Issue 84 Jeremy Meeks

JACOB LATIMORE VIC MENSA PNB ROCK

ATELIER CILLIAN

OQLIQ A. POTTS AKNVAS AUTUMN CASHMERE

Photography by TAYO

Fashion by UGO MOZIE

Photography by TAYO

Publisher

DéVon Christopher Johnson

Managing Editors

Antheny Raiy, Justin Wallace

Editor

Christian Law

Editor-At-Large

Kent Olden

Creative Director

Andrew Zaeh

Art Direction & Design

Anahi Flores, Luis Carlos Lopez

Graphic Designer

Steve Wiley

Contributing Editor

Chevy Wolf

West Coast Fashion Editor Apuje Kalu

UK Fashion Editor

Sean Azeez

Copy Editor

Trevoy Ross

Contributing Writers

Taylor Edwards, Becca Bond, Kirby Wright, Deonte Chalant, Sable Tempest, Emmanuel Perilla

Contributing Photographers

Tayo, Andrew Zaeh, Lorenzo Wallace, Chris Fucile, Ammar Jamal

Interns

Eric Munson, Jonas Van-den-heuvel, Veronica Lledo, Jack Chadwick, Virgil Munteanu

THE BLEULIFE MEDIA GROUP

Chairman, CEO & President

DéVon Christopher Johnson

Digital Partnerships

Sam Doliner, Max Dalton

Web Design

Muhammad Azeem

East Coast Partnerships & Ecommerce

Justin Wallace

West Coast Partnerships & Special Projects

Antheny Raiy

Licenses & Joint Ventures

David DeGraff, Oaklins | DeSilva+Phillips

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Rannon Harris (Chicago-Midwest)

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Submissions

Bleu Magazine

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Gotta take care of home

KnowwhatI’msaying

Causeifyoudon’ttakecareofhome

Somebodyelsewill,yafeelme?

Y’allknowwhatI’mtalking‘bout

Check it

Ifshethinksyoudon’tsayitenough

Tellheryouloveher

Everytimethatyourbaby

Comesacrossyourmind,hehyeahheh

Andifyouthinkyourgirlwantstheworld

Bethesunshinethatbrightensupherlife

Don’tlethergetaway,no

Don’tlethergetaway

Ifyoureallycareenough

Lovehereveryday

Over and over and over

TAKE CARE OF HOMEDAVE HOLLISTER

Change isn’t always something radical or new. A change may come in the form of returning to the beginning. Sort of a start over. Change can feel familiar, but with the special knowledge of what did or did not work. The undoing of mistakes or misalignment should have various options to be modified.

Yes, it is true that nothing is constant but change. It is a suggestive language that carries unconscious authority over its orator. When speaking of change we force ourselves to keep looking ahead. That’s great for explorers seeking new land. Or people needing a drastic change in their environment. But, for some, we just need to go back to the beginning. Back to day or step or moment one. Isn’t that more freeing? A chance to do it over. To self correct.

In our rapid leaps forward we may have missed something significant along the way. The so-called change being sort, may have already revealed itself and didn’t have the chance to manifest. Looking forward may mean looking in the rearview mirror and making a u-turn to collect overlooked answers. Some of us already have the tools we need to get to the next level of our designers. Don’t be afraid to look back. You just might see your future.

DéVon Christopher Johnson Founder & Group Publisher

Tempest

SWEEPER

Sable Tempest Sweeper is an author, freelance writer, and practicing limited permit psychotherapist (MHCLP). Sable incorporates normalization and brings awareness to mental health issues. Focusing on personcentered, narrative, and family therapy, Sable provides a comfortable, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment that allows clients to be vulnerable while working towards wellness through psychotherapy.

Ugo MOZIE

LA-based stylist, activist and designer Ugo Mozie is best known for his juxtaposition of contemporary and classic styles, constantly pushing past conventional boundaries to redefine the industry. He has held lectures and spoken at length on Cultural Diversity and the Business of Fashion at Oxford, Harvard, Columbia, USC, and UCLA. With his charity WANA (We Are New Africa) and social media following, Mozie uses his platform to amplify positive African stories and is a passionate advocate of diversity.

OLDEN

Buffalo native Kent Olden is an Aquarian creative who gets excited to push people to see life through a different set of shades. Extremely involved in his community, he is a proud and active member of both Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and the Prince Hall Affiliated Free & Accepted Masons (Paramount Lodge #73), and instills that commitment to community in his daughters, Kendall and Khloe (no, they’re NOT named after the Kardashians -- he didn’t even know who they were when his daughters were born). Kent holds a B.A. in Psychology from Morehouse.

Kirby

CARROLL WRIGHT

Kirby Carroll Wright, MA is a passionate creative with a zest for brand-building and storytelling based in Atlanta, Ga. Her love for the arts and creative marketing shows through her authentic writing style and past projects. When not immersed with work, you can find her bingeing the latest television series, exploring new places, or simply spending time with loved ones. Keep up with Kirby on social media at @AskKirbyCarroll.

The Premiere of Wendell & Wild, an animated, comedic fantasy adventure from the delightfully wicked minds of Henry Selick and Jordan Peele. Cast also includes Keegan-Michael Key, Angela Bassett and Lyric Ross.

netflix.com/wendellandwild

@NetflixFilm #WendellandWild

The Blackhouse Foundation marked its 15th Anniversary with a Sunset Cocktail Reception and Board Recognition Brunch on October 15th, 2022 at the Annenberg Community Beach House in Santa Monica, CA. The Blackhouse Foundation continues to champion and support leading black writers, directors, producers, crew, and talent throughout film, television, digital media, and beyond with an unshakable platform.

Botrista: the new automated robot barista

Words by: ERIC MUNSON

As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, many restaurants, bars and cafés are struggling to hire baristas and servers. The number of people working remotely has drastically increased, causing rampant staffing shortages. The pandemic has also caused an increase in contactless transactions.

Business owners are hunting for solutions to the shortages.

There is a popular, growing trend: automation. Business owners saw this technology as an opportunity to raise profits while lowering costs and increasing efficiency. The automation industry is estimated to reach $14 billion by 2025.

One such company is called Botrista, a technology company based in San Francisco.

The name is a portmanteau of “robot” and “barista.” Botrista is a beverage preparation robot that hopes to be the future of the food service industry. Botrista saw all of the problems that arose post-pandemic and wanted to develop a product that would be accessible and easy-touse. The models cost $500 per month to operate.

Staff, produce and resources would normally take up 115 square feet. Botrista is compact, taking up just five square feet. This is ideal for smaller corner cafés that would otherwise have limited space, increasing both comfort and efficiency.

