Sept 2017 digital issue by Bronze Magazine

MAGAZINE

BRONZE SEPTEMBER 2017

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Guest Editor, Author Mya Kay shares encouragement for entrepreneurs

Adele Givens “The Queens of Comedy” star still reigns

NYC DJ Lady D Wells

Paternity Court’s Judge Lauren Lake on “Limitless Living”

on how she keeps her career going in a male dominated industry

Couture Celebrity Fashion Designer Marco Hall on “staying true to himself

Lovie Simone The OWN Greenleaf Star discusses her role on the hit show, her first big break, and what she wants others to know about her

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Fill, Heal, & Restore: A Story of Faith Interview by Aisha Powell â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Edited by Mya Kay

God does not waste the pain or process he is putting us through. He is ultimately putting us in a position of elevation, power and purpose. — Jenny Christian

Everything happens for a reason, right? But when you lose your job, financial stability and hearing all at once, the reasoning doesn’t seem to make sense or be in your favor. For Jennifer Marie Christian, this was a reality that she did not see coming. As her health plummeted, so did her bank account and sense of self worth. Why was this happening to her? A friend of hers pushed her to go with them to a familiar place. Little did she know this trip would be the spark to her getting healthier, gaining hearing and, most importantly, finding God again. Growing up in the church, it took this scare to rekindle her Christian roots and make them even stronger. Once her friend reintroduced her to church, Jenny finally felt at peace with herself; it was the only place she could go that felt like home. Jenny is now the founder of the website “Fill. Heal. Restore.” It is dedicated to sharing her story and reaching out to others to restore hope in God and all aspects of their life. Jenny’s testimony is one of losing everything, in what seemed to be a series of unfortunate events, to gaining it all back and then some through putting your life in God’s hands. I had the pleasure of interviewing Jenny for Bronze Magazine on her health, faith and advice for Christians. How fast did your health decline after being laid off? It seemed like it was almost immediate? Yes, it did. I got laid off, but was supposed to still work until the end of year. Unfortunately, there was no more work to be done, so by the end of October I had officially stopped working. That was when something that I thought was the common cold started to get to get worse. I went to many doctors and they couldn’t tell me anything. As my health went down, I went to see specialist after specialist and got no answer. This went on well into Christmas. And you couldn’t hear correct? Yes. For some reason there was fluid in both ears. The first doctor said it was an ear infection, but she went on vacation for Thanksgiving break. So

I went to another doctor and he said there was fluid in both ears. Neither doctor could tell me why there was fluid or could explain the cause for anything. Did you tell your mother about your health or was it a secret? I didn’t initially tell her. Like most people, I didn’t want to worry my parents. But as it got worse I had to tell her cause I needed my prayer warrior on my side. I had her and my friends praying for me; I actually did not tell anyone in the beginning except two of my best friends. One, I am a private person; two, when you’re going through something this deep, you start to feel ashamed. Social media always shows you how everyone else is living the good life and are happy, while you’re struggling. happy, while you are struggling.

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You said you grew up in the church, did you initially feel a bond with God or was it when you went back to church after the incident? It definitely took me straying away and coming back to build a relationship with God. My mom introduced us to church very early. We ( me and my siblings) were in the choir and in Sunday school, so there were things I did out of tradition and routine. I did believe in it, but I did not have the solid foundation with God until this situation where I had to come back and strengthen the bond I had. I had to return and dedicate my entire being to be devoted and committed to Christ, to experience Him in a way I had never experienced Him before. Do you think it is a common plight for teens and adolescents to stray away from the church? I think it is pretty common for young believers to stray away from the church, especially those who are raised up in the church. Some do it to have freedom, some have no interest in the church; we all stray away for different reasons. I remember my reason was because I found it to be kind of boring. I grew up in a small Baptist church and I loved the Church and the members. I still have a relationship with the pastor and some members to this day. However, I just found church boring to me. Back then, I did not see the ultimate significance of having a relationship with God. It took me getting older, wiser and going through life that caused me to answer the sense of emptiness I felt It takes going through things that you couldn’t fix on your own, to find hope in something higher than you.

Remind them of the scripture that says, God will never leave us or forsake us. That is one of the things we always have to remember, especially when going through tough times. Another thing I will say is that even though it may not feel good and seems horrible, God does not waste the pain or process He is putting us through. He is ultimately putting us in a position of elevation, power and purpose. Just hang in there because God is not a God of confusion or just putting us through a horrible life. We have an ultimate purpose and as long as we remember that, we can push through. Also having a solid circle around you that is praying for you and supporting you throughout it all. For Christians who aren’t succeeding in their professional life, what would you tell them is a potential reason and how to manage not feeling like they’ve failed? I’ve been there. I would first say to start with asking God what your purpose in life is. When our steps are ordered, He will elevate that purpose. When we allow Him, He will elevate anything. But when we act in our own ability, we are setting ourselves up for frustration, failure and deceit. We also have to make sure that our passion lines up with the purpose that He has for us. My beginning and end to this question is to seek God first, to see what His direction for your life is and allow Him to lead you there

What is a way for teens to have and maintain a relationship with God without having to stray away from the church?

How can you discern what God’s plan is for you and what you want for yourself? Also, how can you determine or understand how to put God’s plan before your own?

