June 2024

Experience pure Italian luxury at Copenhagen. From contemporary power motion sectionals to timeless modern seating like Amelia (shown), Copenhagen’s carefully curated collection offers excellent design enhanced by qualify craftsmanship and tailored customer service. Choose from our diverse in-stock selection, or special order the one-of-a-kind piece of which you’ve always dreamed.

Amelia Seating in light beige top-grain leather on black metal legs. Sofa $3,695 Loveseat $2,795 Ottoman (not pictured) $1,195

MEET THE ALPHA STUDENTS CHANGING THE WORLD

MEET GRACE

Flattening the cancer curve by 2040.

A year ago, Grace was just a teen with a passion for science. Today, she’s collaborating with leading researchers and the world’s top doctors, to create a cancer-free future.

• Built a following of over 50k followers

• Wrote, filmed, produced a feature documentary with her findings

• Received over 4 million views when debuted on X (Twitter)

MEET HOPE

Launched an education program for Ukrainian refugee children without access to school.

Inspired by the resilience of Ukrainian refugees, Hope has now raised $1M and reached 50,000 Ukrainian refugee, many of whom have no access to regular schooling.

MEET ELLE

Built an ai-driven dating app with 200K+ followers.

Launched a dating App with 200K followers. Elle has built a massive following online in order to launch the first safe dating app for teens.

• Hosted two 500+ events overseas for children in refugee camps

• Resulted in a waiting list of 50,000 Ukrainian kids

• Fundraised $1M to scale the efforts

• Grew her TikTok/Instagram following to 200k in order to promote her app

• Launched an AI-driven dating advice app, AskL, receiving 10,000+ messages a month

• Met with the ex-CEOs of Bumble & Tinder to help bring her app to life

Alpha School unlocks your child’s potential and gives them a place where they can learn 2x faster, foster essential life skills, and shape their future. Transform your child’s educational journey today! www.alpha.school

38 FEATURE CHANGING THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION

46 FEATURE FOR THE CULTURE

BY JANAYE BARABIN PHOTOS BY JOI CONTI

BY BELLA LARRALDE

Scallops in Mole Verde

KIP GARVEY COO

CY WHITE

Managing Editor

NINA GLORIA Production Manager

JAIME ALBERS

Creative Director

DARBY KENDALL Copy Editor

SHANNAN HALE

Community Engagement Manager

BETSY BLANKS

VP of Business Operations

JESSICA CAMPOS

MICKI GRAM Marketing and Events

MICHELLE BERMEA

Media Sales Director

Media Sales Executives

JORDAN FARIS

JESSICA HERRINGTON

MACY PARKS

ABBY SCHWARTE

CONTRIBUTORS

Editorial: Janaye Barabin, Brandi Clark Burton, Jenny Hoff, Bella Larralde, Isabel Neumann, Hannah Nuñez, Errich Petersen Photography, Liz Wendler, Cy White

Art: Leandra Blei Photography, Kevin Cloud, Joi Conti, Joey Cruz, Melanie Dearcos, Host Publications, Teresa Kwon, Monica Maldonado, Luis Nieves, Rain Catcher Austin, Zachariah Culloa Tanbert, Triple Heart Design, Ed Vela, Liz Wendler, Zach Zulch

INTERNS

Bella Larralde, Isabel Neumann, Hannah Nuñez

MELINDA GARVEY Co-owner/Co-founder

LANA MACRUM Co-owner

LYNELLE MCKAY Co-owner

TERRY MITCHELL Co-owner

GRETEL PERERA Co-owner

SHURONDA ROBINSON Co-owner

ANA RUELAS Co-owner

NEHA SAMPAT Co-owner

SAMANTHA STEVENS Co-founder

Contributors

This month, we asked our contributors: What’s one of the greatest inventions?

JAIME ALBERS

Creative Director

• She is in her plant obsession era.

• She loves a good bingeworthy Netflix series.

• She loves a good pool day with margaritas.

“The printing press invented by Johannes Gutenberg in 1439. Before the internet, no single innovation contributed more to educating the world.”

DARBY KENDALL

Copy Editor

• There’s a fairy garden on her car’s dashboard.

• Her favorite comfort food is queso.

• Her cat doesn’t have a tail.

“The KitchenAid mixer is one of the best inventions of all time because it allows me to make fantastic cakes without exhausting my arm.”

CY WHITE

Managing Editor

• Her first major interview was with Daryl “DMC” McDaniels (Run DMC).

• She wants to learn ASL.

Austin Woman is a free monthly publication of AW Media Inc. and is available at locations throughout Austin and in Lakeway, Cedar Park, Round Rock and Pflugerville. All rights reserved.

To offer feedback, email feedback@awmediainc.com. For submission information, visit atxwoman.com/jobs.

No part of the magazine may be reprinted or duplicated without permission. Visit us online at atxwoman.com. Email us at info@awmediainc.com. 512 328.2421 | 7401 West Slaughter Lane, Austin, TX 78739

• She spoke with Mac Miller back when he was performing at campus clubs in Pittsburgh. (He was so sweet!)

“When man found out how to translate sound to a physical form, it changed the world. The phonograph started it all, and from that moment on we have always been able to carry symphonies in our pockets.”

Dear readers, June is quite an incredible month: We celebrate and honor our LGBTQIA2S+ siblings; we honor and recognize Juneteenth, the day when the African captives suffering under the atrocity of slavery were finally released from their most prominent shackles. It’s also the time of the year where we at Austin Woman recognize marvels of innovation, women-identified folx who have brought something brilliant, unexpected and nuanced to the table and deserve their flowers for changing the way we look at the world around us.

Innovation means breaking away from antiquated traditions. Cover woman MacKenzie Price has dedicated her life to redefining education and bringing it into the 21st century. As the co-founder of Alpha School and 2hr Learning, she has started the work of dismantling Industrial Revolution-era ideologies about how children should be educated. Innovation also means embracing cultural traditions and leaning into their brilliance. Monica Maldonado, creator and founder of MAS Cultura, has brought the traditions of her Mexican heritage that are often underappreciated, if not completely smothered under stereotypes. She’s opened the door for those who want to learn more about Chicano traditions and unapologetically celebrates their beauty. Innovation means smashing through preconceived notions. Lisa B. Thompson, Ph.D., has created in The Black Feminist Guide to the Human Body, an honest, fearless glimpse into Black womanhood. She centers the Black woman and her experience in a world that has continuously dehumanized her yet expects otherworldly patience, loving, nurturing, skill, damn near perfection. The women within these pages are paragons of creativity, nuance, foresight and passion. However, their stories are proof positive that brilliant moments of innovation often come from the need to find the simplest solution to a relatively simple question: How can this be better?

Innovation also means evolving and moving on. It is with great humility, love and gratitude that I bid you adieu, dear readers. After three years and nine months, I have ended my tenure as Managing Editor for Austin Woman magazine and am moving on to my next adventure. What an absolute honor getting to know you all and getting to know the women who’ve gifted me with their incredible stories. It’s been an interesting ride, one in which I’ve been able to make some meaningful connections. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your lives for nearly the past four years. Thank you for supporting the women in this magazine. Most of all, thank you for being you, for finding inspiration within the pages of the 48 issues I’ve directly had a hand in bringing to life. I hope you take all of this inspiration to embark on your own new adventures.

Remember, and I say this with all sincerity, you can do absolutely anything you want. So long as you’re not harming yourself or others or actively trying to deny someone else their blessing, you are beholden to no one but yourself. Your only limitation is your own imagination. Go into the world fearlessly, never stop dreaming, but remember, you have the power to make those dreams come true. I love you all. Thank you so much.

CY WHITE EDITOR

Publication of Austin Woman would not be possible without the support of our monthly advertisers and sponsors, who believe in the impact we are making in the Austin community. The team at Austin Woman is grateful for these businesses that have shown their commitment to the advancement of women in Austin and hopes you, as readers, recognize their efforts and support these businesses.

FOUNDING MEMBERS

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Tania Yousaf

“PAPI SIII & CHEER UP CHARLIES: A VIBRANT LATIN MUSIC TAKEOVER”

Attend Papi Siii’s Latin music takeover fundraiser to support Cheer Up Charlies. Enjoy beats, specials and support this iconic LGBTQ+ venue.