To use Bortrista, the user presses a button on the screen. The robot prepares the drink while a server is waiting with a glass of ice. The drink is made from naturallysourced fresh ingredients. Once ready, the server just pours it into the glass and hands it to the customer.

Botrista comes in several models and has numerous other features. It can dispense very viscous liquids such as cane sugar that many standard soda fountains cannot. It has a built-in cooling unit to keep ingredients at 39 Fahrenheit. It has a capacity of 300 12-ounce drinks.

In addition to finding workers, business owners also need to train them. There is some skill and craftsmanship involved when mixing drinks. There has to be the right ratio of ingredients as well as the proper texture.

Botrista is programmed with “algorithmic dispensing” to “perfectly mimic” the blending and mixing of an actual human. The final result replicates the taste and texture of a traditionally mixed drink.

Business owners can save both time and money with Botrista. It usually takes a human several minutes to prepare a drink, which can lead to long queues and waits. Botrista can mix drinks in 20 seconds, allowing an entire transaction to take just under a minute.

Customer dissatisfaction is one of the biggest complaints that food service businesses receive, especially during rush hour and other busy times.

Many businesses rely on fruit syrups to create their signature beverages. Botrista, however, makes use of purees.

Fruit syrup is a combination of fresh fruit and other liquids. Syrups usually have a lot of artificial sweeteners to enhance the taste of the drink. A puree is a thick paste made from fruit that is unprocessed, giving it a more natural fruit taste. The ingredients are naturally-sourced from around the world.

Botrista has a variety of options to choose from including coffee, smoothies, milkshakes, mocktails and energy drinks.

As the modern world grows increasingly more fast-paced, we need innovations to increase efficiency in our lives. Automation will never fully replace the magic of human interaction and sociability, but it can at least take the burden away from humans who can only work so quickly. Botrista opens so many opportunities for the food service industry, but also for the human race as a whole.

Words by: ERIC MUNSON

Rolls-Royce unveils the Spectre

The grille is illuminated with 22 LED lights. and is the largest grille on a Rolls-Royce to date. The grille reduces the Spectre’s drag coefficient to 0.25, making it Rolls-Royce’s most aerodynamic vehicle to date.

In 1900, Charles Stewart Rolls foresaw electric vehicles as a sustainable alternative to internal combustion vehicles, provided there was sufficient infrastructure.

“The electric car is perfectly noiseless and clean,” Rolls said. “There is no smell or vibration. They should become very useful when fixed charging stations can be arranged.”

120 years later, Rolls-Royce is finally fulfilling its co-founder’s dreams.

On October 18, Rolls-Royce unveiled the 2023 Rolls-Royce Spectre, the first electric car by the luxury British automaker. The Spectre is estimated to cost around $413,000. More than 300 buyers in the United States have already put down deposits for when the vehicle hits the market.

The Spectre is part of Rolls-Royce’s initiative to become fully-electric by 2030. On its website Rolls-Royce advertises the Spectre as “the world’s first ultra-luxury electric super coupé.”

“This is the start of a bold new chapter for our marque, our extraordinary clients and the luxury industry,” Torsten Müller-Ötvös, the CEO of Rolls-Royce, said in a press release. “For this reason, I believe Spectre is the most perfect product that Rolls-Royce has ever produced.”

According to USA Today, the design of the Spectre was inspired by “modernist sculpture, nautical design, the night sky and haute couture.”

There is also a flowing “waft” line along the sides inspired by the silhouette of racing yachts. The famous “Spirit of Ecstasy” hood ornament has been redesigned to look more streamlined and modern.

The vehicle only has two doors, but they are hinged and open rearward. On the four-door models, only the rear doors open in this manner.

The Spectre is classified as a “super coupé” because of its spaciousness. It is six inches longer and five inches wider than the last Rolls-Royce coupé. It is also 2.5 inches longer than the Cadillac Escalade SUV. It is almost 18 feet long and seven feet wide. It runs on a 126-inch wheelbase and has oversized 23-inch wheels to accommodate the size and weight.

As with any Rolls-Royce, it comes with the “Starlight Headliner,” which fills the ceiling with an array of thousands of tiny lights. The lights are the tips of fiber-optic cables arranged to resemble the night sky over Goodwood, United Kingdom, where the Rolls-Royce factory is based.

Rolls-Royce is planning to add this feature to the interior of the doors, surrounding the occupants in a shimmering sea of stars.

The Spectre comes with Rolls-Royce’s Spirit software with more functionality and quicker response.

Rolls-Royce tested the software across 1.55 million miles of simulated and real-world

roads. It has been tested at -40 degrees Fahrenheit in Arjeplog, Sweden and at 130 degrees Fahrenheit in Southern Africa.

It also comes with a planar suspension system that allows each wheel to act independently. This prevents the rocking motion when hitting undulations in the road and reduces vibration and noise.

Rolls-Royce claims the Spectre has 557 horsepower and can go from zero to 60 miles per hour in 4.4 seconds. Its top speed is 155 miles per hour. It will also be able to run 260 miles on a single charge.

British luxury automaker creates first electric car

P44

A New Oil For More Than Just Beards

Words by: JACK CHADWICK

These days it’s always good to know exactly what’s inside the products we buy, and even better when these ingredients are actually good for you. P44 is as simple as that, an all natural oil who’s mix includes coconut, almond, and jojoba into a fragrant and sophisticated new grooming essential. The oils used are not just pure and organic, they’re also rich in vitamin E, a supplement that has been proven to aid the body’s immune system, reduce stress and anxiety, and even increases the libido. Created by artist/producer Anton Peeples, each of the oils inside P44 have different advantages and by mixing them together you get the full smorgasbord in terms of goodness. So… what exactly can P44 be used for? Well the answer is A LOT. This product works really nicely as a beard oil, it makes you feel fresh and refreshed after a shave and the natural oils will lock in moisture and nourish your facial hair. If you shave before the club, a party or a wedding, P44 will keep you smelling sexy while keeping your beard soft, smooth and suave. It can also be used to condition and bring back to life dull and brittle hairstyles of all hair types. So many other products on the market contain sulfates and other useless chemicals that actually strip the natural oils from your hair instead of adding to them. Using the natural oils in P44 gives you a softer texture and can actually stimulate hair growth over time. The usage doesn’t stop there. Did you know hair and skin are both made from the same thing called Keratin? So you can use this product the same on skin as you would your hair, and your beard for that matter. P44 even works on skin that’s dry and irritated, getting rid of dandruff, and if you have any left it’s great for giving your partner a sensual massage. So should P44 be the next grooming accessory on your wish list? Absolutely! Gone are the days of buying a product with 500+ ingredients you’ve never heard of. With P44 you know exactly what’s in it. Just simple natural oils and that’s it. Get P44, and your grooming routine will never be the same again.

