women trailblazers issue 2013

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VISIT BRONZEMAGONLINE.COM MARCH/APRIL 2013

Women's History Month: Women Trailblazers Issue

The Ladies of Bronze:Lakesha Stuldivant-Beauty EditorShawn Chavis-Founder, Editor in ChiefTrisha Stukes- Marketing Coordinator

We’d like to give a HUGE thanks to Star Jones, owner of Pindara Studios, for being such a gracious host during our photo shoot for the cover of this issue.

Please check out Pindara Studios, affordable space to help the creative community CREATE.

https://facebook.com/pindarastudios

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Photography: Chris TrejoDesigner/ Front Cover concept: Ayo ShittuMakeup: Sbeidy MedranoModels: Tonisha Symon Davenport, Melissa Thuston

Our Premiere digital issue is out!http://issuu.com/bronzemagazine/docs/bronze_beauty_and_fashion_issue

ContentsThe Innovators

8 Cheryl Wood

10 Jessie Gill Jessica A. Mitchell

11 LeTonya Moore Hope Oriabure-King

The Educators

13 Mary Rice Booth

14 Simone Brookins

The Trendsetters

17 Sarahi K18 Nickeeliah Freeman

21 Karine Melissa Purchas

22 Key of Side of Style

24 Sherry Burton Ways

26 Tracey Brown

The Entertainers

37 Daniela Sanchez

38 Dia Gaitirira Shannon Moreau

39 Dee Dee M. Scott

40 Shannin “Shining Rae” Watkins

The Philanthropists

43 Heather Johnson Raquel Masco

The Motivators

45 Julia Reece

47 Angela D. Coleman Monique McDowell

48 Angela Petitt

The Rising 15

What is Beauty?

28

30The Ladies of Bronze

BRONZEMAGONLINE.COM MARCH/APRIL 2013 | 5


bronze magazine

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Founder/Editor-in-Chief Shawn Chavis

Publisher Barry Stuldivant

Marketing/Social Media Coord. Trisha Stukes

Writers/Editors (This Issue)Destiny DeJesus

Trisha Stukes

Creative Team (Cover/Feature)Stylist

Simone HeronPhotographerJustin CarterPhoto Editing

Justin Carter & Simone HeronMakeup

Bianca LynnHair

Lakesha Stuldivant

Clothing/AccessoriesJewelry DesignerPamella ReimersJewelry DesignerSimone Chante

Miss Chavis’ white topAnnia-Brain Lint

**Additional Feature Editorial Photoscontributed by our publisher Barry Stuldivant


“Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit. We are all the same in this notion: The potential for greatness lives within each of us.” - Wilma Rudolph

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THE INNOVATORS

8 | BRONZEMAGONLINE.COM MARCH/APRIL 2013

Cheryl WoodSpeaker, Corporate Consultant, Business Strategist & Author


Over the past three and a half years of her entrepreneurial journey, Cheryl Wood has continued to make FEARLESS moves to exceed her own expecta-tions by stretching her thinking and strengthening her personal power to believe she can achieve anything she sets out to do. Wood doesn’t use that personal power for selfish gain or egotistical purposes. Instead, she uses

it to impact, empower, and inspire women globally whose willingness to walk in their greatness will come as a direct result of seeing another woman walk in hers.

Wood says that when one woman shows courage to allow her light to shine, that light becomes a beam of inspiration and hope for the masses! With that intention, she is constantly moving forward with creative, innovative ideas to propel women into their greatness, unapologetically and without regrets. She travels across the country to pro-vide public speaking, training and coaching to women to support their growth and de-velopment; operates her own women’s networking organization (Women Entrepreneurs Partnering for Profit, www.weppgroup.com); and published a women’s empowerment magazine (Fearless With A Purpose Magazine, www.fwapmagazine.com).

Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate women who take the road less traveled and intentionally put them on a path of unfamiliarity, discomfort, and risk in order to become the best version of themselves and make an impact – Cheryl Wood is that woman! She doesn’t just claim to be FEARLESS, she takes the risks that propel her to places she would have never imagined for herself while creating a bold example for other women.

As a child, Wood grew up in a single parent home with extremely limited financial re-sources but was taught to believe that she could work hard and accomplish anything she sets her mind to. Immediately following high school Wood didn’t have the luxury of enjoying four years of fun and discovery at college. Instead, she immediately joined the workforce to help support her family. She worked her way through corporate America and into a reasonably successful career path which positioned her into a comfortable financial status but didn’t nurture her spirit.

Years later, after becoming a mom of three, Wood realized her mission in life was much bigger than just a paycheck. She stepped completely outside of her comfort zone and her reliance on a “secure” income to risk it all and start her own t-shirt business in the basement of her home. The t-shirt business prepared Wood for how challenging it was to run a business but it strengthened her resolve not to quit. As her knowledge grew, new relationships developed, and new doors of opportunity opened, she was slowly detoured into her passion of empowerment speaking and training. Wood now operates a successful business as a speaker and corporate consultant and has written two books while viewed as a leading expert in the entrepreneurial and motivational arenas.

Cheryl Wood’s journey has allowed her to learn more about her personal strength, to impact the lives of hundreds of women around the globe, to create a legacy for her three children, and to begin creating generational wealth!Cheryl WoodSpeaker, Corporate Consultant, Business Strategist & AuthorEditor & Publisher, Fearless With A Purpose Magazinewww.cherylempowers.comwww.fwapmagazine.com2012 Forty Under 40 Small Business Honoree, Prince George's CountySocial Innovation Fund2012 Inspirational Entrepreneur of the Year Award, Stiletto Woman Media2011 Small Business Influencer Award, Small Business Technology2010 Business Woman of the Year, The Professional Black Woman2010 Entrepreneurial Spirit Award, Morgan State UniversityLinkedIn: CherylEmpowersTwitter: CherylEmpowersFacebook: CherylEmpowers


At 29 years of age, Jessie Gill is the youngest executive on a team of 14 professionals. Not only is she the youngest ex-ecutive, she is a minority, being a woman of an East Indian descent. Gill started at Comverge, Inc. (the leading provid-er of intelligent energy management solutions) a little over three years ago as the Executive Assistant to the President & CEO. Three months in to her employment she was pro-moted to Administrative Manager taking all the Executives Assistants/Office Managers and Office Coordinators under her belt. Within a year Gill’s boss was involving her in de-cision making meetings, strategy discussions and financial discussions. She was then promoted to Chief of Staff almost immediately. As the Chief of Staff Gill still reports directly to the President & CEO and took on a very influential role within the company providing leadership and operational oversight for the Office of the President. She assists in pro-viding guidance and direction for the strategic planning process, budget and financial planning, project manage-ment, and handling a wide range of matters of organiza-tional importance along with being responsible for the cen-tral coordination of all functions and activities in the Office of the President, including management of staff. Gill brings a diverse background of skills, leadership and has been able to move into a very influential role at such a young age. There were many obstacles she faced in the majority of the companies she was employed with, her age (being so young) and being a minority (a woman and being East Indian). Gill has never been the type of person that expects anything from anyone. She has always believed in hard work and dedication and that it will pay off at the end.

Jessie GillBusiness Executive

Jessica Ann MitchellEntrepreneurAs a part of the emerging Black digital renaissance, Mitchell is the creator of Black Bloggers Connect, the leading social network for Black bloggers across the world. BlackBloggersConnect.com features the work of over 1200 journalists & bloggers from over 20 countries. BBC is a one of a kind network that is changing the scope of innovation in the Black digital landscape. On Black Bloggers Connect™, blog-gers have the ability to promote their blogs, share links to their favorite blog posts, find blogging advice, upload videos and read news updates.Jessica also runs Lamzu Media, LLC, a media company that focuses on multicul-tural communications & outreach in the digital world. It owns and operates Entre-preneurOpps.com, SocialMediaJobsCenter.com, BlackBloggersConnect.com and more. As an award winning writer, Mitchell explores the intricate complexities within the global experience. She’s always creating things and considers herself a creatologist. Mitchell has created over five top ranking websites dedicated to pro-moting African American and African descended cultures around the world.

