Jan- Mar 2016
COMIC CON TAKING OVER MIAMI
GUESS WHAT CELEBRITY WAS SPOTTED AT THIS SPECIAL EVENT
taking a leap of faith making it on her own
JEMIMA MOZAR
DISCOVERING NEW GEMS OF TALENT:
KATRINA JO MARCUS MAJORS
NEW YORK
FALL FASHION FRANZY WHAT'S NEW TO WEAR WHAT'S NEW TO WEAR FROM CELEBRITY DESIGNERS
DIGITAL ISSUES At your finger tips W W W . C R E A T I V M A G . C O M Visit www.creativmag.com/prints and enjoy our free digital copies today! Available on your tablet and Android or Apple phone. Download the Joomag TM app for better visibility
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Photographer: Khaleel Dane (www.khaleeldane.com) Model: Keishla Davilla Designer: Richard Petit, Papillion Designs Make Up Artist: Thalia (BeYoutifully Made MUA)
by Richard Petit
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A CONVERSATION WITH
Katrina Jo
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Cover Credit: Subject: Taking a leap of faith Story of Jemima Mozar Photographer: Thomas G. Bernavil
T E N T S Photography 16
POP UP PHOTOGRAPHY
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FASHION
New York State of Mind by Herbert Tucker New York Fashion Week Highlights by Herbert Tucker
Featured Stories VISUAL ART 26 FEATURED ARTIST 30 42 COVER STORY 50 FEATURED ARTIST FEATURED ARTIST 60 Writer's Corner 70 LOVE AND RELATIONSHIPS 7Â TRAVELING IN STYLE 74 WRITINGS ON THE WALL POETRY BE EMPOWERED 76
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Art feature by VAKSEEN
Photography Art : Rober DiVito
Taking a leap of faith: Jemima Mozar
Marcus Majors - Miami
Katrina Jo - Los Angeles
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Does praying for a man really work By Toni Douglas
Family Vacation Planning Made Easy By Showeshi Boston
"Bald and Proud" By Olga Manuntinovich
"Finding your spot and living in the zone" By Georgia Bryce
Special Events SO.... THIS HAPPENED 78
COMIC CON in Miami Beach Convention Center
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INTRODUCING
OMG Red! Lipstick VeeZaj By Giaah was ignited by the idea of introducing a new option; a gluten free, paraben free and natural line of mineral makeup that would take away the worry of choosing makeup worthy of our skin. VeeZaj By Giaah is made with ingredients that are all natural, pronounceable, and more importantly, wearable.
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Model: Thatiana Gustama Photographer: Marc Anthony Cherubin Hair by : Guedgy Toussaint Make Up By : Anna Alameda
BEAUTY COMES FROM WITHIN The Yasser Faraco "Thee Return" Fashion Show. Happening this April 23rd 2016. Get the details at www.ccwctrunkshow.com
Yasser Faraco NEW COLLECTION APRIL 23RD 2016
EDITOR'S LETTER
The PHOTOGRAPHY issue
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Besides the overwhelming happiness that I feel presenting this issue to you, I am excited to report that we are now on our 13th edition of CREATIV magazine. Alright all excitement aside, I am particularly proud of featuring a phenomenal photographer from Canada with a 12 page spread of just breathtaking pictures. We have had the privilege of featuring some wonderful artists from Miami and Los Angeles. Both Katrina Jo and Marcus Majors having a background in dancing, it is amazing to see how they are spreading their wings beyond the dancing industry. An artist is usually blessed with multiple talents and they most certainly prove it. Our cover story as well depicts a moment in the life of self made entrepreneur Jemima Mozar. Moreover, we are happy to have a brand new contributor, not only is she a leukemia survivor but she has survived more than just health chanllenges. Her words, though speaking about the most simple things of life, have a poignant meaning with someone who doesn't take life for granted. Lastly, this issue would not be possible without the loyalty of our regular contributors. They have time and time again selflessly given their talent to this magazine and I cannot thank them enough for believing in this growing project.