CUTS & SLICES CUTS & SLICES CUTS & SLICES

In Brooklyn, New York, open seven days a week, there’s an incredible new pizza joint everyone’s talking about. Cuts & Slices is a Black-owned specialty pizzeria on Howard Avenue and it’s taking the Big Apple by storm. As soon as you walk into this place you immediately feel the good vibes, there’s street art everywhere and the mouthwatering smell of pizza dough lets you know that you’re in for a huge treat. The experience here gives you “something more than just grabbing a slice and going” as they really are taking the art of pizza making to the next level.

Words by: JACK CHADWICK

New York is world-famous for having some of the best pizza, but what makes this place stand out is just how different and creative the flavors are. There are crazy concoctions you won’t find anywhere else. The choices are endless: lobster and shrimp, turkey-baconchicken ranch, brown stew oxtail, flavors so exotic you’ll feel you’re on tropical vacation. The pies get even more crazy: there’s cinnamon French toast pizza and a chicken and waffles one. It’s almost impossible to make a decision as you’ll want to try absolutely everything, which is why so many loyal clients return time and time again. The place actually went viral on TikTok after New York rapper Jaydakiss (who is a regular) ordered an all-crust pizza. As random as this sounds it has since become one of their most popular orders now known as simply the “Jayda Crust.”

Cuts & Slices is not only great because of the food, but also what it means socially for the Black community who have been largely forgotten and marginalized. This business has created jobs and opportunities for Black people, which is one step closer to closing the racial wealth gap in the city. Brooklyn native, Randy McLaren, who previously ran a successful sneaker resale business, opened up C&S with his wife in 2018. The success of this small pizza place is bringing new life to this side of the Hudson without gentrifying or sidelining the local residents who make up a huge percentage of the clientele. Black-owned pizzerias are a rare site in New York, and it is very interesting to see African American culture influence a traditionally European-dominated cuisine. Despite the popularity of the business, it still retains a very local feel. McLaren noted the lack of choice in the area before he opened up. His pizza means the local residents don’t have to just rely on the same Chinese takeaway every day. It gives people the opportunity to try things that they’ve never even heard of and brings something different to the people.

There is one catch however. Starting at $11 and charging up to $100 for the truffle and lobster pizzas, these pies ain’t cheap. But is it worth it? This is a truly new and unforgettable experience with some flavors unlocking forgotten childhood memories and others that you simply can’t get anywhere else. Good quality is also something they’re devoted to. This is why they stopped delivering their pizza. It didn’t taste as good unless it was straight out of the oven. The place is warm and friendly and the pizza here is honestly so special that even if you have to spend hours stuck in traffic getting here, it will be worth the hassle and you’ll leave with a full belly and a smile on your face.

orange ball to sink into the deep blue ocean and then bleed its final purples to black seems longer than anything I witness where I live in Denver.

There are so many resort options in PV, but The Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta is one good value choice set right on the Bay of Banderas beachfront. Part of the Marriott family, you can book with points as well. Set on 14-acres of what was once a palm tree plantation, today the resort is still home to more than 600 mature palms. Each tree is numbered and maintained. The rooms and suites are comfy and the resort sits right on the sea. There are two swimming pools, including one with a swim-up bar and another that is family focused.

Part of Marriott’s wellness brand, The Westin has a state-of-the-art fitness center to get your daily workout in. And it also is home to an excellent spa where the treatments are designed to assist with movement, sleep and relaxation. Try the deep tissue massage. The Westin is a great choice if you don’t want to go the all-inclusive route. That said, it does have multiple onsite restaurants including its signature Arrecifes Seafood & Steakhouse.

Another perk to staying at the Westin is that every menu offers vegan options as well as health focused choices.

If you want an all-inclusive stay, then I loved the recently opened Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort. Stylishly designed, the resort is also on a pretty stretch of beach. The resort has 444 spacious and modern suites. Rooms are very comfortable with modern decor and the best have direct Pacific coastline views from furnished balconies. If you want to vacation in true style, book one of the suites with a whirlpool tub.

If you don’t want to be disturbed by kids on your holiday, book La Hacienda, which is the adults-only section of the resort with its own set of swimming pools and restaurants (although you will have access to all 14 dining and drinking options on the grounds). Rooms are spacious junior suites and you’ll also have access to premium amenities.

The quality of the food at the Hilton is also impressive for an all-inclusive resort. Along with a buffet, there are multiple a la carte restaurants serving up everything from French fusion to traditional Italian.

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment. (bik-TAR-vee)

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including:

 Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months, and may give you HBV medicine.

ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements.

BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS.

Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains:

 dofetilide

 rifampin

 any other medicines to treat HIV-1

BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY

Tell your healthcare provider if you:

 Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection.

 Have any other health problems.

 Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.

 Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:

 Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-thecounter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

 BIKTARVY and other medicines may a ect each other. Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including:

 Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.

 Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that may have been hidden in your body. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY.

 Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY.

 Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.

 Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.

 The most common side e ects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%). These are not all the possible side e ects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.

HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY

Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.

GET MORE INFORMATION

 This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.

 Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5

 If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

the BIKTARVY Logo, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, GSI, and KEEP ASPIRING are trademarks of Gilead

Inc., or its related companies. Version date:

DIAGEO Honors Marketing Guru, Luke Lawal, For His Commitment to HBCUs

The Historically Black College and University (HBCU) experience is unparalleled. Very little compares to the unique support and community that students and alumni gain during their collegiate journey. Business, medicine, law, and entertainment industries are filled with its graduates and students. However, the schools’ impact is very rarely celebrated or even mentioned in mainstream media. That’s why I’m appreciative of platforms like HBCU Buzz and the brand’s creator Luke Lawal.

Luke is a serial entrepreneur from Prince George’s County, Maryland, who was recently honored by DIAGEO and celebrated at the 2022 BET Awards for his commitment to the Black community. Take a peek at his Instagram, and you’ll see endless photos of lavish events, celebrity friends, and the latest fashions. But ask him what he truly cares about and the answer is clear: change, growth, and legacy.

The marketing guru promptly hopped on our Zoom call with a big smile and an HBCU sweatshirt. We made quick introductions and then jumped right into a fun game of This or That. In a matter of minutes, I learned a lot about the innovative entrepreneur. For example, he prefers Nikes to Adidas, feels like he’s a little too millennial for TikTok, and reads more than he listens to podcasts, in fact, he’s writing his own book – but more on that later. So how did this man whose experiences seem somewhat relatable create such a powerful brand? Keep reading to find out.

