Issue 14

SPECIAL EDITION SPECIAL EDITION SPECIAL EDITION SPECIAL EDITION SPECIAL EDITION

BOSS ISSUE 014

E-Magazine of Today’s Young Black Leaders

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Be your Own Success Story

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SpeciaRlT REPOide Ins

How important is education in Hip Hop? Exclusive Interview with Jermaine Dupri

J U N E

DISCOVER

a i r d n Do

1ST ANNUAL FASHION SHOW FOR LUPUS MICHAEL KEITH OF 112 & THE “S” FIRM

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Mission

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O

Mission Statement

ur Mission is to provide minority, and underserved youth with an outlet to discover their potential through literary content and accessible role models to evoke the spirit of “believing in one’s self� while teaching them how to create, pursue and believe in the path of becoming a professional.

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No matter how you define these abstract concepts, there are a few things that must be present. I've come to define both in a more tangible way: "progression." Education and success both can be defined by "progression"... moving forward and growing. As long as one of those are present, then you are truly successful or educated.

Remaining stagnant should never be an option when it comes to either. I often tell people that "without forward motion, there is nothing."

We as entrepreneurs, workers, or whatever your title may be, must be in a constant state of motion to truly pursue our goals. If that means getting more education, then get it. If that means moving to a different city, do it! Don't be afraid of what might happen, be excited about what could happen. The future is ours only if we understand that education doesn't end in the classroom and success is a constant motion. And remember, "without motion, there is nothing."

Howard J. Clay/ Publisher

Howard J. Clay Howard J. Clay is available for speaking engagements, clinics/seminars, as well as appearances for organizations, corporate and school events. He may be contacted at howardjclay@hotmail.com for booking.

@MR_HowardClay

How do you define "education"? How do you define "success"? Over the past few years of being the publisher of B.O.S.S., I've encountered many different answers. None of them right, none of them wrong- just different answers. Some associate education with school and success with money. Some associate education with knowledge and success with happiness.

EDITORIAL Editor in Chief : Drea Elizabeth LETTER TO THE EDITOR Please include your name, address and telephone number.

Letters may be edited for clarity or space EMAIL

MARKETING Marketing Director : Jeffrey Royce

discoverboss-emagazine@live.com

MAILING ADDRESS 849 Franklin Rd Suite 708 Marietta, GA 30067

Asst. Marketing Director: Desha Elliott

TELEPHONE 317.681.2818 SUBSCRIPTIONS

www.boss-emag.com ART JC3 Entertainment BOARD OF DIRECTORS Linda Tatum Michael Harris Aisha Felder Hollis Taylor Howard Clay Sr. 6 B.O.S.S. E - Magazine

CONTRIBUTING WRITER Jazmyne Byrd

CONTRIBUTING BLOGGER LaTresa “Tree” Cunningham

tent con

“Every man builds his world in his own image. He has the power to choose, but no power to escape the necessity of choice.” ~ Ann Rand

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In Every Issue INTERVIEWS 1ST FIRST HEALTH & FITNESS COLLEGE DESTINATION YOUNG B.O.S.S. ARTICLES

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B.O.S.S. SPOTLIGHT STUDENT OF THE MONTH ENTREPRENEUR COMMUNITY B.O.S.S. REPORTING (NEW!)

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ConGRADulations to all of the 2013 graduates!

In the past we have shared photos and acknowledged those donning cap and gowns, so I thought it would be appropriate to share my own daughter’s gradation from kindergarten.

There was an old church quote that says, “train up a child in the way that he should go, and when they are older, they will not depart from the training.” So, we have to start early.

We have to celebrate early and reinforce the idea that success in life begins in the classroom. As a part of B.O.S.S. E-magazine, I could not be any more proud of this young lady, but as a father, I am overjoyed for her moment.

Jariya, I am so proud of you and for what you have succeeded in and everything you will accomplish. Celebrate with me as we say CONGRATS to everyone graduating from kindergarten all the way up to Ph.D.! Congratulations on your accomplishments and let’s continue to strive for achievement and completion. Always remember to Be your Own Success Story!

~ Royce Clay/Marketing Director

B.O.

FAC

Ida B. Wells Barnett was a co-founder of the NAACP and the most famous African-American woman journalist of her time.

The first book published by an African American was a collection of poems by Phillis Wheatley.

Lewis Howard Latimer drew the patent drawings for Alexander Graham Bell’s telephone.

.S.S.

CTS

In 2001, Forbes Magazine listed businessman and BET founder, Robert Johnson, as an African-American billionaire.

At the age of 26, William Alexander Scott II founded the Atlanta Daily World (1928) which became the 20th century’s first black daily newspaper.

Romare Bearden loved painting so much that this 20th century artist created over 2,000 works in his career.

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ured Feat Inter vie

Each of us, famous or inf aren't, we should behave a ous. Because you can be s

Interviews are the backbone

of our magazine. The personal testimonies of the successful “Bosses” we speak with are priceless. Every issue will have featured interviews that you definitely do not want to miss! These interviews are enlightening, informative, and will, without a doubt, shape your life. What do you want to be when you grow up? Yeah, there’s an interview for that!

Dondria Nicole Fields never had to send a demo tape to an A&R. She never stood in line to audition for “American Idol,” nor has she ever joined a girl group to get her foot in the door. Nope. Dondria, So So Def ’s newest R&B singer with a stunning voice, got her big break in the music biz with the help of a $15 webcam and YouTube, the popular video-sharing website. But if you ask her, all of this – her online discovery, record deal and newfound music career – happened simply by accident.

“Before 2006, I had never heard of YouTube,” says the Texas native, who was introduced to the site by a friend. “I went up there to watch a fight that had happened at my school. I didn’t know people were singing on it.”

On a whim, Dondria bought a webcam and decided to upload a singing video of her own. Her choice: an a cappella version of Musiq Soulchild’s “Love.” Within two weeks, the video earned over 1,000 views and garnered tons of encouragement from visitors. Inspired, Dondria began searching for instrumentals that she could videotape herself singing along to. At the request of her rapidly growing online fan base, she posted various clips of herself covering songs from “Diary” by Alicia Keys to Rihanna’s “Unfaithful.”

However, it was her stirring rendition of Ciara’s “Promise” – which received over a million views – that took the budding singer from homebound diva to a complete Internet sensation.

“I thought to myself, ‘Wow, I really have something here,’” remembers Dondria of the overwhelming response to the video. “I didn’t get on YouTube to get a record deal. I was just having fun. But when I saw the feedback I was getting, I realized that a lot of people really liked my voice.”

One of those people happened to be So So Def CEO Jermaine Dupri, who tried for several weeks to connect with Dondria on both YouTube and MySpace. Thinking Dupri’s messages were from an impostor, Dondria initially ignored them. “I would get emails all the time from people claiming to be this or that. Most of the time, when I’d blow them off, they’d never hit back. But Jermaine persisted, so I called him up one day and the rest is history.”

Dupri flew the singer and her mom to Atlanta for what Dondria thought was a session with Jagged Edge to make a YouTube video.

However, Dupri surprised the young artist by offering her a contract.