CORHINN BRUNOT Founder and Editor in Chief Follow me on Twitter @ccwcnetwork
10 | CREATIV | Jan - Mar 2016 | www.creativmag.com
C O N T R I B U T O R S Showeshi Strickland-Boston, ACC, is a certified and accredited Travel Consultant with 13 years of experience in the travel industry, beginning with close to 10 years with Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd., before opening her own full-service travel agency as a Cruise Planners and American Express Travel Representative. Her industry experience has included managing and overseeing divisions focusing on sales, marketing and training which included training and development of Sales Managers for Royal Caribbean and fellow Travel Agents. Traveling has been a lifelong passion, fueled by on-going Toni Douglas education within the field that Ms. Bryce, an eloquent and influential allows Ms. Strickland-Boston to speaker, teacher, motivator, mentor, provide personalized, informed, and life coach, finds energy and passion consultative and expert travel in inspiring individuals to reconcile planning to her clients. For more their lives with the Master Architect. information about her agency, visit She helps people, through the agency's website at conformance to His specifications, www.CruiseElite.com. come into the expected end that was pre-designed for them. Her messages are geared towards empowering Meet Ms. Antonia Douglas, individuals, through the process of selfknown by most as, "Toni”. discovery and the pursuit of their For almost a decade, Toni tailored purpose. Emphasis is on served her community as a accurate relationship development; high school English and beginning with the individual (self) and Writing teacher in the then interdependently. Visit her at Miami-Dade County before www.buildingaccordingtopattern.com she became an Instructional Reading Coach for MiamiDade County Public Schools. Showeshi Boston Currently, Toni is in pursuit of obtaining her Doctorate degree in the field of Education while also pursuing her goals of publishing her first book: What NOT to Do While Dating Your Non-Existent Boyfriend. In her spare time, Toni enjoys playing the Georgia Bryce piano, shopping, traveling and serving on the Board for The Millionheiress Club as their Blogger & Columnist. One day, Toni hopes to become an esteemed author, college professor and public speaker-- her favorite line, “I want to be the next Cornel West!”
Would you like to be a contributor? Contact us at info@creativmag.com 12 | CREATIV | Jan - Mar 2016 | www.creativmag.com
Olga Manuntinovich
29 y.o., poet/writer, artist, model, traveller. Russian, who keeps exploring the world (had a chance to live in Azerbaijan, Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Thailand and Japan, and visit many other countries), currently based in St. Petersburg. Leukemia survivor. blog: www.manunti.tumblr.com instagram: manunti
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PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTION Herbert Tucker Sean Simpson Robert DiVito Kadeem Barnett Jabbar White Thomas Bernavil
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from the creative mind of Otha “Vakseen” Davis III
NEW SINGLE "viens avec moi" Single produced by Bujimix. available on https://soundcloud.com/wanitomusic/ . To get to know more about the artist visit www.wanito.com
PHOTOGRAPHY
FEATURED ARTIST
I AM GOD'S VESSEL My greatest pain in life is that I will NEVER be able to SEE MYSELF pefrom live - Kanye PHOTOGRAPHY and text by Robert DiVito STYLED by designer Limor Golan Nesher for InspiredNY MAKEUP and Hair by Maria Huggins MODEL Dominique Banner
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M
usic and fashion have always been attached to the hip. Being a musician as well as a visual artist, I’ve always found the intersection of the two intriguing with many examples to choose from: Kanye, Gwen, Rihanna...the list goes on. So meeting New York musician and designer Limor Golan Nesher and learning more about her exclusively Bohemian clothing line was a bit of a fashion history lesson as well as discovering the origin of my decidedly artistic ancestral roots.
PHOTOGRAPHED AND WRITTEN BY
Robert DiVito
ELEGANT SHADOW Black lace top Cinder velvet pant with side seam print Creamy faux fur vintage jacket Chokers and bracelets handmade by designer
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Looking back at the development of Bohemian culture, it is easy to make a parallel connection to the modern artist. To a large extent the present day creative, in any medium, owes much of their existence to the Bohemian movement which had its beginnings 200 years ago following the economic downturn of the French revolution. With the loss of wealthy patronage, many artists fell into poverty which signalled a shift in focus to the artist themselves. They began to explore greater self-expression and the notion of “artist as genius” emerged. Through their clothes and lifestyle, artists made personal statements where they became the art. People began to see artists as wandering gypsies and were compared to nomadic tribes from areas of Eastern Europe known as Bohemia. Hence the origin of Bohemian Art. To this day visual artists, musicians, writers and designers continue to challenge conformity in an effort to inspire social change. Like the early Bohemians, their artistic currency is measured in the departure from convention and, ironically, they often reject the values and lifestyle of the patrons who employ them. The rationale reinforcing the adage that “a true artist must suffer for their art.” In pursuit of fashionable self-expression, they look down upon mass production and favour clothes with hand dyed fabrics and unique details in stitching and jewelry that could only be made in smaller quantities. Boho Chic is now a fashion statement and one need look no further than events like Coachella to see how Bohemian lifestyle has infiltrated modern culture. You would think that, using Bohemian wisdom, mass acceptance would spell the death of the movement. Enter clothing designer LIMOR Golan Nesher. Her line, InspiredNY, is taken from the streets of New York where the Bohemian movement had fertile ground in places like Greenwich Village. Following the spirit of Bohemian counterculture the individually of her pieces are anything but mass produced.