THE INNOVATORS


LeTonya MooreEmpowerment CoachGrowing up in Alabama in an under-educated family, there were not many people to encourage you to reach for higher goals or to pursue your dreams. They could not con-ceptualize that anyone could be anything more than factory workers and hotel maids. At 17, LeTonya Moore was faced with the reality of having to make a difficult choice; pursue her dreams or be a parent. For several months, she hid this fact because she was very ashamed and doubted her ability to achieve life’s success. Moore has always been very bright and had plans of going to college. At that time, she was on track and ready to go! There were so many people that put her down because of having a baby so she winded up falling into a very dark place. Moore realized that she had placed her entire future in jeopardy. She had dreams and aspirations of becoming an attorney; but she questioned whether this would actually happen.Once Moore’s mother discovered that she was pregnant, she immediately attempted to make her have an abortion. Moore's mother proceeded to make the appointment, took her to the clinic, and told her that she was going to have the abortion. When it did not happen, there were many days that Moore's mother would look at her and say how glad

she would be when she had the baby because she was sick of looking at her own daughter. There was talk among the extended family about how Moore would never go to college or that she would continue to have children out of wedlock. This was truly a realistic familial pattern. Moore has spent many years fighting the “teen mother” stigma. She was constantly being told that she would not make it by family and outsiders. Moore proved them all wrong. Now CEO of Opulence Enterprises, LLC, She was the first person in her family (on her father’s side) to attend college and the first on both sides to obtain a professional degree. Moore constantly shares her testimony through her motivational speaking. Her company recently hosted the SHINE-Tampa Conference and inspirational and empowerment conference geared toward helping others move to their next level in life! To find our more about LeTonya and Opulence Enterprises, LLC, visit http://www.oppcoach.com/

Hope Oriabure-KingEntrepreneurHope Oriabure-King made a niche for on-site childcare in the event in-dustry beginning in 2009. With today's parents taking their kids to every-thing including weddings, networking events, and business meetings she felt the service was very necessary. At first, it was a challenge to convince both event planners and parents that their kids would be okay in her care-but she has done it! Black-Tie Babysitting has become the premier on-site childcare service provider in the Dallas, Texas area. King’s service allows parents to achieve family-work-life balance without sacrificing time with their children or being black-listed from events.

As a single mother of four, King wants to reflect the legacy of the Black business women. This is a legacy of strength in the face of adversity and a passion that fuels us to be trailblazers on the roads less taken. Several peo-ple advised her not to start a business because she had children. Then she thought about a story that her father told her as a child. He explained that in Nigeria (his home country) there was a man who went village to village charging children a fee to click a view master. If he could make a business out of a child's toy, King knew she could have a business with the support of her children for her children. Today her kids, all the way down to her four-year-old, are as integral to King’s business as they are to her life.www.blacktiebabysitting.com

THE INNOVATORS


“For every one of us that succeeds, it's because there's somebody there to show you the way out. The light doesn't always necessarily have to be in your family; for me it was teachers and school.” –Oprah Winfrey

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THE EDUCATORS


Mary Rice BoothEducator by Tanya Manning-Yarde

Mary Rice Boothe, Senior Director of Aspiring Principals Program at New Leaders, Inc., makes in word and action an im-passioned case for progressive education in urban schools. In this article, she shares her beliefs about education, and the differences she is trying to make both in educating students and professionally developing school leaders throughout NYC and Newark, NJ.

Growing up in Milwaukee, WI, Mary’s parents, migrants from Ar-kansas, were staunch advocates for education. Yet Mary’s differen-tial experience as an African-American was also momentous. In 1984, her family was the first to integrate their neighborhood. She was the only student of color in grades 7-12. Although attending a private high school she credits as educationally progressive, socially and emotionally, the school "didn't understand the implications of someone's race and ethnicity on their education."

Moving to NYC proved pivotal in shaping Mary's pursuits of higher education and employment. She attended New York University in 1994 as a metropolitan studies major, while working jobs giving ac-cess and opportunity to involving her on the frontline with urban youth. After graduation she continued working in after-school and summer camp programs in Brooklyn and East Harlem. Yet work-ing peripherally with youth was not enough. She wanted to directly invest in the educational possibilities of urban students. She be-came a NYC Teaching Fellow, an alternative teacher certification program that recruits and trains candidates for high-needs schools.

Mary credits meeting Coalition of Essential Schools (CORE) pio-neer Deborah Meier, and later completing a teaching assignment in Central Park East Secondary School (CPESS) as her introduction to progressive education. Mary defines progressive education as (1)"putting the student at the center of the educational experience," (2)"giving the student the autonomy and opportunity to articulate his/her [educational] concerns through programs such as advisory and student council," and (3) "giving students voice and opportu-nity to defend his/her own learning.” She made an indelible impres-

sion as a 9th grade English teacher. In subsequent years she was af-forded responsibilities outside her classroom including mentoring new teachers and creating an after-school credit recovery program.

Mary’s principal recommended her for the New York City Leader-ship Academy, an intensive and selective program grooming aspir-ing principals, and she was accepted in 2005. While the academy experience proved beneficial, its orientation toward becoming a principal seemed to Mary traditional given its emphasis on aca-demics and data, with "less recognition of how students' ethos and efficacy are in play both in their successes and their experiences." Overall, the Leadership Academy brought her ideas "right of left," helping her transition from teacher to principal. By this time Mary also completed two Masters Degrees in English and English Educa-tion, her Masters Degree in Educational Administration and New York State certification in School Administration and Supervision.

Mary served four years as Principal of Harlem Renaissance High School, a Manhattan transfer high school serving over-aged and under-credited students who dropped out of other schools. Here she met the reality of integrating what she learned from the acad-emy with implementing aspects of progressive education. The ex-perience made Mary "question who I am as a person, who I was as a leader,” yet importantly “solidify for me what I was really good at." During her tenure, Mary implemented a graduation requirement that each student develop and defend a portfolio. The portfolio process encompassed (1) compiling best academic work with writ-ten reflections detailing what each artifact represented about one’s growth and progress, (2) a comprehensive reflective essay articulat-ing one’s educational journey at Harlem Renaissance and detailing post-secondary academic aspirations, and (3) a formal defense to school-based, familial and community stakeholders. While not a NYC Department of Education requirement, Mary shared that “stu-dents looked forward to the opportunity to stand in front of a panel and share what they’ve learned. It was transformational in that stu-dents took ownership of their own learning.” Mary also gave back to her professional community, becoming an Aspiring Principal Mentor for the Academy, mentoring four aspiring administrators.

Afterwards, Mary explored opportunities resuming work within non-profit and educational organizations, investigating how they currently were shaping and impacting education. Working as an Instructional Coach for Diploma Plus, Inc., a Program Officer for Youth Development Institute, a Mentor in Kean University’s teacher education program, and Senior Consultant for Development with-out Borders, she found her niche at New Leaders, Inc. where she fa-cilitates formal trainings preparing novice principals to lead schools and provides onsite support. Weekly, Mary visits onsite with resi-dent principals, conducting a collegial walkthrough that entails (1) identifying areas for improvement, (2) visiting classrooms, (3) ob-serving the resident conduct professional development and interact with stakeholders, then (4) debriefing and exploring next steps. The visits are fodder for residents’ weekly seminars. She helps aspiring leaders learn “how to value the experience of the student in leading, and making sure you’re not coming in guns blazing, or feeling as though you are going to be the savior.”

Mary's approach to education is holistic, taking into account the needs of students educationally, emotionally, and ethnically. Mary's career path has come full circle, but her contributions to the educa-tion of students and principals are far-reaching.