Luke prides himself on being comfortable in any room, which he attributes greatly to his diverse experiences and ability to connect with others. He’s a second generation Nigerian-American, a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc, and a Master Mason. And although he’s known most for his entrepreneurial efforts, people are always surprised to find out that he started at Bowie State, his alma mater, as a biochemistry major and even worked in politics. “OnethingIlearnedfromallofthose opportunitiesistoalwaysbemyself,beableto presentmyself,andbelikableandrelatableto who I’m in the room with.”

Luke’s love for HBCUs runs deep. “Ialwaystellhigh schoolstudents,gotowhereyou’regonnafeelthe mostathome.WhenIwenttocollegeIhadfun. Andthat’sbecausemyHBCUfeltlikehome.When IwenttoclassitfeltlikeIwasgoingtoakickback tolearn.Igottobeapartofanenvironmentwhere everyoneinvestedinmeinadifferentwaythanI experiencedinhighschool.” Both of his parents are HBCU graduates and he spent a portion of his childhood at Howard while his mother earned her Master’s Degree. Still, It wasn’t until 2011 that the idea to start HBCU Buzz was sparked. While in

The brand expert has a special message for individuals who deny the relevancy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities

college, he attended a leadership conference where he connected with other HBCU students. When it ended, they stayed in touch, and he visited his peers on different campuses. Luke learned about their various opportunities and systems and realized none of it was reflected in mainstream media. “Youonlyhearstoriesof randomnegativitybutyouneverseethepositiveimages.Istarted HBCUBuzztodispelthatnegativenarrativeandgiveHBCU studentsandalumniavoiceintheircommunity.”

However, Luke doesn’t shy away from the fact that it was not an easy task. He laughs about the fact that in the beginning, he wasn’t a writer. “ButonethingIdidhavewassocial[skills].Ithrew partiesbackinthedaysoIknewhowtoconnectwithpeople.I knewhowtogrowbrandawarenessandconnectivity.”

He continues, “WhenIfirststartedthebrandallmyarticleshad typos,butwejusthadtofailforward.Andluckyforus,traditional newswasphasingout,inhowouraudiencesconsumemedia. Thenofcoursecamemoresocialplatforms,likeInstagram,that we used to reach our audience – who we owe for our scale of growth.” Also, they continue to face naysayers who doubt the importance of HBCUs. “My reply to that is always, actually, where would we be without HBCUs? But oftentimes I’m in rooms where people are uninformed of the wonderful things HBCUs do. Also, I work with a lot of brands that are trying to learn how to intersect authentically. So, we’re constantly coaching, teaching, and creating campaigns that do just that.”

Years later HBCU Buzz continues to thrive and has worked with some of today’s biggest brands including Nike, HBO, and Capital One. They were even recently honored by DIAGEO, a global beverage leader that pledged $10 million to create permanent endowments at 25 HBCUs across the country. This fall, DIAGEO celebrated Black changemakers by showing up around classic Homecomings across the country. Luke was one of the celebrated attendees. “I was super thrilled to work with DIAGEO. The MeccaandtheBlackexperienceshinedon,andallthediversity leadersthatarechangingthecommunitywithinthatbrandare

soimportanttome. Itkindamatchesextremelywellwith our[HBCUBuzz]top30under30,beingabletocelebrate thechange-makersinourcommunity.Westartedthe inaugurallistin2015andeversince,we’vebeenkilling itwitheverysingleclass.TheeventwehadatHU’s homecomingwillalwaysbeinmyheart.”

That’s not the only major experience HBCU Buzz has created for Luke. He’s been mentioned in the influential Root 100 list and as mentioned earlier, took the stage at the 2022 BET Awards, culture’s biggest night. He shared with Bleu a little bit of what that experience was like. “I gottosharethestagewithPuff;thatwascrazy.MyMom saidpeopleleftflowersatthehouse.OneofthethingsI seemostimportantlyinthisspaceisthatpeopleseeme asarepresentativetobeabletodowhatevertheywantto do.SeeinganHBCUgradonstageattheBETawardsfor somethingotherthanentertainmentfeelsspecial.”

HBCU Buzz continues to expand and diversify. There’s currently an HBCU coin, another way Luke hopes to change our financial trajectory. “It’sasocialtokenpromoting educationandcommunityinthespaceandwe’reusingitto leveragethecommunitytogetinvolved.Itgivesyouaccessto oursocialclub,wehosteventsaboutweb,NFT,andanything inthewebthreespace.” In five years he expects HBCU Buzz to continue to grow and become more experiential. “It was alwaysclient-focusedbutnowwe’regonnastartdoingour own conferences and annual events.”

Looking forward personally, Luke continues to share his passion for HBCUs and pour back into the community. He’s writing a book called, Rich Black, Poor Black, on how to grow generational wealth in the Black community. And he continues to grow his brand. “OnethingIlearned from COVID is there’s no hidden CEO. I was forced to bethetalentandmanageteams.ButIwillsay,it’sextremely importantandsoisrepresentation.Plus,it’seasyforme becauseIlovethepeople.It’sacommunity.”Heclosedwith adviceforaspiringentrepreneurs,“Justdon’tgiveup.Be passionate.Whatyouloveiswhatyoulovesofightforit!”

Words by KENT OLDEN

Fashion by: UGO MOZIE

VITALITY IN VIRALITY

JEREMY MEEKS TALKS SELF LOVE, SELF-CARE, AND THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THEN AND NOW

We live in a world where going viral can be vital to what type of person you become, and fame – whether it’s 15 minutes or forever – is fueled by the verdicts of the court of public opinion. The intersection where perception meets reality (and even sometimes becomes it) becomes a battleground of saving grace versus knowing your place…and, if you can give a good face for Facebook, your legacy can live on and on and on. In the blink of an eye, your entire world is turned upside down for the good, the bad, or the ugly. For one felon-turned-fashion model, it flipped everything for the beautiful.

THAT WAS ME THEN

We always hear about how a setback is just a setup for a comeback, but never in his wildest dreams did Jeremy Meeks think this setback would set him up for a life he never imagined was possible for him to live. “This has been extremely surreal. It’s been a big blessing, it’s been humbling; scary and excitingexcited,” Jeremy says when discussing how his mugshot knocked down doors, openingdoors opening the best opportunities of his life. “I wake up sometimes and I just cry because I can’t believe how my life has gone from 10 ½ years in prison to traveling the world and doing all of these things that I never thought were possible.”

