.

JULY 2021 SPECIAL EDITION V&P MAGAZINE I 38

VPLM: What advice can you share with aspiring and novice media personalities and/or journalists?

VPLM: What is one of your memorable moments from working in media?

DM: My advice would be do what you love at your own pace because if you are rushed your passion becomes the next person and is no longer yours. You have to eat off the food that you provide for yourself before you eat off someone else. If not , you will never know the struggle and be hungry enough.

DM: One of my memorable moments was when I joined V&P Magazine and the first issue came out and I could say that I was officially a published artist. I wanted to cry. I never thought that my pictures I captured would be in a magazine.

VPLM: Who has influenced you as a media professional?

DM: Believe it or not I have influenced myself. I have not really followed another photographer and said I wanted to be like that person. I feel as though I can only be like me and I will learn as I go.

VPLM: What do you see for Women In Media in the future?

DM: I see Women in Media taking over, like Issa Rae. I feel as though the world is going to be dominated by women and they will be at the top of the game

VPLM:What is your favorite pastime?

DM: Reading Marketing Daily VPLM:Tell us something about you that many people may not know?

DM: Something that many people may not know is that I hate being the subject of a picture. People say that I am photogenic but I don’t think so.I am so shy even though over the years I have tried to come out of my shell more and more.

JULY 2021 SPECIAL EDITION V&P MAGAZINE I 39

Breana Ross

Breana Ross, Reporter...

Compassionate. Driven. Impactful VPLM: How and when did your media career begin?

BR: My media career officially began shortly after I graduated from the University of Miami in 2019.

During my time in college, I participated in UMTV, University of Miami’s award-winning tv station, as a reporter, anchor, and eventually the station manager. Right before graduation, the School of Communication had a career fair. WINK News, the CBS affiliate in Fort Myers, was at the fair and I hit it off with the Managing Editor. She showed my reel to the assistant news director, I did a phone interview, and I came out to the station for a visit.The rest is history.

VPLM:How do you use your media platform to be a positive voice for the community?

BR: As one of the few Black reporters at my station, I’ve made it my mission to expand and diversify coverage of minority communities. I noticed that my station was always in Black communities when crime happened, but we were never there for the triumphs and the everyday struggles. I’ve pushed my station to do stories that show a broader picture of minority communities and what matters to them. I produced my station’s first collection of Black History Month stories, which aired in February. I use my platform to pass the mic to people and communities who are often ignored.

VPLM: What advice can you share with aspiring and novice media personalities and/or journalists?

BR: It’s so important to find your “why” in this field. The day-to-day grind can be tough, but if you keep your “why” in the forefront of your mind, it makes it all worth it. Also, learn how to make a difference wherever you are. Even if you’re not where you want to be, you can still make an impact right where you are. Find an area for improvement at your job and jump in to fill the gap. You want to do your best and make your mark no matter where you are.

JULY 2021 SPECIAL EDITION V&P MAGAZINE I 41

VPLM:Who has influenced you as a media professional?

BR: I’m always inspired by the other young, Black women I see on the networks. Abby Phillip, Rachel Scott, and Blayne Alexander are some of my favorites to watch. They inspire me to continue to be better and show me that the next level is attainable if I continue to work hard. Aside from them, I’d say my executive producer at WINK has influenced me substantially. He’s helped me find my voice in the newsroom and empowered me to tell stories about marginalized communities that matter so much to me. He’s taught how to make an impact through my storytelling.

VPLM:What do you see for Women In Media in the future?

BR: The future for Women in Media is leadership and management roles. I love seeing women on-air, but we need more women in management roles, calling the shots. I’m starting to see this a lot more but I dream of a future where more women have a seat at the table at media companies.

VPLM: What is one of your memorable moments from working in media?

BR:One of my most memorable moments as a journalist was covering the protests in the summer of 2020 following the death of George Floyd. It was challenging because I felt the pain of many of the protesters very personally. I felt very much a part of the story and the shared pain. However, I realized that shared pain and my connection to the story made me one of the best people at my station to tell it. I used my platform to illuminate voices, stories, and experiences of Black Americans and give context behind the protests.

VPLM:What is your favorite pastime?