Mary can be reached by email at [email protected].


Simone Brookins is working hard to blaze trails in her industry. In 2005, she left the field of business information technology and became a teacher at a Title I school where close to 90% of the students were on a free or reduced lunch program. As a first year teacher, she witnessed some of the burdens that students who come from low-income households endure on a daily basis and how they were be-ing provided with an academic education but not life skills.

In 2006, Brookins founded a non-profit organization for low-income youth called The Institute of Life and Learning where our mission is to shape today’s youth into tomorrow’s leaders. Because of her love for business and entrepreneurship, she started to provide people with advice on how to start their own business and also developed business plans, marketing plans, and other content that would be most beneficial for their business. She did this for many years and in 2011, she started Simbrook Consulting and Development, a consulting firm centered on small business launching, development, and education. She also published her first novel, “Allison’s Awakening” in September 2012 and is cultivating her career in writing and motivational speaking.

Brookins hopes to share her passion for education and business by positioning herself to help and empower more people than what she can reach on her own. For years she has empowered youth both inside and outside of the classroom. In business, she has empowered mostly women to take steps to manifest their vision and to no longer be content with merely dreaming about it and wonder-ing “what if.”

This feature sets an example for all of the young ladies that Brookins currently teaches; those who society has given up on and deem insignificant because of their low socio-economic status and their below average test scores. She also wants to touch the young ladies that she has taught and met through her keynote speaking. They will see this as additional proof that dreams really do come true. This opportunity will also provide exposure for her book, which touches on societal issues such as youth and gang violence, education for low-income students, and being an instrument for change.

Brookins’ hope is for her students to see that they too can live their dreams and can disregard the negativity that comes from those who doubt them and the unfavorable circumstances in which they live.

Simone BrookinsEducator, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist


“THE RISING”

Turkey bakers, baby makersOnce defined a woman’s worth;

To vote, voice an opinionWere rights denied since birth.

Wash the laundry, hang it outStand quietly behind her man;

Groomed down through generationsTo bury dreams in the sand.

Forbidden forces to be reckoned withEach longing for new heights;While suffocating in tradition

Lamps forced to hide their light.

Until the 19th amendmentLegally crowned us all as queens;

Now we wash the laundry, hang it outAnd are free to live out our dreams.

by Wendye Savage


“People should know whatever it is you love to do. I am a living testament to the fact that you can do it. You can do whatever it is you put your mind to and you can do it in stilettos. –Kimora Lee Simmons”

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THE TRENDSETTERS


Sarahi K: A Vision of Success BY sHAWN CHAVIS

Prophetess, visionary, a true fashionista with an eye for detail, trend-setting and fashion forward aesthetic are just a few ways to describe her. She’s Sarahi K, Owner and Chief Designer of Sarahi

House of Fashion, a brand that speaks to the unique fashion needs of every woman while enhancing her natural expression of confi-dence.

Sarahi K decided to combine her savvy business skills with her pas-sion for fashion and launched the Sarahi House of Fashion. She be-lieves women can be dressed el-egantly while still covering their most precious assets, their body. Bronze Magazine caught up with the talented designer for more in-sight on her passion for fashion.

What inspired you to start a design business?I have always had an interest for fashion. I first started a line in my early twenties, however, it did not work out. In 2008 I had an as-sistant who was 6’2” and she had difficulty finding clothing that fit because of her height. I remember saying to her that someone needs to design clothing for tall women; giving birth to Sarahi.

What is the meaning behind the name Sarahi?The name Sarahi is the combination of the biblical names Sarai and Sarah, the wife of Abraham. With “Sarai meaning “beautiful, Barren, my woman of high rank,” and Sarah meaning “princess; Mother of the nations” “Queen.” It is with pleasure to introduce Sarahi to all queens and princesses of the nations.(Gen 17:15-16 and God said unto Abraham, “As for Sarai wife, thou shall not call her name Sarai, but Sarah shall her name be. And I will bless her, and give thee a son also of her: yeah, I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of people shall be of her.”)

With the hustle and bustle (and competition) that comes with working in the fashion industry how do you manage to keep yourself focused and centered on your mission?God, there are many times when I want to give up but I am reminded of the reason for starting this line; not only that, all the people who believe in the vision of Sarahi and have stepped out beyond the call of duty, I do this not just for me but for everyone that has supported and believed in the vision.

What do you envision for Sarahi House of Fashion in the future?To be a recognizable brand, a brand that every woman can relate to; one that is providing resources to our community and nation.


Religion & Fashion: In His Image Modeling

By Destiny DeJesus

Credits:PhotographerBlack Camera [email protected] Artist:Styled By [email protected]:Shantae, Frederick and Idiyatu


Religion is such a strong word. When mixed with any other, it is considered controversial. So is it possible to fuse religion with fashion? The answer is YES, and Nickeeliah Free-man, CEO and Founder of In His Image Modeling Agency, LLC, has done just that.

In His Image Modeling is an organization for young men and women from the ages 5 and up who feel out of the loop of society. Through Christ, these youngsters are able to glorify their bod-ies and become who they want to be: Images of God.

Nickeeliah is the first to create an agency with a spiritual vision: the desire to help every model see themself as an image of God. She believes that her calling was to lead the youth by example and encourage them to learn that they are beautiful in God’s eyes.

She follows the verse: “You were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” 1 Corinthians 6:20.

As a little girl, Nickeeliah dreamed of becoming a model. The fashionista was born in Jamaica then moved to the fashion capital, NYC, when she was only 14. From then, she participated in small fash-ion shows and did several photo shoots. Fashion was in her blood, but she was only beginning. After earning her degree in business and accounting, Nickeeliah used her business skills and love for fash-ion to open up her own modeling agency. Now, aside from running her modeling agency, Nickeeliah is hosting as well as modeling in fashion shows around the U.S. and continuing to book her models for photo-shoots in international magazines.

Nickeeliah is a strong advocate for education, purity and professionalism and strives to instill these qualities in her models.

She is well aware of the conflicts between religion and fashion. She knows that as a Christian, fash-ion and models are viewed negatively. She has put that aside and has come to realize that through her work she has grown closer God.

In His Image Modeling specializes in model training, self-esteem development, model management and even event planning. Many of the models have worked with clients such as Children National Hospital and Calvin Klein. They have been on covers of magazines, book publications and have worked with top celebrity designers and photographers.

The agency is currently in the process of planning bridal shows for Pinpoint Hospitality and is plan-ning on extending their client base to a bigger audience and investors.

Nickeeliah is working with models of all different shape, sizes and backgrounds and is continuing to maintain her mission statement: “Welcome everyone just as Jesus did”. For more information on Nickeeliah or In His Image Modeling Agency, please contact them at:

In His Image Modeling Agency, LLC PO Box 454

Germantown, MD [email protected]

240-751-0334


Photography: Chad Andreo

www.sarahifashion.com


Karine Melissa Purchas began her fashion career in 1990 as a teen model; she attended prestigious modeling institutes such as John Casablanca’s Career Center and Barbizon School of Modeling completing her training with remarkable success. She was immediately offered a teaching position at Barbizon School of Modeling. She learned how to leverage her strengths, proven track record, and positive communication style to secure a promotion in management as the Lead Modeling Instructor overseeing all execution of the model-ing curriculum, fashion productions and student graduations all within a year’s time. As she grew with the company, her sense of creativity, passion for entrepreneurship and knowledge in the fash-ion industry grew as well.

In 1999, Karine Melissa confidently moved for-ward to begin working within her community as a Fashion Show Coordinator, Modeling Consultant, and Fashion Designer. Her passion for philanthro

py positioned her as a Youth Mentor to inner city teens working with Life Impact, Inc. After years of experience working with corporations, non-profit organizations and universities, Karine Melissa knew that it was time to bring to reality a dream that began developing in her heart for years.