TOP: TENDER PERSON PANTS: DIOR

T HE L E gAc Y Li VES O N …

A boy dad to two sons, Meeks takes notice of how his new lifestyle has affected both – Jeremy Jr. (son of ex-wife Melissa Weeks), who’s had to adjust to this new way of living, and Jayden (son of exgirlfriend Chloe Green), who was born into it. “Jeremy Jr. is my little mini me. He adjusts and adapts to things like I’ve never seen before,” says Meeks. “He went from living in the hood in Stockton to living in Monte Carlo, going to the International School of Monaco, and learning how to speak French to then coming back to live in California and being on movie sets, attending my movie premieres. It feels good to see the look on his face because I’m finally doing something that makes him proud.”

SUIT: GUARAV GUPTA

RING: AZATURE

Meeks counts both of his sons as his inspiration and motivation to push forward. “When it comes to Jayden, he is next level! He’s getting along very well. He just turned four and already speaks French. He’s just a little firecracker!”

Never taking any slice of serendipity for granted, Meeks touches on the impact that his success has made on not just his newfound way of decision-making, but the lessons he vows to instill in his sons as a result. “There are so many lessons because life is so real. I have never babied my kids and I have always given them the 100% of what’s going on,” he says. “My kids are so very mature and it’s really great to see how they’re progressing with everything.”

SUIT: ATELIER CILLIAN

RING: DEAR LETTERMAN

LOOK AT ME NOW…

Now a world-renowned model and film actor, Meeks has Carolina Lemke campaigns, Milan Fashion Week runway shows, a slew of magazine covers, and even his own fashion line to his credit. Making his film debut in the BET+ streaming feature Trigger, Meeks also has several other film credits under his belt including Secret Society and True to the Game 2 and debuted in his first ever stage play Her Lies, His Secrets (written and directed by D.P. DeMarco) earlier this year.

His passion to expand his reach in every way possible has also led him to a place where he refuses to be forgotten now. “To be honest, they kinda messed up when they let me in because I ain’t going nowhere!” he says. “With everything that I’ve been through – from the streets to prison to traveling the world – I have a million movies in my head and I’m learning how to write scripts, I’m gonna start producing, shadowing directors. I plan on

MENTAL HEALTH MATTErS...

With his conglomerate of life experiences as they are, Meeks regularly visits juvenile centers and group homes pushing mental health as a priority.

“I wouLd TeLL mYseLf To foRgiVe mYseLf And To LoVe mYseLf”

he shares with the young men about what advice he’d give his 18-yearold self. “Mental health is very serious and in our community it’s very taboo to talk about it. We’re always told to man up and get it together and it’s just not that easy.”

You can catch Jeremy Meeks on the new reality show After Happily Ever

After premiering on BET on October 19, 2022 (streaming on BET+) hosted by Bow Wow, and in the upcoming film Dance for Me. Keep up with him on social media at @jmeeksofficial.

RUFFLED TOP: TENDER PERSONS

GLASSES: THOM BROWNE

The Chicago native speaks on his music, his affinity for cannabis and why he doesn’t like to be called an activist.

People have been asking… where is Vic Mensa? Myself included. Over the past few months we’ve been trying to schedule a live conversation. Spoiler alert: We never did. Truthfully that’s fine. Mensa is not ghosting, he’s working. Always creating. A lot of this current generation gets flack for being a multi-hyphenate, but Mensa is multitalented. His interests go beyond just being a rapper. At just a few months shy of 30, Mensa has a Grammy nomination, a few notable acting roles and a cannabis company.

Victor Kwesi Mensah was born to a Ghanaian economics professor father and a white American physical therapist mother. At the age of five, Mensah began training in Tang Soo Do, a Korean martial art he studied for 10 years. Growing up he was exposed to the musical stylings of Prince, The Clash and West African artists. His eclectic musical background probably best explains his innate attention to lyrics and his knack for infectious melodies and harmonies.

In early 2013, he released “INANETAPE”

(a portmanteau of “internet” and “mixtape”) which garnered critical success and earned him a place in 2014’s XXL Freshman Class. From then on he released more projects and gained fame due to performances with Sia, Kanye and J.cole. His first solo full project “The Autobiography” was inspired by the seminal text The Autobiography of Malcolm X charted on the Billboard 200 and earned Mensa a “Best New Artist” nom at the NAACP Image Awards

Mensa is also very passionate about the visual arts realm. In 2018, he founded SaveMoneySaveLife, a Black and Indigenousled nonprofit which empowers people of color and pushes for change through the arts. Its programs include training for careers in media and communications, educating people on their constitutional rights and first responder training. Mensa recently sojourned to Accra, Ghana with Chance the Rapper as part of the Black Star Line Youth Program, taking 10 high school students from Chicago’s South Side and West Side, He and Chance are headed back there at the beginning of 2023 to perform at the “Black Star Line Festival”.

in my path than I have before - I know that I have a winning strategy in the place and that my spirit and discipline is really aligned in a way that it wasn’t. As far as returning to the industry more so, I think it’s just that time for me. I guess from the outside people can’t really make a delineation between music and the music industry, for me as an artist the two are symbiotic but not synonymous. Music is just what I do, my mind is always thinking of songs, whenever I hear dope music out at lunch I’m sampling in my head, etc. The music Industry is more so the part you see; the social media, the fanfare, the tabloids.

What can fans look forward to with your latest project?

With my latest project I really feel it’s my strongest offering in some time. I would say basically the theme of the album is redemption, although it explores themes of faith, pan-Africanism, love, the black American experience.

Not to mention Mensa has made a few notable appearances in film and TV including The Chi, Southside and Rel.

With all of the music he has created, it’s hard to believe that he’s only on his second fulllength album. This currently untitled project is produced mostly by Grammy-nominated producer Bongo by the Way dares to answer the question of where he’s been indeed.

Until recently, it has been a while since you last put out music. What were the reasons for the break? What made you want to return to music?

I’ve never really taken a break from music. I’m constantly creating; whether it’s recording, making beats, writing for other people, whatever. So there’s never really been a break. But I will say that I’m at a completely new place personally, so I feel more confident

What made you want to get into acting?

Acting is exciting for me because it gives me an opportunity to strike some of the same emotional chords as music at its best. It can really be a beautiful catharsis.

Activism seems to be a priority for you. What are some of the things you’re advocating for in this realm?

I don’t really think of myself as an activist anymore. I know that sounds contrary to what you may see, but I really just see myself as a man trying to do right in the world and make an impact. I feel like in the age of social media domination the idea of activism has been co-opted with the ideas of perforative action etc. Of course I’m dedicated to justice and truth, but I’m not out here marching in the streets like I was, you know?

Chicago in recent years has gotten a bad wrap when it comes to violence? What are thoughts on this? What are you doing to help change this perception?

Chicago is a complex place, a city of contradictions. It is the epicenter for so much of the pop culture and art that has dominated the global zeitgeist; at the same time it is an extremely violent, self destructive environment. I’ve done plenty of tangible work in combating violence; go. But more than anything just by being myself I feel I’m shaping the perception of the city, by being conscious, community driven, internationally minded, etc.