A way to reach out to God is to simply pray. By pray, I do not mean to overwhelm yourself, but just spending time talking to God like He is your best friend, cause that’s ultimately who He is, the best friend you’ll ever have. Teenagers are going through much more than they are willing to express, so even in those moments, praying is the best way to just reach out and speak to God. That is the best way to just feel Him and have Him work in your life.

I would say, if you are hitting a lot of frustration or road blocks, not to say that you won’t deal with any when you are in purpose, but if you are coming against a lot, stop and pray and wait to hear from Him. Hearing from Him can come in many different forms, in your heart, in your spirit; it can be someone saying something that sparks something in you; or something you read that confirms what you were thinking. Just ask and wait for Him to confirm.

The feeling of being “abandoned” by God is very familiar for Christians or people who don’t happen to see God working fast enough in their life, as it was with you. What advice would you

give to people to overcome this feeling or is it a natural stage in being a believer?

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Have you had to lose any friends or people in your life in your journey to being a testimony to God’s work? I have but it was also a part of my own journey. In trying to find my way, and finding God; I hit low moments. In those moments I knew I was pushing people away, and being mean spirited because I had so much in my mind. So I had to lose a couple valuable people through this process and that was very unfortunate. But I learned so much from it. I learned to appreciate the people I do have in my life. I wouldn’t blame God for any of that, it was a lesson that needed to be learned and I became a better person from it.

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It takes going through things that you couldn’t fix yourself in order to find hope in something higher than you.

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What are you biggest battles today? And how do you deal with it? My biggest battle, and this is a very transparent moment for me, is being slow to anger. I am very quick tempered at times, especially when I feel like I am being mistreated. So, I have to stop and calm down and say a quick prayer. I then tell myself, “Alright. Be cool, be cool, it’ll all be fine.” I either start talking to myself or I vent to a friend to get it off my chest, but I always try to stay quiet until I am calm. To anyone who is afraid of allowing God to control their life because they have been taught to have such explicit powers over their actions, what are some ways they can let go? For me, the question was do you want to serve God and let Him be in control or do you want to be the God of your life? If you want to be the God of your life, you have to be responsible for

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every fall, frustration and that is going to be hard. I do not want to be the God of my life. I want to serve a God who has all the power. So, I would say that I would be more fearful to lead myself, than allowing the higher power, God Himself, to lead me. For non-believers who haven’t allowed God into their hearts, what, if anything, is something you want to tell them that could change their minds? In those situations, I do not say anything. I let them see how God operates in me. And when they go through any situation they will probably ask me about God in which I can direct them. But I do not take it upon myself to go up to people and say, “Hey you need God in your life,” I don’t like to project that onto people and I don’t think that is a very effective way of inviting God into anyone’s life. I like to live a life that’s pleasing to God, that people can see and if they ask about God after seeing Him in me, that’s my way in.

Encouragement for the Entrepreneur You Sow, God Grows: 3 Tips for Making A Drought Work for You Written by Mya Kay Mya Kay, born and raised in North Philadelphia, is a best-selling celebrity author, speaker and literary coach who believes everyone has a story to tell. She has been honing her craft since she first discovered her calling for writing and publishing ten years ago. She has published eleven books and a non-fiction guide, Don’t Time Your Masterpiece, Take Time to Write It: From The Inside Out. Mya Kay is currently signed to The TMG Firm as an author and was the first person in literature to release three books on the same day (April 4, 2017). in addition to being a writer, Mya is an entrepreneur and owns a baby apparel line called, Baby Fever Apparel babyfeverapparel.com @writermya | www.writermya.com We’ve all experienced one in our business. A drought. It’s a season where we ask questions like: Did I move too fast when I started this business? Did I implement a strategy too soon or not fast enough? Were my social media or marketing efforts enough? Why isn’t my business growing? If this is you, I encourage you to keep reading. What I’ve learned as an entrepreneur is that every business has seasons of drought. If you watch Jobs, the Steve Jobs movie featuring Ashton

Kutcher, you see Apple go through several droughts (if you haven’t watched it and you’re an entrepreneur, you NEED to see the movie). If someone like Steve Jobs, who started with no culture influence, but knew he had a gift and a unique set of skills, could make the difference that he did, then you are no different. God’s favor isn’t fair. That’s why during seasons of drought, you have to press in and press on. You aren’t a bad person nor are you necessarily doing “something wrong”.

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Even Elijah prayed for rain and had to send his servant back several times before a gray cloud appeared. God always operates by faith and obedience. Perhaps you’re in a season of being reshaped or He sees something ahead that you can’t see. We serve a progressive and creative God. He can see six months down the line where you can’t. Perhaps he paused your business flow so that you could download a new strategy into your spirit - something nobody has done before. If you follow Him and work on the strategy or plan He imparted to you, your business may go further, faster than with your own human efforts. We have to stop looking at God as a genie in a bottle whose limited to our understanding or our ideas. He’s a limitless God who has an infinite amount of resources to get you through any season of your business, especially a drought. Specifically, you have to remember that all you can do is sow the seeds (market, build the website, promote via your social media networks, etc.) and God brings the increase. 1 Corinthians 3:6 (KJV) states: I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. That means you have a part to play and God has one. For example, look at your social media efforts as you planting, a follower sharing or retweeting that post as the watering; but without God bringing the increase, it would stop there. Don’t be so hard on yourself when you know you were given a vision and you’re being led by the Spirit. If you truly believe that, then you have nothing to fear.