"JD was so extra cool,” she recalls. “He just walked over to me, and asked if I was ready. My answer was, ‘I was born ready.’" Officially signing with So So Def in 2007, Dondria, then 20 years old, had a record deal. And to think, merely a year prior, the Southern songbird was just another small town girl from Sachse, Texas who got her start in music at the age of four by singing in church.

famous, is a role model for somebody, and if we as though we are?cheerful, kind, loving, courtesure someone is watching and taking deliberate and diligent notes. ~~ Maya Angelou

Dondria

ews

“My entire family sang, but I didn’t get passionate about singing until middle school when my choir teacher suggested I take voice lessons.” Dondria took voice lessons, competed in talent shows and over the years studied the likes of Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston and Etta James. She even spent a year at Tarleton State University as a music education major.

All of these experiences prepared Dondria for her long-awaited debut album Dondria vs. Phatfffat. Channeling her natural talent and years of training, Dondria pours her heart and soul into her first single, “You’re the One.” Written and produced by Dupri and veteran songwriter/producer Bryan Michael Cox, “You’re the One” is a timeless throwback to classic R&B and the perfect track to showcase Dondria’s range and vocal maturity.

"Dondria is like a young Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey or Alicia Keys," says Dupri. "There is nothing that the girl can't sing."

Longtime Dupri collaborator and singer/songwriter Johnta Austin also sings her praises. "Dondria has a soulfulness that is just crazy," says Austin, who recorded a duet with Dondria entitled “Crazy About Your Love.” “There hasn't been a voice like hers since SWV. When we were working together, I was impressed by how natural she was.”

Her debut album released August 17th, 2010, Dondria vs Phatfffat – (“Phatfffat” is a nickname she picked up in college as a contrast between her skinny physique and ravenous appetite for food) – features a diverse mix of soulful ballads, real R&B and straight up dance records.

“I’m so in love with this album,” Dondria gushes. “You can play it from start to finish without stopping. I love the feedback I’ve been getting from my fans.”

If you haven’t purchased your copy of the album yet, you are missing a treat. Dondria updates a number of online pages daily with content – from a cappellas to covers to silly behind-

the-scenes moments – and really leverages the power of the Internet to maintain her relevance and grow her million-plus fan base.

Dondria is also known for her mix tape series ‘Dondria Duets’ where she takes the top 10 Male songs of the decade and adds the female version with her own personal twist. She is currently working on her sophomore album, planning to release her first single from the album early this year.

Subsequently, Dondria’s keen understanding of social networking coupled with her raw talent and charisma set her apart in the music industry and is a sure sign that this rising star will be around for a long time.

“As an artist, you need to utilize every aspect of putting yourself out there,” says Dondria. “YouTube made it so easy. It allowed me to show the world the ‘real me’ – my real voice, pitch and presence. Now, with So So Def, I have the opportunity to become a real R&B artist and live a dream. And I’m loving every minute of it.”

For Booking Inquiries: Cynthia McCarty – The RodNCyn Corporation 469-233-4117 – cynthia@therodncyncorp.com

Photo credit : Nathan Pearcy Photography Wardrobe credit: CHAIdesign Studio

Mz Shyneka

@MzShynekadotcom Hot 107.9's Own... Giving you the daily Word on the Streetz News. #WordOnTheStreetzNews Follow @ WOTSN http://www.WordOnTheStreetznews.com On your Radio Hot107.9 路 mzshyneka.com

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B.O.S.S. caught up with Atlanta's Hot 107.9 radio personality, Mz. Shyneka at the BET Rap It Up concert at Clark Atlanta University right before she went on stage to host the show. Here, she shares a memorable encounter and some wise words for our readers.

B.O.S.S.: How has your education helped you in your career?

B.O.S.S.: Any words of wisdom for our readers?

Mz. Shyneka: Well, I actually fin-

Mz. Shyneka: Definitely believe

ished high school and got an internship at a radio station. Right when I was ready to start college, there was a lady who told me that if I really wanted to make it in radio that I needed to invest my time in the whole radio craft.

I didn't know that she was the COO (Chief Operating Officer) of Radio One... I had no idea who this woman was! She just walked up to me as I was getting off of the elevator! I guess she had been watching me for a few weeks and really wanted to reach out.

I was blessed to have really great teachers. I was always interested in doing the news and radio, so any projects that I had, they would always try their best to help me. I just had a lot of great teachers who supported me.

in yourself and set your goals. It may be a little cloudy since there are different things you may be good at.

But, just focus your energies and set goals, you can make it in anything that you do.

Tell’em You saw it in B.O.S.S.! @boss_emag

@mishon

SPOTLIGHT

E “

ducation inspires me because I am one of those people who loves to learn about and discover new things. In my line of work, I am always making new discoveries about my art and what it takes to be the best. Education really helped me connect the dots. Honestly, there was one point where I felt like education wasn’t doing that for me, but later on down the line, all the stars aligned and the dots connected and I realized how important education truly was. I actually matured personally and realized that education was important, especially with what I’m doing and what I want to do for my future. It helped me out a lot.

Education is important and I encourage people to stay in school. And to not just stay in school, but to actually be there for what it is you want to do. Follow through... a lot of people do not follow through.

My generation is the generation with the most information.

We have the internet. There was no generation before that had everything on one screen like we do. With [the internet] we have access to unlimited information. It’s time for us to take more responsibility for what it is that we are trying to do, and education can help our generation get there.

MISHON @Mishon

Joshua King Sr. Publicist | Fly Publicity Online: www.Fly-Publicity.com New York | Los Angeles | Atlanta Twitter: @FlyPublicity / @FlyPublicityLLC C: 404.934.9962 | E: Joshua@Fly-Publicity.com

SPOTLIGHT

SPOTLIGHT

“...letting people know, especially people who look up to us [as artists], that you can’t do thi without education.

You have to have an education...there is no way out of that.”

Jacob Latimore @jacoblatimore

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“Surround yourself with positive people. People who are about to drop out of school is NOT you hanging around the right crowd. Someone who cares and is positive would not let you make the type of decision that will hinder your life and dreams that you aspire to achieve...”

Sammie @princesammie

is

“At the end of the day, what “NO LOSING” wants to do is create a sytem that works and creates academic achievement for the African-American community.”

n

Sam Collier @samcollier

Tell’em You saw it in B.O.S.S.! @boss_emag

STOP YOUR BULLYING

COMMUNITY

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&

fter learning so much about the Stop Your Bullying campaign, B.O.S.S. E-magazine joined them for their end- of- theyear rally at Newton High School!

Photos by: WanderingtoMD

&

STOP YOUR BULLYING

I walked into Newton High School and asked a student in the main office to direct me to the auditorium for the Stop Your Bullying rally. She escorted me along with another young lady who I didn’t realize at the time was the host of the show- FlyMusiq. As we entered the auditorium, Fly made her way towards the stage while I stayed back in the empty audience.

A few minutes later, another young lady with the fiercest shoes came my way. She took a seat on the banister and swayed with the music as GLO took to the stage for his soundcheck. As the music settled down, I made small talk with this fierce shoed girl...

Lo and behold, I was standing there with Dondria!

Trying to keep my professional face on, Joy Youngthe reason we were all at Newton that day- greeted us and filled us in on the plans for the day. As GLO finished his soundcheck set and students began to fill the empty seats, Dondria and I made our way backstage to watch everything unfold and come together.

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Fly played host for the afternoon, beginning with her personal testimony. She confessed to the audience about being a bully and a gang leader: (paraphrased) “I used to bully this girl in school pretty bad. Years later, I saw her and she had no hair. When I asked her what happened, she told me she had a terminal disease.

She was dying and I had contributed to making her life hard.”