Tell us about 93 Boyz and your entry into the cannabis business?

93 BOYZ is the first black owned cannabis brand in the city of Chicago, honestly a dream come true. I started selling weed about 15 years ago when I was in high school so to be able to do it on this scale is amazing.

As an artist, expressing yourself is important. What has drawn you to your fashion choices? What brands or styles are you currently feeling?

I feel like your clothing is an extension of your personality, so I guess what’s drawn me to my choices has been my interests at those moments. Right now I’ve actually been wearing a uniform of vintage black Harley Davidson leather pants, a wife beater and this black leather jacket for months.

Are you currently seeing someone or what would you like to tell us about your dating life at the moment?

I am in a committed relationship but I don’t really have much to say other than that. It’s great, it feels like the most healthy relationship I’ve been in.

Would you rather have a classic album or notable bars?

Classic album all day.

“I’m just looking to add a soundtrack to people’s lives and continue to try new things.” These are the words from the multi-hyphenate creative Odiseas Georgiadis as we spoke following the release of his debut single ‘amnesia.’ The release marks Odiseas official introduction into the music industry, after already making a name for himself as an actor. His filmography includes movies like The Perfect Date (2019) and the Netflix original series Trinkets (2019-2020). Although he has been in movies and tv shows that have been seen by over 40 million people worldwide, Odiseas proclaims that music is first for him.

Odiseas knew music was destined for him at an early age. Born in Ghana, he relocated to the United States with his family at the age of six. Growing up in Brooklyn, New York, Odiseas passion for music started when he received a guitar as a gift at the age of nine. At age 10, he began recording covers of popular songs. Reflecting on these early moments in our conversations, Odiseas stated “Music is something I feel like it is in me, it’s in my bones.”

Odiseas journey in the music industry has not been the smoothest of sailings. He faced a few setbacks early on. When he was just fifteen years old, he was a contestant on The Voice. And though his stint on the talent search show did not last long, it led to his being discovered by his first manager in the music business. However, failed management partnerships resulted in Odiseas not releasing any music.

Things began to change in 2021 when Odiseas connected with producer, songwriter, and vocalist Dean Maupin. One of Maupin’s music videos caught the attention of Odiseas, so he reached out to connect via Instagram. Soon after, they partnered up to become a dynamic duo, and began collaborating on music.

“Amnesia” is the brainchild of both Odiseas and collaborator Dean Maupin. Together, they wrote, produced, and performed on the HipHop infused Pop single. “Amnesia” is a song about trying to rebound after a breakup in which the ex-lover pretends the relationship never existed. The duo pours out heartfelt lyrics over a high energy bouncy track. The relatability of the song’s message combined with the execution of the production, highlights Odiseas and Dean Maupin’s ability to create hit music.

Odiseas views “Amnesia” as the catalyst to dropping more music with Dean Maupin, as well as his solo material. When asked what is next for him musically, Odiseas stated that an EP could be on the horizon.

J Brown: New School Vibes with an Old School Feel

Words by: DEONTE CHALANT

Photography by: LORENZO WALLACE

Styling by: EBONI J

Singer and songwriter J. Brown has been making waves in the music industry with one chart topping single after another. The Detroit native has been churning out feel-good R&B music, drawing inspiration from the Motown classics of his hometown and beyond. J. Brown was in California when we spoke with him following the release of the deluxe edition of his latest album Chapter & Verse. The thirteen-track album sees Brown bridging the gap between old and new school, by taking classic R&B themes and infusing them with his own swag.

“Me growing up listening to old classics, my parents instilling great music in my life, and me just progressing throughout life with those same things I learned from childhood, and now incorporating that into my music.”

One of the standout tracks of Chapter & Verse is Don’t Rush, which features R&B heavyweight Tank. The song has been received well by fans with the video garnering over a half million views on Youtube thus far. Brown, who has collaborated with Tank before in the past, credits perfect timing and being in the right place at the right time for the two coming together to create Don’t Rush. The two have known each other for approximately fourteen years, with Tank acting as sort of a big brother and mentor to Brown. Brown acknowledges that many people in Tank’s position don’t give these types of opportunities to upcoming artists.

“One of the main influences to why I started singing R&B is because of Tank, then fast-forward 2009 we link up, and then fast-forward again to 2021 we reunited. It’s a blessing to be able to work with someone that inspires you.”

J. Brown has found a winning formula. He has had singles reach the billboard charts consecutively for the past five years. When asked what his key is to stay consistent in today’s music business, when there is a lot of noise to cut through, Brown simply said, “just give the people what they want”. He mentioned that some artists work hard to create a certain sound, then they move on too quickly to something else, abandoning what made their audience gravitate to them in the first place. And for J. Brown, people have come to expect that real R&B with a new-school vibe.

Words by: TRUTH HAWKINS

The multifaceted creative is on a mission to open doors for budding talent while paying it forward in his local community

Community is the name of the game for Cam Kirk. When he’s not helming projects for the likes of heavy hitters such as Samuel L. Jackson, Latto, Missy Elliott, Yo Gotti, or Kelly Rowland to name a few, the Atlanta based photographer, videographer, and entrepreneur is breaking down barriers and paving the way for up-and-coming creatives. During a chat with Bleu Magazine, Kirk dishes on discovering his “why” and how that very purpose is shaping his career, today.

What inspired you to become a photographer and a creative?

I wouldn’t say I was inspired to become a photographer or creative. I kind of stumbled into it. I never really identified as that until I went to college. I graduated from Morehouse, and was working in the music world managing artists. I picked up my camera, honestly, just to document what we had going on because we couldn’t afford to hire photographers or videographers. So to be honest, my passion and love for photography and creating started out of necessity and a need to create for myself and the things I was working on and that’s what kind of led to my purpose.

Let’s talk a little bit about some of the things you’ve worked on. For example, you created the first ever label for creatives. What can you tell us about the process of how that came to be? The challenges you faced and how you overcame them?

My label (Collective Gallery) is my most recent business endeavor - the third business I’ve started. One of the main reasons I opened it, was because I felt there was a lack of representation for Black and Brown creatives, specifically, photographers, within my demographic. I remembered myself - about six years ago - reaching out to photography agencies trying to get signed and I was denied by everyone. I just kind of felt like ‘wow, there’s no one here to represent us, teach us, protect us, or give us the game.’ There was a void. So, that was the original inspiration behind it and having my studio (Cam Kirk Studios) when I started, my studio photography became more community based over time.