Photo Credit: Neosha Gardner for CreateHer Stock

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Specifically, you have to remember that all you can do is sow the seeds (market, build the website, promote via your social media networks, etc.) and God brings the increase.

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Photo Credit: Neosha Gardner for CreateHer Stock

Here are three tips to growing during a drought: 1. Remember that business growth also requires personal growth. You may feel your business has stopped growing, but that doesn’t mean you should. Also, be careful not to view at it as your business has stopped growing. Perspective plays a large part in God moving on your behalf. Instead, say “God is pausing me for a second because there’s something I need to learn or see. Holy Spirit, reveal it to me and give me the strength to follow through.” 2. Step away from the computer. We live in a society that says if you aren’t working 24/7, you aren’t ready for success. That’s a myth and God’s Word doesn’t back that up. Hebrews 4 talks about a rest that you have to be passionate about entering. With that, stepping away from your business during a drought can help you because you’ll come back with a renewed mind. Seek God and ask Him to show you how long you should step away and allow Him to fill you during that break.

3. Help other business owners who are getting started in your field. You read that right. They are not your competition. One of the greatest ways to grow and the quickest ways to see God move on your behalf is to bless others in the area where you are strong. It will take nothing from your anointing to help another young woman start her business. Maybe do a free tele-class or webinar giving tips on how to start your kind of business, or any business. Remember - everyone has a gift and talent. The way God uses them and theirs will be different from the way He uses you and yours. Of course we all want our businesses to flourish 365, 24/7. I mean, wouldn’t that be awesome? But even in business God wants us to exercise our faith muscles and that ultimately comes through trials, overcoming obstacles and tests. Don’t fret during a business drought. Ask God to help you grow in other areas while you’re waiting for the next overflow.

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Photo Credit: Neosha Gardner for CreateHer Stock

Here’s a prayer I wrote for entrepreneurs. It’s simple, yet so powerful. A Business Prayer: Father, help me to realize this dream you have given me and do all that I can to manifest it in the natural. What I loose on earth is loose in heaven. Today, I loose the freedom I need to walk boldly into my destiny, not swayed by anyone who doesn’t believe in me and I will remain adamant to see it all come to fruition. Take away all doubt, fear and unbelief in me and replace it with soundness of mind, peace in my spirit and restoration in my soul. I move forward today, taking baby steps, understanding that small beginnings are necessary to get started. I declare that I will not rush the process, the journey or Your hand to provide for me in Your timing, but I will trust Your guidance, Your leading and Your wisdom to bring it to pass in the right season. Help me to remember that you can do more in a second than I can do in an hour. All I have to do is start and keep going. I believe, in Jesus name, Amen! Meditation Verse: Psalm 37:23 (Amplified) The steps of a good man are directed and established by The Lord when He delights in his way, and He busies Himself with his every step.

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Photo Credit: Isha Gaines for CreateHER Stock

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Girl on Fire The Rising Star of Lovie Simone Interview by Jamie Joseph An 18-year-old beauty queen is an understatement when it comes to Lovie Simone. A twin sister, makeup guru and passionate actress, Lovie is sure to turn heads in the industry as she grows more and more confident in her career. She currently plays a troubled Christian teenager from a prominent megachurch family in Oprah Winfrey’s television series Greenleaf, a seemingly “opposite” ego than the Lovie we met in an exclusive Bronze interview. We can all learn to be a little more radiantly positive and compassionate by example of Lovie. Get to know more about the beautiful New York native and our youngest cover star to date...

Photography by Eli Joshua Adé

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Was it always your dream to pursue acting? At what age did you know you wanted to become an actress, and why? How did you start your acting career? My acting career started off when I was about 9 years old and I saw an ad on Nickelodeon that said, “Do you want to be an actress?” and I was like, oh my gosh yes, I do, yes I do! Because I was always so dramatic, so once I called the number and they said classes were going to be $6,000, I thought, wait a minute, that doesn’t sound right. So, I went to this other class, and at the end of the training camp I met my manager. I had always wanted to be an actress! When you landed your first role, I believe it was an advertisement with JcPenney, what did you learn from that first experience? I auditioned right after school, so I was rushing to the audition while in my school clothes, and I thought, ‘Oh my gosh, I didn’t even get to put on the right outfit,’ and I was freaking out; I was in like sixth grade. So, I went into the audition and they asked us to dance to ‘Party in the USA’ by Miley Cyrus. I was thrown off because I had no idea they were going to ask us to do that. So, we were all dancing and having fun, and afterwards I walked out and thought, ‘Yeah, I’m not going to get it,’ and then they told me I had a call back! I didn’t even know what a call back was. So, on the call back they asked, ‘Are those your school clothes?’ and I said, ‘Yeah, I just came from school.’ They told me that it was actually a back-to-school commercial, so I got the part. Was ‘Greenleaf’ your first big break into the industry? Yes, Greenleaf was definitely my big break because this is where I really get to showcase my acting and my versatility. Before this show, it was all small stuff.