After a high-energy performance from GLO, Fly and Joy introduced the members of the Stop Your Bullying panel including Dondria, Jade Alston, Fly Musiq, and other guests. This group shared their own experiences with bullying, gave advice to the students encountering bullying, and offered up a few jokes and laughs.

As the afternoon ended with announcements for buses and parent pickups, William Mills, a graduating senior at Newton and the spearhead of the Anti-Bullying Society, was presented with the official Stop Your Bullying poster signed by everyone who was a part of the rally and his own custom made SYB sweatshirt to be made by Remmarc Zelyts.

All in all, the Stop Your Bullying rally at Newton High School was a great experience. It really gave the students, the guests, and the outsiders looking in an insider look at the effects of bullying and how serious it truly is. We look forward to being a part of next year’s rallies and everything SYB to come!!

The Stop Your Bullying initiative currently has several spokes-artists on their roster including, Sammie, Mishon, Alix Lapri, Torion Sellers, Key Swag 3000, Sam Collier, and Micah Kiyo. You can contact Stop Your Bullying on Facebook @Stop Your Bullying, Twitter @StopYourBully, Instagram @StopYourBullying, on the web at www.StopYourBullying.com, and via text- message ‘Stop Your Bullying’ to 84576.

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“Stop Your Bullying” is an anti-bullying initiative created to raise the awareness of students in schools of the causes and effects of bullying their peers. It shines a light on the severity of teens and young adults committing suicide because of physical and cyber bullying. “Stop Your Bullying” partners with high profile community leaders, entertainment business professionals, activists, actors, musicians, artists, athletes and entertainers who have a platform that would aide in encouraging students to make a free pledge to stop bullying. We have created a task force campaign, adopting each school we attend. It implements a plan of action to stop bullying in that school.

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DISCOVER

a i r d n Do After her humble beginnings in the small town of Sachse, Texas, former Youtube sensation and current R&B songstress, Dondria sits down with B.O.S.S. E-Magazine to discuss education, music, and her passion for the youth.

ISSUE 14

COVER STORYInterviewed by: B.O.S.S. E-MAGAZINE

Photo credit : Nathan Pearcy Photography Wardrobe credit: CHAIdesign Studio

Dondria: Any and everything that has to do with the youth, I’m passionate about. They are our future and that is where I prefer to put my efforts and energy into because they are going to be the next us! So, in general, that’s why I chose to be a part of SYB. I choose to inspire and I know from being in their shoes, a lot of times younger people don’t want to talk to adults and their parents. It’s important for them to have people my age- or younger- around who they can relate to and talk to and who can influence them in a positive way.

Dondria

B.O.S.S.: What made you get involved with the Stop Your Bullying initiative?

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When it comes to the music, I think the most important thing is the history [of the music] because it is where we came from and what we are inspired by.

Photo credit : Nathan Pearcy Photography Wardrobe credit: CHAIdesign Studio

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B.O.S.S.: How important do you think education is in the music industry?

Dondria: I think it’s very important. I know college is not for everyone, so some people may go into the military, some may opt to go straight into the workforce, or play basketball, or do music... I think it’s really important because it will help you find out who you are. It also teaches you to set goals, time management, money management, and how to network and create good relationships.

Those are just a few tools education can give you.

When it comes to the music, I think the most important thing is the history [of the music] because it is where we came from and what we are inspired by. Today, the youth are inspired by J. Cole and Lil' Wayne. They must realize that those artists were inspired by the artists who came before them and so on. I think it is important to know the history of R&B and the history of Hip-Hop because that is really where the passion comes from.

You may start off doing music as a hobby but after you discover where they came from and why they did it, people would appreciate you as an artist more. Other than that, it is always good to have an ed-

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ucation at the end of the day- especially in this world, the more educated you are, the further you can get in life. Everyone needs it.

B.O.S.S.: What do you think is the current state of education in the black community?

Dondria: I think it’s okay, unfortunately.

It seems as though where you live increases or decreases your chances or getting a good education. With that said, I think everyone should have an equal chance at education. At the end of the day, the people who really want it and the people who are really determined to be successful in life, they will do it, no matter what. They can find away.

B.O.S.S.: So, how has education benefited you in your career?

Dondria: It has benefited me in a number of ways. Math- No matter what you decide to be when you grow up, you need to know your MONEY! If not, people will take advantage of you. If you don’t know what you are getting or what you are entitled to, you can get walked all over.

Even though I know a lot of people who don’t like math, it is very important. My

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education has also helped me to be more open-minded and well-rounded.

Believe it or not, I used to have stage fright. When I would go to school and do all these presentations in front of my classes, those speaking opportunities gave me a chance to come out of my shell and help me get to where I am today. So, if I didn't go to the schools I went to and encountered the people and teachers I met, there would be no me... there wouldn't be a “Dondria”.

B.O.S.S.: If you had a teenager in front of you, what advice would you give them in regards to moving forward and not giving up?

Dondria: I would first tell them that if you give up and if you just throw it all away, you have lost. I know most people do want to drop out or quit because they are scared of not succeeding or because they are not confident in themselves, but your dropping out or giving up is you losing. Nothing is worse than not trying at all. You never know how far you can make it until you try.

There are so many possibilities in the world, and we all have gifts that God has specifically given to us- we have to use them to reach other people. I would try to find out what their talents and gifts are to help motivate them to not quit.

B.O.S.S.: What are some current projects you are involved with?

Dondria: Outside of music, I’m also doing fitness for young people. Fighting childhood obesity is really important to me, especially when they don’t get it at home. I always go to schools and just talk to the students just because. Not with any organizations but for career days [at the schools], I go in and write songs with classes. Right now, I‘m a part of a summer camp, and my title is fitness instructor, which has nothing to do with music, but the children don’t care, they are just glad I am there, trying to make a difference.

Photo credit : Nathan Pearcy Photography Wardrobe credit: CHAIdesign Studio

Fighting childhood obesity is really important to me, especially when they don’t get it at home.

Dr. Steve Perry

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@edottanswer

B.O.S.S.: What is your opinion on the state of education in the urban community?

I think it’s an understatement to say it needs improvement. I think a lot of the issues we have with education starts with poverty and the systemic societal negatives in the community. A lot of times education is not a priority because people are trying to pay their bills, they are trying to live… they are trying to survive and just “make it.” In some way or another, a big emphasis needs to be placed on the importance of education because a big key of social and economic success in this country revolves around getting an education. Just like anything else, getting an education needs to be promoted- it needs to be marketed so that people know

it is available and it is something they can have.

When you walk in a classroom, you don’t see teachers helping students figure out how to learn. They are just telling them “science, science, science” or “math, math, math…” The educators just expect every student to learn the material the same way at the same pace. It is important that they teach kids how to learn before they teach them what they should learn. It is the same way with music. Before you can truly get your message across, you have to grab your audience. This is what can improve the state of education… get the students to understand the best ways to learn and they will be more willing to learn the material.

B.O.S.S.: How has education been of benefit to you in your career?

My education has allowed me to become a more openminded person. It just taught me how to teach myself and learn from my experiences. Whether it’s from sitting in a classroom or on the job experience, you have to learn how to be a trainable person. The only true way to become that trainable person is through your experience as a student. It helps you observe and process information that would help you be successful.

B.O.S.S.: You have said that “everybody raps, but not everybody reads.” What does that mean to

you?

