DV Magazine 2024 | Volume 101 | Spring Edition

Tia Joii

“BREAKING CHAINS, BUILDING STRENGTH EMPOWERING MEN TO HEAL”

BECOME THE NEW 30 WHEN THE 60'S

PLUS: This Seasons 2024 Spring DV View with Quanjai, Ryan, Christina & More!

IN THIS ISSUE

FromSurvivingtoThriving:TheQuanjaiOdyssey

EtherealAmbition:CelesteTaylor'sDreamweavingExpedition

CHRISTINATRACY:ForeverFabulous

Editors Letter with Tia Joii Spotlight | DV

FromCamouflagetoCatwalk:RyanMcKithen'sUnconventionalPath

InspiringVitality:CherylShiver'sAge-DefyingLegacy

Glamorous View

Seeking a mental health journey that speaks directly to your soul? Craving the adrenaline rush of breaking barriers and challenging norms? Buckle up for an exhilarating ride as we uncover the driving force behind models who fearlessly shatter the status quo. But that's not all! Prepare to be awe-inspired by the tale of a 68-year-old bodybuilding champion who defies age with sheer determination and passion.

Welcome to the electrifying world of DYNASTII VISION, where every story is a testament to the triumph of the human spirit. Are you ready to embark on an adventure like no other? Join us as we unravel the secrets of resilience, perseverance, and unstoppable ambition!

Evoking a sense of melancholy and introspection in the monochromatic stillness

“THE

CREATIVE PROCESS IN PHOTOGRAPHY AND FASHION EMERGES AS A SYMPHONY OF IMAGINATION, WHERE EVERY CLICK OF THE SHUTTER AND EVERY STITCH OF FABRIC WEAVES TOGETHER A NARRATIVE OF BEAUTY, EMOTION, AND INSPIRATION."

The creative process in photography and fashion is a collaborative dance between vision and execution, that transforms mere images into timeless reflections of culture, identity, and aspiration, weaving narratives that transcend time and space.

Each click of the shutter is like painting a masterpiece, the stroke of the brush unveils a new dimension of storytelling, beauty, and emotion, shaping the narrative of our world.

“IFNOTNOW,

THEN WHEN?"

YOUR PAIN IS THE VAST EXPANSE OF LIFE'S JOURNEY, THERE ARE TALES THAT TRANSCEND THE ORDINARY STORIES OF RESILIENCE, REDEMPTION, AND THE UNBREAKABLE BONDS OF FAMILY. QUANJAI'S NARRATIVE IS ONE SUCH SAGA A 35-YEAR-OLD SINGLE FATHER OF THREE, JEWEL, JAIDEN AND JULIAN. WHOSE PATH TO SELF-DISCOVERY HAS BEEN MARKED BY HARDSHIP, TRIUMPH, AND UNWAVERING DETERMINATION.

BORN IN THE HEART OF GEORGIA BUT RAISED AMIDST THE RICH TAPESTRY OF SELMA, ALABAMA, QUANJAI'S CHILDHOOD WAS FAR FROM IDYLLIC. RAISED BY HIS GRANDMOTHER IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY, HE ENCOUNTERED CHALLENGES THAT WOULD HAVE BROKEN THE SPIRIT OF LESSER SOULS. YET, AMIDST THE STRUGGLES, THERE WAS A FLICKER OF HOPE A DETERMINATION TO FIND HAPPINESS AND PURPOSE DESPITE THE ODDS STACKED AGAINST HIM.

For Quanjai, the road to adulthood was fraught with obstacles, chief among them the trauma of abuse suffered in his formative years. Despite the darkness that threatened to consume him, he refused to succumb to despair, finding solace in the love of his family and the unwavering support of his grandmother. But adversity has a way of leaving scars both seen and unseen. For Quanjai, the pain of his past led him down a dangerous path, one marked by addiction and despair. Yet, even in the depths of his darkest moments, there was a glimmer of hope a belief that redemption was within reach, if only he had the courage to seize it.

The turning point came in the form of a catastrophic car accident a brush with death that left Quanjai in a coma for weeks, with injuries that would alter the course of his life forever. Brain trauma, rods, and screws in his legs and ankles the physical scars were a constant reminder of the fragility of life. Yet, in the crucible of suffering, Quanjai found redemption a newfound appreciation for the precious gift of existence and a renewed sense of purpose.