PURPLE HAZE Purple Haze Dress - Mesh and velvet dress with gold jumprings Super Breeze Sleeve - chiffon and fringe sleeve Chokers and bracelets handmade by designer
InspiredNY debuted its 2016 spring lineup, at Fashion Week New York, far from the buzz of the main hub where mainstream designers like Diane Von Frustenburg and Givenchy where showing their wears. But perhaps, like her clothing, that is the point. This was a select crowd and her second appearance at Fashion Week was gaining traction with the filled to capacity audience. | Jan - Mar 2016 | CREATIV | 37 www.creativmag.com
GOLD COAST FRINGE Gold Coast fringe - gold velvet Top Bell ĂŠpoque - gold velvet pant Chokers and bracelets handmade by designer Crystals are Swarovski All jewelry is led and nickel compliant
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“Boho “Boho chic chic is is my my whole whole line. line. II design design for for the the free free spirited, spirited, young young at at heart, heart, limitless woman.” limitless woman.” When When asked asked about about her her inspiration inspiration LIMOR LIMOR explains explains “My “My line line is is called called ‘Inspired NY’ because the main drive of this city narrows down ‘Inspired NY’ because the main drive of this city narrows down to to inspiration. inspiration. Everyone Everyone is is inspired inspired by by someone someone or or something, something, which which then then becomes becomes something something that that inspires inspires others.” others.” Originally Originally from from Israel, Israel, LIMOR LIMOR lived lived in in South South America America and and moved moved to to New New York fifteen years ago. “NYC is the melting pot of the world. I’m fascinated York fifteen years ago. “NYC is the melting pot of the world. I’m fascinated by by the the diversity diversity that that is is visible visible in in all all aspects aspects of of life: life: Architecturally, Architecturally, culinary and amazing international art in all platforms.” culinary and amazing international art in all platforms.” LIMOR’s LIMOR’s aesthetic aesthetic is is derived derived mainly mainly from from earth earth and and nature. nature. “I “I love love how how everything comes back with a slight twist in fabrics, trims and new everything comes back with a slight twist in fabrics, trims and new technology.” technology.”
A MOMENT IN THE LIFE OF
JEMIMA MOZAR
T
he world of an entrepreneur is challenging as it is. Being a woman doesn't make it easier either. Such is the life of Entrepreneur and Tax Consultant Jemima Mozar.Throughout her interview we've learned how determined she is in becoming an entrepreneur, her opening statement says it all: "I always wanted to be independent in every way financially of course, I never wanted my paycheck to depend on anyone else but me. So at an early age I know I wanted to be my own boss. I didn't know exactly what I was meant to do but I know whatever it was going to be I would be great at it". Before opening your own business, how did you handle working for someone else? I've always been in the service industry something about a warm and happy feeling when I help someone, just seeing the joy on their face. I feed of that. It's the ultimate reward to me as well as empower others. But at the same time, I didn't like being told when I could or could not take my break, when to eat lunch, how much money I could make. That doesn't sit well with me all I can say is I dance to my own beat and I wouldn't have it any other way.
Photographed by Thomas Bernavil
Tell us about your business, what would you say your pitch is? Here at JM FINANCIAL SERVICES, Inc. our goal is to serve our client to the best of our abilities. To provide the best service our client ever get to experience. In addition, helping our client understand we genuinely want them to be in a better position financially. The icing on the cake is our Credit Repair Department; having good credit is important in America. Having a 550 credit score or a 750 credit score is a big deal and it affects people tremendously. We also offer life insurance to all, for example not being financially stable and not having enough coverage can affect love ones. They are left behind to bear the burden of funeral costs. We also offer Health insurance, we make sure our clients are choosing the best plan that caters to their specific need. Moreover helping them to avoid the penalties associated with not having health coverage. Ultimately, JM Quick Tax Return created under the umbrella of JM Financial Services Inc. we oversee that our clients’ taxes are filed accurately. They get all their qualified credits and our clients’ personal information are well protected. As a little girl, what did you dream to be when you grew up? As a little girl, I grow up seeing my family being hard-working people. They take care of themselves. They are financially stable and I always wanted to replicate that. My mentality is I can have everything I want along with that I have to work for it. Therefore, I always knew when I grow up anything I choose to do I would be successful at it. Do you have someone that you
look up to? I'm inspired by different people especially women that are strong minded, successful women that made a name for themselves. For example Oprah, Beyoncé, Angela Simmons just to name a few. Not so much who they are but more l the quality of life they project. Women that are go getters. Oprah doesn't even believe in luck, she says “luck is when preparation meet opportunity” I will never forget that. I never met a client who didn't want to do business with me because of who I am and that to me that says a lot. I aspire to be better in life, make better choices daily, to be driven and someday be able to inspire other women to work towards their goals and everything they dream to be.