“CELESTIAL SOUNDS: AKIRA GALAXY’S JOURNEY THROUGH MUSIC & MIME”

Explore the genre-defying musical journey of Akira Galaxy, who weaves dream pop with indie rock and draws inspiration from unexpected places.

“FREAKNIK — FREAK UNTIL THE DAY, UNTIL THE DAWN” Hip-hop fans gathered on March 13 at Stubbs venue to celebrate the release of the music documentary Freaknik: The Wildest Party Never Told.

Correction: In the May 2024 issue, we ran a story about Consuela (page 16) that stated the brand was in around 250 Dillard’s stores. They are actually in about seven stores, as of the printing of that article.

“

If you are free, then you have to free others. —Toni Morrison

Regine

Malibiran is advocating for underrepresented groups through her work in

the arts.

BY HANNAH NUÑEZ

Writer, entrepreneur and community builder Regine Malibiran is trailblazing the new generation of activism in the workplace. By standing strong in her beliefs, Malibiran encourages open conversation on topics that have always been deemed not “work appropriate.”

Malibiran wasted no time expressing her creativity and fighting for her beliefs. In spring 2016, she graduated from UT Austin, and by October she had founded the lifestyle brand Collective Blue. “My motivation behind it was to find my people postgrad and contribute creations I wanted to see more of in the world,” Malibiran says. “The goal that inspired Collective Blue is the same goal I approach my work with to this day: to focus on building community with people who I can fully be myself around and who are fighting the same fight as me.” Every month Collective Blue would select a local creative to feature in a curated blog post that told their story while showcasing their work. In 2019, the company hosted the missfits fest, celebrating Asian-American women and their entrepreneurship in the arts. It was at this festival that Malibiran caught the eye of Sixth Square Executive Director Pamela Benson Owens. Malibiran was invited to produce an upcoming festival for the nonprofit, which soon translated into a full-time position.

At that point in her career, Malibiran began to pinpoint how she wanted to both contribute to and change the industry. “I’m an Aries; I can’t help but feel passionate about the things I deem as important,” she says. “With everything happening at the time, I soon became very angry with the state of the world and didn’t understand why others were suppressing their beliefs.” By addressing society’s discomfort with genuine emotion, Malibiran stood up for underrepresented communities of all ages and backgrounds. “Trauma is passed down until it’s ready to be felt. Coming from an Asian descent, where women are expected to be submissive and docile, my generational inheritance was a matriarchal

Photos by Joi Conti.

line of female rage. I knew I’d never fit into the stereotype that was created for me, so if I was gonna be discredited for showing the slightest emotion, why not lean all the way in.”

After connecting with Carver Museum Director and Curator Carre Adams, Malibiran fell in love with the company and began working there part time in November 2019. She was able to apply her past work experience to her role as co-project manager for the museum’s 2020 Juneteenth festival. “In September 2022, I became the interim exhibit coordinator and just last year got the full-time role with health insurance and all,” says Malibiran with a laugh. “While I don’t have a ‘traditional’ arts background or education, my mentor, Carre Adams, bet on me, and without him I would not be in the position I’m in today.”

While maintaining her position at the Carver, Malibiran has been working on her curatorial debut, BUMUO: Rebuilding the Filipino Body. The exhibit utilizes Filipino artwork to tell a story of decolonization, histories of resistance and collective healing. “I’m so passionate about creating pathways for creatives of color and underrepresented communities because we deserve to tell our truth our way without being censored or diluted,” Malibiran says. Throughout every step of the exhibit’s production, she has done everything in her power to ensure that both her beliefs and the artists are well represented. Being awarded the $25,000 Elevate Grant allowed Malibiran to properly compensate her artists for their work. “I know what I’m paying my artists isn’t the ‘norm,’” she says, “but it should be. I want their sole focus to be around creating, not how they’re gonna pay for supplies. I made it a point to pay the artists equally regardless of whether they’re based in the States or not. To me, it’s colonizer behavior if I were to pay a Philippinesbased artist differently just because they don’t live in America and have a different currency.” Through BUMUO, Malibiran hopes to showcase the result of art created out of passion and community rather than economic gain.

Malibiran’s future plans consist of nurturing her art services agency, Forth Space Productions. “I founded Forth Space to represent a vision of success through solidarity. I want to exhibit cross-culture solidarity as a way to free each other and create a space that our oppressors are trying to prevent.” The company focuses on uplifting the community through exhibitions, programming, consulting and artist management.

“I’ve always been in love with the idea of messages and stories; it’s what human nature revolves around. In this day and age, though, we have to go past storytelling and start telling truths. I’m looking to unearth and amplify those truths, both in and out of the workspace. If I’m gonna stand behind the belief of collective healing, I refuse to not have that fully apparent in the way I do business.”

EXHIBIT DETAILS:

BUMUO: Rebuilding the Filipino Body

MASS Gallery, 705 Gunter St.

June 29 through July 27

Opening reception: June 29, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

forthspaceproductions.com @forthspaceproductions

Regine Malibiran

Art Market Chic

Joi Conti captures the creative spirit of the summer art market crowd.

by Joi Conti.

Photos

The Trail Blazer

Amplify your summer looks with a sophisticated white oversized white blazer.

Look 1

Paired with a striped tank top, jeans, fisherman sandals, gold accessories and ski goggle-style sunglasses for a cool, effortless look.

Look 2

A white oversized blazer is a wonderful wardrobe staple to add to your closet. It can be dressed up for a business meeting, a casual brunch or a night on the town.

Paired with a knit button-down midi dress and Adidas sambas sneakers, offering a minimalist, casual and comfy look for brunch or traveling.

Look 3

Ideal for a business meeting, with a feather patterned button-down worn tucked into the olive green trousers, paired with gold jewelry and white flats.

Look 4

A casual look paired with a knit top, and light wash denim and sneakers, offering a minimalist aesthetic with silver jewelry, cat-eye shades and a black purse. All pieces selected from COS, Everlane and Adidas. Each store offers a beautiful selection of androgynous and feminine pieces and staples to create a timeless wardrobe.

Stay Grounded

Triple Heart Design approaches the renovation process through the lens of Mother Nature.

BY HANNAH NUÑEZ

Founded in 2016 by Shelagh Conway, Triple Heart Design showcases the marriage between spirituality and architecture. For Conway, interior design is a powerful tool in creating a “healthy home” that both looks and feels good. This spiritual approach allows for a deeper connection between clients and their homes, creating a more grounded community. Conway incorporates her beliefs into her work by prioritizing the importance of connecting with nature and with one another.

“Triple Heart Design was born and bred out of my spirituality,” says Conway. “Not only am I connecting with the energy of the home but the people occupying it as well. It’s so much more than a paint color or floor choice; it’s a deeply personal experience.”

Conway’s passion is biophilic design, a style of interior design that centers our body’s innate connection to nature. Through the incorporation of natural light, stone, wood and other earthly materials, Triple Heart Design reconnects clients with the peace that accompanies nature. “[Biophilia] is harmony with our environment and the ability to bring the outdoors in, to find that energetic balance that Mother Earth provides us,” says Conway. “All of that helps with our circadian rhythm, our mood, our psyche and connection to each other.” While Conway’s renovations tend to lean toward a sleek, organic style, she believes that all types of interior design have roots grounded in nature. “While my style represents the gentler side of nature, there is such beauty in a thunderstorm or restless sea. Those darker elements can often be found in more intense styles like brutalism.

Photos courtesy of Triple Heart Design.

“I came into this industry with a solid understanding of how I wanted to present myself and connect with my clients,” she continues. “Recently many consumers have lost faith in the industry due to bad experiences, and that’s why since the beginning, my priority has always been to be a very transparent, high-integrity individual within this space.”

In order to ensure the deepest connection with clients, Conway’s design process focuses on both education and communication. By encouraging expansive conversation, the final product is more of a collaboration than a sole creation. “Most of the time clients are drawn to a feeling and don’t necessarily know how to vocalize that vision, so it’s my job to identify those elements and incorporate them into a space.” Varying from introspective conversations with the head of a household to deciphering Pinterest boards with children, Conway prioritizes pinpointing a client’s needs and advocating for them. “There are so many energetic exchanges that go into creating a home with a client. It’s really, really powerful,” she says. “By creating a space they can fully relax in, we’re helping people relieve stress.”