Originally, it was a solo practice. I’m a photographer. I take pictures [and] do my thing. When I opened my studio, I met other photographers and creatives and got to really hear their stories, needs and what they were lacking. I was able to build a company that could service those needs and fill that void for them and for myself. So that’s the root of it. The challenges that we’ve faced (every startup is going to have bumps and bruises along the way) is honestly just getting more people within the culture space to really respect photographers. That’s the big fight, to really respect and look at photographers, as artists, creators, entrepreneurs, and not just service people that just click a button. [It is] to really understand the full magnitude that goes into documenting our life and

document history. That’s what we do. So, that’s our biggest fight every day, but it’s a wonderful fight and it’s a good journey.

Love that! So would you say your inspiration has evolved more into a desire to create a community, ensuring that those diverse voices are heard and seen—that is the main driver moving forward?

Most definitely! You know, when I first picked up a camera, I realized I was really talented at it, [this was] ‘what’ the universe intended for me to do. But, it took me years to realize ‘why.’ My ‘why’ is that I was put here to use my platform not only to inspire other creatives to pursue their dreams but also open up opportunities, knock down walls and expand their resources and ability to be represented.

Now, what can you tell us about your new partnership with IW Harper?

IW Harper is my brand partner. They help me continue my community initiatives and endeavors. They also just empower and inspire me. This is my second year with the brand. So I’ll be working with them for the remainder of the year, and hopefully beyond, educating people on the history of the brand. At the same time, finding ways to utilize our combined resources to provide more opportunity to continue my ‘why.’ And I think that’s what makes the partnership really special for me.

Tell us more about these initiatives.

I utilize IW Harper to bring people together, for example, during a monthly happy

hour event which takes place at my office space. This is a time to celebrate other entrepreneurs, creators, but also to bring people together to unwind a bit after a long day, week or month of working. So, it’s a really cool networking experience—over board games, card games—during the last one, we played Monopoly.

What’s on the horizon?

Coming up, we have a really special initiative. I’m really excited about it! My Yesterday’s Tomorrow annual conference (which takes place on Martin Luther King Day). It’s a community conference that is completely free. It covers everything from business, music, art, and fashion. We might be adding technology this year. And, the only way you can attend is by volunteering to do community service with us. We host 10 to 12 community service events which roll out leading up to the conference. So, I’m really excited to have IW Harper officially a part of it this year to provide this opportunity for more people.

Very cool. To that point about providing opportunity for more people, what advice would you give creatives looking to get their foot in the door, or to make their mark, but who do not know where to begin?

My biggest advice would be to try your best. Try your hardest to find the answer to your ‘what’ and ‘why’ as quickly as you can. A lot of times you might know what you’re good at. Like, ‘I’m really good at this, or this just comes naturally to me.’ Now, I want you to take the time to self reflect, look back at your life, experiences, everything and figure out why. When you can answer those two questions, then you can lay out a roadmap for yourself - to where now, every opportunity, every project you do, you make sure it centers around that access point. If it does, do it. If it doesn’t, it’s a distraction.

Follow Truth Hawkins on Instagram.

The History of Fashion Through Books

Five books to read about fashion history

The fashion industry is well-known for its beauty and visually-appealing designs. Even when designs become surreal and bizarre, there is still a particular charm. It is fascinating how designers find materials and inspiration for their pieces. Fortunately, there are many books that discuss the creative process of designers while also painting a vivid history about the entire industry. Here are five books to check out for those wishing to learn more about fashion history.

Chanel: Collections and Creations

Chanel: Collections and Creations is a 2003 anthology book written by Danièle Bott. Chanel is one of the most renowned fashion brands. Using a combination of photography (some of which were previously unpublished), drawings and writing, Bott takes readers through a visual history of Chanel’s designs from the 1920s onwards. The book includes clothing, jewelry, fragrances and makeup, all of which are a distinct part of the Chanel brand.

Gucci: The Making Of

Words by: ERIC MUNSON

Gucci: The Making Of is a 2011 anthology book containing essays, commentaries, anecdotes and photographs that paint a gorgeous, dynamic history of the renowned luxury Italian fashion label. The book was created in conjunction with the new Gucci Museum in Florence and contains contributions from various authors and editors. The illustrated book focuses on Gucci’s origins, innovation and influence in the fashion industry. It also includes fabrication methods and how the brand became popular among high society and Hollywood.

Sneaker Freaker: The Ultimate Sneaker Book

The Ultimate Sneaker Book is a 2018 anthology book by Simon Wood, also known as “Woody” in the fashion industry. The 700-page book, which was written in conjunction with Taschen, spans more than 100 years of history. It focuses on the evolution of the sneaker industry coupled with Wood’s insider knowledge and vivid observations. Many brands, established and obscure, are featured in the anthology including Nike, Adidas and Converse. Although originally created to obtain free sneakers, Sneaker Freaker is now an internationally popular magazine specializing in sneaker news and culture.

The Chiffon Trenches: A Memoir

The Chiffon Trenches is a 2020 New York Times best-selling memoir written by fashion journalist André Leon Talley. The memoir focuses on Talley’s experiences in the cutthroat fashion industry while enduring personal struggles, rumors and racism. Throughout the memoir, Talley talks about his relationships with figures such as Andy Warhol, Karl Lagerfeld and Anna Wintour. Talley eventually became one of the biggest voices in fashion and rose through the ranks to become editor-at-large of Vogue.

Something’s Off

Something’s Off is a 2020 memoir by the recently-deceased fashion designer Virgil Abloh. In 2016, Nike recruited Abloh to redesign its iconic sneakers as part of a new promotion to “reinvigorate” the sneaker industry. Abloh used a combination of traditional design while also blending it with Dadaism, architectural theory, and avant-garde. In this book, Abloh documents his investigative and creative process to turn Nike shoes into a perfect blend of fashion, art and sculpture, all in one.

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Op-Ed Out of Office

78

Spotlight Golden Girls Kitchen

80

Icon Thierry Mugler

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Bleulist Black-Owned Clothing Lines

Say you want to HEAL? OKAY NOW WHAT

The notion of healing is a topic that is appearing more and more in individual conversations, on social media platforms, TV shows, movies, and panels. Essentially, the conversations are being had and I love to see it!

Moreover, see the thing is, yes, the need to be healed is being discussed, but the hard part is how does one heal, where does one heal, what is needed for healing, who does one go to for healing?

Many of you may or may not know, I am a mental health therapist, and many of my op-eds are centered around the importance of mental health and its impact on various people, places, and things. For this op-ed, instead on focusing on how our mental health is impacted, I wanted to opt to address the big question:

“HOW DOES ONE FIND THE RIGHT THERAPIST FOR THEIR HEALING?”