ARE YOU LEAVING MONEY BEHIND? Don't let this be you during Tax season. Call us and get your maximum refund. (561) 503-7780
JM QUICK TaX RETURN
COVER STORY
FEATURED ARTIST
Besides your business is there anything else that you aspire of doing? Not to sound vein but I'm fortunate enough to have an awesome figure and people always compliment me on having a great appearance. I've always been into fashion and I modeled throughout college, I didn't really get too deep 44 | CREATIV | Jan - Mar 2016 | www.creativmag.com
into it, I wanted to focus more on my education. I'm actually now working on my bikini line so look out for that. I've acted in a small web series, I've done music videos and I host my own show on JM Financial TV a YouTube channel.
if I also want to follow my dreams in the fashion industry. I always felt like I wasn't allowed to do both, like I had to pick a side. I either had to pick the financial world, dress up and be serious or pick fashion and be free to express myself however I try to see the positive in every situation. And so I decided to follow my heart and accomplish all of my goals. Furthermore, I feel God is happy with me and want me to achieve all my objective in my lifetime. Any tips that you can give our readers, your future clients regarding doing their taxes? Integrity, respect and loyalty are the core values of JM Financial Services Inc. I keep it real with my clients, as most of my business come from referrals. I treat my clients the way I want to be treated, when I go in anywhere for service and it works every time. My clients are happy. The fact that they return every year means the world to me. What's next for JM Financial Services Inc.? There's a lot more to come, our newest aspect of JFS is Credit Repair. Most of clients are constantly asking about credit counseling. At this point it only make sense we would make that service available to better service our clientele. We're launching it soon, so I'm super excited Photographed by Thomas Bernavil
Have you ever encountered any obstacles while creating your business? Do I!! Lol... Does it ever stop? Of course I face lots of obstacles, but I look at it as a learning experience. I'm the child of the Most High God, nothing can stop me... The important thing is to keep going. I keep God first in my life. For a long time I was very torn between how I can be taken seriously in the financial industry
about that. We give free counseling, discuss ways to improve credit and many more options available. What should we lookout for Jemima in the near future? I love the person I've become, I'm building my legacy I feel very proud and very blessed to be in a position to do so. Lookout for a lot more to come from JM Financial Services, also my new swimwear collection is coming soon. I'm very thrilled God allowed me to pursue my dreams. My family and my love ones are my backbone, they keep me grounded and yes they do reprimand me whenever I get a little crazy lol... I always keep a positive attitude and looking forwards to more success and give back more to the community.
Put God first and the rest will work itself out.
Photographed by Thomas Bernavil
THIS IS TODD Todd just got his taxes done by JM FINANCIAL SERVICES Inc. Todd is happy about his refund money. Be like Todd...
...AND GET YOUR TAXES DONE BY A TRUE PROFESSIONAL JM Financial Services Inc. provides tax services to individuals, selfemployed individuals, corporations and Limited Liability Companies. Our Electronic filing gets you the fastest return. Feel free to contact our office at (561) 503-7780 Visit us : 1615 S. Congress Ave #103 Delray Beach, Fl Jemima Mozar Our office hours are 9:00am to 6:00pm Financial and Tax Consultant Paid Advertising
SUMMER IS CALLLING
470.375.4257
DANCE
FEATURED ARTIST
Photographer: Kadeem Barnett Stylist: Jonathan Mitchell
MARCUS Majors
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Photographer: Jabbar White Stylist: Barry Ingram
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D
ream Big! Smash Goals, Be Great! Such are the words of Marcus Majors. A talented artist who recently moved in Miami to pursue his dreams. We have had the privilege to interview this young artist and it is amazing what you will discover. Help us understand who Marcus is, Where did you grow up? I was born and raised in the state of Virginia but moved around from city to city. I grew up in the tidewater in the areas of Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake. I graduated from First Colonial High School Class of 2008. I moved to Miami to obtain a degree in Business at Johnson & Wales University. You are a man of many talents however, one stands out the most to us . When did you start dancing and why? I started dancing when I was a kid. I have always loved music and I could just never ignore the feeling to move to it and even sing it! Unfortunately, since I can’t sing too well I just stuck with dancing. I use to always dance in the house amongst friends and family imitating all the great dancers like Michael Jackson and Usher. My passion for dancing continued to grow throughout the years as I was apart of a dancing troupe in highschool and college. However, I didn't start dancing and training professionally until the beginning of 2012.
Photographer: Kadeem Barnett Stylist: Jonathan Mitchell
Do you think that your dancing career has opened doors for you in the acting world? Dancing has opened so many doors for me. I never would've thought I would be where I am in only a few years. Acting for me is the ultimate goal. Dance has given me the confidence that I needed to pursue the acting world. It has allowed me to experience all aspects of the entertainment industry from Modeling, Acting, and Directing. You’ve had the chance to work with many celebrities in different settings, what was your favorite one? I recently did a movie with Melissa McCarthy. The movie is entitled, “The Boss,”and it will be in theaters April 8th. As an actress, Melissa McCarthy, has to be one of the most genuine people I have worked with. She always made sure all the dancers were okay on set. I admired how she found time in between takes to converse with us and tell jokes.