In 2007, Karine Melissa co-founded Fashion Designers Expo in Florida. It marked the beginning of another unstoppable movement under her parent company Kimajé Kreations Inc. which also houses a crochet couture swim collection and custom jewelry line. Karine Melissa holds firm to her belief that all dreams can come true if you work hard at it. She brings a sincere passion for supporting those who dream larger than life. By taking on an entrepreneurial philosophy, she launched a business that would incubate the dreams and aspirations of our next generation of world-changers.

In 2011, Karine Melissa developed, coordinated, and instructed her D.I.V.A.S. Program designed for middle to high school girls with the purpose of teaching them life skills and self confidence to prepare them for their life’s mission. D.I.V.A.S. stands for Determined, Intellectual, Virtuous, Accomplished, Sisters. Karine’s first book is set to debut in spring 2013. Karine Melissa’s vision is to impact lives of those around her and even of those she’ll never meet.

As the Co-Founder and CEO of Fashion Designers Expo Florida, Karine Melissa has committed her-self to bring to the forefront talents on the rise. Through this Fashion Week event, over 100 designers and 1000 models, makeup artists, hair stylists, etc. have been given an opportunity to showcase their fashion talent since their launch in 2007. With over 1,000,000 impressions through print and social media, Karine Melissa decided to use this influence and launched the campaign "Let the Runway Meet the Cause" (LRMC) in 2009. LRMC is used to bridge the irresistible glamour and power of the runway with the heart on nonprofit organizations to impact lives around the globe and bring dreams to reality.

Karine Melissa’s goal is to impact lives around the globe and bring dreams to reality using the gifts that she has been blessed with. She fully believes the more she grows, the more she can help someone else to grow. We salute you Karine Melissa Purchas!http://www.karinemelissa.com

Karine Melissa PurchasFashion Entrepreneur,

Philanthropist

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Key of Side of StyleFashion, Wardrobe Stylist

by Trisha Stukes


The lovely Key of Side of Style is a very talented Wardrobe Stylist. She caters to any-one who wants to spice up their look.

A Wardrobe Stylist works with people or companies to give advice to clients about clothing and accessories. Other services include reviewing client's current wardrobe to determine what should be discarded or purchased, coordinating outfits, and closet orga-nizing.

And why do celebrities always look like a million bucks? Because they have a team of people, or "GLAM SQUAD" as some call it, helping them create a look. Thanks to "Side of Style", a Wardrobe Stylist is no longer a luxury reserved for the rich and famous.

Regardless of life's circumstance, "Side of Style" can help you find your individual, signa-ture style to give you the confidence you need to unlock the door to wherever you want to go. And at a price you can afford.

"Side of Style" offers wardrobe styling, wardrobe analysis, and personal shopping services to help achieve the look that best suits your lifestyle. "Side of Style" believes everyone has the RIGHT to look amazing and feel fabulous. Therefore, you too can be red carpet ready even if you'll be nowhere near it.

Think you're ready to kick your style into gear and look as great as you feel? By the way "Side of Style" provides services to men as well.

Links to features, collaborations, and mentions can be found on Key’s blog at www.nice.onsugar.com, her male style blog www.lvntf.blogspot.com, and a Texas style blog: www.dmwtstyle.blogspot.com

Key’s focus, since she started Side of Style in 2008, has been the everyday woman. The MOTHERS, the AUNTS, the WIVES, the SISTERS, the HAIRSTYLIST, the SCHOOL TEACHER, the police (LADY)... the females who gives so much of herself day in and day out? Her work is done FIRST and foremost for them to show everyday women who have their own sense of style and are capable of being styled as well. Making "fun" of clothes was her fo-cus and showing that EVERYONE has the right to look and feel MAGNIFICENT. Anyone can get the works with a SIDE OF STYLE...from mommies, to models, to mavens, to managers. Doesn't matter if you're PLUS SIZE, mid size, in between size, or a SIZE 0! And of course the men and kids aren’t left out. The start of the last school season Key collaborated with Houston area students by styling a BACK TO SCHOOL photo shoot. She tries to reach out to the youth as much as possible via SIDE OF STYLE. Key’s focus is somewhat differ-ent from a lot of those who are in or want to be in the fashion industry. Most hunger for FAME from the very start and she desires to use her talents to HELP more than anything. She strives to be of service to people from all walks of life.(E): [email protected]/Twitter: @key2stylewww.sideofstyle.com www.facebook.com/sideofstyle


Sherry Burton WaysBy Destiny DeJesus


Let’s face it, Oprah’s design guru, Nate Berkus, is not the only interior designer on Earth. In fact, his book was knocked down from Amazon’s number one top seller and replaced by “Feel Good Spaces” by the new author and CEO of Kreative Ways & Solutions, LLC, Sherry Burton Ways.

Now there’s proof! Not only was Berkus knocked off the charts. He was beaten by a creative, holistic woman!

Burton Ways, a former transportation planner for an engineering firm, uses her experience in traveling the world and her love for Feng Shui to help transform the lives of people through their homes.

During the late 90’s Burton Ways spent her time studying interior design books and began to apply her skills to her own home. Decorating became a hobby for Burton Ways and she decid-ed to go back to school and get a degree in Interior Design. She is now an Assistant Professor in the Interior Design Program at Catonsville Community College, where she teaches Feng Shui.

As a certified Feng Shui Redesigner, Burton Ways likes to consider herself a “holistic” designer. In 2004, she created Kreative Ways & Solutions, LLC, a boutique interior design firm located in Washington, DC. The hip interior designer uses her knowledge in color therapy and her certifi-cate in Feng Shui and Interior Environment Coaching to help people redesign their homes and offices to suit their personality.

Burton Ways believes that the home or working space is an extension of life. “When you inhabit a living space that has healthy chi or good energy, your own life force is enhanced and pre-served,” the designer said.

As a new author, Burton Ways is focusing on promoting her first book “Feel Good Spaces: A Guide to Decorating Your Home for the Body Mind and Spirit”. The book speaks about the importance of a “feel good” environment and provides vibrant photos, experiences from clients and DIY exercises to help get the “creative juices” flowing.

When you walk into Barnes & Noble, there’s an array of books on how to design your home to look welcoming and comfortable. Well, Burton Ways made it her priority to publish a book dif-ferent from the others.

Not only does “Feel Good Spaces” speak about making your home appear to be welcoming, comfortable and attractive; it teaches beginners how to make it feel all of those things.

When was the last time you walked into your kitchen and felt like you wanted to spend your entire day there either reading, cooking or just relaxing? Probably not recently!

Burton Ways believes that your space is a reflection of yourself, and should be treated with care. Her goal is to create an environment with “feel good” home designs, not just “look good” designs.

Burton Ways uses her passion to give back to the community. She volunteers at the Unity Health Care Foundation, the largest primary healthcare agency in DC. There, Burton Ways and her team designed the children’s reading room to help promote literacy. She and interns, art-ists and furniture providers worked together to create a room that would enhance the experi-ence of families who visit the clinic. She and her team also donate books and she occasionally volunteers to read to the children. In the spring of 2012, she was awarded a Volunteer Appreci-ation Award by the foundation and is currently working with her team on a new project. By the summer 2013, Burton Ways will have renovated a less fortunate neighborhood in DC.

”Everyone today is going through a host of challenges in their lives be it mental, physical and spiritual. I think this book helps people focus on something they have control of in their lives. That is their private spaces.”