Do you relate to Zora in any way or face similar struggles? How so? In what ways do you differ? We differ with the whole drug usage and being a bad influence. That’s the only way we really differ. Other than that, when I was in high school I did have trouble getting my grades up for a while, and Zora has that same issue. When I enter a room, I always need people to know I appreciate their presence, and I feel like Zora has that same spunky personality that’s inviting--so it’s kind of easy to befriend her. That’s our similarities. How has your character transitioned in the last two seasons? I think she’s becoming more confused as to what relationships have to give. She doesn’t know priorities right now, and she’s still struggling with school, her relationship with her cousin, her parents, her boyfriend-- so she’s just trying to figure everything out right now. She went from knowing everything to knowing nothing. What has your experience been like working alongside Oprah Winfrey? At first, it’s just like ‘I’m star-struck and I can’t believe I’m here,’ and all those kinds of emotions wrapped up into one. But when I got there, everything that I thought was going to happen and everything I thought I was going to feel vanished because it felt like I was with family. We’re all just actors that know what it’s like to be black in Hollywood. It’s just so reassuring to see people that look like me going in a good direction and have people that love them and follow them. They’re good role models for me, so it’s kind of like I’m working with an aunt or a sister. I’m not working with a billionaire and all these really known actors, it’s like I’m working with my family!

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We heard that you are a lead in an independent film called Monster with Jennifer Hudson, ASAP Rocky and Nas. Can you tell us a little bit more about that role and experience? That role is based off a book that a lot of New Yorkers have as mandatory reading in high school. It’s about this boy who gets caught up in a felony and it shows how a boy can be broken down physically, mentally and verbally as a result. My character plays the girlfriend of this boy, and I pop up in his flashbacks, in the courtroom and I’m just there for him-- so I kind of give the movie that “Aww” factor. Tell us a little bit about who is Lovie. What makes you, you, and the person you are today? What makes me the person I am today is that I genuinely care for people and humanity. I sympathize a lot with people and I’m very understanding. That comes from my reading books, which I learned from my dad. He’s always reading and he’s always telling us to stay educated. So, I feel like a lot of that comes from me reading and understanding. When I was younger, I didn’t really know how to accept that people were different from me. Growing up and then switching to schools upstate and acting with people that aren’t like me kind of gave me that different perspective to change and evolve. We hear you have a twin… How was that like growing up? It’s the best thing because you’re born with your best friend already. I never really had to be alone and I always knew how to talk to people because of my twin! We went to class together, we go out to eat together--it’s like that one person who really, really understands you and the closest person to you.

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Did you have any insecurities before entering Hollywood? How did you overcome them? One of my insecurities was my acne at first. It wasn’t as bad as it was before I started acting because I was younger, but when I became a teenager and my acne started really coming to light--it was kind of just my luck! I have a job where I must be in front of cameras and in front of people in all this lighting, and I have all these pimples that keep coming up. But then, I realized I am not my acne and it’s not going to stay forever. It’s just part of human experience, so why not “enjoy” it? And you know, that’s how I can relate to the younger teenage crowd and show that not every celebrity is picture perfect all the time--they’re people, and they can relate to them like how you would relate to your friends. That was really my only insecurity, despite the fact that I have a slightly crooked smile! Also, we hear you’re in to makeup and have your own YouTube channel. How do you enjoy that compared to acting? For me, it’s kind of the same. It gives off that same feeling because when you’re watching YouTube it’s like you’re still on the screen and you’re still showing people what you want them to know and what you want them to see. It’s the same with acting: you’re on a screen and you’re telling a story. So, I feel like it’s one in the same but on two different sides of the spectrum. I love them both, I can’t really compare! From all that you’ve learned up to this point in your career, what would you want Bronze readers to really know about you? I would want them to know that I’m not perfect, and I never want to be perfect--because I’m always looking forward to changing and I’m always looking forward to becoming something m o re t h a n w h a t I a m n o w a n d w h a t I w a s yesterday. I want them to know that I’m just like them! I’m fun, you can always call me and we can be best friends. I’m a friendly person and always down for change and understanding.

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Adele Givens Gives Moore… Interview by Amelia ‘Ameliaismore’ Moore Edited by Farheen Nahvi When you embrace the natural gifts given to you, many times you live a life that is your destiny. Such is the case with Adele Givens. Her material could be termed as “living satire.” When asked, she will tell you that much of her comedy is derived from a mixture of people-watching, family and friends’ experiences, and a huge dose of honesty. Her poignant commentary makes you check your own perspective. An example of such poignancy was her perspective on crossover. Once in her career she was advised to change her material to “crossover.” That night she was received like her other nights, when she is organically herself. So from that day forward she says crossover is a great thing but crossover to her is people crossing over to her. “If you love me, come crossover here where I am.” she explained. Her perspective is that if you love her, come and enjoy her world wherever she is performing. It’s not the how that is important to crossover, it’s the who. Come crossover into Adele’s world. So many times women who achieve phenomenal success are too busy doing to realize what they have done. As Queen of Comedy when did you realize that you “made it?” I guess that day hasn’t really come. I am still trying to go places and get things done. I really don’t know. I guess when I first started doing standup, when I got on the stage, I said to myself, “Wow I’m on stage.” Maybe that was that time and since then I don’t know. Honestly, it’s like you see so many great things you want to do that you know there’s so much more room for growth. It’s difficult to say you’re here or you arrived. I think I said it again when I got on TV. It was like, “Yeah I’m on TV.” Yet there is always room to grow, so I don’t know. That’s a good question Amelia

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(laughter). I’m not sure I’m there yet because I still have things I want to accomplish. What are those things? Well, I would like to complete and direct my movie. I’d like to create an all inclusive award show. I say it all the time that it would be a different award ceremony if everyone was included, especially those artists who are no longer with us. There were a whole lot of R&B singers back in the day that would have been nominated for awards. We love them and their music. I don’t know, there are a lot of different little things I would like to do. I don’t know what you call them-pipe dreams maybe-but you still can’t let them go unless you give it a shot.