Photographer: Jabbar White Stylist: Barry Ingram
Photographer: Jabbar White Stylist: Barry Ingram
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Photographer: Kadeem Barnett Stylist: Jonathan Mitchell
PO RY WE RF UL
What was it like to work with Lebron James? (Taken from one of the commercials you worked on) * For the powerade commercial lebron was not on set that particular day. However, I was really looking forward to working with him and still am.Tv Magic* Who is your biggest inspiration? My biggest inspiration would be Les Brown. He's only one of the most electrifying motivational speakers in this world and I aspire to be one just like him. I have studied and listen to almost every speech Les brown has made. I'm inspired by his childhood story and the way he fought the odds against him. He is truly my biggest inspiration and I hope to meet him one day. What parts of the world have you performed in ? And where haven’t you been that you would like to go? I have performed around the US from the East coast to the West coast. I have shot a movie in Atlanta and Boston. But just recently I booked my first world tour with reggaeton artist Farruko. The tour is set for the United States and South America. I'm excited for this journey and can't wait to travel the world in the next couple of months. I would love to visit Brazil. It's like my dream place.
STRONG
If you had to collaborate with one celebrity who would it be? The one celebrity I would love to collab with would be Will Smith. I am a big Will Smith fan. I love every movie he has produced and/or starred in. He's like a box office legend. I would love to do a movie with him. I heard he's getting back into music so maybe I could dance on tour with him or be in one of his music videos. That would be dope! What is the one thing that your fans don’t know about you? Most of my fans don't know how hard I work and the dedication it takes to do what I do as an entertainer. Often, people only see the end result of my work whether it be by a instagram post or a music video. However, it’s a struggle everyday to do what you love while society convinces you that you shouldn't be doing it. It takes guts and hard work. I don't like to sleep. I probably sleep a max of 4 hours a day because I’m always on my grind. Where do you see your talent taking you? Do you plan on giving back to your community? My plan is to become great at whatever I decide to do. I have a lot of dreams and goals I will accomplish, but for now I'm focusing on just creating day by day. I definitely plan on giving back ! Im looking to start my own non-profit this year. I will also be speaking at a few youth empowerment seminars encouraging the youth to pursue their dreams and how to master the art of unlocking their greatness. Any last words that you would like to share with our readers? I just want to say to all the readers: Follow Your Heart and Pursue Your Dreams. There will be many obstacles in the way and one may come up with many excuses. However it's all possible! Do what you love and believe in yourself. Much Love and Thank You for reading! We are going to play a game and you have to say the very first thing that pops into your head as soon as you see the question: Favorite pet? A Lion Best country to visit? Brazil Beer or Liquor? I do not drink, so neither. Skittles or M&Ms? Skittles of course. Boxers or Briefs? How about Boxer Briefs. Favorite Quote?” Dream Big, Smash Goals, Be Great!”
"
Dream Big, Smash Goals, Be Great!
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Tax & Financial Services | Complete Real Estate Services | Airline Tickets | Immigration Services |Notary Public | Document Translations | Staffic Services | Production
"Always at your service."
DANCE
FEATURED ARTIST
You’re going to hear a lot of NO’s and come across a lot of closed doors but there will be a YES and there will be plenty of open doors along the way. It’s not a race, It’s a journey!
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O IN A J KATR
Stay true to your morals
T
alent is all around us, and exposing them is definitely what we do. We had the pleasure of conversing with Katrina Jo from L.A., she is a Model, Dancer, Choreographer and the owner of GlamGirls and Game Day Pros Head of the Los Angeles Reebok Showroom. Fascinated by her interesting life we definitely could not pass the opportunity to bring to her fans all the questions that perhaps they have been wanting to ask her. The following is a conversation with Katrina Jo.
You've been a dancer all your life, how did you start dancing and when did you know that's what you wanted to do for the rest of your life?