For more information on Sherry Burton Ways, Kreative Ways & Solutions and more visit www.myfeelgoodspaces.com or www.kreativeways.com


Tracey Brown is a Blinging Beautyby Shawn Chavis

Beauty expert Tracey Brown is the Editor In Chief of Blinging Beauty (www.bling-ingbeauty.com), a beauty blog chock-full-of beau-ty how-to’s, trends, product reviews, contests and the latest buzz. As an international makeup art-ist, trainer, and educator, Brown has worked with prestigious brands—CHANEL, Smashbox, LORAC, L’Oreal Professional, and Laura Geller—while her artistry crosses all mediums—print, runway, tele-vision, film and video. Tracey is also now a brand strategist and published journalist, being called upon for her expertise by such mediums as CNN and CBS. We caught up with Tracey to find out how her love of beauty came about.

How did you get your start in the beauty industry?I started out dabbling in makeup when I was very young. I have always been fascinated with color and the way that makeup can transform and en-

hance. On a trip to Europe in my early 20s I met a photographer in Italy. And well, I suddenly developed a raging desire to be a makeup artist-(laughs)I continued to work in makeup as a freelance artist and in my 30s opened my studio-Salon Chelsea Taylor-named after my two oldest daughters. Tell us about your experience as one of the founders of Sephora.comI came on board at Sephora.com when they were first launching because of my hands-on expertise with skin care and makeup. It was like the wild, wild west. Whatever I wanted to do, I threw my hat in the ring and went for it. So, while there, I contributed to the fledgling education department with many projects. One of which was the SOS (Science of Sephora) manual through which all Sephora employees must be trained. I developed a brand liaison position from the rapport that I had with the top tier brands (and others of course). I wrote hundreds of templates for the beauty advisor-blue eyes and brown hair spring makeup; skin care for 40 somethings. I also initiated a category for "textured hair" before that buzz word even existed as it does today. I was trained by the top dermatologists in the business. I had intimate relationships with brands that I have seen grow exponentially. I was featured in Essence Magazine as a beauty expert with the Sephora Beauty Advisor. I also racked up LOTS of sales for that company. So much so that when I quit, the CEO came down from his office in the sky to talk to me about my departure and how much I would be missed. I have to say that that experience shaped my current career status.What is the concept behind your fabulous beauty blog Blinging Beauty?Several years ago, I was doing makeup for a bridal party and I was apply-ing my go-to blush for brides-NARS Orgasm. One of the bridesmaids jumped up and said,"What's that cheek bling you are using?" So I told her. But that expression- cheek bling, stuck with me. Since I am a writer at heart (journal-ism undergrad), I promised that I would use that term in some significant way in the future. So,when I started blogging as a hobby while recuperating from some orthopedic surgeries, I came up with the name Blinging Beauty. So I have NARS (still one of my favorite brands) to thank for that!


I also managed to drill down my niche. At first I was an all-around beauty expert, and granted, I know just about every-thing when it comes to beauty (smile). So I decided to drill a bit deeper and position myself as an expert for black women. At the time I had 25 years of professional ex-perience under my belt and an impressive background of product knowledge. I had worked as a trainer, educator, esthetician and makeup artist for years. So I knew it was right for me. I just saw a lack of pro-fessional, expert voices for black women in the blogosphere.What are some of the biggest beauty issues you hear from women?

Most of all it's about makeup: How to wear makeup; how to choose makeup, foundation in particular; and how to choose color. This is primarily for women of color. Regarding skin care, many women still don't understand the basics of a healthy skin care regimen. They need to wear SPF year round. They also need to use a gentle cleanser and treat their skin, particularly at night.How do you define beauty?Beauty is confidence. It’s an aura. It’s simplicity. Beauty is not complicated. Look at a flower. Simple color and blossom are what is attractive. I think that all too often we put too much emphasis on the outside and neglect the inside. But when our inside is fed, we exude beauty. And of course, there is always red lipstick and mascara...Tell us about your philanthropy with Look Good…Feel Better.I started working with Look Good...Feel Better years ago as a way to give back to women who truly need to feel better about themselves as cancer survivors. It's so heart wrenching to see women who have been brought down because of the physical and visible results of cancer and chemotherapy; but to show them how to use a bit of color, how to shape an eyebrow -- all of that, it helps with being able to face the world. No matter how we may feel on the inside, if the public perceives that we are "ugly" or sick, or down trodden, it takes its toll on us. I am a cancer survivor, so this is a very important cause to me.I also work with doctors who provide services to burn survivors. That is even more satisfying. These are people who are scarred for life. But to help them feel pretty, or just normal- there is nothing like that. Most people want to run when they see someone who has survived burns. They see a monster. They don't see the human. So the power of touch is so important. Just touching their skin to apply creams, or putting my hand on their shoulder while we talk- it's amazing. You can almost feel the tension release. What is the secret to your own personal beauty?Red wine, red lipstick, sunscreen and great genes.What has been one of your most memorable moments as a journalist?When I interviewed Pat McGrath, the most influential women in makeup for this century (global brand ambassador for P&G brands, the genius behind most de-signer ad campaigns and runway shows), she said to me that to be successful in this business, the beauty business,"One must be obsessed." After that con-versation, I suddenly felt normal about my penchant for makeup.


What is Beauty?

Is it light skin?

Is it skinny legs?

CreditsPhotography by: Wim van der SteltDesigner: Rushemy Botter (clothes in photo 1: What is beauty? and Photo 3: Skinny legs?)Hair by: Petra OverduijnMake up by: Petra Overduijn


Just Love Yourself...

Is it blue eyes?Is it make-up?

Love Yourself!


The Ladies of Bronze Magazine

(from left):

Lakesha Stuldivant- Beauty EditorTrisha Stukes- Marketing CoordinatorShawn Chavis- Founder/Editor In Chief

In the spirit of this special Women’s History Month issue, Shawn, Trish, and Lakesha come together in friendship, solidarity and support setting the tone for celebration of the awesome women who are

blazing trails across various industries.

Happy Women’s History Month!

Photographer- Barry StuldivantMUA- Bianca LynnHair- Lakesha StuldivantJewelry Designers- Simone Chante and Pamella ReimersMiss Chavis’ top- Annia/Brain Lint

Photographer- Justin CarterMUA- Bianca LynnHair- Lakesha StuldivantJewelry Designers- Simone Chante and Pamella ReimersMiss Chavis’ top- Annia/Brain Lint


Photographer- Barry StuldivantMUA- Bianca LynnHair- Lakesha StuldivantJewelry Designers- Simone Chante and Pamella ReimersMiss Chavis’ top- Annia/Brain Lint


Photographer- Justin CarterMUA- Bianca LynnHair- Lakesha StuldivantJewelry Designers- Simone Chante and Pamella Re-imersMiss Chavis’ top- Annia/Brain Lint


You can’t just sit there and wait for people to give you that golden dream. You’ve got to get out there and make it happen for yourself. –Diana Ross

>>>

THE ENTERTAINERS


Daniela Sanchez also known as Miss Silawett, is a multi-talented singer, actress, film producer and Founder/C.E.O of 5.2 Global Entertainment Group (Head of the Latin Division) and Miss Silawett Music Group.

She is a Latina Pop Artist who recently had a full page article in a major publication known as “The Move-ment Magazine” focusing on her career as a rising recording artist. With Michelle Obama gracing the front cover and the magazine being distributed on newsstands and worldwide, this important feature was a major accomplishment for the indie artist.

Silawett is a young entrepreneur mogul making big moves in the music industry from the grassroots up. She was appointed to Head the Latin Film Division of 5.2 Global Entertainment Group and began produc-ing indie films about six years ago and landed an article in Latina Magazine as an Indie Filmmaker.

A lot of her work focuses on empowering women and providing opportunities and exposure for Latino talent through her projects. One of her indie short films "A Tortured Life", (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8cv_gOxNTg) is receiving rave reviews in the film festival circuit and was shown at the legend-ary Quad Cinema (NYC) with an encore performance.

Silawett’s company has also recently produced a promo commercial featuring the amazing Dr. Maya Ange-lou for the Hurricane Sandy Victim Recovery Fund (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzTYTr0vxi8 ).