“My catch phrase is; ‘I am such a f*ckin lady.’ It was born out of the need to be treated equally.”

Females are now entering many careers that are male dominated industries. As one of the female ground breakers in comedy, what were some of the challenges you experienced and overcame because of your dream to be a comedian that women today don’t have to encounter due to your dedication and example? My catch phrase is, “I am such a f*ckin lady.” It was born out of the need to be treated equally. I’d always pay attention to what other comedians did in terms of their language. I was just a natural cusser. I found that people had an aversion to that coming from a woman and not a man. So I created that line, “I’m such a f*ckin lady” out of frustration. I felt like, how can you have that double standard? If a man can say this and that and it’s funny, then why is it offensive when I say it? Why is it offensive coming from me? Am I not just as creative as the man that just said the same word? Why would you have a problem with that? I never received that logic. I guess I was a trailblazer in that respect. You know, my mom cussed. Hearing her cuss, it wasn’t strange for me to hear a woman to cuss. Others might have been taught that ladies don’t cuss. I was always the curious person who would ask, why? Why don’t ladies cuss? If a man can do it, why can’t a lady? In my mind that was always something to hold you back. There was no valid justification for it. So I felt like, until you give me some valid justification as to why I can’t say it, I am going to say it. Or aim that same distain towards a man so we can play on level ground. I’m a lady and you will treat me like a lady. I don’t give a damn about the language. You will treat me like a lady or we are going to have a problem because I can fight like a boy (Laughter). When I looked at your career and the milestones that you have had just by being you, it resonates

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“I think you just need to be who you are however everyone doesn’t have that sense of self.”

with women across the world that when one has the ability to “get money” while at times undermining their own personal values and ethics. Adele, you have always maintained who you are and the integrity of the work you have done as it relates to being funny. Do you feel we are now going back to talent and integrity in defining who we are, or do you feel we are still fighting a battle for our definition? I absolutely do feel there is a battle. That is why a lot of women can’t find their identity. A lot of times it takes years and years to figure out who they are because they keep getting hit with these definitions that don’t define them. I don’t even think that its women of color that suffer this alone. When you think back to the 20’s, when women didn’t have a right to smoke and there was this whole ideology of what a women should be. Yes, that still exists and it affects everyone. Its detrimental and affects men as well. Men put on a whole different personality when they are in front of women. I think you just need to be who you are, however, everyone doesn’t have that sense of self. In fact, we all search for it at some point in our lives. I do believe that it influences people still to this day. What advice would you give to aspiring female comedians regardless of color as they are starting to put their feet down and plant their seeds in the soil of comedy?

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I would tell them to be authentic to what you feel is funny. Don’t’ panic if you don’t hear them laughing at first. If you know and feel there is something funny in it you just got to work with it until it’s funny to you and them. Be authentic, like what we were just talking about. Go with your feeling and don’t allow the voices to push you in that direction when it’s not your genre. They might want you to be political, show more cleavage, be more made up, etc. Just go with your instincts. When you get on that stage go with your instincts. Sometimes people might not react the way you want them to but that’s ok because you know who you are and in time you’ll bring them along. What is the one thing that people don’t know about Adele Givens that you would like them to know? I don’t know. I talk so much about myself (Laughter). Maybe they didn’t know that I wanted to be an attorney at one point. I’ve been a street lawyer for years now. Anything we didn’t cover that you want to make sure we do speak on it?

an acronym, Super, Kool And Naturally, Kinky, Housewives Of Social Entertainment (laughter). It’s not ready but I’m aiming to complete that movie. It’s a spoof on Housewives reality TV meets blackxplotation type of movie. At first it was going to be non- scripted to parody the reality TV series. Then I thought non-scripted is for wanna be television stars. Actors need scripts so I’m writing it now. I love it! When did that idea come to you and how much has it been driving you to complete it? It came to me about four years ago. I did film some of it. I secured Mike Epps to play a role in the film. I got him on tape (Laughter). I also got DC Curry and some local talent. I want to be a triple threat. So I’m writing, acting and directing. It’s pretty hard to direct yourself. So I might trim down my role. It’s in development. You can follow Adele on Twitter @REALAdeleGivens for more information on tours and future projecxts. Stay tuned for more because this trailblazer has only begun to clear her path to her legacy.

No, just look out for me on the road and when they hear about the movie SKANK HOSE, know it’s mine and go out and support (laughter). Its

“Just go with your instincts. When you get on that stage go with your instincts.”