Do you still dance for the San Diego Chargers if so, what is an ON season like for you? I’m a San Diego Charger Girl Alumni but I had 3 incredible seasons with them and have now choreographed for them. I was a member of the San Diego Charger Girls from 2006-2009 where I served as Team Captain for 2 years and Pro Bowl Nominee for 2 Seasons as well. I always tell people being on any Professional Dance Team is a part time job but a full time commitment. An on season with the Chargers was a ride of a lifetime! You get to meet and work with such amazing women, you’re constantly in rehearsals, attending promotions, working on your public speaking skills, learning new dance material, attending different charities around the community, performing at all home games and being a role model and Ambassador for the city of San Diego. Besides dancing is there any other area of art that you would like to excel in? Besides dancing, I’d like to tap into another realm of entertainment like acting. I’ve gotten my feet wet in Sports Entertainment, Event Production and Directing a dance team. I’d love to continue tapping into those fields and hopefully excel in them as well. I’ve recently tapped into the art of Acting with my new management and just like any other craft, Acting takes practice, time, effort, a lot of energy and persistence and I’m working on it.
www.katrinajo.com
I actually started dancing at the age of 3! My mom said I kept dancing around the house and she didn’t know what to do with me so she put me in dance classes. I started out with Combo classes, which is an hour class of Tap & Ballet. I was hooked! I took classes all the time, started performing at recitals, the local malls and even our living room for our family of course! ;) I remember I broke my mom’s VCR watching Michael Jackson moonwalk over and over again. I think that was the moment I knew I was hooked on dancing
Photo: Von Jackson Makeup: Natalie Aguirre Styling :dbleudazzled
Who is your inspiration behind your whole career decision? (who do you look up to?) My personal inspiration behind my whole career decision is my mother. I truly believe she is the epitome of a strong, independent, hard working woman. I look up to her for all of the attributes she possesses and for everything she’s instilled in me – work hard, work towards your goals, never give up. She shows me tough love to push me that much further and she’s always taught me to stay strong in my faith and to reach for the moon! Have you ever had a time where you've hit a wall and needed to get over some obstacles? Absolutely! We all have our ups and downs – whether it’s professional or personal - and I think it’s very important to learn through the tough times. When I hit a wall, I like to think – What is this teaching me? Where can I go from here? How hard am I willing to work to get through this? Sometimes you are tested just to see how hard you’re willing to work for what and where you want to be.
As an entrepreneur, we always become creative where there is a need, what sparked you to create Glam Girls? With 7 years of Pro Dance experience I was getting a lot of requests from friends and clients for dancers or cheerleaders for promotional or corporate events. I started out just referring a couple of my friends on gigs here and there and then one day, I realized – “Hey, I could make a business out of this!” It all came together pretty easily. Majority of my close friends whom I have met through the Clippers / Chargers or the dance world in general were willing to sign on. I picked the name, concept, colors and logo and was ready to launch! I’ve done some major revamping since I first started this company in 2010 and I still have much more that I want to do with GlamGirls but I’m very thankful of how much we’ve accomplished in the past 5 years. I also think it’s cool to look at how much GlamGirls has grown over the years and how much the company has helped me grow in the process. I think the discipline I’ve learned from my directors at Chargers and Clippers definitely helped me with managing various events and in working with other women. This is essential in managing a roster of about 30 women. always taught me to stay strong in my faith and to reach for the moon!
You keep a very svelte physique, Do you follow a special diet that maybe your fans can follow to stay fit? I actually don’t have a specific diet. I just try to stay conscious about what I’m eating, make healthy choices, stay active and leave pizza for my cheat meals! ;) I love to work out – even if it’s just a hike here and there, a hard core Tabata class or a Private Reformer Pilates class from Andrea at FitMix studios. Sometimes I get on a meal plan from House of Vitamins where I get pre-made lunches and dinners and they definitely make a difference on how my body looks / feels and my energy levels. Recently, I’ve cut out dairy and I’ve already noticed a difference in how my body feels and how my skin looks.
If your fans were to ask you for one thing they don't know about you what would it be? This is a tough one. Hmm… I guess one thing most people don’t know is that I’m actually secretly shy! You wouldn’t think so because I’ve performed in front of thousands of people, work in Entertainment and I constantly have to interact with people at events or what not but when people get to really know me they’re always like “Wait… Katrina Jo is shy?!” lol Is there any particular projects that you are working on at the moment? I’m currently working on re-vamping GlamGirlsLA, some special events and some new choreography for a very special project that’s coming out very soon. Stay tuned you guys! Do you consider yourself a role model in your community? Have you ever done any work where you had to give back? I’d like to think of myself as a role model to my peers as well as young women out there. I’ve done charity work with the Make A Wish Foundation, Hashtag Lunchbag, the Downtown Women’s Center and many other foundations. I recently joined the Los
Angeles South West College Board where we not only do great things with our students but also the youth in our community. I also like to get together with family or friends to feed the less fortunate. I think it’s very important to give back to your community whenever and however you can. Finally do you have any words of wisdom for those who would like to follow the same path as you? Some words that I’d like to share are – as cliché as it may sound – Stay true to yourself. We hear that all the time but it’s very difficult but also pivotal that we implement that into our lives. Stay true to your morals – any industry can pull you left and right along the way but stay true to who you are. Find out what you’re passionate about, what makes you tick, what keeps you hungry and keep working towards that. You’re going to hear a lot of NO’s and come across a lot of closed doors but there will be a YES and there will be plenty of open doors along the way. It’s not a race. It’s a journey and we all have to remind ourselves to trust the journey and have fun along the way! Sometimes God has a better plan for us than the plan we made for ourselves and we’ve got to have faith!