With each passing day, Quanjai embraced his second chance at life with fervor, seizing every opportunity to pursue his dreams and uplift those around him. Inspired by the unwavering love of his children—Jewel, Jaiden, and Julean—he embarked on a journey of self-discovery, determined to show them that it's never too late to make a change.

For Quanjai, modeling is more than just a career it is evidence of his resilience, a declaration that no obstacle is insurmountable, and no dream too distant to grasp. Fueled by a deep-seated desire to make a difference, he dedicated himself to helping others, offering a guiding hand to those in need and a listening ear to those whose voices had long been silenced.

ETHEREAL AMBITION:

CELESTE TAYLOR 'S DREAMWEAVING EXPEDITION

IN THE GRAND TAPESTRY OF LIFE, CELESTE TAYLOR STANDS AS A POWER OF ASPIRATION AND DETERMINATION. FROM A YOUNG AGE, CELESTE'S AMBITIONS WERE NURTURED BY ICONIC FIGURES, DRAWING INSPIRATION FROM THE TOMBOY ALLURE OF 90'S R&B SENSATIONS LIKE AALIYAH AND THE CONFIDENCE EXUDED BY DARK-SKINNED WOMEN GRACING THE RUNWAY, “SEEING THEM” CELESTE EXCLAMED “ MOTIVATED ME AS AN AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMAN IN THIS INDUSTRY OF FASHION AND MODELING, AND MADE ME REALIZE TO NEVER GIVE UP HOPE ”

CELESTE'S DESIRE TO ASCEND TO THE STARS BURNED BRIGHTLY, ILLUMINATING A PATH OF HOPE AMIDST THE ORDINARY, SHE STATES “ GROWING UP I WAS EITHER TOLD TO PLAY BASKETBALL, WHICH I DID; BUT, WASN'T MY PASSION. I EVEN RAN TRACK WHICH WAS FUN; BUT, STILL WASN'T MY PASSION. I KNEW I WANTED TO BE SOMETHING MORE THAN JUST A GIRL EVERYONE KNEW FROM SCHOOL OR THAT WENT OFF TO COLLEGE, GOT MARRIED AND HAD A FAMILY.”

DESPITE SOCIETAL EXPECTATIONS CASTING SHADOWS ON HER DREAMS, CELESTE PERSEVERED, FUELED BY AN UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO SELF-DISCOVERY AND PERSONAL FULFILLMENT, CELESTE EMBARKED ON HER HEARTS BURNING PASSION TO BECOME "AMERICA'S NEXT TOP MODEL".

Thus began Celeste's journey of selfdiscovery a voyage guided by the beacon of inspiration, leading her from the glitz and glam of televised showcases to the serene dignity of everyday encounters. Each moment served as a reminder of the transformative power of human connection and the boundless potential within.

Celeste's is continuing her expedition with tenacity and passion. Her dreams will not just be realized but surpassed. With an unstoppable and driven heart, only living by her own dreams, nothing will stop Celeste for being “HER” .

CHRISTINA TRACY: ForeverFabulous TRACY: Fabulous

Meet Christina Tracy, the epitome of elegance, and timeless energic personality. At 53, she's a seasoned veteran of the camera and the catwalk, effortlessly blending grace with style in both the modeling and acting realms.

Age Is Just a Number:

With over five decades under her belt, Christina's journey has been one of self-discovery and passion. "My mature age of 53 has helped me craft a grounded passion for the camera and the runway, within both the modeling and acting industries," she says, her eyes sparkling with wisdom and determination.

Authenticity is Key:

For Christina, success as a model isn't just about striking a pose – it's about embracing your true self. "A model's strength of character or belief in his/her true self contributes immensely to his/her success as a model," she emphasizes. Authenticity, she believes, is the secret sauce that sets you apart in the industry.

Living the Good Life:

"I am a liberated, invigorated, vital, and beautiful model!" Christina declares with a contagious energy. Her secret? A holistic approach to life. "Living a whole and clean daily lifestyle keeps me fit, fresh, and ready for every modeling opportunity," she shares. From organic eats to hydrating water and plenty of rest, Christina's daily routine is a blueprint for radiant health.

Ageless Authenticity:

In an industry obsessed with youth, Christina champions a different tune "Any male and female, no matter the age, deserves the chance to be seen, acknowledged, and respected for his/her individual physical attributes, which are undeniably beautiful!" she exclaims. With true authenticity as her mantra, she encourages models of all ages to embrace their uniqueness and shine bright.