Everyone wants to rap- it’s the new “it” thing for people to do and be a part of. But, at the same time, if you don’t have the right information what are you saying?

What is your message? What do you want the people to take away after they finish listening to your music? If you decide to step into a leadership position, like being an artist, make sure you have something to talk about with the right information.

B.O.S.S.: As a college graduate/ student, what advice would you give to a young person who is considering dropping out of school?

Stop and think. I know as a young person you have so much energy that you just want to react- you just want to go. But stop and think about the decision. The decision you make now will determine how you live for the rest of your life. Not only that, but your family will depend on you and what it is you’re doing. If you don’t get an education, there are only a couple of options that aren’t great. It’s either, death, prison, or the gas station. (Laughs.) Not to say that you not getting an education is the end of the world, but you are definitely setting yourself up for a lot of failures down the road. With that said, think about your future before you make the decision to drop out.

---

inment nment

@sean_lyric B.O.S.S.: What are your thoughts on the current state of education within the urban community?

I believe that a lot of people don’t think that education is important. They think that they can just get into whatever field they want to be in without having to attend college or even basic classes. While you don’t necessarily need to do that, they see people becoming superstars at young ages so they think that school isn’t that important to be successful. When I was growing up, everyone would emphasize, “go to college. Go to college. Make sure you go to college.” It was a big thing then. Now, everyone thinks they can do without school.

B.O.S.S.: Do you believe the emphasis on education needs to come from parents or from the media?

I want to say both, but I would like to think that every parent already emphasizes the importance of education to their children. As a parent, you have to support your child in everything that they do whether or not education is a part of that since it isn’t something you definitely need to be successful.

B.O.S.S.: How has your education been of benefit to you in your career?

As a journalism major, my education helped me with music and my writing. With journalism, I had to be in front of an audience anyway, with giving speeches and just being around others. It prepared me for what I have to experience as an artist with being in front of others and delivering a message.

B.O.S.S.: Even with being an artist, would you ever decide to continue your education?

Yes! Journalism was always something that I wanted to do. Music and being an artist was never a part of my agenda. I was into sports, so sports broadcasting was what I was looking to do. To me, that wouldn’t be work, so I would love to be in school doing that later in my career.

B.O.S.S.: What advice would you give to a student who was being bullied?

First off, bullying is wack.

(Laughs.) Secondly, I would advise them to speak with an advisor or

someone who can help with the situation. I grew up in a time where I’ve seen people bullying, being bullied, being killed by bullies, killing themselves and others because of the bullying. I would say don’t take it upon yourself to react and retaliate. Get help and let them know what’s going on so the situation doesn’t need to grow to an extent it doesn’t need to.

B.O.S.S.: What advice would you give to a student who was thinking of dropping out of school?

You don’t want to drop out of high school. Now, a high school diploma is the least you can have in order to qualify to do anything further in life. In my family, if you didn’t graduate from high school, you were considered a failure. There was no way around that- unless of course you become super famousbut that’s another subject… It’s the most basic standard of education now, because where ever you go and whatever you do, they will ask, “did you finish high school?” If you don’t graduate high school you are not getting hired, no matter if it’s to work at McDonald’s. (Laughs.)

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@flystreetgang Admitting to being bullied and helping out others who were bullied, members of the Fly Street Gang sit down with us to share their thoughts about education and bullying.

B.O.S.S.: What is your opinion on the state of education in the urban community?

Jay: No matter what, it can always be better.

We can hire the best teachers and get the kids involved with different after school and music programs they can participate in. I think it should be a joint responsibility- a collaborative effort between the parents and the schools to help make education better for the kids.

B.O.S.S. How has education benefitted you in your career?

Phantom: Coming from my family, school was always a big thing. School was very important. It teaches you a lot of things that become important later in life.

Tah: With music it’s a lot or poetry, so for me, being in creative writing classes I learned how to structure sentences, how to identify rhymes and patterns… I feel like school actually taught me how to rap. It provided the

basis of how to have a conversation- a message in my lyrics.

Jay: Creative writing, english, grammar- it all goes hand in hand with writing a song.

School basically laid the groundwork for becoming artists from the beginning.

B.O.S.S.: With being an artist now, would you ever consider continuing your education?

Jay: Most definitely! I don’t see why not. They only thing that would stop me is the time.

But you will have time for anything if you just make time for what is important to you, especially if it can help you progress as a human being. You can never learn enough.

B.O.S.S. What advice would you give to a student who is being bullied in school?

Jay: First of all, just stand up for yourself.

You are giving them the power to bully you by not doing anything to stop it. By speaking up, you are letting that person know that

inment nment

this is not something you are going to tolerate.

Tah: If the bullying gets to the point where it’s getting too hard to handle, speak to someone about ityour principal, teacher, or guidance counselor. Someone who can help you resolve the situation if they can.

B.O.S.S.: What advice would you give to a student who was thinking of dropping out of high school and becoming a rapper?

Jay: I dropped out of high school, so I know. Don’t do it. Just don’t do it to yourself, it will only make your life harder. Education is the best thing that can happen to you. Keep pushing and tough it out because more opportunities will present themselves the further you continue your education. Don’t do it. Period. You may think that school isn’t for you, but you will need it at the end of the day. You will feel cheated if you don’t finish. You can be a rapper and go to school. You can even be a better rapper by furthering your education… you can put more content into your lyrics and by knowing exactly what it is you are talking about. A lot of artists go back to school to finish and some graduated from college.

So don’t think you have to drop out of school in order to be an artist because that is clearly not the case.

Phantom: It’s not worth it. I actually stopped going to school for so long that I was kicked out of one school and had to attend another. I had to make up so much work that I went to school in the summer and stayed for an extra two months just to fin-

ish. I don’t think making up for lost time is worth it.

Tah: I would definitely encourage them to stay in school. I would let them know how hard it would be the get a job if they dropped out. Now, you need a college degree to qualify for a “regular” job that used to only require a high school diploma. This choice affects their future more than they may realize in the present. They have to realize how hard it is to actually break into the music business.

You need school in order to actually become better at doing music- you need to take music classes, writing classes, and English in order to create any of your lyrics.

a good performer you need to be aware of the music theory behind the singing and song structure. It’s a lot of research. It may not be formal education, but it’s a lot of research and a lot of reading books and a lot of being aware. A lot of people think they want to do music, but they have no idea what it takes into making a great song.

@nicpaper

@jadealston “Education is extremely important to your career because honestly, you have to know the business part.

If you want to be a good writer or

“Education is something that nobody can take away from you. When you are educated, you can find your way and adapt to different situations.

That’s how education has helped me, I can adapt and know my way around.”

BeyondEntertain Entertai Beyond education all the time. I want to

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SPECIAL EDITION

be a major superstar and remain humble and I think that education will always be there with me until I’m older. I’m homeschooled now…

My favorite subject is history- I love to learn about the past. Just always stay focused no matter what…”

@itsjustinmartin

@itsjustinmartin “Education has always played a big part in my life. My mom is a teacher. Growing up, my mom was just pushing the idea of school- it was really important. After high school, I went to NYU for a while and I took a leave of absence, but I definitely am a big advocate of education. Learn as much as you can and taking advantage of that opportunity.”

@yingyangtwins

@torionsellers

@torionsellers “Education is very important in my life. No matter what, I will always have

“Education in my career is so important because ’nobody is going to hire a dummy, dummy,’ in the words of the great Red Foxx. For the youth today, it is utterly important because everything is now on computers.