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READing is fundamental. ...BUT YOU DIDN'T NEED ME TO TELL YOU THAT NOW DID YOU?!
www.creativmag.com | Nov - Jan 2016 | CREATIV | 68
WRITER'S CORNER
RELATIONSHIPS
Does Praying for Your Dream Man Really Work?
70 | CREATIV | Jan - Mar 2016 | www.creativmag.com
W
hether or not you're a believer in a higher power, you've probably heard the line (or similar), "If you ask (insert higher power) for what you want in a partner, it'll be provided." Now the million-dollar question is: Does that really work? If I compose a list of all of the things I desire, I pray about it and I believe it to be true, will it work in my favor? Well, the answer is yes and no. If you believe in any single thing, you're making the first step to having your dream come true. In other words, if you believe that you'll find a partner who is caring, loving, honest, hardworking and good looking, chances are those thoughts will manifest and after a while, with certain qualities you exude, you'll get your desirable better half. So this is where things get tricky. Does praying for your dream guy work or should we simply believe in the Laws of Attraction? Well, let's start by answering these questions: Are you giving off an aura that is inviting and accepting to others? Do you walk with your head held high? Do you exhibit poise and confidence? Are you accepting of your flaws yet still have high self-worth and esteem? Are you an equally amazing person as the amazing man you want? Are you praying about it? These questions are important because they define the thin line between "the laws" and waiting on a higher power to bless you with what you prayed for in a partner.
So what do we do with this knowledge? First, pray and ask for what you want in a partner. Then, line yourself up. Be prepared to emanate the same energy and qualities that you want to see in the man you ask for. This step is essential because you can pray from here to the moon, but if you're not giving out what you'd like to receive, if you're not putting in the work to be "great", then you can't expect to pray for Prince Charming and simply get him. The next step is to transfer your mental list of what you desire and turn it into an actual list on a sheet of paper. Be sure that the things you desire are realistic, believe it and earnestly ask for it. The bottom line is, be the person you want to attract and the man upstairs will provide. Iron out any kinks in your life, attitude and appearance and watch the Laws of Attraction join forces with your prayers. These two forces combined will have your dream man waiting on you with open arms ...
TONI DOUGLAS Toni is in pursuit of obtaining her Doctorate degree in the field of Education while also pursuing her goals of publishing her first book, "What NOT to Do While Dating Your Non-Existent Boyfriend."
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WRITER'S CORNER TRAVEL
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Family Vacation Planning made
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wo words that strike fear into everyone’s heart: family vacation! For many, thinking about summer vacation, family reunions, or even upcoming holiday planning (yes, it’s never too early to start planning that!) causes so much stress and anxiety that they’d just rather endure a root canal…without anesthesia. But, it doesn’t have to be that bad. In fact, it could be relatively easy.
Set a Budget If you and your group have not already done so, set a budget range that works for each family. Understanding everyone’s budget and financial needs makes it easier for planning. Having a specific budget to work with also sets realistic expectations for everyone involved.
Determine the Destination
Allow family members – children included – to submit one or two destinations that they’d like to visit for their vacation. You can have everyone research their particular destination then Pick Your 'Family' share what they like in regards to activities, events, and more. First and foremost, realize that – as much as you may love your family -- you cannot travel with everyone. That’s a given. Next is the voting process. Narrow down the choices to no more than two. This will make it easier to comparison shop But, you can choose who you’d like to travel with, even later. amongst your family. Whenever possible, try to travel with your family members who share the same interests as you. Vacation Type This makes it easier when you decide on destinations, One thing most people forget to think about when planning a activities, and events. Also, remember that your ‘family’ vacation – the various types of vacations. You can do alldoesn’t have to include only your physical family. So, reach inclusive resorts, cruises, national parks, hotel packages, and out to your friends and see if they’d like to go along for the more. Budget often affections the type of vacation that can be fun. done. Having at least two different vacation options, such as cruise versus an air and hotel package, will help in finalizing Schedule a Meeting With the advent of Skype, Google Hangouts, FaceTime, and what will work for the group. other platforms for web conferencing, meeting with your Set a Date friends and family in various places has gotten easier. Invite Selecting a date can be just as hard as selecting a destination, the main point of contact for each family and schedule a but it doesn’t need to be. During your family meeting, each meeting for everyone. During this meeting, have a prepared family representative should have a clear idea of what dates agenda that will allow you to keep the conversation flowing, will work for them. In addition, compromise will be engaging, and productive. You will want to include topics important. Therefore, having multiple dates in mind will be such as destination ideas, budget range, possible dates, and helpful in narrowing selections. Finalize the dates by selecting activity ideas. Keep it simple, but make sure each meeting is no more than three date ranges that can work for planning. productive in moving forward with planning the vacation. 72 | CREATIV | Jan - Mar 2016 | www.creativmag.com
Be Flexible While planning your family vacation, realize that it’s also everyone’s individual vacation. While the group may enjoy being together, some may not want to start their day at the same time, be at every meal, or be together for every activity. Being flexible will be key to everyone enjoying their vacation. For example, suggest that everyone agree to come together for dinner each night, but explore the destination on their own during the day. This will allow those who wish to get together during the day to do so while others do something else separately. At dinner everyone can discuss the day’s adventures.