"

DREAMTOWALKTHE"DREAMTOWALKTHE"DREAMTOWALKTHE RUNWAYORSHOOT RUNWAYORSHOOT RUNWAYORSHOOT ONYOUR100TH ONYOUR100TH ONYOUR100TH BIRTHDAY!"BIRTHDAY!"BIRTHDAY!"

A Timeless Legacy:

As Christina Tracy continues to defy expectations and rewrite the rules, she leaves shapes her future with grace, authenticity, and boundless ambition. With her unwavering spirit and zest for life, she proves that age is just a number – and beauty knows no bounds. So here's to Christina, forever fabulous and forever young at heart

Breaking Chains: Triumph In Adversity

In the heart of Pensacola, Florida, emerged a force of nature, Tia Joii, who shattered the silence surrounding pain and emerged as the voice for countless silent victims. With roots deeply entrenched in innovation and sophistication, Tia Joii embarked on a journey of mental health advocacy, driven by her own experiences and an unyielding desire to make a difference.

Four years ago, Tia made a pivotal decision to embrace the mental health journey, propelled by a profound realization of the power of healing over hurting. With unwavering resilience and modesty, Tia established Brave Solyoutions in 2020 amidst the chaos of a global pandemic. Born from her own triumph over mental, emotional, and physical abuse, Brave Solyoutions became a beacon of hope, offering affordable plans for individuals seeking solace in Atlanta, Georgia, and beyond.

With the backing of her devoted family and friends, Tia Joii fearlessly launched her mental health coaching brand, igniting a spark that would illuminate the lives of over a hundred individuals. Her approach, characterized by a big-hearted demeanor and grounded analogies, resonated deeply, inspiring transformation in the darkest corners of people's worlds.

For Tia, success was never measured in numbers but in witnessing the radiant glow of those she helped reclaim their lives. With over a decade of experience, Tia's focus remains steadfast on unraveling the "why" behind ongoing trauma and guiding others towards liberation from mental misery. Her journey was not without challenges, but each hurdle served as an opportunity for growth Through her program, Tia Joii uncovered the power of vulnerability and the profound impact of addressing emotional barriers. Armed with a wealth of knowledge and a collective of five-star reviews, Tia took to social media, educating her community on breaking the chains of mental anguish. Accepting individuals from all walks of life, Tia's inclusive approach touched the lives of those navigating alternative lifestyles, survivors of abuse, and individuals seeking guidance in navigating complex relationships. Her commitment to fostering healing knew no bounds. A

Looking towards the future, Tia Joii continues to expand her support network, launching the groundbreaking podcast series, "The Tale Tia Series," in January 2024. This platform serves as a sanctuary for men, offering support and understanding through shared experiences. Through candid conversations and storytelling, Tia aims to bridge the gap between genders, fostering empathy and empowerment. In the world of Tia Joii, simplicity meets power, and every word resonates with the promise of healing and transformation. Through her unwavering dedication and boundless compassion, Tia Joii stands as a testament to the indomitable strength of the human spirit.

From Camouflage to Runway: Ryan McKithen's Unconventional Path

Meet Ryan McKithen, a man whose journey from Tucson, Arizona, to the bright lights of Houston, Texas As a military veteran, Ryan dedicated eight years of his life to serving his country in the U.S Army, where he honed his skills as both a mechanic and military police officer. It was a time marked by sacrifice and service, laying the foundation for the values of honor, courage, and commitment that would guide him throughout his life.

But Ryan's commitment to service didn't end with his military career As a father to two blessings from God Trinity and Ryan Jr.

He embarked on a new chapter of his life, one filled with hope, determination, and a desire to make a difference in the world Driven by a passion for healing and a thirst for knowledge, Ryan completed six years of medical school, emerging as a qualified medical assistant at Memorial Hermann in Houston, Texas

Yet, amidst the rigors of his medical career, Ryan found himself with the inspiration to take on the world of modeling and acting. At the age of 28, he took his first steps into the world of fashion, embarking on a new adventure with a photo shoot at ICON STUDIOS in Atlanta. It was a bold move, a leap of faith into the unknown, but one that would ultimately change the course of his life.

Today, Ryan purses his modeling and acting career, represented by John Casablancas and Nine9 Agency. In his own words, "With Love, Peace, Healing, & Faith; no matter how dark the day may be I want my light to shine brightly for all to see and touch their spirit." For Ryan, true success extends beyond the confines of material wealth or fame; rather it’s about how you can impact others, endeavoring to uplift their spirits. It's a mantra that encapsulates Ryan's philosophy on life a reminder to cherish the blessings that come from hard work, dedication, and the grace of God As he once said, "Don't look for your returns from things you can already afford. Pay attention to the blessings that you earn working for."