A large part of Conway’s approach is creating a space that can easily adapt and grow alongside its residents. As nature is forever experiencing cycles of change, so are households and family units, making adaptation essential. Conway adheres to this aspect of humanity by analyzing all the ways a house is being occupied. “I have an 80-20 rule with all my projects,” says Conway. “Eighty percent of the time, a home is being used by the family unit to relax and go about their day to day. The remaining 20% is when doors are opened up to entertain and invite others to share the space.” This mindset supports Conway’s belief that a home is a sacred place where families are allowed to unwind while also encouraging meaningful connection.

Triple Heart Design stands out from the crowd with its unique spiritual approach to home renovation. By connecting with the energy of clients and their space, Conway is going past furnishing houses and instead creating homes.

Georgetown, TX (Sun City)

Austin (Onion Creek)

Photo Booth

ART: Fostering Community Through Creativity

Through its diverse array of initiatives, Almost Real Things inspires and empowers artists while championing the transformative potential of art.

BY ISABEL NEUMANN

Co-founded by Natalie Earhart and Zach Zulch in 2015, Almost Real Things (ART) is a lively, colorful headquarters full of creativity. According to Earhart, the arts organization offers a range of platforms to promote artists and foster community engagement. The duo’s brainchild encompasses a free magazine, events, art tours and a physical space, all geared toward nurturing the creative ecosystem and ensuring the sustainability of arts in Austin.

The name Almost Real Things “leaves it really open,” Earhart says. “Anything you want could go in here. It’s not one type of art; it’s not one type of experience level. The name leaves it really open: ‘Is this real?’ ‘Is this almost real?’ If we can’t pull something off, we can say, ‘It was almost real and not real.’ It gives us a lot of leeway to do what we want.

“Our goal was always to focus on the creative ecosystem and the sustainability of arts in Austin,” Earhart says. Per their mission statement, ART strives to provide opportunities for artists to “showcase their work, develop professional skills, and connect with a broader community, thereby making art more accessible and economically viable.”

The headquarters’ physical location operates as a multifunctional area where artists can rent affordable spaces akin to coworking setups. “We want to give artists opportunities so they can sell their work, make money from their art and, overall, connect to a larger community to find artists, go to events and buy local art,” Earhart says. The space houses a gallery where exhibits, both curated by ART and rented by artists, rotate periodically.

ART’s most recent collaboration with the Texas School for the Blind, the Touch the Art exhibit, represents a departure from traditional art shows by prioritizing a multisensory experience. “It’s inherently different because you can touch the art, so it feels more accessible, especially for people with visual impairments,” says Earhart. “[It] is immersive in that it’s an art show, you can still purchase the pieces, but on top of that you’re learning about this other community you may not know much about.”

The process behind Touch the Art is truly collaborative, emphasizing inclusivity and education. “We had five artists go to the school weekly for six weeks and make pieces with the students.” This collaborative approach both enriches the exhibit in terms of accessibility and facilitates meaningful interactions between artists and students.

Earhart emphasizes the importance of “fostering a supportive environment where emerging creatives feel empowered to explore and showcase their work.” For ART, the art itself encompasses all things creative. “A lot of times when people hear the word artist they think visual art, but art is such a range.”

ART has open calls for their artists, emphasizing the desire to extend into the community. “It’s all about giving people confidence to share their stuff no matter what level they’re at, no matter if they’re just starting out, if they didn’t go to school for this thing, just giving them opportunities to promote themselves and make money,” says Earhart. The art shows and the magazines include “a good age range in them, so I think that makes everybody feel like, ‘Oh, I can be in this.’ It feels achievable to them.”

Community feedback shapes ART’s evolution. “We try to talk to a lot of people and make them feel not scared to share something.” This open dialogue enables ART to continuously refine its offerings and better serve its community, particularly when it comes to accessibility, as seen through the Touch the Art experience.

When envisioning the growth of ART, Earhart anticipates the organization encompassing a more permanent space so as to further “support emerging artists and foster a vibrant creative scene in Austin as a channel for people.” As she and Zulch are artists themselves, they understand what it means to be a creator. “We always keep that in mind because we’re representing artists, creative people, so we want to try our best to get them all of the opportunities.”

Photo by Joey Cruz.

Photo by Zach Zulch.

Black Woman, What Ails You?

Through the Black woman’s body, we’re given an intimate look at the multiple flavors, hues and memories of aging.

BY CY WHITE

There’s a moment in Dr. Lisa B. Thompson’s The Black Feminist Guide to the Human Body where our lead narrator, Dr. Beatrice “Bea” Free (played with elegance and naked veritas by acclaimed actress Nadine Mozon), invites us to embrace ourselves. Open our arms and wrap them around our shoulders, cocooning us in our own vulnerability, to embrace fearlessly our own strength.

The Black Feminist Guide is one of those plays that come along once in a lifetime. Very rarely do playwrights really delve into the masterpiece theater that is living in the body of a Black woman. This falls far beyond simply showing women living within their pain; it’s a story about the multilayered generational experience of being a womanidentified human wrapped in multiple shades of nighttime, Luster’s Pink and Blue Magic. A choreopoem, The Black Feminist Guide makes the poetry within Thompson’s script tangible. One can reach out and touch this play, and the actors themselves take moments to touch the audience as well.

Thompson has a storied history of creating art that reveres and honors Black humanness, specifically if that human identifies as a woman. While still a college student, she produced her first visual commentary on Black feminist ideology, Single Black Female. The two-woman show made its debut at San Francisco’s legendary Theatre Rhinoceros in 1999, under the direction of a fellow award winner in the making, Colman Domingo.

“I love us,” she says, her voice warm like cocoa in winter. “I really love us. Aren’t we amazing? So there’s that, I think. Looking at what’s in the world artistically, I don’t see us.

THE BLACK FEMINIST GUIDE TO THE HUMAN BODY PRODUCTION

Words and lyrics by Lisa B. Thompson, Ph.D.

Original songs by Guthrie P. Ramsey, Jr.; Vincent Anthony and Alyah Above

Dramaturgy by Virginia Grise

Musical direction by Akina Adderley

Co-directed by Na’Tosha De’Von and Rudy Ramirez

Movement direction by Sadé M. Jones

Scene design by Rachel Finley

Costume design by Desireé Humphries

Sound design by Johann Solo

Video design by Roma Flowers

Hair design by Seidah Williams

CAST

Dr. Beatrice “Bea” Free played by Nadine Mozon

Cee Cee played by Sadé M. Jones

Dee played by Haley Armstrong

Photos by Errich Petersen Photography.

(l to r) Nadine Mozon, Sadé M. Jones and Haley Armstrong

Move. Dance. Sing. Cry. Laugh.

That’s not to say those others aren’t Black women, but they’re not the only ones I recognize, who I know intimately as well as the ones I put on stage.’”

This desire to create narratives that don’t focus solely on generational trauma, as most mainstream forms of media are wont to do, defines Thompson’s career, leading to her most recent adaptation of The Black Feminist Guide.

Along with bracing humor, compliments of character Dee, a representation of Dr. Free’s spirit (and played with snap, crackle and palpable moments of vulnerability by Hayley Armstrong), the play embraces sensuality, feminine energy and softness in Cee Cee (embodied with breathtaking allure by the play’s movement director, Sadé M. Jones). It’s this insistence upon dance, upon play that gives The Black Feminist Guide its heart.

“I wanted it to be a choreopoem, [an artform] which was basically created by the great legendary Black feminist poet, novelist and playwright, Ntozake Shange, who wrote For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf,” Thompson says. “She also happened to be one of my teachers. So this idea of telling this unconventional story and using the body and movement, it’s a song to tell a story of Black womanhood. It’s my way of paying homage to her as well.”

The Black Feminist Guide to the Human Body is neo-soul: Goapele getting closer to her dreams; Hanifah Walidah embracing us at a house party; Floetry and D’angelo soothing what ails us. Move. Dance. Sing. Cry. Laugh. All calls to action that act as the foundation of Thompson’s

homage to the mentors in her life, particularly legendary theater director Shirley Jo Finney. Women who never had the opportunity to truly enjoy the fruits of all of their hard work, all of that pressure to be twice as good to get half as much, to be the strong Black woman, to be the nurturer.