They’re “millennializing” the kids.

They are wiping out the idea of the paper trail and putting it all on computers, but computers do fail. Computers make it so you can get “this” now- so what? I think we should not forget what started what we are doing now...”

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@keyswag3000 “I have a non-profit called the Nerdy 9 that enforces education and community service. I try to do ten hours of community service every month. We do a lot of food drives, coat drives- things to give back to the community. I definitely feel like without education you wouldn’t go anywhere, or get any jobs. I honestly feel like that’s the main goal in life, is to be educated. I really like science, math, reading- I like everything! You never know when you’ll need math, science or math and science; even at McDonald’s you might need some science.”

(Laughs.)

@alixlapri

@mobleymuzek

[Education] plays a huge role in everything I do because music is always great, but there are going to be other things you have to do in life.

Having an education is always great for that. In case it doesn’t work out, or if you want to be a doctor, surgeon, anything, you have to have an education.”

“There were different programs in school where I got interested in piano class, music and things like that. Lunch class was always my favorite. (Laughs.) Education plays a huge role in any profession. There is always something that you learned in school, even in everyday experiences.

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KNOWLEDGE What will you endure for it?

{Obama’s Commencement Speech at Morehouse College 2013}

http://harrisinfluence.com

41 B.O.S.S. E - Magazine

B.O.S.S. Econtinues to grow and expand and segment of our revol (we got tired of sittin

REPOR

-Magazine we are proud to present our newest lutionary magazine... ng behind the desk...)

RTING

REPORTING

Erica Dixon (Love and Hip Hop: Atlanta): I feel like the more you give, the more you are blessed. You have to give to receive, not necessarily to receive, but there is always someone in need.

There are a lot of people who you can touch- you don’t know whose circumstances you can change.

You never know, one day someone could change your circumstances.

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Tuesday May 21st, 2013 @ Wet Willies in Atlanta, GA

KaraokCeause! for a RL (R&B group Next): It’s sexy to see women giving back. Most women are concerned about their hair and nails. Beyond the Game is concerned about getting food, water, and schools started on another continent. Now that’s beyond sexy. They have their priorities straight. Education is the key to everything. There were a lot of things in school that I didn’t think would be an important part of life. But, everything from a recording contract to my social skillsschool really prepared me for.

It prepared me for life in a lot of aspects that I didn’t expect.

Education is one of the most important things.

Interested in Reporting for B.O.S.S.? Contact us at howard@boss-emag.com

Q (Former member of Day 26): My name is Anthony Que and I came to the event to support and continue supporting Chanita Foster. I always do events with her throughout the year. She is always doing charity events for kids in Africa. It’s not like something new, I am always coming out to support her. It’s very important to give back to the community and the world. There are a lot of kids and families who are unfortunate in life. If you have a shelter over your head and a set amount of money, it is still good to contribute a dollar or twenty-five cents to those who are less fortunate.

Even giving your time sometimes... people appreciate the conversation. Or Like Chanita, going in to different countries and contributing works too. You have to be educated to make sense of doing charity work, it’s all good for you to give back.

J. Holiday B.O.S.S.: How do you feel your education has helped you in your career so far?

J. Holiday: As an artist, you have to go through developmental stages, So being in a classroom setting definitely helps with doing interviews, being able to read cue cards, learning to speak well, and your social skills.

B.O.S.S.: What is your definition of a B.O.S.S.?

J. Holiday: A B.O.S.S. is someone who understands exactly what field they are in.

If you’re a B.O.S.S. in your field, you have to be the best at it no matter what. Take responsibility for whatever happens.

REPORTING

BET Rap It Up Concert at Clark Atlanta - Monday, April 22nd

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1FASHION ST ANNUAL SHOW FOR LUPUS

MICHAEL KEITH OF 112 & THE “S” FIRM

Photo credit: Silas Photography Group http://silasphotographygroup.smugmug.com/ 49 B.O.S.S. E - Magazine

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Photo credit: Silas Photography Group http://silasphotographygroup.smugmug.com/

According to the Lupus Foundation of America, there are approximately 1.5 million Americans and about 5 million individuals worldwide who are living with lupus. Lupus is an autoimmune inflammatory disease that affects women of child-bearing age more than it affects men, and is prevalent in individuals who are of an ethnic background, with African-American females in the forefront of the lupus patient count. For years the African-American community has overlooked such a prevalent disease, but Michael Keith and The Santiago Firm believe that enough is enough. “Everyone needs to get checked. Yes. It is that serious,” exclaimed Melinda Santiago (CEO of the ‘S’ Firm) at the press conference for the First Annual Lupus Fashion Show.

Along with inviting B.O.S.S. E-Magazine to the fashion show, many of Atlanta’s household names were in the building as well to show their support for the cause. Noted singer (and our cover model) Dondria, Love and Hip Hop’s Erica Dixon, Lisa ‘Left Eye’ Lopes’ sister, ReignDrop, actor Blue Kimble, celebrity chef Robert Stewart, along with many other distinguished guests, designers, models, and lupus warriors took to the runway and purple carpet where they looked amazing, confident, and stunning. Not only 51 B.O.S.S. E - Magazine

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ISSUE #14

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did Michael Keith, The ‘S’ Firm, and everyone involved want to bring awareness to the disease, but they also wanted to showcase the beauty and strength that is realized through the presence of the warriors.

The night ended perfectly with Michael Keith asking his mother to the stage. It was there Michael presented her with the award of recognition for the night while echoing the same words he had uttered a day before at the press conference: “make no mistake, this show is about my mom.” Michael’s mother is also a Lupus survivor and even from a distance, you could see the fighter within her. In the end, this event was about more than supporting a charity- a cause… it was about showing love, honor, and respect for those affected by lupus, whether directly or indirectly.

This was an amazing event and we are looking forward to next year!

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“Make no mistake, this is about my Mom...”

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E-Magazine of Today’s Young Black Leaders

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Be your Own Success Story

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SPOTLIGHT Dr. Will Moreland

"Education was the tool I used and continue to use to build the life I dreamed about growing up in Compton, Ca. It became my equalizer." http://www.willmoreland.com/

In the Music Industry, he is...

A GENTLEMA A

&

SCHOLA ISSUE 14

Exclusive Interview with Jermaine Dupri

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AR

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Lesson learned, “Never judge a book by it’s cover.”

Howard Clay/Publisher

After years of seeing, listening, and admiring J.D. on television, I would have never imagined what I experienced while interviewing such a legend. From his poise to his speech to his articulation, you would have never thought this was the same person who has produced hit after hit and worked with some of the industry’s greatest artists. You could have mistaken him for a professor at a prestigious University or College. Usually when I interview people, I’m thinking about the next question while they are talking, but when interviewing J.D., I found myself listening attentively while the “professor” spoke. From just a 15 minute conversation, I learned a lot. I learned the “character” and the “deepness” of a man who has seen his share of good and bad and has the experience to match the wisdom. I learned that you don’t have to take the traditional educational route to be “educated.” Life will educate you whether you are ready or not, so never count yourself out because you don’t have a formal background... never devalue the importance of life’s education. Finally, I learned to never, ever judge a book by it’s cover. When you think of “Hip Hop and R&B” you “‘I was con can’t not think about J.D.! Not only was he eloquent with his talk of current events, but he out of high knew the history and the past. Truly, with all the “mess” and lack of role models displayed in just about the urban community, here is a man I think everyone needs to get to know. Thank you Professor Dupri, I got my education today! you about Here are a few excerpts from our conversation about education.