BR: My favorite pastimes are reading, writing poetry, binge watching shows and movies on Netflix, traveling, and watching sunsets.

VPLM:Tell us something about you that many people may not know?

BR: I gave a TED talk called “Impact Money Can’t Buy” while I was in college! In the talk, I share my experience creating Written in My Soul, a service organization geared towards teaching youth in Miami how to use poetry to express themselves. I also spoke about my experience serving abroad in South Africa. The talk was a call to action to show that everyone can find some way to use their own talents and passions to make the world a better place.

JULY 2021 SPECIAL EDITION V&P MAGAZINE I 42

www.vandpmagazine.com

Cynthia J. Terry

Cynthia J. Terry Maximizer. Activator. Communicator.

VPLM: How and when did your media career begin?

CJT: My media career started in Norfolk, VA as an intern and then as a staffer of FM99, WNOR, as a news reporter.

VPLM: How do you use your media platform to be a positive voice for the community?

CJT: I hosted two radio shows for a total of 10 years. One, the Destiny Radio Show, I interviewed people in the community, my circle, and the country to share their experiences as they worked towards fulfilling their destiny. With inspiring interviews with everyone from Judge Hatchett, encouraging us with stories of her time on a reality court show to her book, "Dare to Take Charge...to Mr. Timothy Thomas who inspired us with his testimony of rising from the "Crack House to the Christ House," every week audiences tuned in to be empowered. My community voice was strengthened when I co-hosted a community segment with Mr. Joe Madison, the Black Eagle, for five years.

Working as the voice of the largest retail food company in the Washington metropolitan area, the show revealed how business leaders give back to the communities in which they earned billions of dollars from over the years. I've used my voice most recently to do voiceovers for black women running for mayor of two major cities and one of them became the first black female mayor of St. Louis, Missouri.

VPLM: What advice can you share with aspiring and novice media personalities and/or journalists?

CJT: The best advice I can give those aspiring to become strong media personalities and/or journalists is fivefold. You must first be prepared. Don't wait for someone else to do the work for you. You must read, study, and use what you've learned. Secondly, you must produce and produce well. Your product must be above and beyond the rest so you can develop a reputation of excellence. Thirdly, you must develop partnerships. You can't be the only one on the ship. Partners will be your extended eyes and ears when multiple opportunities arise you may miss. You must then reciprocate, send business to your partners as well. The fourth prong is prosperity. It's not accidental, it's intentional. You must have a proper budget, give generously, and be poised and ready to help others. Don't forget those who helped you up the ladder.

Finally, there will be pitfalls ahead, avoid them. Learn from others and if you fall, it won't be final, use it as fodder for the fire to move forward.

JULY 2021 SPECIAL EDITION V&P MAGAZINE I 45

18 VPLM: Who has influenced you as a media professional?

CJT: I've been greatly influenced by Doris McMillon.

As a woman of faith, I especially appreciate her boldness to add a page to her website called "From Success to Significance" where she is unashamed to share her testimony of salvation. She explains her relationship with Jesus Christ and how He radically changed her life.

VPLM: What do you see for Women In Media in the future?

CJT: I see Women In Media in the future and they look like Nona Jones, Head of Faith-Based Partnerships for Facebook. She is an author, entrepreneur, speaker, pastor, and executive. I believe she exemplifies for women the fulfillment of the old phrase, "My future is so bright, I've gotta wear shades." She is a global thought-leader and the voice of hope and healing to victims of trauma due to her own history as a survivor of physical and sexual abuse. When I grow up, I really would love to be able to be who I am in a way such as she shows who she is to our young women.

VPLM: What is one of your memorable moments from working in media?

CJT: My most memorable media moment is when a young white girl came up to me while I was on-air reporting from a live waterfest event and asked for my autograph because she believed she could one day do what I was doing.

VPLM: What is your favorite pastime?

CJT: Watching sci-fi and dreaming of books I have yet to write.

VPLM: Tell us something about you that many people may not know?

CJT: People would not know that I have my motorcycle license and one day I will buy a royal blue leather suit with tassels hanging from the sleeves while burning up the highway in style!