The opening sequence, a question, an image of a mother climbing out of the tub, naked and needing her daughter to assist her. It’s so easy to think of one’s own mother figure, to hiccup on the shards of a broken heart, spurred on by the mere suggestion of losing the first icon of “woman” in one’s life. As the three generations of Black womanhood onstage start doing their hair, the audience collectively sighs and smiles at the memory of too hot combs and too tight braids. We dance to Frankie Beverly and Bel Biv Devoe. This isn’t just a play. This is church, testimony. Hallelujah, amen over Sunday dinner. This is home.

The Black Feminist Guide to the Human Body forces the audience to reckon with their inevitability. More than that, it’s a reminder that we are human, and our humanhood is a blessing; being able to grow old in our human form is a blessing.

“That’s the journey of life, and that’s also the part of this piece about aging. If you’re fortunate to really get to the point where you love yourself at all sizes, because you’re gonna be many different ones, all skin, pimply, the age lines whatever, loving yourself through it all. You’re only gonna get one. How are you going to treat it? How are you going to talk to it and look at it? That’s the love letter to myself.”

Semi-romantic Anarchists & Ice Cream Socials

Host Publications, one of the few poetry presses in Austin, offers a unique space for underrepresented voices.

BY CY WHITE

It’s a moderately cool Saturday in November. Hundreds of people have converged on the Capitol for the 28th Annual Texas Book Festival. Between panels and book signings, bibliophiles meander among the tents and food trucks. Nestled within the tightly packed semi-chaos, a table nearly overflows with books that contain titles like Gemini Gospel and Threesome in the Last Toyota Celica. Most of the titles are the product of local authors, but one name, Pablo Neruda, clues passersby in that this is no ordinary book press showcasing its wares. This is a poetry press, and not just any poetry press: a woman-co-owned and -operated press showcasing woman-identified, Black, Brown and queer local poets. The small banner adorning the table sports the name: Host Publications.

Annar Veröld, first-generation Honduran-American, takes the helm as the managing editor and has been with the press since the height of its most active years, alongside its founder, the late Joe W. Bratcher.

“I met Joe when I started working in Malvern Books,” Veröld begins. “There was this wonderful moment that we had at this literary conference, AWP, where I was no longer working with him, but I was a free agent,” she says with a wistful smile, eyes toward the sky as if recalling the experience. “I made it clear that I love literature and would have loved to work in publishing. Maybe about a year later, he brought me on to revive the social media for Host Publications. Slowly over time, he was like, ‘I would love to publish Fernando [Flore]’s book. Let’s get that going.’ We laid down the groundwork for the I Scream Social Anthology, the first one that we did. He and I both saw and still believe that Austin is this incredible literary city with so much talent, especially in our marginalized communities—women and nonbinary writers, immigrant folks, people of color. I ran that series for five years, and it never felt like there was a gap where I couldn’t fill the lineup with people that really excited me.”

Fast forward to the 2024 Front Market. Veröld and her partner in crime, Host’s senior editor, Claire Bowman, have taken full command of the small publishing house for underrepresented voices. The energy has noticeably shifted. Veröld and Bowman have worked almost nonstop to create a publishing house unlike any other within Austin. Bratcher’s spirit speaks to them even now.

“Just for just for funsies, Claire found an old document where Joe had written a note that was just the word ‘nonprofit’ with a question mark,” Veröld recalls, a noticeable brightness coloring her voice. “It must have been at least a decade old. We're like, ‘That's the exact question we’ve been asking ourselves.” The conversation erupts with laughter at the

universe’s timing. “Listen,” she continues as the mirth subsides, “poetry is not…we don’t get into it to make the big bucks. We can’t make the big bucks by making or selling it. That’s not why we’re doing this, but we need to make it sustainable. That’s what a nonprofit structure is for.”

Innovation means evolution. It means building something with the sole purpose of fulfilling a need. Both Veröld and Bowman know and understand that the world needs more creatives willing to speak out, speak boldly with their entire chests to bring us back to a world that understands and insists upon empathy. In the spirit of provocative thought, Mónica Teresa Ortiz, author of Host’s first full-length individual collection of poetry, Autobiography of a Semi-romantic Anarchist, will return with their latest collection as the recipient of Host’s inaugural full-length poetry prize in honor of Joe.

“One of the things a lot of people might not know about [Joe], just knowing him maybe as the owner of Melvern Books, is that he was very radical,” Bowman states. Her voice catches on a bur of emotion when thinking of her dear friend’s unwavering dedication to human rights and the human voice. “It’s really special,” she says as the threat of tears subsides. “That kind of revolutionary spirit is something that Mónica brings to their poetry in a way few others do, investigating systems of oppression while also translating our reality as it changes into all of these tender and beautiful love poems. These poems are really musical and really fractured and broken while also holding that tenderness, taking their shot at…the systems of power that need to be taken down. That book will be launched at the end of July, around the time the I Scream Social is revamped. It’s going to be such a kickass time.”

In a world that has come full circle in the worst possible way (restricting and even physically silencing those who dare to use words as their means of revolution), Host Publications stands as a sword to cut through the madness.

“Poetry is powerful,” Veröld says. “We would love the day-today person to embrace that, but political leaders who are trying to wipe the surface clean understand that, to at least some degree, the poet might know something. At the center of it, we are publishing incredible poetry that we really think needs to be out in the world.”

To learn more about Annar Veröld and Claire Bowman’s stories, read the full article at atxwoman.com.

Photos courtesy of Host Publications.

ATX WOMEN to WATCH

Our pages are full of stories of Austin’s most engaging, empowering and successful women, and this section is specially designed to provide you access to even more incredible role models and success stories.

Be part of this amazing group and share your story with thousands of women. Contact us at sales@awmediainc.com or call 512.328.2421 for more information.

Travis County Women Lawyers' Association

connects women lawyers, providing opportunities to enjoy the community and camaraderie of shared aspirations and challenges. We are proud to support TCWLA and feature several members this month, signified by the special TCWLA badge. Visit tcwla.org to learn more about the organization and becoming a member.

Since 1998, the Austin Under 40 Awards (AU40) fundraising event has honored and celebrated Austin’s emerging professionals and their mentors who are making an impact in our community. Look for the Austin Under 40 badge to see the finalists featured this month! To read about all the finalists and purchase tickets to the event, visit austinunder40.org.

AMI SHAH VIRA

TEXAS NEURO EYE & PLASTIC SURGERY / AESTHETICSMD

D r. Shah Vira has always been passionate about helping patients look, feel and see their best at any age. She believes every patient deserves individualized attention from a doctor who truly listens, which is why she created a medical and aesthetics practice that allows her to spend more time with her patients. Originally from Arizona, she moved to Austin in 2015 with her husband who is an ER physician. Vira’s experience in both surgical and non-surgical procedures allows her to offer a full range of options to meet patients eye care and aesthetic needs. Dr. Vira believes in education, transparency in options and personalized care for every patient. amishahviramd.com

WOMAN to WATCH

CHRISTINE DORMIER, VP, SENIOR INVESTMENT ADVISOR

JESSI GRIFFIN, VP, BANKING ADVISOR | PNC PRIVATE BANK

C hristine Dormier, vice president and senior investment advisor, and Jessi Griffin, vice president and banking advisor, play key roles as PNC’s local Women’s Business Development Market Champions, taking ownership for driving PNC’s commitment to women throughout the Austin market. As part of this role, they are both Women’s Business Advocates, employees especially committed to supporting the achievements of female financial decision-makers, including women who own or run businesses. Women-owned businesses are among the fastestgrowing business segments in the U.S, and the number of wealthy women is growing faster than that of wealthy men. Women who make financial decisions can benefit from having a financial advocate who understands them. However, many women still feel invisible in conversations with their financial institutions. PNC’s Women’s Business Advocate program aims to understand how to help women financial decision-makers succeed. More than 5,000 PNC bankers proudly call themselves advocates. pnc.com/women

ALEXA CHALLY

VINSON & ELKINS, LLP | SENIOR ASSOCIATE - TECHNOLOGY

Alexa Chally is a second-generation Austinite and a senior associate at Vinson & Elkins, an international law firm based in Houston, Texas. She advises a wide range of clients across industries on complex intellectual property and technology transactions, where she has earned a reputation for her savvy business acumen and ability to articulate intricate legal concepts in a clear and relatable style. Chally is often sought out for her practical and creative solutions that are driven by her unique ability to combine deep legal expertise with a concise communication style. She approaches each negotiation by seeking to understand what drives her audience so she can effectively achieve her client’s goals. Beyond her professional achievements, she remains deeply committed to serving the Austin community, dedicating her time and expertise to local pro bono clients and philanthropic endeavors.

velaw.com/people/alexa-chally

WOMAN to WATCH

EILEEN BOWDEN, M.D.