The latest short film she has produced "P.O.M.E." (based on a true story) was screened to a standing ovation and is now on the film festival circuit (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2IMh8yqdr9s).

Presently, Silawett is days away from beginning production on a feature Film titled “The Black Van" which is being produced via her own production company with herself as the producing head, as well as having an acting role in it along with an all star cast.

Miss Silawett is a strong advocate and model for female empowerment. She is a feminist and her work will continue to inspire and motivate others. Her mission is to open doors, create opportunities and push forward for equality in the industry because women have a lot to offer and bring to the table.

She promised to continue break boundaries and leave her mark in the industry worldwide.

Daniela [email protected]

Daniela SanchezEntertainment, Film


Diana Gaitirira is a SAG eligible actress, producer, and plus model. Graduating from Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. with a B.A in Deaf Studies, an A.S. in Sign Language Interpreting, along with being a full-time Certified Sign Language Interpreter, Diana’s educational studies have led her to travel as far as Africa to interact with Deaf students. She has recently co-produced and co-starred in the SAG short film, Not On Board. She has modeled for prestigious runway shows such as Full Figured Fashion Week (FFF Week), Tropical Divas At Sea, and Steve Harvey’s Hoodie Awards where she modeled for innovative fashion designers such as Lane Bryant, Sonsi, Qristyl Frazier, Big Luv Denim, Jill Alexander, and more. She is the co-owner of Cheza Jouer Films, LLC ( a film production company that aims to create social films and documentaries from a minority's prespective) and producer of her debut full-length feature documentary Sandals Worn Backwards. Look out for her new modeling campaign for Junonia and her latest film, Terrible Angels, where she co-stars opposite Michael Madsen.http://gaitidia.wix.com/dianagaitirirahttp://www.chezajouerfilms.com/#!upcoming_projects/cg6fhttp://twitter.com/#!/DianaGaitihttp://www.imdb.com/name/nm3547430/Photographer- Rebecca Massey Photography http://www.rebeccamasseyphotography.com/MUA- Stephanie Brenan http://stephaniebrenan.com/

Shannon Yvonne MoreauProducer, Writer Shannon Yvonne Moreau and her selfless acts are immea-surable. With a course diploma from the Institute of Chil-dren's Literature under her belt, Shannon is currently add-ing the finishing touches on her premiere book, which is a contemporary coming-of-age romance novel; and shares her weekly witty adventures via her insightful blog about books, food, film, and life. Moreau is also a writer and ex-ecutive producer of Sandals Worn Backwards, a full-length feature documentary, as well as a Member of Southwest Writers and LERA. In addition, she has published histori-cal articles for Cricket and American History magazines. Although she has a full plate, Shannon still volunteers her time to serve as a member of and writer for the New Mexi-co Black History Month Organizing Committee.

Dia GaitiriraActress, Producer, Plus Model


Dee Dee M. ScottScreenwriter, Playwright, Direcctor, Producer, Entrepreneur, PhilanthropyA DDMS Production Corporation was created by multi-talented author, playwright, Screen writer, director and publisher, Dee Dee M. Scott who believes the limit is higher than the sky. Scott has been writing and producing theater productions since 2008. Her productions have graced the Town Theater, S.C State Museum, Francis Marion Univer-sity (Chapman Auditorium), CD Joyner Auditorium and many more.Scott has directed two stage plays Misery Loves Company and All the Bad Man Can Do Is Keep the Good One from Coming to You, as well as My Husband's Woman-The Stage Play, which played for two shows at: The Town Theatre on November 27, 2011. She has been blessed with a gift from God to entertain and inspire audiences with the relevant and realistic messages in her productions.Bronze sat down with Dee Dee and got a chance to get a more personal insight into her life and career.When did you begin to live your life fearlessly and pursue your dreams? I was basically sitting on my talent. I had dreams and I would talk about them all the time to my husband. He knew how much I loved writing. One day he told me: Don’t talk about what you’re going to do; do it. It wasn’t until I suffered a bad case of Anemia after the birth

of my son that I realized life was not promised to me. It was a gift and I had been given my talents for a purpose. I spent months ill and with my husband by my side caring for me around the clock. I promised myself that if I got well, I would do everything I had dreamed of. Once I regained my strength, I was up and running. My husband supported me 100%, and I haven’t looked back since. You wear many professional hats- Screenwriter, playwright, director, producer, entrepreneur and philanthropy. Are any of these roles closest to your heart? If so, which one and why?All of them are close to my heart, but being a Screenwriter means a lot to me. I am able to create stories that entertain people and have powerful messages. Knowing that the audience connected with the characters, and that the story emotionally touched them, means a lot to me.Tell us about your latest project Lake House.If you saw, My Husband’s Woman-the stage play, or read the book, you know that my plots are innovative. I don’t like to write anything in a way that it has already been written before. Lake House is a psychological horror film about a young woman who leaves her abusive husband hoping to find a better life, but where she ends up is in a worse situation than she left. With the movie, Lake House, you can expect an emotional, edge of your seat thriller. This movie takes so many twist and turns, and the surprise ending...you don't want to miss it!What inspired you to create your non-profit Joseph & Kathy Gregg's Child, and what has been its impact on others? I met a lot of people through my production company, who had the drive, and the talent, but could not get their foot into the door. I knew how that felt. I created Joseph & Kathy Greggs’s child so that children, teens and adults could learn theater and acting. Due to that, many actors trained through my company, have had a chance to perform live on stage in my theater productions. Nothing beats the feeling of seeing someone else fulfill their dreams. What is the message that you want to relay to audiences about your plays? I first want to make sure that the people who spend their valuable time and hard earned money to see my stage plays are enter-tained and have a good time. I mix that with a realistic and strong plot that they can emotionally connect to. The message in all of my productions is: There are consequences for everything you do in life, weather good or bad, and that if you are down, you don’t have to stay there. Get up and dust yourself off and keep moving.What role did your parents play in influencing your career decisions?My father Joseph G. Gregg was an avid reader. My love of reading came by watching him when I was a little girl. Every night, during dinner, he would read the newspaper. His food would get cold, but he would not eat until he had read the paper from start to finish. My mother, Kathy Paul Gregg, was a wise and strong woman. She was diabetic and had lost one of her limbs and some of her vision, but she was fearless. She invested everything she had into me. She never stopped teaching me or imparting words of wisdom to me about life. She made sure that I was involved in positive activities and taught me to never give up. Having them as my parents shaped me into who I am today.http://arawproduction.wix.com/my-husbands-woman--the-playhttp://www.ahsyadpublication.com.tripod.com/


And she’s Still “Shining”….by Trisha Stukes

We first interviewed Shannin Watkins shortly after her Grand Prize win in the OurStage (MTV partner) Artist Access Competition with her hit single “Dreaming,” which landed her an opportunity to perform live in NYC and meet music industry giant Bruce Tyler (former EVP of Sony Music and

Columbia Records). We followed up with Shannin to gain some insight on what exciting things are happening in her career now…

BM: Shannin, when we last spoke you had just performed at the RBar in NYC with music executive Bruce Tyler in attendance. Tell us what has gone on since then.Meeting music industry veteran Bruce Tyler has been one of the most rewarding ex-periences in my music career. Since my mentoring session with Bruce and my show-case at R Bar I have performed in NYC several more times and all over my home state of Arkansas. I started receiving booking requests through my website and ended up performing at The Shrine World Music Venue in Harlem and The Delancey in lower East Manhattan. I went from doing one or two gigs a month to two or three gigs a week. Shortly after leaving NYC, I performed as a semi-finalist in the Arkansas Times Musi-cians Showcase and my single “Sugar” ended up in high rotation on mainstream radio in Texas and Arkansas. I was featured in two magazines The Netherlands, featured in Muzic Headz Radio out of New Zealand and Australia, and chosen as a semi-finalist on ABC’s “Duets” with Kelly Clarkson. In November, I won the Overall Best Songwriter Award at Mike Beaty’s world-renowned Model and Talent Expo (Dallas, TX). I closed out 2012 with the worldwide release of my first Christmas single. I received an over-whelming amount of support for my a cappella rendition of “O’Holy Night” which was also featured on CD Baby. Recently I landed the cover of “Shine On Magazine” based out of Washington, D.C.. I never dreamed I would be blessed with so many great op-portunities as an independent artist.