Don't look for your returns from things you can already afford.

Pay attention to the blessings that you earn working for.

Behind every gaze,

INSPIRING VITALITY: CHERYL SHIVER'S AGEDEFYING LEGACY

In a world that often associates youth with vitality and beauty, Cheryl Shiver stands as a living testament to the power of defying age norms and embracing transformation. At 68 years old, this former Los Angeles native turned Atlanta resident is rewriting the script on what it means to age gracefully.

Cheryl's story is one of unexpected twists and turns, each chapter marked by resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to personal growth. Despite not embarking on her fitness journey until the age of 63, Cheryl has since become a renowned fitness model and bikini bodybuilder, proving that age is truly just a number.

Born and raised in the bustling city of Los Angeles, Cheryl's journey to fitness fame took an unconventional route. After retiring at the age of 50, she set her sights on fulfilling her childhood dream of owning a home with a pool. Little did she know that this seemingly mundane aspiration would pave the way for an extraordinary transformation. It wasn't until her early sixties that Cheryl decided to prioritize her health and fitness. Inspired by a desire to stay active and vibrant well into her golden years, she took the plunge into the world of bodybuilding and never looked back. With sheer determination and an unwavering work ethic, Cheryl quickly made a name for herself in the competitive fitness circuit.

Today, Cheryl is not just a fitness model and bikini competitor; she's a force to be reckoned with in the industry. With an impressive collection of seven first-place medals under her belt, she has proven time and again that age is no barrier to success. But Cheryl's impact extends far beyond the realm of fitness competitions. As a brand ambassador and advocate for healthy aging, she serves as a beacon of inspiration for men and women of all ages. Her message is simple yet powerful: It's never too late to pursue your passions, chase your dreams, and live your best life.

Whether she's gracing the cover of a magazine or sharing her wisdom on social media, Cheryl Shiver continues to inspire others to embrace change, challenge the status quo, and defy the limitations imposed by society. Through her journey of transformation, she reminds us all that age is not a determinant of one's potential, but rather a mere milestone on the path to greatness

“It's

never too late to pursue your passions, chase your dreams, and live your best life.”

STARR DYNASTII

WHERE CREATIVITY MEETS CAPTIVATION

Over the years as a photographer, I’ve been

honored to actively collaborate and forge connections between valuable brands, fostering a relationship that transcends the confines of tradition in the photography industry, it’s the opportunity in sharing in the illumination of their stories that have inspired, and empowered me personally Such experiences with creative talents truly motivated me further to transcend the position of where I was in life with just being a common photographer, and become some more. Creating Dynastii Vison magazine, at its core allowed me to do that, and capture beyond the essence of just any fashion, beauty, and brand, it captivates the purpose each artist lives for

I embarked on my photographic journey at the age of 14, a journey that led me to become a certified fashion instructor, trained actress, and model at John Casablanca. Now, I find myself deeply entrenched in a world where creativity knows no bounds, where the lens becomes a powerful tool for storytelling For me, photography, fashion, and editorial became more than just a profession to me; as cheesy as it may sound, it's a way of life for me, a life that embodies the philosophy of "Becoming my OWN Vision" , leaving that mark and creating something that can empower others to do the same. Creating DV Magazine opened the door for me to weave together my passions, expertise, and vision, offering readers a glimpse into a world where creativity thrives and individuality reigns supreme

How does fashion contribute to crafting individuality and personal expression?

Fashion, in particular, plays a crucial role in crafting individuality and personal expression It serves as a vessel through which we can express our identities, showcase our unique sense of style and emotion, joy, pain, and triumph, making a statement without uttering a single word By spotlighting the intersection of art and fashion, I aim to showcase how these two worlds converge to create something extraordinary.

Which is why we are devoting a large part of this issue and many more to artists from all walks of life Whether you're a model, actor, filmmaker, or photographer, we believe that everyone deserves a spotlight to shine and a platform to share their talents and story with the world.

But beyond being a magazine, we aspire to cultivate a vibrant and supportive community of creatives a community that celebrates diversity, embraces collaboration, and champions positive change It's about coming together to inspire, uplift, and empower one another, one image at a time.

So as we embark on this journey together, I want to thank you for joining us in celebrating the beauty of creativity, the power of selfexpression, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead Thank you for being a part of our community, and here's to many more moments of inspiration, empowerment, and captivation.