B.O.S.S.: What do you think is the current state of education today?

J.D.: From what I hear and from what I see, a lot of kids are actually about their educationmore than ever. Take the twin sisters from Spelman College- That is the first time we've seen that happen. Even from seeing on Instagram how excited people were about Pres. Obama being at Morehouse College. With technology taking over, I think many black students want to go to bigger universities that have better education. My daughter's 15 and she's talking to me about going to Harvard. I look at her like, "where did you get that from??" (Laughs.) You see many black kids who are tech- savvy and they feel like they have to be amongst the people who are exposed to that side of education. Just from a black standpoint, I am seeing a lot

of students who are excited about higher learning.

B.O.S.S.: How has education and learning helped you in your long career in the industry?

J.D.: It's really interesting for me because I was considered a fool because I dropped out of high school. (Laughs.) I feel like education is not just about going to school. Education is about listening to people speak, watching what people do. It's really up to you when it comes to educating yourself. For me, not having that formal education, it pushes me to learn and absorb as much information as I can so that when I speak to people and am in certain situations I can figure out a way to get through it and get through life.

B.O.S.S.: What advice would you give to a student thinking of dropping out of high school?

J.D.: The people who go to college just have a better edge at life. With the way life is now, you just have to have that edge. You can no longer go through life thinking that you can just make it. You must have that thing everyone says you need to fall back on, otherwise you will always feel left out and like you're missing something.

nsidered a fool because I dropped h school...’ I feel like education is not t going to school... It’s really up to t educating yourself.”

59 B.O.S.S. E - Magazine

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“I believe that everyone on this planet has a gift to give. Discover what your gift is.�

"He Did It"

Tree’s Motivational Corner

ISSUE #14

In life we all have choices, and those choices determine the kind of life that each of us will live. I am very proud of the choice that my little brother made after he graduated high school. He chose to attend college on a football scholarship. Football was not in his heart, so he made the decision to transfer and be a student instead of a student-athlete. I knew that was the best decision for him because he had to follow his heart and I supported him and his decision.

A few weeks ago, I had the wonderful pleasure of attending my little brother's graduation. He graduated from college with a degree in graphic design. He made me so proud that Saturday morning. Not only did he graduate from college, but he graduated from my Alma Mater, Middle Tennessee State University, the largest university in the state of Tennessee. I can't explain in words the feeling in my heart.

Joy, happiness, nor excitement are enough to describe my feeling.

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As I sat through the ceremony, I wanted to jump up and down like I was at a basketball game, but I waited until they called his name and he walked across the stage to receive his degree. That day will always be very special to me for a few reasons. My brother and I are very close and we have a very strong and special bond, but it grew stronger that day that he walked across the same stage that I walked across years before. We are now both proud alumni of the same University. He was one of the best graphic design artists in his class, and finished in the top in all his work. He is not good at what he does, he is GREAT at what he does! To me, my brother has taken another step in the right direction. He is on a journey called success.

Education is very important and I am happy to see that more people are starting to realize that now. A couple of my friends that left college to go play in the NFL have gone back to school to get their degrees. I have seen tweets about basketball players that play in the NBA going back and either finishing or getting their degrees as well. It is happening more and more and it makes me smile every time I hear it. A degree is so much more than a piece of

www.boss-emag.com paper. It is an accomplishment of education, and education is what we all need. No matter what your gifts or talents are, education will help expand them and help you become more successful. Then we must define success. To me, success is accomplishing your dreams/ goals. It is not about how much money you make or what kind of car you drive. Being successful is about overcoming the obstacles in your life. It is about what you had to go through to get to where you are or where you want to be.

My little brother is the FIRST male in my entire family to graduate from college with a Bachelors degree. I am the FIRST person in my entire family to graduate from college with a Bachelors degree. To me, that is an accomplishment, a HUGE SUCCESS, and something to shout about!!! We are the two youngest of four siblings and two of the youngest in our very large family. I took the first step and my little brother followed my lead. He has pushed through many obstacles and He Did It!!!

He graduated from college and got his degree!

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I feel that we all need to encourage one another to continue getting an education. Our younger brothers and sisters will follow in our footsteps as we set the examples for them. Our friends will want to follow our lead also if we are doing positive things. It is true what they say. Reading is fundamental. And getting an education and a degree is PRICELESS! Encourage someone you know today to go back to school and finish that degree or to start a new one. And when you go to their graduation you will be so happy and proud and will be able to shout She Did It!!! Or, He Did It!!! But the best thing will be for that person to shout, "I Did It!"

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What does it mean to be homeless? What do you think of when you think of the concept “homelessness?” For most of us who may have never experienced it personally, we presume it to superficially mean “to go without much of anything.” It means not having food when you want it, it means not having a warm bed to go to at the end of the day, it means nonstop worrying about things you should have and ways to acquire them.

For individuals who have witnessed a third degree of homelessness through the individuals we come across downtown or along the highway, it is presumed that these people are illiterate, non-functioning members of society. For one homeless high school senior, this presumption clearly was not the case. Chelesa Fearce, a graduating senior at Charles Drew High School (Atlanta) draws a compelling picture of what it means to be her own success story- a true B.O.S.S. Chelesa will graduate from Drew with a 4.466 grade point average, a 1900/2400 SAT score, and as Valedictorian of her class.

In the fall, Chelesa is slated to enter Spelman College as a Junior. That’s right, the teenager has taken so many college level courses in high school that she will begin college as a part of the Spelman class of 2015! Chelesa attributes her success to spending nights in homeless shelters using her cell phone light to read her schoolbooks. If that wasn’t inspiring enough, Chelesa’s sister, Chelsea Shelton will graduate as Salutatorian of her high school graduating class at George Washington Carver High School (Atlanta). “Don’t give up. Do what you have to do right now so that you can have the future that you want.”

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Once you enter Spelman College, you have a lifelong sisterhood with every other woman who has ever crossed through those gates onto campus. But, what happens when you enter and graduate Spelman with your real- life twin sister? You become co-valedictorians!!! Enter Kristie and Kirstie Bronner- daughters to Atlanta’s own Bishop Dale Bronner. With both sisters earning 4.0 grade point averages, they are the very first twins in the history of Spelman to receive the designation of co-valedictorians. The third generation Spelman sisters were awarded their Bachelor degrees in Music and

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plan to become a part of their church’s youth ministry, record a contemporary gospel album, and write a book advising high school students how to achieve academic success in college and in life. While attributing much of their success to the power of prayer, the Bronner sisters recognize the value of their hard work and resilience. Turning down invitations from peers to go out and have fun during the week and making themselves physically ill from overexertion, these ladies found their balance and made history while doing it, together.

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Everyone wants a chance to see President Barack Obama speak whether they are for him or against him, but not everyone gets that opportunity. For the 2013 graduating class of Morehouse College, the guests, and the College’s faculty and staff in attendance at the rainy day graduation ceremony, that opportunity became reality. Delivering the College’s commencement address, Mr. President spoke on the responsibility these Morehouse Men now held in their hands by being the example the world needs to see. By prompting a moment of introspection not only among the graduates, but the guests in the audience, President Obama encouraged the students to pursue their dreams, but not solely for the purpose of garnering accolades or a large salary, but to empower those who seemingly have no voice for themselves. Here is an excerpt from the President’s commencement address taken from www.WhiteHouse.gov:

“So, yes, go get that law degree. But if you do, ask yourself if the only option is to defend the rich and the powerful, or if you can also find some time to defend the powerless. Sure, go get your MBA, or start that business.