UT HEALTH AUSTIN I OPHTHALMOLOGIST

Eileen Bowden, M.D., is a board-certified ophthalmologist in UT Health Austin’s Mitchel and Shannon Wong Eye Institute. She also serves as an assistant professor and both the director of Medical Student Education and the associate residency program director for the Dell Medical School Department of Ophthalmology at UT Austin. Bowden specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, cataracts and anterior segment disorders of the eye. With a commitment to advancing the field of ophthalmology, she actively participates in research and is committed to educating and training the next generation of ophthalmologists. From annual eye exams to advanced surgical treatments for complex eye conditions, Bowden offers the latest in medical technology and personalized treatment plans. “Restoring a patient’s vision is a gratifying experience, as it not only helps them reclaim their independence but also reignites their passion for life itself.” uthealthaustin.org

BROOKE WEINSTEIN

D

r. Brooke Weinstein is a world-renowned thought leader specializing in neuroscience-based sensory and emotional regulation. Combining her background in occupational therapy and neuroscience, a deep knowledge of the brain, trauma and sensory regulation principles, Weinstein isn’t quite like any other doctor you’ve encountered. A true self-made woman, now widowed, Weinstein sold her first clinic six years ago to now consult with humans globally, offering step by step practical tools which transform individuals’ mental health. Think of Weinstein as a personal trainer for your brain. Her wildly popular digital courses, and highly engaging online presence, her podcast, and free daily content and training distribute across her social media channels daily. She has been featured in TODAY, scaryMommy and Forbes. drbrookeweinstein.com

NIELSEN NIELSEN LAW PLLC | FOUNDER AND CEO

L iz Nielsen is the founder and CEO of Nielsen Law PLLC. She has guided hundreds of families through the estate planning process, serving as their trusted advisor to bring peace of mind to their lives. As a wife, mother and business owner, she understands how overwhelming an estate plan can feel. As an attorney, she knows how important it is to have that plan in place. Nielsen is Board Certified in Estate Planning and Probate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and practices exclusively in the areas of estate planning, special needs planning and estate administration. Giving back to the Austin community is very important to Nielsen, and she currently serves as president of the Travis County Women Lawyers’ Association and vice chair of AGE of Central Texas. estateplanatx.com

CONNIE DITTO BECKSTEAD TERRY DITTO PLLC | PARTNER

R aised in the Midwest, Connie Ditto is caring and affable, but tough. Ditto’s first career as an ICU nurse taught her the importance of perceptive, strategic thinking. Her ability to assess and respond rapidly to fluid situations has lent itself to successes for her clients in the courtroom and in arbitrations and for all participants in proceedings before her as a mediator. After practicing as a civil litigator in five states and on both sides of the docket, Ditto has found her calling unifying parties as a mediator and has been selected as one of Austin’s Top Mediators by her peers. Passionate that you should never stop learning, Ditto is an affiliative leader. She is co-chair of the Continuing Legal Education Committee of the Austin Bar Association, a mentor for the Travis County Women Lawyers Association and a member of the board of directors of the Mother Attorney Mentoring Association. btdlaw.com

Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch is a trailblazing immigration attorney and advocate based in Austin. In 2015, she founded the award-winning Lincoln-Goldfinch Law firm, which has grown to more than 100 team members serving thousands of families each year. Lincoln-Goldfinch co-founded the nonprofit VECINA, where she serves on the board of directors, providing critical legal aid during migration crises. A recognized authority, LincolnGoldfinch has been featured by NBC, BBC, The New York Times and more. Her many honors include the Travis County Women Lawyers Pathfinder’s Award, Austin Bar Association’s David H. Walter Community Excellence Award, and has been named a SuperLawyer annually since 2019. Dedicated to education, Lincoln-Goldfinch speaks at community events to promote understanding about immigration and immigrant rights. Together with her husband, Josh, her proudest role is raising their children to be thoughtful activists. Leading with compassion and expertise, she is making a profound impact through her tireless work expanding access to legal services and advocating for immigrant rights. lincolngoldfinch.com

JEN GRUNEWALD SAFEGUARD GLOBAL | DIRECTOR OF LEGAL

J en Grunewald is an accomplished attorney, serving as the director of legal at Safeguard Global. She leads a global team, overseeing legal matters including M&A, corporate governance, and privacy compliance. Her strategic guidance helps Safeguard Global provide seamless global employment and payroll solutions while ensuring compliance with international laws. Jen’s passion for employment law drives her efforts to simplify global operations for multinational clients. Jen is based in Lago Vista and is originally from Maryland. Outside of work, Jen is a mentor in the Travis County Women Lawyers Association and an active member of the Junior League of Austin. She also serves on the board of GEIO. A dedicated mother of two daughters, Jen enjoys painting and drawing, embodying a blend of professional excellence and community involvement. safeguardglobal.com

LISA MARIE BUSTOS

BUSTOS FAMILY LAW PLLC | FOUNDER AND MANAGING ATTORNEY

L isa Marie Bustos is the owner of Bustos Family Law, PLLC, a firm focusing its practice on Prenups, Postnups, and Flat Fee Divorces. Bustos is an award-winning attorney who founded her firm on the principles of service and integrity. She and her team strive to educate and empower their clients so they can make the best decisions for their families. With over a decade of experience as a divorce attorney, Bustos’s extensive courtroom experience has given her unique insight that allows her to guide her clients toward amiable resolutions. Whether it is a Prenup, Postnup, or Divorce matter, Bustos is dedicated to ensuring her clients are guided toward their brighter future. Beyond her law practice, Bustos enjoys exploring Austin with her husband and young children. She has lived in Austin since 2005, and has enjoyed seeing the city grow from a sleepy college town to the metropolis it is today.

bustosfamilylaw.com

CHANGING THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION

MacKenzie Price has thrown down the gauntlet on the 100-year-old model of education.

BY JANAYE BARABIN

PHOTOS BY JOI CONTI

PENCIL PROP DESIGN BY LIZA FISHBONE. STYLED BY EMPRESS BEY, WITH INSPIRATION FROM GARDEN ROOM ATX.

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY RHEA WILLIS. SHOT ON LOCATION AT ALPHA AUSTIN.

FUTURISTIC BLISS

Two-piece sequin silver set: Garden Room ATX

Silver-detailed bracelet: Garden Room ATX

Shimmer open-toe heels: Garden Room ATX

Silver statement belt: Garden Room ATX

Gunmetal ember earrings: Garden Room ATX

hen MacKenzie Price graduated Stanford University, she was adamant that she would never step foot in a school again. Like many others, her experience with the public school system was discouraging. However, once she noticed her daughter losing interest in school, something clicked.

“Very early on, I started noticing frustration around the lack of ability for the traditional model to be able to personalize anything,” she recalls. “About halfway through my daughter’s second grade year, she came home and said, ‘I don't want to go to school tomorrow.’ She looked at me and she said, ‘School is so boring,’ and I just had this lightbulb moment. They’ve taken this kid who’s tailor-made to wanna be a good student, and they’ve wiped away that passion.”

Price went to the administration to see if anything could be done, but the response she received was not encouraging. “The principal, who’s incredible at her job, looked at me and said ‘MacKenzie, I understand all of your frustrations, but this is like trying to steer the Titanic. It just can’t be done.’ At that moment I realized that was my cue to get out of there. My husband and I were both products of public school education, so for us, we weren’t interested in a private school option. For us, it wasn’t about going to a private school versus a public school; it was about the model of education. It was about the fact that the way we educate our students in this country is based on a hundred-year model that started with the Industrial Revolution, where schools were training young people to become factory workers. So they needed to learn how to be compliant, how to follow directions and do exactly as they were told.”