BM: How has your life changed since you won the Grand prize in the Ourstage (MTV Partner) Artist Access Competition in July 2012?I have always had a zest for life, but since winning the Ourstage Artist Access competi-tion in 2011 my determination and focus to have a successful music career has gone into overdrive. The extra push and support I received from Bruce definitely gave me

Photographer: Bri Woods-Chaney


credibility as a singer/songwriter in the NYC music community. I have gained so many new fans and a strong following on social media. I literally feel like I went into the mentoring session with Bruce and came out with the confirmation that I can and I will make it big as a musician and recording artist.

BM: How do you manage to stay grounded during this exciting time in your life/career?My faith in God, my family, and my friends keep me grounded. They remind me to use my gifts wisely. Also, as a role model and youth mentor I always keep the meaning of what I do as an artist as my driving force to continue. I am called to use music to essentially “heal the world” and hearts of others. So many artists are in it for fame and fortune, but I am in it simply for the love of music.

BM: Tell us about your philanthropic involvement with America’s Pride Youth Programs and Shining Rae’s Shining Stars. America’s PRIDE Youth Programs is a drug-free/drug-awareness program that I was a member of in high school. I was a singer and dancer on the Arkansas State Team. Over the last two years I have given back to the program by doing motivational speak-ing and performing for the Arkansas State Convention. A few years ago I created “Shining Rae’s Shining Stars of Tomorrow.” Bi-monthly I feature a story on my website about a young talented person to shine light on other young people making a positive impact on others and the world around them. I feel like a huge part of giving back as a mentor is showing people who look up to me that they important to the world and are appreciated. All of their hopes and dreams can become reality if they believe in them and work hard to achieve them. I am the biggest fan of anyone who lives this way and will continue to pass on inspiration to others any way that I can.

BM: What’s next for you in 2013?In 2013 I am continuing to book more gigs in New York City and talking to music pub-lishing companies, talent agents, and managers that scouted me at The Expo in Dallas, TX. I am also recording an all-acoustic EP to be released worldwide digitally in early Spring 2013. I am on the cusp of a major breakthrough in the music industry. I feel that I will land a major publishing and recording contract this year. Optimism and faith has worked very well for me.

BM: What message do you want fans to get from your music?My music is based on love, hope, and inspiration and comes from my heart. Singing and songwriting are my ways of giving love back to the world. Like my favorite art-ist Stevie Wonder, I make “feel good” music that carries universal messages powerful enough to last for many generations to come.

BM: How can more people find out about your music and where to purchase?My website www.ShiningRae.com connects fans to all of my social media sites, live per-formance videos, news/magazine articles, and music download sites such as Itunes and Amazon. I am listed as “Shining Rae Music” on youtube, facebook, twitter, instagram, myspace, reverbnation and more. I love hearing from my fans so feel free to send me a message through the contact section on my website. You can also find my electronic press kit on ourstage.com which contains information on my set lists and stage require-ments.

www.shiningrae.com


I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but peo-ple will never forget how you made them feel. -Maya Angelou

>>>

THE PHILANTHROPISTS


Heather Johnson, a 32-year old entrepreneur from Albany, GA, never knew that today her whole life would be dedicated to serving oth-ers. Johnson is the creator of JHeather Enter-prises, a conglomerate of entities that includes but is not limited to her public/motivational speaking- It's A "S.H.E" Thing Benefit (For Cancer & MS) and Team Action Inc., a (non-profit) for which she serves as the Regional Director for Georgia alongside Lakeshia Brous-sard, who is the founder and Executive Direc-tor (Miami, Florida). In addition, Johnson hosts community services

events, promotional entertainment events, and she is a self-published author of the book (published March 2011) titled The First Day of The Rest of My Life: How my Storms be-came my Story, which is changing the lives of readers and bringing awareness to those who may not have had the experiences that she’s had in her lifetime. Heather is heavily involved in ministry which is her first love. She credits her love for God as the reason for all of the blessings in her life. She is a firm believer that her life is a testament that prayer changes a multitude of things. Besides being a single mother to daughter Jaida, Heather is also a college student (com-pleting her Bachelors in Business Administration this year). Her ultimate goal is to let her daughter know that the sky is not the limit, but the stairway to whatever she desires to be in life. As a result, Heather’s mission is to reach an international audience and con-tinue to work on spreading her message. “Let today be the first day” is Heather’s motto and today she serves as living proof that one can move from pain to power with faith, prayer, and the undeniable strength to stand in spite of adversities.

Raquel MascoPhilanthropist, Entrepreneur

Raquel Masco owns and operates a concierge service, and is Executive Director & Co-Founder of SingleMoms Created4Change, a non-profit dedicated to the success and em-powerment of single mothers and their families. This organiza-tion also serves married mothers who are operating as single parents; including women, whose husbands are incarcerated, work long hours or out of town, and those who are separated from their husbands. Masco states it has been a blessing for her to be able to do what she does. She has implemented numerous programs and is preparing to do more. SingleMoms Created4Change can be found online at http://www.singlemoms-created4change.com. Masco’s testimony is credited to the grace of God and how He can equip an African-American, Single Mother (who has overcome a fatherless home, evictions and other hardships), to work to bring change in her community and the lives of other women. It will bring recognition to her non-profit and the amazing ladies who are a part of it. It will also show the younger women and girls coming up behind Masco that noth-ing is impossible and they can become anything they want to become.

Heather JohnsonPhilanthropist, Entrepreneur


“You are the designer of your destiny; you are the author of your story.” — Lisa Nichols

>>>

THE MOTIVATORS


Julia ReeceAuthor, Entrepreneur by Trisha Stukes

Julia Reece has a message for you - learn to live with your shoestring, and learn to have fun with it. There is no real reason to be down on yourself. If you can do better, then do so. If things are beyond your control, then learn to live with it and learn to laugh at and with it. Don't forget to reach back and share and help someone else. And never stop dreaming of the day when you have a fatter shoestring. If you have learned your lessons well, you will be able to keep that fat shoestring and still enjoy life.We recently sat down with Ms. Reece to get a more in depth look into her brilliant mind…BM: What inspired you to write your book titled, Life on a Shoestring: Living within Your Means?I was feeling a little “down in the dumps” after getting notice about another 10% pay cut at work. Our income was already not quite enough to meet our obligations, and another pay cut was going to hurt more. I prayed and asked the Lord to show me how I could increase our income. Then I asked my husband, Terry. He said, “You are always reading or listening to

books. Why not write one of your own?” I prayed some more – I didn’t think I had any-thing to say that anyone else but my family would want to read. And the Lord gave me the title. I sat down, and the words began to flow, and the rest is history.