Listen, finding a therapist is like starting a new relationship. One would more than likely want to be with someone who is open-minded, non-judgmental, understands their needs, supportive, gets their humor, celebrates their wins, but most importantly a therapist that one is able to be vulnerable with. For this reason, I have devised a list of

questions to guide this audience to think about what type of therapist would be most beneficial to your current mental state, needs, and strengths.

STEP 1: WHAT IS YOUR REASONING FOR GOING TO THERAPY?

You may not fully know the answer to this question AND truthfully what will more than likely happen is, as you go through therapy, you will discover pieces of yourself that you will need to heal and unpack. Nevertheless, to start, I suggest identifying at least one reasoning for therapy. Once you know your need for therapy, you can start to explore therapists that specialize or can address your needs. For example, if you were sexually abused, there are therapists that specialize in sexual abuse. If you experienced a loss, there are therapists that specialize in grief, etc.

STEP 2: WILL YOU BE USING INSURANCE OR SELF-CARE?

Unfortunately, we live in a time where mental health does not have the best insurance coverage. It will be a great idea to get an explanation of benefits from your insurance providers to see what is covered and if there is a deductible OR/and co-pay. Moreover, if you do not have insurance or wish to opt for self-pay, you should make yourself a realistic therapy budget. Therapists typically see new clients once a week. When exploring therapists, you can ask if a sliding scale is offered. A sliding scale is a discounted rate that therapists sometimes offer to self-pay clients that cannot meet their regular rate.

STEP 3: WHAT IS YOUR PREFERENCE IN GENDER AND RACE?

MAKE

Essentially, ask yourself, who will I feel most comfortable speaking to? When thinking about this question, be unapologetic with your needs. Again, therapy is a vulnerable process and time when you may not be in control of your emotions or what comes out, so it’s best to be in control of picking who you are going to have these hard conversations with.

*Though I did not add religion and culture into this question, these are two items you

SURE YOU ARE GOING TO THERAPY FOR YOU. YOU CAN ONLY DO THE WORK IF YOU WANT TO DO THE WORK FOR YOU, NOT FOR ANYONE ELSE.

@SableTempest

may want to explore, depending on the role religion and culture plays in your life.

When you have decided the answers to the above three questions, start your therapist search. You can use resources like Psychology Today and Therapy for Black Girls to navigate therapists search engines. Because you will be aware of your insurance, gender preference, and needs, you can use those preferences to filter your searches.

Once you find therapists that you are interested in, contact each therapist, and request a consultation. Use the consultation to see if the therapist is a fit for you.

Questions and Statements that are helpful to ask during a consultation are:

1. Does the therapist have an opening for you?

2. Is the therapist virtual or in person?

3. Know your availability and see if the therapist can accommodate you.

4. What is the therapist’s communication style? Does it match your communication style?

5. In the event you are having a non-lifethreatening emergency/crisis, does the therapist make themselves available?

6. How does the therapist communicate with clients?

7. What are the scheduling, canceling, rescheduling procedures?

While these are some of my general questions and approaches to finding a therapist, please please please, do not hesitate to add additional questions for your needs. I hope this was helpful and I hope 2023 comes with more healing and more grace.

Words by: DOMINIQUE M. CARSON

A Golden Era Returns with Golden Girls Kitchen

Long before Living Single, Sex in the City, or Girlfriends got the green light; The Golden Girls dominated the small screen. A retired quartet living in Miami, Florida, The Golden Girls had American women in a chokehold for seven seasons every Saturday night on NBC.

The quick wit of Dorothy, the naïve innocence of Rose, the often unsolicited opinions of Sophia, and the sass and confidence of Blanche have been channeled into a one-of-a-kind experience.

Just 30 years from the series finale in 1992, the award-winning sitcom is reimagined with the Golden Girls Kitchen pop-up.

The formerly married foursome reunites for

the series reboot in the form of a restaurant and bar.

Now in Beverly Hills, the kitchen takes tour to other cities: New York City, San Francisco, Chicago, and appropriately, Miami. The sets are detailed and decked out in nostalgic hues of coral and teal. The Golden Girls Kitchen instantly plants you in the scenes we all grew to love – from the iconic kitchen to Blanche’s bedroom.

Each ticket includes a 90 minute reservation as well as your choice of a main dish and dessert. The immersive world is a pictureperfect replica of the classic comedy including its most famous scenes, memorable moments, and symbolic bits and pieces

– like Sophia’s lasagna and the signature Golden Girls dessert that fixes everything… cheesecake!

Designed with love, neither Shady Pines nor does St. Olaf seem like a prison or sad, dreary place that Sophia and Rose often described. Presented by Bucketlisters, the Golden Girls replica environment is detailed to heighten the imaginations of former viewers.

At the kitchen, St. Olaf Sweets – the dessert menu – includes a Blanche-inspired Georgia cookie, sundaes, chocolate cake, ice cream, and cheesecake in four variations (chocolate, strawberry, pumpkin, Oreo).

Sophia’s Lasagna and the Bacon Lettuce Potato sandwich are available two ways for vegan dieters. A Cuban sandwich, soup and salad, and a host of Shady Pines Sides also adorn the menu. Lastly, specialty cocktails are available at each and every stop. In heavy homage to the show, Blanche’s

bedroom is still the talk of the town. The time machine directly drops you into the boudoir of the arguably most unforgettable Golden Girl. The bedroom tales of Blanche and all her suitors lay in the mockup scene. The fabulousness of the southern belle is in detail from her bedspread to the carpet.

Photo ops throughout, custom-made menu, and a fully decorated lanai, The Golden Girls Kitchen is worth the time traveled back into the space that made the quartet famous on the small screen. From the same people that brought Saved by the Bell and Beverly Hills 90210 pop-up restaurants, the Bucketlisters successfully checked off the box marked “thank you for being a friend.”

Grab your golden girls and make reservations at the city nearest you via social media @goldengirlskitchen

The Designer with Daring

Thierry Mugler, the man who defied traditional fashion with his creative styles and his willingness to use theater to capture hearts and mind, died at 73 earlier this year. Mugler started his own fashion brand in 1974 and quickly set himself apart in the world of fashion by not being afraid to be himself. Mugler became one of the first fashion designers to send drag queens down the runway, a bold move in an era where being outwardly gay was still considered sort of taboo.

Mugler’s work remains immortal and inspirational, with his pieces being worn by high profile celebrities like Cardi B in the 2019 Grammys and Kim Kardashion at the Met Gala. Thierry Mugler came into the fashion industry at a time when minimalism was the trend of the day and wasn’t apologetic about his use of sexual themes and outfits that were suggestive on purpose. It’s undeniable that Mugler brought new life in the industry that reinvented what fashion can be.