Price, co-founder of Alpha School and 2hr Learning, was determined to find a way to restore her daughter’s love for learning. After she was unable to find a suitable alternative to the traditional educational model, she decided to create the Alpha School. When she speaks, her voice is confident. “I ended up finding somebody who was interested in starting a school, and he was gonna put his own kids in it as well. We started the school back in 2014, when my daughters were in third grade and first grade, and one of the things we knew was we wanted to embrace the future. “We’ve pioneered this idea of what I call 2hr Learning, where we use adaptive apps so the students can learn at their own pace in every subject.”

At Alpha, two hours are dedicated to core subjects, while the rest of the day is reserved for life skills. The results of this model speak for themselves. “At Alpha, they’re learning twice as fast. Across the board, the average is 2.6 times faster. The top two-thirds of our students are learning 3.6 times faster, and the top 20% are learning 6.5 times faster,” Price explains. “My mission is that I want parents to understand that [their kids] do not need six hours of sitting in a class all day to get their academics done. They can not only do it in two hours, but can crush their academics in two hours.”

“ “

My mission is that I want parents to understand that [their kids] do not need six hours of sitting in a class all day to get their academics done. They can not only do it in two hours, but can crush their academics in two hours.

Although the methods are different, students at Alpha are learning the same material on the U.S. common core curriculum. Price has found a way to use technology as a tool that helps create a personalized learning experience for each student. “The thing that’s really interesting about what technology has enabled is that it does a good job of giving every student the exact level of information they need at exactly the pace they need. We’ve [created] an AI tutor who is basically able to put guide rails along these kids’ educational experience in order to make sure they’re learning efficiently, they’re learning to mastery and they’re not getting frustrated. If they’re frustrated, learning turns off.”

One of the problems with a time-based education system is that students often get left behind. “At the end of the school year, the kids move up. It doesn’t matter how much you knew about fifth grade; it's time for sixth grade next year. That’s where we start seeing so much trouble with our children.” Price insists that it’s important to not blame teachers for flaws in the system. “I think teachers are amazing people because they are underpaid, overworked and underappreciated,” she says. “They’ve been given an impossible task, which is to take 20, 30 kids in a classroom and try to teach every single one of those kids the material. Those kids all come in on completely different levels, and there’s no way that a human being can meet every single kid and provide an academic lesson plan that hits every kid where they need to be.”

CHIC INNOVATOR

Black jumpsuit: MacKenzie Price’s closet

Gunmetal ember earrings: Garden Room ATX

White pumps: MacKenzie Price’s closet

EDUCATOR DIVA

Statement detailed black dress with silver jewels: Garden Room ATX

Black-and-white cover jacket: Garden Room ATX

Gunmetal ember earrings: Garden Room ATX

White pumps: MacKenzie Price’s closet

LOCATION: ALPHA AUSTIN

Alpha’s original campus was formed in 2016 by education and technology experts in partnership with parents interested in bringing true innovation to the classroom. Frustrated by educational systems that hadn’t changed much in the past 200 years, we challenged ourselves to reimagine the place our children spend the majority of their waking hours. We built Alpha around the realization that kids who truly love school work harder, are willing to step out of their comfort zone and know that hard work delivers success. It was at this original campus where we created our three commitments and developed our academic and motivational models. Today, our Austin campus hosts more than 150 kids, and our first Alpha alumni crossed the high school graduation stage in the spring of 2023.

1201 Spyglass Drive | alpha.school

At Alpha High School, students are encouraged to pursue their interests. “They’re still doing all of the traditional stuff as far as taking advanced placement classes and being able to score well on their SAT, but they have the rest of the day to go work on what we call a masterpiece project, where they start to figure out what they're interested in. We have one student, a boy named Rhett, who raised $350,000 of venture funding and opened Texas’ biggest mountain bike park in Marble Falls. He had to write the business plan, find investors, find land to lease, build the bike park and manage employees and contractors.”

“We had another student who got really interested in cancer because her grandfather died of it. She started looking into what causes cancer [and if] there is more to it than just bad genetics, and she got interested in epigenetics and how food relates to that. She ended up becoming an expert by interviewing people all over and reading as much as she could. She built a Twitter audience and she created the documentary, and that documentary has been viewed 4.5 million times. The life skills, the experience and the chance that these kids are getting [is] to go out and pursue their dreams now, and not just later, right now. We’ve got kids doing things all over the board. When you give kids that ability to go find the intersection of their passions and their talents that’s where magic strikes.”

Alpha also has campuses in Miami, Florida, and Brownsville, Texas, and is continuing to expand. “We’re opening an esports academy, which is a middle school program where we leverage kids’ love of video gaming in order to teach them life skills and to motivate them to crush their academics. We have a Lake Travis sports academy that’s opening this fall where afternoons are [for] sports and getting active. We also have a [gifted and talented] school opening in Georgetown for people who want to do academically rigorous work. In the afternoon, they're working on workshops like robotics and writing clubs and all kinds of really exciting hands-on projects.”

Instead of teachers, Alpha has guides. Price believes these guides play a crucial role in the students’ development. “Their job is to provide motivational and emotional support to each and every student. If you don’t have to worry about creating lesson plans and grading homework and papers, it opens up time to do what I believe most educators got into this field [to do] in the first place: to positively impact kids. When our guides have the time and bandwidth to be able to sit down with every single student and spend time with them one-on-one regularly, they learn and understand what makes that kid tick, what do they like, what do they care about, what are the negative thoughts that they tend to go toward when they get frustrated and how can we help give them better growth strategies to change [their] mindset. That’s part of the reason we see such incredible results. We have a kindergartner who every time she masters two units, she and her guide go do a 30-second Taylor Swift dance party because this guide knows this little girl loves Taylor.”

At Alpha’s Brownsville campus, the students have shown major improvements in academic performance. For example, last year the second grade class came in at the 31st percentile. One year later those students were in the 84th percentile for math and the 71st percentile in reading.

Price’s excitement fills the room as she talks, and it’s clear that she’s found her purpose. “Here’s the beauty of it: AI technology and adaptive app learning is the great equalizer. It doesn’t care if you’re white or black or brown; it doesn’t care if you’re rich or poor. It doesn’t care if you’re in the 10th percentile or the 90th percentile,” she says. “It’s infinitely patient. It can literally raise the floor of and explode the ceiling off what’s possible. That’s what I truly believe the future of education is based on: how we can help every student in this world. How we can meet them exactly where they’re at, help the kids that need it the most. We can help the kids who have been hindered because they want to go further and can’t.”

“Ninety percent of what makes a great learner is that you have to have a motivated student. If you don’t have a motivated student, the lights are off and nobody’s home. We’ve found that the best thing we can do to motivate students is [to give] back their most valuable resource, which is time to do what they actually want to do.” For Price, it’s essential to teach these students skills that will equip them for life after school. "When we graduate college, we want to come out knowing about leadership, teamwork, communication, empathy, financial literacy, etc. Those are the things we teach via workshops that are really hands-on and active.”

This latest uptick in AI might seem sudden, but Price has used it for years. At Alpha, students are encouraged to approach learning with curiosity. “We’re using artificial intelligence to raise human intelligence. In this day and age, so many jobs exist that didn’t exist 10 years ago, and 10 years from now, these kids in this school building are gonna be doing jobs that don’t exist yet.”

“We have a fundamental belief here that kids are limitless, and we need to provide an environment where they can unlock that potential. We have kids doing amazing things, things parents never thought [their] kids could do. I truly believe my purpose is to change education and help kids unlock that potential.”

I truly believe my purpose is to change education and help kids unlock that potential. “ “

EDUCATOR DYNASTY LOOK

Gold satin top: MacKenzie's closet

Light denim wash Jean: Makenzie's closet

Gold pointed mule heel: MacKenzie's closet

Madison statement earrings: Garden Room ATX

Styling: Empress Bey with inspiration from Garden Room ATX and MacKenzie's closet

For the Culture

What started as an identity crisis has since grown into a highlight of the Latino community.