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DJ Lady D Is Doing It WELLS Interview by Amelia ‘Ameliaismore’ Moore Edited by Farheen Nahvi

The role of a female DJ is not easy. She has to break the boy barrier and deliver on a higher standard than most of her male counterparts. NYC-famous DJ Lady D Wells (aka Lady D), the baddest female DJ on the planet, is a woman who gets it done. She doesn’t look at her gender as a drawback. Instead she stays focused on the one thing that has kept her working for years; a good time by all. Let her tell it and she will let you know that the music talks and everything else is secondary. Bronze Magazine got an opportunity to speak with her to get more insight on her profession, progress and personality. What made you become a DJ? What was the beginning? What is the journey like to become a DJ? I got into being a DJ because of my love for music. The journey has been challenging but a very fun travel for me. I enjoy being out in the clubs watching people enjoying themselves because of me doing what I love to do. How important is team for your success? How did you find your manager Lady Z? Team means a lot to me. Yet for the most part you have to be an independent and confident that you have the talent and ability to do your job which is entertaining people. There is an individual side to that and a team side to that and you just have to learn how to balance the two. I was playing in a spot a few years ago and Lady Z was in the spot. She asked me to play for one of her events and from that point its been me working for her and in turn she saw that I needed assistance. She stood side by side with me to keep me on point. We started to work as a team. She manages my schedule and I manage my music. You have evolved since then. You started as a DJ and now you are the consummate business woman with your own team of DJ’s and your own radio show. What made you progress in that manner?

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As time passes you grow. Honestly, I don’t see myself playing records for the rest of my life. I see myself working with children and teaching them about my appreciation for music and being a DJ. Giving them an opportunity to see what it’s like to be a DJ. That moved me to be an owner of a radio show. So, between juggling with the kids and managing a radio show with 25 DJ’s, it keeps me busy. Lady Z is there to help me throughout that process. You have been successful turning your passion in to profit. What advice can you give others to do the same? It’s the love of what you do. Don’t look at it as a financial gain. You really look at it as the love of what you do. You can make money anywhere. It’s not about money. You have to love what you do. Put all your passion into it and it will turn into money. Build the foundation which is love and passion for what you do. The rest will follow. What is the difference or is there a difference between being a radio DJ ad a club DJ? There is a major difference. At a club, you have the people in front of you. You actually manipulate the music to make them dance. When you are on the radio you will play it when you need to play it.

Most of the time you are going to play the top hits but you are going to try to work some new music in your mix so people can hear new selections. On my station you can break new music but depending on the station with mainstream radio you have to play the hits. In the club it has to be a match. You are telling a musical story. If they don’t like what you are doing they are going to sit down. That’s a problem. Today’s DJ controversy is breaking records verses playing playlists. Which one is more important or better? What is your viewpoint on the subject? You can break records. We pretty much try to break records, especially in new clubs and lounges. It’s a lot easier to break records in the club because you can see their reaction. On radio it’s different. Breaking records is what I like to do. I utilize XLDJ’s to do so. We are able to bring new music in our shows on a regular basis. In this business you are only as good as your last hit. How do you keep your career going? You got to reinvent yourself. You never come with the same sets. You always want o go in and throw curve balls at people from time to time. Again, that involves you doing your homework making certain you are ready for whatever comes your way. The key is crowd reaction. Always try to make it where they are trying to figure you out instead of them knowing what is next. I remind myself that I am no better than anyone else. It’s just that GOD gave me a talent and I use it. There is so much talk about women in business. Do you agree or disagree that women succeed in business due to their nurturing nature? Pretty much I agree. As women, we look at things from a different perspective. That makes it fresh with new ideas and a different quality because men don’t look at things the same as us. When ideas are fresh and innovative, it helps build. At the end of the day, I bring in different ideas. My manger, Lady Z will bring in different ideas that a lot of people don’t think about especially men.. We think in a more nurturing term of doing entertainment. When we do events we bring in food. It’s certain things like that which brings a certain spin or feel to an event that sometimes men don’t. When a woman is involved, now you have the balance of the two and the two feed and build off each other, making it better for the

customer. Yes, diversity is key. Music is a vibration that strikes emotion and women tend to be emotional beings. Sometimes the vibrations we bring out are different because our origin is emotion, which is the essence of music. Anything you want us to know about what it means to be Lady D a women in business? I’m pretty proud of the progress we have made with the people that have stood behind me and my visions. I hope that in the future I can do so much more for the communities I live in and the ones that I try to service. There’s a need to give back to the youth, a need for minorities to support each other and that is my focus. I hope that the people that support me always give me their constructive criticism because that is the only way you are going to get better. It’s always good to know someone else’s viewpoint on what you are doing so that you can enhance that to make it better, while enhancing your business and skills. How can we help to continue to support you and your endeavors? You can listen to my show XLDS radio, like me on facebook and follow me on twitter and instagram @LadyDWells. For bookings you can call my manager Lady Z at (347) 446-2222. Thank you!

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Working from the Heart Five Steps to Ditch Fear and Live Your Purpose Written by Sheron Brown, Ph.D.