We need black businesses out there. But ask yourselves what broader purpose your business might serve, in putting people to work, or transforming a neighborhood. The most successful CEOs I know didn’t start out intent just on making money -- rather, they had a vision of how their product or service would change things, and the money followed.

Some of you may be headed to medical school to become doctors. But make sure you heal folks in underserved communities who really need it, too. For generations, certain groups in this country -- especially African Americans -- have been desperate in need of access to quality, affordable health care. And as a society, we’re finally beginning to change that.

And finally, as you do these things, do them not just for yourself, but don't even do them just for the African American community. I want you to set your sights higher,” President Obama said. “It’s not just the African American community that needs you. The country needs you. The world needs you.” (White House, 2013.)

1st First

What is the “1st First”? It’s the first child from your family who is the first to go to college. Schools and scholarship committees call this “first generation college student.” Scary thought, huh? For a lot of Minorities, it’s an unfamiliar reality.

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Annette Conley @netta4eva

Everyone has a unique path they follow to get from high school to college. It can be very challenging at times, but it is all worth it when you make it to college. My experience was very different than the average student. God blessed me to have the right people and resources in my life to help me along the way.

I am a second-year finance major at The Ohio State University. I am originally from Akron, Ohio.

However, I moved to Cleveland, Ohio with my mother after my father passed. When I moved to Cleveland I got moved up a grade so I was the youngest student in my class. I attended SuccessTech Academy for my first two years of high school.

At the end of my 10th grade year my mother and I heard there were going to be some school closings. This meant that schools that were previously se-

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lective had to be less selective than before. We knew this meant that my school environment could possibly become worse, so we searched for a way out.

A good friend of mine introduced me to a program through Cleveland State University called the PostSecondary Enrollment Program. This allowed me to take all of my classes there for my last two years of high school. I earned over 50 credits and learned a lot about time-management. It was unfortunate that the program was not advertised throughout my high school more so a larger amount of my peers could have participated in it.

As time progressed and it became time to look at colleges, I had a lot of help from family, friends, counselors, and others. There were many colleges I was looking at, but ultimately I chose The Ohio State University. At the time it was the best choice financially. I was told that most people end up where they are supposed to be and I later found that it was where I was meant to be.

I was fortunate to be able to participate in an early-arrival program mainly for minorities called the Bridge Program. The program allowed me to live on campus for 3 weeks before the Autumn Semester started. I got acquainted well with the campus, explored many resources and met a lot of people. I also got a taste of what my first-year experience would be like. During the program I was required to take various classes and attend informational sessions. This program made my first-year experience a lot better than it would have been if I had not participated in it.

I am very grateful for the unique path I took to make it to college. The road was not always easy, but it was all for my good. I learned many things and met a number of wonderful people. Many people helped me along the way also. Therefore, I definitely will help many others while they are embarking on their journey.

Following your heart's desire will lead you in the direction your spirit wants to go. ~~ Oprah Winfrey

"Man's greatness consists in his ability to do and the proper application of his powers to things needed to be done." ~~Frederick Douglas

“The Black skin is not a badge of shame, but rather a glorious symbol of national greatness” ~~ Marcus Garvey

Education is a precondition to survival in America today.~~ Marian Wright Edelman

We all have ability. The difference is how we use it. ~~ Stevie Wonder

It is better to be prepared for an opportunity and not have one than to have an opportunity and not be prepared. ~~ Whitney Young, Jr. “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” ~~ Malcolm X

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“Eating healthy has been one of the key factors in how I maintain my lifestyle. Over the years, I have received many interesting comments and questions about how I keep my body in shape or about what constitutes the "perfect" workout. But no matter what questions may come, my answer is always the same, "It's not about what workouts you're doing, it's about what you're putting in your body and how you manage your eating throughout the day.�

Fos Rock is from the San Francisco Bay Area. They’re a group that is actually meeting rock and rap half way, and the sound is hardly compromising. B.O.S.S. interviews the lead vocalist, Fos, for his input on the importance of education.

B.O.S.S.: What is your background and how did Fos Rock form?

Fos: My mom and dad have been married for over 35 years. I have been blessed to have both of my parents in the household and very active in my childhood. They gave me the mentality that I could accomplish anything I wanted to... I had that strong family support. My grandmother was the choir director and my mom has a beautiful voice and sang in the church.

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Interviewed by: DrDesha Strayer University Grad Student B.O.S.S. E-Magazine Marketing/Writing Team

ARTICLE

Being at the church was a part of my daily schedule and when I became my own person I looked at music as an outlet in addition to sports, video games, etc.

So I picked up a saxophone in the sixth grade and fell in love with it. That’s where that whole live instrumentation comes from, it stems from the background of me playing in the band from 6th-12th grade. I learned to read and write music. It got me to appreciate other music besides hip hop and rap. I was listening to Beethoven and marching band stuff that the typical African American urban kid wouldn’t listen to. After high school, I stepped out and entered into the military. I did five years in the Coast Guard and I was stationed out there in the East Coast. That’s where I found my rock element because I was hanging around a bunch of white boys and all they would listen to in the gym was rock music. I was forced to listen to that music and it turned into an immense appreciation for it.

Afterwards, I came back to the city and started different rap groups here and there and tried to break into the market. The Hyphy movement came out of the Bay and that was an outlet for a lot of cats to jump on because the scene was booming. I decided to go that route and get some exposure. Well the Hyphy movement got messed up because of some knucklehead, they gave the Bay area a bad image and the Hyphy movement died along with the music. With that, I ran into some walls, I was trying to come up with the next sound and tried to be different.

I took it back to my roots, with the live instruments and tried to form a band. I like listening to The Roots, Linkin Park, Limp Bizkit, and all different sounds and that’s how Fos Rock developed.

I wanted to give that Hip Hop element with a band and still be Hip-Hop/Rock. I’m Fos the front man, the lead vocals, but it’s not just me, it’s the whole band.

B.O.S.S.: What makes you comfortable with being different?

Fos: It goes back to having that support of my family. My dad had me doing basketball, baseball, football. My mom had me at choir rehearsal

and excelling at school. I was an honor roll student. My mom and dad were strict, I had curfew and had to be in before the street lights came on, while my other homies didn’t. I was accustomed to being on a strict program, I developed quicker into a man and gave me that confidence to take risks. I’ve always been an extremist, I ride motorcycles and skateboards.

B.O.S.S.: How important is education to your career?

Fos: Education gave me the foundation of just running a business, being accountable, and being punctual. It gave me a way to carry myself in a manner that I can blend in with everybody.

Growing up in San Francisco, San Francisco is a melting pot. Growing up, my best friend was white and it’s a combination of how and where I was brought up, and the family support that I had. My mom used to be on me about my English and literature. She use to correct my papers with a red pen. She used to make me write my papers over and over again. I was able to articulate myself beyond the normal way of expression.

B.O.S.S.: Tell me about your non-profit organization, Occupy Love?