BY BELLA LARRALDE

by

Photo

Monica Maldonado.

Muralist Fili Mendieta

WHERE IT ALL STARTED

Music, Art and Soul (MAS) is what rising nonprofit MAS Cultura is all about. What started as a Chicana woman trying to find her community within Austin evolved into a group dedicated to shining the light on all underrepresented communities.

Monica Maldonado is the girl boss who started it all. Maldonado is an Austin native who grew up in the heart of South Austin. She attended Becker Elementary, Fulmore Middle School and Travis Early College High School while residing in the Dove Springs community, where her mother still resides.

The passion Maldonado demonstrates for her culture derives from her Chicana heritage. During her childhood, her mother sent her to Mexico to stay with family, and it was there where she was exposed to cultural traditions such as posadas and quinceaneras. Meanwhile, on her American side, she learned customs from her neighborhood and, most importantly, her mother, who supported her family with three jobs.

“The term [Chicana] is a way for us U.S.-born Americans who have Mexican descendants to identify ourselves as ‘ni de aqui ni de alla’ (neither here nor there),” says Maldonado. “Identifying as a Chicana reflects the intersection of my identity as both Mexican and American.”

A short-term move to Phoenix, Arizona, in 2016 immersed Maldonado in Chicano culture. After seeing lowriders and experiencing the heavy Latino presence in Phoenix for nearly two years, moving back to Austin stunned her.

“I was having an identity crisis, wondering where my people were at,” Maldonado expresses. “It was a challenge because I came from Phoenix, where it was diverse and there was more Latino representation, and so when I came back home, I realized we are not represented in this city.”

A coincidental run-in with a lowrider exhibit near her job gave Maldonado the chance to find the community she sought. While speaking with some of the event attendees, they mentioned a local park called Chicano Park, sparking curiosity inside Maldonado to dive deeper.

“I went to the park, and I already had in mind this vision to curate an exhibit, to share with them the possibility of what we could do with art to express ourselves and celebrate the culture,” says Maldonado.

With the advice from a friend to act and find her community, Maldonado took the initiative to start organizing her first event. She began by fostering connections and networking in her neighborhood to get the word out.

“I curated an exhibit; my idea was that it would be all woman photographers, and the women selected would not be models,” Maldonado explains. “There is no culture without the people, and I did the work, printed the fliers, went to body shops and went to the neighborhood where I was hosting the exhibit and went door to door inviting people.”

Her first event was in the summer of July 2019, a photo pop-up show with a lowrider meet up, was a success, and with that she knew she wanted to create an organization inspired by the culture and values she observed.

“One of the things that fascinated me about the low riders was the dedication they had, the loyalty, the respect, and it was all these pillars and values that make up who we are as Latinos,” says Maldonado.

Photo by Kevin Cloud.

Idalis Maldonado (left) and Mousie Guerra.

by Leandra Blei Photography.

Photo

MAS CULTURA

When brainstorming names, Maldonado decided on a play on words with the word más, the Spanish word for more: Music, Art and Soul. Thus in June 2021, MAS Cultura was formed and founded.

“The very first art show I curated under MAS Cultura I did in collaboration with another group,” Maldonado recalls. “I had 65 Latino artists, with upward of 70% who had never shown their work.”

Maldonado’s desire to center artists derives from the fact that whatever sparse resources the Latino community receives are usually focused on health and wellness. While both are important assets to any community, what about the cultural arts?

“Cultural arts are essential so we have a form to express ourselves, and all of it combined lands on mental health,” Maldonado explains. “We need it.”

MAS Cultura’s mission is to empower and help raise funds for artists of various capabilities. For example, with Latino Art WKND 2021, the nonprofit was able to collectively raise more than $15,000 for Latino artists and performers showcasing their passions.

“I am honored that people trust us with the work of our mission,” Maldonado says with a sense of urgency. “But then, it also saddens me that there is so much needed and such a lack of resources.”

THE CROSS-SECTION OF CULTURE AND COMMUNITY

Not only does MAS Cultura help local artists, but they incorporate their art in meaningful ways. In the summer of 2022, after the shooting at Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas, MAS Cultura helped fundraise for two artists to create a personalized mural to honor the 21 victims. Showing up for the community in ways like that is something Maldonado hopes to increase amongst everyone.

“MAS Cultura stepped in,” Maldonado expresses. “If we wouldn’t have stepped in, no one else would have. No other organization does what we do.”

Further examples of MAS Cultura’s intentional integration of culture and community include the organization’s collaboration with CapMetro. The two have collaborated in order to bring local artists and the community together. The For US, by US: Celebrating Diversity Bus Art series selects an artist to paint a mural for a given heritage month, such as Native American Heritage Month or Women’s History Month. The piece will then be displayed on a bus.

MAS Cultura Mural Summer Program

First Lowrider photo pop-up exhibit, July 2019.

“This collaboration makes me feel inspired,” emphasizes Maldonado. “Working alongside others with diverse talents and ideas really motivates me and pushes me to explore new possibilities and think outside the box.”

MAS Cultura’s event Fuerza was one of Maldonado’s favorite events she has taken part in. The line to attend and see the work of different artists and photographers stretched down the block. In a time where she felt photography was overlooked, it astounded Maldonado.

“I’ll never forget Art Flores; [he] sold all his photography that night,” recalls Maldonado. “He looked at me and said, ‘For the first time I see myself as an artist,’ and that was something that echoed throughout the room.”

Other past events hosted by MAS Cultura include MAS Cultura Festival and most recently Cultura Power, an unofficial South by Southwest event that MAS Cultura plans to organize again next year. The event contained panels, art displays and a musical showcase, as well as highlighting local businesses.

“The events [are] very neighborhood centered so that we keep the authenticity,” says Maldonado.

Photo by Al Rendon.

Uvalde mural by Jaime Prado.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

Currently, Maldonado is an advisor in the new Carros y Cultura exhibit for the Bullock Texas State History Museum. Running until September 2, the exhibit contains lowrider legacies, some of which Maldonado handpicked, and includes actual lowrider cars in the museum.

“I never ever dreamt or imagined that we would take up space at The Bullock Texas State History Museum,” Maldonado expresses with enthusiasm.

As for MAS Cultura’s future, analytics done by the organization show that their main age demographic is from 24 to 32. Maldonado hopes the next generation sustains and grows the organization.

“When I think about the dreams for me, it is that the organization becomes multigenerational. The next generation can grow [MAS Cultura] into something that no other cities have, grow it into something that can continue impacting the Latino community.”

“ When I think about the dreams for me, it is that the organization becomes multigenerational. The next generation can grow [MAS Cultura] into something that no other cities have, grow it into something that can continue impacting the Latino community.

—Monica Maldonado

Sylvia Herrera, PODER Co-Founder, Cesar Chavez Day march.

Photo by Ed Vela.

Creating Connections, One Donut at a Time

Bom Bakeshop fosters community and inclusivity through its gluten-free treats, forging connections and spreading joy.

BY ISABEL NEUMANN

In a world where dietary restrictions can often feel limiting, Teresa Kwon and her husband, Anthony Kim, are on a mission to prove that delicious baked goods can still bring joy, even in the face of adversity. Their bakery, Bom Bakeshop, is a testament to resilience, love and the power of community.

Kwon’s journey with celiac disease began long before glutenfree options were widely available. “I have always had some kind of sensitivity,” she explains. “Growing up in an Asian household, it was like, ‘There’s no such thing as food allergies; just eat it and get over it.’” It wasn’t until her late 20s that a friend suggested she might have celiac disease, prompting Kwon to undergo food sensitivity tests that confirmed her allergy to gluten.

Photos courtesy of Teresa Kwon.

Fast forward to 2020, amidst the chaos of the pandemic: Bom Bakeshop was born. “It was supposed to be temporary,” Kwon recalls. “We started baking gluten-free treats for our neighborhood, but it quickly took off.” Despite facing logistical challenges and the inherent risks of starting a business during a global crisis, Kwon and Kim remained undeterred.

Their bakery is both gluten-free and celiac-safe, drawing from Kwon’s personal experience and commitment to providing safe options for those with dietary restrictions. “Our mission is to spread joy and to create a space where everyone feels welcome and understood.”