BM: When did you first experience living within your means, and how did such a change impact your life?I actually grew up with “living within your means” as my family’s motto. I come from humble beginnings. We were never rich but to me as a kid, I never knew that we were poor. We were a low-income family, but I never wanted for a meal or clothes. I had ev-erything I needed when I needed it, and sometimes I got some of the things I wanted. Once I started working and “making the big bucks”, I started getting a lot of the things I wanted – not just the things I needed. I forgot my family motto. The first time I really experienced having to make myself live within my means as an adult was after I was laid-off from my good-paying job in early 1991. After taking home monthly paychecks of about $2000, I was suddenly on unemployment. And my monthly income went down to $1100. I was newly re-single and had a house, car, and all the associated expenses that come with them. I had several gold credit cards and I tried to make it by “robbing Peter to pay Paul”. By the end of the summer, I was completely over my head in debt and was filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. After my bankruptcy was discharged, I promised myself never to go that road again. Unfortunately, I didn’t heed my own advice. Oh, I followed it for quite a few years. I got a new job, started my own business, met Terry, and got married again. I was making better money this time and I forgot the lessons I learned the first time. When my job started making cutbacks in 2005, those lessons slapped me in the face again. I started trying to cut back and not spend as much. And we did pretty well until 2009 when I was laid off again, only to be hired immediately back at a previous level – for 10% less. Once again, I tried the “Peter & Paul” routine for a little while, but it wasn’t working this time. I started constantly worrying about where I was going to get funds to pay for this or for that. I wasn’t talking to the Lord like I used to and I definitely wasn’t’ listening to Him. My husband and I were arguing a lot, and it was beginning to hurt me emotionally. At the same time we went through some serious illnesses – which will be with each of us to our graves. So the out-go got larger, and my worrying >>


got worse. Add the tanking economy to all this and you have serious problems just waiting to happen.

BM: What main message do you want your book to resonate with readers and why?I want my readers to know that they are not alone. There are others who were doing quite well out there who have experienced and are experiencing hard times. There are people out there that are worse off than me. I want the “every day” person to know that there are ways to make things work without getting ulcers, becoming addicted to alcohol or drugs, or taking their own life. I knew I wasn’t the only one having problems, but no one really talked about it. One friend might mention that she wasn’t going to go on va-cation because “money was funny” but, it wasn’t really a conversation you had with your friends or family. Once God gave me this message, I had to let it be known. You CAN live within your means.

BM: What type of feedback has your book generated?Almost all of it has been positive. People have told me that they remember some of the tips I share. They have been encouraged to visit the dollar store and try different brands of things. They have been encour-aged to clip coupons – some of them for the first time in their lives. I’ve only had a couple of people com-ment negatively.

BM: What is one of the most difficult challenges you faced while learning to live with your shoe-string?I had to get over PRIDE. I felt too proud to go to the resale shop. “I’m an upper middle-class, college-edu-cated woman who must look the part.” I had to get OK with not getting my nails done, with doing my own hair, with not spending money on things. I had to re-learn how to distinguish between what was neces-sary and what was just a want.BM: What one piece of advice would you give to anyone making that transition to finding her happy place?Learn (or re-learn) what is real and what is fluff, how to save, and how to be proud when she has no bills at the end of the month AND money in the bank. Even when there is no extra money in the bank, be happy that all the important, necessary things are taken care of. Despite all of the stressful and taxing financial issues we all may face in life, the love of God, and the love between a couple should always take priority over all the glossy, material things. (I guess that is 4things.) She (or he) will be happier, less stressed, and on her way to better days and a fatter shoestring. ∆


Angela D. Coleman is an award-winning social entrepreneur, educational philanthropist and published author. Ms. Coleman grew up in Newark, New Jersey and graduated a cum laude from Princeton University with a Bach-elor of Arts (BA) in Psychology and a minor in African American Studies. In 1994, Ms. Coleman founded Sisterhood Agenda. As its President for over 18 years, she established partnerships all over the world including those in the U.S., Africa, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and India.Recognized for the national and global scale of her work, Ms. Coleman is an Ashoka Fellow and has been featured in ESSENCE, Jet, Teacher Magazine, Adolescence, Princeton Alumni Weekly, Phoenix Focus, Nex Generation, The Star Ledger, Virgin Islands Daily News, and Perspective.Ms. Coleman is the author of the Black Girls Guide book series, Beautiful and A Journey Toward Womanhood. In 2012, she launched African Ameri-

can Matchmaking, to help Black people find loving relationships with each other.Ms. Coleman currently resides in St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, the home of Sisterhood Agenda’s Global Training Academy. There, she enjoys consulting, training, writing, exercising, listening to music, traveling and swimming in the ocean.Through Ms. Coleman’s programs, products and services at Sisterhood Agenda, Black Girls Guide, African American Matchmaking and consulting projects, she is committed to helping individuals, companies, and orga-nizations TRANSFORM and EVOLVE. Her areas of specialty are diverse, although she is best known as an expert on current issues affecting Black women and girls. www.angeladcoleman.com

Ms. Florida Plus America Elite 2012 winner Monique McDowell, com-monly known as Jasira Monique is a woman on a mission. The poet, author, songwriter, plus size model and rising entrepreneur is the founder of iLive Campaign, an online safe haven for people who silently suffer with mental health issues and/or thoughts about suicide. Monique is an avid supporter of mental health awareness and suicide prevention primarily because these issues have affected her life immensely. Within the past year alone, she has had the privilege to serve as a speaker or volunteer at over 20 events in the U.S. and internationally to promote mental health awareness and suicide prevention in some capacity.As an author and poetry lover, Monique conducts lectures for children from 4 - 16 years of age. Her newest book of poetry, Woman on the Move, was just recently released and launched at Mos'Art Theatre in Lake Park, Florida to rave reviews. Presently, while speaking for various organizations, Monique also creates events for youth. One event which is becoming very popular amongst youth and parents is the 'Let Kids Fly' event where she partnered with the local Experimental Association of Aviation (EAA) Chapter to bring

youth ages 8-17 years old and they are able to fly 15-20 minutes with a pilot and receive a quick flight lesson. The participants received a Young Eagles certificate and a flight log book. The program is offered worldwide by the EAA and Monique was so excited to partner with them to bring more exposure to their phenomenal work. Monique loves to volunteer as a mentor for foster youth. Her newest assignment is with The Children's Home Society, Project 18 mentoring program.

Angela D. ColemanAuthor, Social Entrepreneur, Educational Philanthropist

Monique McDowellSpeaker, Model, Poet, Advocate

THE MOTIVATORS


A phenomenal trailblazer, Angela Petitt has traveled to over 30 countries in 2 years! From winning corporate resume to well-traveled corporate runaway, Petitt has done what most people only dream about. Despite be-ing an established well over 40 professional and negative responses from friends and family, Angela took a huge step on faith by quitting her corporate IT job during the recession in 2009 to travel the world and live life to the fullest. Even though she still had her home, car, bills, the care of her college age nephew, and other responsibilities to consider, Angela’s nagging feeling just would not go away and she knew that she had to take action. It was then that she realized she would rather take a chance on herself instead of continuing on in the daily grind. So she prayed, reviewed her finances, and made her break.With no clue as to what was next, within a few days after

her last day at work Angela was on a plane going to Italy! From that point on, she found herself on a different adventure every month!Initially, her sabbatical was only going to be 6 months. Fast forward three years and 30 coun-tries later, Angela has flown a Cessna airplane, learned (ok, learning) to play golf, attempted horseback riding - twice, joined day time bible studies, and sharpened her photography skills. She even returned to school and is pursuing her Doctorate in Organizational Leadership.By plane, train, and cruise ship, Angela’s travels have led her to amazing destinations such as China, Siberia, Egypt, Israel, Co-lombia, Panama, Honduras, Croatia, and many other exciting places. She has zip lined in Cabo, narrowly escaped the earth-quake in Japan, received a huge surprise bouquet of flowers from an admirer in Italy, went cave diving in Punta Cana, glared into the mouth of a steamy volcano in Nicaragua, stared in amaze-ment at the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, got caught in a downpour atop the Acropolis in Athens, climbed the Great Wall in China, and had many other awe inspiring experiences. In addition to her adventures, Angela was even presented with the 2009 Wall of Honor Service and Leadership award by my alma mater and featured in maga-zines and websites.http://www.sabbaticalscapes.com/

Angela PetittSpeaker, Blogger, World Traveler

www.sarahifashion.com

Photography: Chad Andreo

women trailblazers issue 2013

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