Do you believe in life purpose? Do you believe you are here, alive, on earth for a reason? Most people I encounter respond yes with conviction, but when asked if they believe they are living their purpose, their response is not as strong. Their responses vary because of their individual circumstances, but at the end of the day all responses boil down to a common factor: FEAR. “It’s too late,” “I don’t know how,” “maybe later,” “I need to keep my job,” “I don’t know how I would maintain my quality of living,” “I don’t have enough experience,” “I don’t have the right education,” “it doesn’t seem practical,” or “suppose nobody buys.” These are the common responses I’ve heard. They all say, “I am not enough,” and that sentiment brings us right back to fear. Examining this brand of fear reveals a belief below the surface that you may be unaware of—the belief that you are separate from your Source: God. Now before you say, “No! That’s crazy!” think about it. If you believe you have a purpose, then somewhere on the surface you believe it came from a source. Chances are you believe it was given to you by God. But if you also believe any of the reasons listed earlier—or one similar—somewhere below the surface you believe that God won’t back you on the thing you believe God put in your heart to do. Baffling! Right?

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Well believe it or not, these conflicting internal messages are creating inner stress and slowly wreaking havoc on your wellbeing. There are a number of ways it can be showing up. Maybe it shows up for you in the form of stress-eating which may be a sign that you’re avoiding the negative emotions attached to not doing the work that’s in you to do. Or you may experience constipation, which could be an indication that you feel stuck and unable to move forward the way you envision1. Regardless of how your fear shows up for you, two things are sure: (1) your delay (or avoidance) is depriving those who are waiting for you, and (2) you are making yourself sick.

1. Reconnect with what you believe. You may have inspirational quotes or verses that inspire you such as, “I know the plans I have for you…to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future2,” or “Those who set their hearts on me and worship me with unfailing devotion and faith are more established3.” Whatever they may be, identify them, list them, and keep the list close by. You’ll need them for the second step.

1. Hay, L. (2004). You can heal your life. Carlsbad, CA: Hay House.

2. New king James study bible. (2012). Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson. 3. The bhagavad gita (2nd ed.) (E. Easwaran, Trans.). (2007). Tomales, CA: The Blue Mountain Center of Meditation.

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If this sounds like your story, you can begin to change it today. Use these five steps to begin living your purpose and improving your wellbeing in the process.

2. Move from ‘head’ knowing to ‘heart’ knowing. Chances are you may already be aware of sayings or verses that motivate you and make you feel good in the moment, but the moment doesn’t last very long. This is because the knowledge must move from your head to your heart. You can start to make this happen with a simple process. Sitting in a quiet space, close your eyes and take deep breaths with these messages. Say your motivational verses or affirmations. As you inhale say, “I embrace this truth from my God.” As you exhale say, “I release the lie of disbelief.” Practice this exercise every time you get that feeling of panic in your chest or worry in your gut. The practice will help you move past your fear. 3. Tell yourself the truth. Look at your purpose. Write it down, put it on the table, step back, then say, “You look big. I don’t know how to accomplish you, but I don’t need to know how. I only need to know that I will.” This too will help you move past your fear because speaking this truth releases you from terror that binds you. 4. Take one small step.

Ask yourself, “What is one small thing I can do to move in the direction of my purpose?” When the answer arrives, write it down. Continue to drill down on this question until you get to the smallest step that you can do today. 5. Do it! Do the thing you can do today, today. Then do the thing you can do tomorrow, tomorrow, and so on. Take small steps daily while repeating steps 2 and 3, and before long you will be living your purpose. Now let me be clear: taking your daily action steps will not be easy, but it will be easy. By that I mean, some days you will face challenges— the not easy part—but if you remain committed to your daily action steps while reminding yourself that you’re not doing this alone, you will see things begin to flow. Allow the flow— that’s the easy part. Reconnect with what you believe, move from head knowing to heart knowing, tell yourself the truth, take one small step and do it daily. Committing yourself to these steps will elevate your overall wellness as you thrive in living your purpose.

Sheron Brown, Ph.D. is the owner of Sweet Eden by Sheron, a wellness education company. She is also the author of The WellnessPurpose Connection™: The Ultimate Guide to Maximizing Your Life Experience. As a certified integrative nutrition health coach and yoga instructor, Sheron teaches mindful practices that helps you heal your physical, mental, and emotional well-being so you can fully live your purpose with joy and vitality. Connect with her online on Facebook and Twitter @sheronbrownphd or Instagram @iamagirlfrombrooklyn. You can also email Sheron for help with your organization’s or individual wellness goals at info@sweetedenbysheron.com.

SEPTEMBER 2017

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An Interview with Cutting Edge Fashion Designer

MARCO HALL Interview by Quinn Diaz Photography by One Thurteen Photography Marco Hallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s designs modeled by Emelyn Stuart, CEO and Founder of Stuart Film Group 42

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“I don’t try to follow anyone else’s aesthetic but my own.”

Knowing who you are and staying true to yourself is key to Marco Hall’s success as a designer in the fashion industry. While some can only dream of creating impeccable pieces for celebrities or experiencing New York Fashion Week, Marco Hall is fortunate enough to achieve it. Having a passion and drive for fashion while keeping his individuality, it is no surprise why Marco Hall is where he is today with no intentions of slowing down anytime soon. From telling a story through his luxurious pieces, picking the perfect fabrics and patterns and truly understanding the woman’s body, it is safe to say that if you don’t already know who Marco Hall is, you soon will. Loving what he does along with being humble enough to realize how lucky he is to wake up every day and do what he loves is exactly why Marco Hall is a designer to look out for. When did you first realize that you were meant to be in the Fashion Industry? It has always been a part of my lifestyle and who I was. I guess when I used to take things apart and put them back together and the way I dressed myself. It was always about a look, the way I wanted to feel and however I felt at the time. I think I was at least 10 or 11 when I found my real fashion sense of what I wanted to look like. Since the Fashion Industry is so competitive, what do you think sets you apart from other designers to get your designs noticed?