JULY 2021 SPECIAL EDITION V&P MAGAZINE I 46

Terri Tolliver

V&P SPECIAL EDITION I WOMEN IN MEDIA

V&P LifeStyle Magazine

Terri Tolliver, Executive Producer and Director

Sagacious. Authentic. Compassionate

VPLM: How and when did your media career begin?

TT: My media career began when I was five years old. I watched titans of journalism like Renee Poussaint, Lark McCarthy, Maureen Bunyan, J.C. Hayward and knew immediately this was what I wanted to do in life.

My mom shared videos of me sitting behind an ironing board pretending to do the news and interviewing the dog with a hairbrush. From there I found opportunities to keep me on this career path. I turned my first internship at WJLA/ABC 7 into my first job my senior year at American University, a virtually unheard-of feat especially in a top 10 market, and have been working in this industry ever since.

VPLM: How do you use your media platform to be a positive voice for the community?

TT: I am fortunate enough to have a position at Fox 5 DC that allows me to use my platform to amplify the voices in our community that are paying it forward, creating inclusive spaces and markets, as well as people who are working to positively impact those around them.

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V&P SPECIAL EDITION I WOMEN IN MEDIA

VPLM: What advice can you share with aspiring and novice media personalities?

TT: Be authentic, being something or someone you are not is hard work. Read and write...EVERYDAY. It keeps you sharp, informed, and helps develop skills you will really need. Join organizations that have people in the career field you want to work in.

VPLM: Who has influenced you as a media professional?

TT: Tracey Neale, former Fox 5 10pm News Anchor had the biggest influence on me. She chose me to go to four countries in Africa to help produce a series on the AIDS pandemic before it really took hold as a cause in the United States. That trip really framed my career and outlook on my responsibility as a journalist, opened my heart to the people who share their stories with me.

VPLM: What do you see for Women In Media in the future?

TT: The future for women in media, I feel, will still be a struggle. Although we've made tremendous strides, when you take inventory of the top positions held in management they are still almost exclusively held by men. I think viewership really must take a look behind the scenes and demand more inclusion.

VPLM: What is one of your memorable moments from being in media?

TT: Wow. One? Receiving my first Emmy, Murrow, and White House awards. Covering the Columbine school shooting and 911. Having a wasp get stuck in the underwire of my bra and having to undress while running into a nearby firehouse to get it out.

VPLM: What is your favorite pastime?

TT: My favorite pastime at the moment is watching Youtube videos with my teenage son.

VPLM: Tell us something about you that many people may not know?

TT: I'm actually pretty shy, meeting new people produces a little anxiety for me but the reward always trumps the fear.

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Simone Walker

V&P SPECIAL EDITION I WOMEN IN MEDIA

Simone Walker, Actor... Fun. Professional. Personable.

V &P LifeStyle Magazine

VPLM: How and when did your media career begin?

SW: My media career began in 1986 as a radio announcer at 1340 WYCB. I was the Friday Night announcer.

VPLM: How do you use your media platform to be a positive voice for the community?

SW: Create pieces that will enhance, educate and relate with real people. However, I can help somebody with a project that I am producing or participating in. I love purpose pieces so I certainly use what God gave me to give back or give someone else a voice to be heard.

VPLM: What advice can you share with aspiring and novice media personalities?

SW: No matter what, don't stop moving forward on your dream. I always say, "Live Your Dream" because we all have dreams and we should never give up on them. Faith without works is dead and so you have to work at what you want and never give up.

VPLM: What do you see for Women In Media in the future?

SW: Growth. I certainly see change happening before my eyes. Great women leading the way, building, growing, inspiring.

It is so wonderful to see.

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V&P SPECIAL EDITION I WOMEN IN MEDIA

VPLM: What is one of your memorable moments from being in media?

SW: Working with Dr. Lucille Banks Robinson Miller on a Saturday morning for the first time. Whew! She was such a sweet and animated person and you never know what would happen when you engineered for her. She is a legend in the radio community and she knew how to get things done. I was fragile but learned quickly. She gave lots of love. She had a bell that she would ring to get your attention. Amazing. That bell was pretty big too.

VPLM: What is your favorite pastime?

SW: Editing or relaxing watching movies.

VPLM: Tell us something about you that many people may not know?

SW: I am a PK, pastor's daughter. That is all.

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Women In Media VISION & PURPOSE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE AND MEDIA

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