Fos: My friend and business partner went to Haiti and came back with this passion and fire that rubbed off on me and he was like ‘Bro, we have to do something to help others, we have to step outside the box.’ I had always volunteered in my community and gave back to educational programs like Aim High, which a San Francisco program that prepares 7th and 8th graders for high school. So my friend’s passion rubbed off on me and we took up another project that a non-profit had trouble finishing the funding. We did a few concerts and fundraising and we were able to raise the money through our music and fund this commitment that this project called A Kitchen in Kibera. Kibera is located right outside of Nairobi in Africa and it’s the world’s third largest slum.

We went out there and built this kitchen and just seeing how the kids in Africa embraced us and how we touched their lives, was a great feeling. We knew that we had to do this on a consistent basis. We formed Occupy Love Worldwide

and our mission is to spread love through entertainment, help out with deprivation across the world, and help out with other organizations who are doing big things but just don’t have the resources to do so.

B.O.S.S.: What’s your advice to the youth of today?

Fos: My advice to the youth would be to never give up.

Never limit yourself. Never put a roof or a cap on your dreams. If you do so, you have already defeated yourself. Believe in yourself.

Have faith. Pick a role model- someone you can look up to, whether a celebrity or even someone that’s in your house. My father is my role model. Find someone you can attach to who is positive and who gives you that extra support and that confidence that you need to excel in life.

Everything and anything is possible through prayer and faith and by believing in yourself. Also, a lot of kids see all the glitter and gold, but they don’t know all the sweat and the pain that went behind the glitter. I can say that I was educated, I served my country and I wasn’t a pimp or sold drugs. I have the same musical talent that a lot of these other cats, but I have more positivity to Tell’em You give and to saw it in spread.

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It's (always) that time of year

when high school seniors and college students begin the FAFSA process.

FAFSA? What do these abstract letters mean? Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This application is oh-so-important if you want/need to be considered for financial aid.

What you need: As a high school senior or college student you will need the following information to complete your FAFSA. 1) YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION. Make sure you have your social security or tax ID number available. Also, you will need your ID/driver's licence number as well.

2) FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR YOURSELF. Did you work in 2011? If so, you will soon receive a W-2 form from your job and if you filed an income tax return you will need those documents as well. Lastly, if you have any bank accounts in your name, you will need your current bank statements. Use this income info as needed.

3) YOUR PARENTS' PERSONAL, EDUCATIONAL AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION. Have your parent(s) or their info available while completing the application. You'll need their ID numbers, income information for 2011, and their education level. Did they complete high school, college, have a vocational certification? All that goes on your application.

4) YOUR (PROSPECTIVE) COLLEGE INFORMATION. For seniors, you most likely have a list of colleges you have already applied to and those you are planning to complete admissions applications for.

To file a FAFSA you will need all the school codes for all of the schools you have and will apply to. In this section, you will need to state whether you will be living on or off campus.

You do not NEED information for both parents if one parent's income will not be considered as a way to pay for your education. In simple terms, if you have lived in a single parent household all of your life, you will only need the information from the parent you have lived with. Only stipulation: You must NOT be able to get parental info in order to not use it. A deceased parent, a parent who you have no contact info for apply here. For those students who have lived in foster care, or otherwise a "ward of the court" you will not need to provide any parental information. Lastly, if your grandparents or any other family outside of your biological or adoptive parents are your legal guardians, you can NOT use their information to file your FAFSA.

LET'S GET STARTED

Now, you are equipped with what you need to complete your application, it's time to log on and get started. Here is a short step by step guide on completing the FAFSA.

1) Head over to the official

FAFSA website at www.fafsa. ed.gov. This is the official site of the FAFSA application. Any other website you come across claiming to be a FAFSA site but does not include .ed or .gov in the URL, please be cautious about entering any personal information.

2) Click the "Start Here"

button. You will be directed to the first "Student Information" page. Enter your name, social security number, and birthday when prompted.

THE BASICS:

Federal aid comes in different forms. There are grants, work-study opportunities, subsidized loans, and unsubsidized loans.

Grants: free money you do not have to repay; comes with stipulations- a certain amount of credit hours per semester, certain GPA, or Financial need. The money is paid directly to your college.

Work-study: Federal program where you apply/attain a job on-campus and use your pay to cover any needs you may have. The money is paid directly to you.

Subsidized loans: money you borrow that must be repaid after graduation or if you drop below halftime student status (usually less than 6 credit hours a term). With this type of loan, the gvovernment pays interest while you are in school.

Unsubsidized loans: money you borrow that must be repaid after you leave school. With this type of loan, interest accumulates while you are in school.

3) You will be prompted for a Personal Identification Number (PIN) for

either the student or a parent. If this is your first FAFSA application, you will need to apply for a PIN. Follow the prompts and enter the necessary information. You will be sent a PIN via email. Both you and your parent(s) need to apply for a PIN. Your PIN is considered your official signature for the FAFSA. This is how you will sign your application at the end of the process and how you will log in the the website when you need to make changes and renew your FAFSA for the next year.

4) Enter in the necessary information. Once you officially log on to the FAFSA application, the website will take you step by step through each section. Before any financial sections, you will be prompted to complete a "worksheet". These worksheets help you visualize the information and then transfers the appropriate numbers to the actual application. All in all, it is a calculator used to help you simplify the process.

5) Pay attention to your SAR , EFC, and DRN. You will get this information

once you submit the application.The SAR is the Student Aid Report. This is what gets sent to the list of universities you claimed you wanted to be considered for financial aid. It summarizes all of your information, so look it over and make sure everything is correct. If you find anything wrong with it, you can make corrections right away. Your EFC is your Expected Family Contribution. Based on the correct info you provided on your FAFSA, the EFC is the amount the system assumes your family will be able to pay out of pocket. This is in no way a number you and your family should use to determine whether or not you will be able to pay for college. The computer/ FAFSA system generates it, based on this application. If you think your EFC is incorrect, re-check your SAR and make the appropiate corrections. Lastly, you will see a DNR. Along with your PIN, you will need this number to make corrections after a FAFSA is filed.

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AFTER FAFSA 1) Check with each of your listed colleges. After your FAFSA has been submited and reviewed by the financial aid offices at the schools you have applied to, contact them to ask if you need to submit any other documents to complete your file. These documents can range from court documents stating that you are a ward of the court, to institutional financial aid applications, to scholarship applications.

2) The financial aid award. After you have applied, been accepted, and submitted your FAFSA, a college will now send you a financial aid award, either as a part of the admissions welcome package or electronically. Once you recieve all of your aid awards from each school you have been accepted to, review them carefully. Compare the cost of attendence (tuition, room and board, expenses) against the amount of aid a school is offering you to determine your unmet need. The FAFSA website has great information about comparing financial aid awards. Check it out at https://studentaid2.ed.gov/GetMoney/pay_for_college/award_compare.html.

3) Next year. You will have to renew your FAFSA application every year you will be in school in order to be considered for financial aid. The process is essentially the same, except most of the information will be prefilled with last year's info. Make sure you update changes in your ID/driver's licence number if you have changed your residency and school info if you plan on transferring.

REMEMBER: The application for FAFSA opens January 1st. It is advised to complete your application as soon as possible after that to ensure you receive your maximum amout of aid. By filing a FAFSA in January of your senior year in high school, you are applying for financial aid for the following school year. For example, the senior class of 2013 will begin their financial aid applications January 2013 to receive aid for the 20132014 school year.

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To get all your financial aid related questions answered quickly, follow our friends on TWITTER! www.twitter.com/fafsa

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