It totally influenced my designs. It’s all I know, and I don’t know anything else but to be an individual. I think that’s one of the real reasons why I started sewing, because I wanted I wanted to be myself. I didn’t want to look like or even emulate anyone else. I simply wanted to be me. I wanted to have my own style, so with having your own style you have to create your own look; and that is what I was doing as a young child, creating my own look. I defiantly believe in individuality and that is key for me. Describe your creative process when it comes to designing a new piece?

I do what I like, and I don’t try to follow the trend. I also just do what I feel because it’s all about my instincts. I can’t put you in anything that I don’t believe in. If I don’t believe in it then I don’t want to do it, so it’s always about me being true to myself and my aesthetic. I don’t try to follow anyone else’s aesthetic but my own. I think that’s what sets me apart, because I really just try to stay true to who I am and what I believe in when it comes to fashion. My personal taste and the fabric dictate how I sew and what I create.

For me, designing a collection its about the fabric. The fabric speaks to me and I create from there. I love prints and fabrics that move. That dictates a lot. I get the fabric, roll it on the floor, look at it and envision what I think it should look like. Sometimes it tells a story on its own and then I create it from there. If it’s a client that I’m creating for, I like just knowing who they are, their personality, what they truly like, their good and bad points.

Individuality is a huge part of what separates designers in the Fashion Industry and truly allows designer’s work to shine in their own unique way. How has being yourself influenced your designs?

My process is very simple, it’s about what catches my eye and speaks to me. The fabric has to tell me a story. As far as color goes it has to have life to it.

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Describe the process you go through when it comes to picking fabrics and colors?

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“...they feel good when they wear Marco Hall”

When an individual puts on one of your pieces how do you want them to feel? If it’s a woman, I want her to feel sexy, confident and empowered. I want her to feel like she’s the only one. I want her to feel all of those things that she wants to feel as a woman. I love sexy, but I also love classy and I love the two together. I love to make a great piece and have a little sexiness to it, but with an elegance and sophistication as well. I want a woman to feel powerful, sophisticated and sexy all at the same time. You have mastered the art of being able to dress women of all sizes. How important is it for you to be able to design pieces for women of all shapes and sizes? Very important because the real woman is not a size 4 and she’s not a 0. The real woman is a size 10, 14, or 16. Those are the real woman of the world today, so it’s important that they look great too. I don’t care what shape or size you are because I think every woman should feel sexy. I love women and I love the woman’s body. I also love dressing the body, so I think loving the body helps, and I’m not afraid of the woman’s body. A lot of designers are like,“I don’t want to do this because she’s too big,” but if you can create something outside of your norm, it shows your true talent as an artist. It’s about figuring it out and finding the solution. It’s about the cut and fit. Tell me about a moment in your career as a Fashion Designer that has made you most proud? I think what makes me most proud is that people love and enjoy my work. They feel good when they wear Marco Hall. Another proud moment was when the fashion world got to

see my work at my first NYFW show. I think I’m proud of every moment that I have to wake up every morning and create fashion. Who are some of your favorite people you have dressed? My favorite people to dress are the real women. I love to see their faces light up when they feel sexy, confident and know that they will be the only one in the room with that dress. As far as celebrities go, I love dressing Ntozake Shange, she allows me to do whatever I want, and I’ve enjoyed and enjoy dressing the late Natalie Cole, Jill Scott, Sarah Dash and Erykah Badu. Describe your first New York Fashion Week show and what was going through your mind? It was an ode to where I was in life at that time. I was a part of the NYC nightlife and on a spiritual journey and that’s what I expressed through my collection.. It was a surreal moment. I had some of the best in nightlife walk in the show. I had the press and fashion world about to experience what I had to offer to fashion. I didn’t know how I was feeling at the moment because I was just in the moment. What can we anticipate from you in the months to come? I am about to start working on a show featuring some type of visualization in September. I’ve had my store now for 3 years, so I feel like I nurtured my baby, and now it’s time to let the the fashion world see that I still exist. I’m still here and still relevant. I never felt like I wasn’t relevant, but it’s time for the world to see me again, to see my growth, and where I’m trying to go.

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“I’m staying true to who I am and where I’m going.”

When you think of your name, “Marco Hall” 10 years from now, what success or goals do you wish to have attained? A recognizable brand that my clients still enjoy the work and enjoy what I have to offer to them. Recognition that I’m staying true to who I am and where I’m going. I don’t ask for much, just to be able to do what I do and that people love and enjoy the brand, the name, and understand where I’m going as a designer. If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring designers who want to follow in a similar path as you, what would it be?

Stay true to your aesthetic. Of course you will see stuff in the magazines, but don’t allow that or anyone to sway you from doing what you do. I find that we get caught up because someone else is making money doing this, and we think we should jump on that bandwagon to make money too, but people won’t know who you are if you’re trying to be someone else; so you have to be yourself. People have to know who you are, and recognize your brand, and for this you will shine because what’s for you is for you.

Emelyn Stuart and Marco Hill SEPTEMBER 2017

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