For the couple, joy is not just about the products they create; it’s about the values they uphold. “We want to be able to sleep at night, which means staying true to ourselves and our beliefs, even if it means saying no to good opportunities when they don’t align with our values.

“Bom is a Korean word for spring,” Kwon explains. “It symbolizes new beginnings and the joy of renewal.”

Their journey hasn’t been without its challenges. In addition to navigating the complexities of running a small business, the couple have also faced targeted harassment and racism both during and following the COVID-19 pandemic. “We’ve received death threats and been targeted because of our ethnicity,” Kwon reveals. “It has been incredibly difficult, but it’s also strengthened our resolve to stand up against injustice and spread love in the face of hate.”

Bom Bakeshop’s role in nurturing community and inclusivity is significant. Offering gluten-free options for mochi donuts and other baked goods allows people to share meals without feeling excluded. “Eating together is one of the most vulnerable and most beautiful things to do because you’re heart to heart, and you’re sharing something that’s nourishing your bodies. It is like communion.”

They emphasize values like joy and kindness. “If you vibe with us, then you’re our people. It’s all about kindness and goodness, and kindness always wins.” This connection goes beyond transactions, fostering genuine relationships with their customers.

Bom Bakeshop’s wide array of flavors (more than 120 a year), including culturally inspired options, sets them apart. “I’m proud to share our donut because it’s not just a donut; it’s a story. It’s handmade with love and joy,” says Kwon.

They are currently preparing to open their first brick-and-mortar location after selling at pop-ups at Dia’s Market. “We want to continue spreading joy and building a community that celebrates diversity and inclusion, and with each bite of our gluten-free treats, we hope to remind people that joy is always within reach, no matter the circumstances,” says Kwon.

Marrying Kwon’s passions for tasty desserts and K-pop, the couple has a merch and pop-up venture, Bom Nal Shop, that they plan to expand as their business grows. “The Bom brand is really a parent brand. We plan to create an ecosystem of businesses and organizations that align with the values we have instilled in Bom.”

Innovative Ways to Get Your Finances in Order

There are AI tools that can revolutionize your financial planning.

BY JENNY HOFF

Innovation is revolutionizing personal finance management. Just like artificial intelligence (AI) can help you come up with a snazzy book title or party menu, there are many AI-powered apps and tools that can help you manage your finances as if you have a personal financial advisor in your back pocket.

Budget like a pro with Wally.

The Wally app is like your financial BFF. It automatically tracks your spending, cash flow and bills. It can give you personalized suggestions, and its chatbot, WallyGPT, can predict your monthly expenses and recommend a personalized savings plan. Wally can also categorize your expenses from connected accounts (checking, savings, credit cards, loans, investments). It also works in 70-plus countries, so if you’re heading out of town for the summer, you don’t need to worry about converting currencies to keep your finances in check. The best part? Unlike a real financial advisor, it’s free!

Get real-time financial advice whenever you need it.

If Wally is your budgeting bestie, Cleo is ready to chat about money. This interactive chatbot can answer questions like, “How much should I save for vacation?” or compare categories based on your spending habits. Cleo can also autosave money for you, so you don’t have to depend on willpower to transfer money each month to your savings account. Cleo can also keep you in check with “savings fines.” If you splurge on nonessentials, Cleo moves a set amount into your savings. That’s a friend who keeps you in check. Cleo is also free.

Find an affordable investing assistant in Magnifi.

As your AI investing assistant, Magnifi can offer investment guidance with personalized advice, help you research top investments and teach you about market trends. It can also build an investment strategy tailored to your personality and financial goals. With a high 5% APY on your savings, it can pay for itself and then some. Cost is $11 per month.

Get rid of old subscriptions.

In an age where everything requires a subscription, you could be paying for services you have long stopped using. Rocket Money has you covered. It can identify and cancel unused subscriptions as well as notify you when subscriptions renew or prices change. It also gives you some advice where you can save by cutting unnecessary expenses. Cost varies; check the app for details.

A smart accountant for a small business owner.

While Quickbooks isn’t new, its AI-driven features are game changers. It offers automated bookkeeping where you can connect your accounts, and QuickBooks handles invoicing, payroll, and offers financial insights. It can track expenses by categorizing them, tracking mileage and simplifying tax preparation. It can even predict future cash flow so you can make informed decisions. Cost is subscription-based and varies by plan.

Remember, these AI tools aren’t just about numbers; they’re about empowering you to make smarter financial choices. Whether you’re a budgeting newbie or an investment enthusiast, there’s an app to suit your needs. Happy saving!

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Securing Austin’s Future: Innovative Strategies for Water Reuse

Deck

BY BRANDI CLARK BURTON

The elixir of life, water, is fundamental to our survival, yet it is becoming increasingly scarce. Austin’s population has more than tripled since 1970 and is projected to quadruple from its current size. Despite this surge in residents, Central Texas has no more water available than it did decades ago. Lake Travis, the primary source of drinking water for Austin and Travis County, was only 37% full in May, before the searing heat of the Central Texas summer set in. With climate change intensifying droughts and extreme heat, conserving water has never been more critical. Fortunately, leaders in government like Travis County Commissioner Brigid Shea (who is also the USA board chair of ICLEI – Local Government for Sustainability) and community innovators like Paige Oliverio, director of the Rain Catcher Pilot Program, are implementing innovative water reuse strategies across Austin.

A HISTORY OF CONSERVATION, CONTINUED INNOVATION

Since the 1990s, Austin has dramatically decreased its water consumption per person. This historical context underscores the importance and effectiveness of continued conservation efforts.

The need for water conservation in Central Texas is urgent, but the solutions are within reach. From the Rain Catcher Pilot Program in individual yards to the extensive use of purple pipe water in large buildings and golf courses, Austin is pioneering a sustainable path forward. These efforts demonstrate that with creativity and collaboration, we can ensure a stable water future for generations to come.

The reuse of water is not just an innovative solution—it is a necessary one. As Austin continues to grow, these practices will become increasingly vital in safeguarding our most precious resource. By embracing water reuse at all scales, we can create a more sustainable and resilient community.

RAIN CATCHER PILOT PROGRAM

At the neighborhood level, the Rain Catcher Pilot Program exemplifies how individual efforts can contribute to broader water conservation goals. Spearheaded by Oliverio contracting with the City of Austin Watershed Protection Department, this initiative encourages residents to redesign their yards to capture and soak in rainwater. The program integrates the objectives of multiple city departments—Austin Water, Watershed Protection and Forestry—offering rebates and support to facilitate this transformation.

Rain gardens, a key feature of the program, effectively capture runoff from impervious surfaces like roofs and driveways. These gardens filter contaminants and allow water to percolate into the ground, enhancing soil health, providing water for street trees and reducing the strain on stormwater systems, all of which have a direct impact on the vitality of urban creeks.

THE PURPLE PIPE INFRASTRUCTURE

Austin has been steadily developing a network of purple pipe infrastructure, which supplies treated sewage water for non-drinking purposes. This reclaimed water, often referred to as “purple pipe water,” is a sustainable alternative for uses such as irrigation and cooling systems. Already, this system serves golf courses, some residential subdivisions and large buildings, including those owned by Travis County. These efforts have significantly reduced the demand for potable water, showcasing how urban infrastructure can adapt to environmental challenges.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: COMMUNITY AND CLIMATE RESILIENCE

These innovative approaches to water reuse highlight the importance of local action in addressing global environmental challenges. As Shea aptly puts it, “Nations talk about bigpicture goals and reduction targets, but local governments are where we can actually take action.” By thinking globally and acting locally, communities like Austin can make significant strides in water conservation and climate resilience.

To find out how water conservation solutions have real-world implications, read the full article at atxwoman.com.

In Our Kind Era

Everything changes for first-time moms.

Now accepting patients at our new OB/GYN clinic in North Austin.

Women in Austin deserve the highest quality care in every stage of their pregnancy. That’s why Texas Children’s is excited to bring its world-class Pavilion for Women to the North Austin community. Whether you need routine care, prenatal check-ups or preventative care, we’re ready to serve you every step of the way. Book an appointment at our new OB/GYN North Austin clinic today.

See why the difference is life-changing at texaschildrensaustin.org.