Research, Research, Research Once a destination and date has been chosen the research begins. Be sure to research all details of the trip: accommodations, transportation (air and car rentals), local activities, dining venues, peak seasons, and more. While some may be quite adept at researching all details and aspects of a trip, it’s usually best to work with a professional Travel Agent. They can take care of the research for you, answer questions, and customize a vacation package based upon your specific needs. This is especially true when you have a very large group. The larger the group, the more you need a Travel Agent. Whether traveling with your family or friends, vacations should be fun! Planning them can be just as fun, easy, and rewarding when done properly.
written by
For more information about her agency, Cruise Elite, visit the agency's website at www.CruiseElite.com
Showeshi Boston
BALD
and Proud I have always been fascinated by girls with pixie cuts. They look so cute and delicate. I've always dreamt of having a chance to try it on me. It's kinda risky with my kinky hair, you know. Buzz-cut girls took it to the next level. I find them even sexier. Shaved head is cool and...humm...brave? Anyway, it's different. Sooth to say, I wasn't brave enough to say goodbye to my rebellious curls and in cold blood shave them off. I wasn't sure it would suit me, if I was skinny enough, if my facial features were graphic enough, if I had an appropriate skull shape, if I wouldn't regret it hundreds of times, missing my afro. But a wise man once said: be careful what you wish for, because you just might get it. It has been two weeks since I got my first chemotherapy, when I noticed that my hair started falling out. Of course, I knew it was going to happen, but when, combing the hair with your fingers, you see a big strand, left in your hand, it's a shock! I had no other choice but shaving my head. My friend got me this hair shaving machine. None of us knows how to use it, but we decide to give it a try. Sitting on the plastic chair in the middle of the hospital room, waiting for my friend to finish reading the instructions, I feel like right before a free-fall parachute jump. There's nothing to be afraid of, but my heart is pounding like crazy. It is so sad to see all this lifeless hair on the floor. My curls. My beautiful curls! Oh wow, I can feel the breeze on my nape! That night I got a mini heart attack, when I, half asleep, made my way to the toilet in the dark of the moon and my bald head flashed in the mirror... Few weeks later I lost my brows and lashes. My hair started growing back three months later, when the doctor changed my meds. It's known that chemo might change your hair type and even colour, but, apparently, that's not my case. Since then my frizzy chevelure reached the pixie length. And I have to admit, it's adorable, though hard to tame. But, you know what, I shaved it again. I love looking like an alien. I feel incredibly comfortable being a freak. "Bald and proud" by Manunti
I'm a Leukemia Survivor
Olga Manuntinovich. 29 y.o., poet/writer, artist, model, traveller. Russian, who keeps exploring the world (had chance to live in Azerbaijan, Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Thailand and Japan, and visit many other countries), currently based in St. Petersburg. Leukemia survivor.
WRITER'S CORNER
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EMPOWERMENT
GETTING IT RIGHT The First Time
othing can be more frustrating than missing a moment. Even worst when it is the kind of opportunity that marks the deal of a lifetime. Have you ever been positioned to achieve something great or significant and for whatever reason, somehow you missed your cue? Maybe you responded the wrong way, or talked out of turn. Maybe you forgot about the appointment. Maybe you weren't paying close attention. Maybe you didn't know what to do and you were operating with limited knowledge about the situation, or perhaps, maybe you knew but chose to do your own thing.
concept of time in a remarkable way:
To realize the value of ONE YEAR, ask a student who has failed a grade To realize the value of ONE MONTH, ask a mother who has given birth to a premature baby To realize the value of ONE WEEK, ask an editor of a weekly newspaper To realize the value of ONE DAY, ask a daily wage laborer who has kids to feed To realize the value of ONE HOUR, ask the bride who is waiting to meet her groom To realize the value of ONE MINUTE, ask a person who I have had those moments when doors that I had been has missed the train praying for were opened right before my eyes and somehow To realize the value of ONE SECOND, ask a person who I missed walking through them because I wasn't fully has avoided an accident prepared. At other times I have had doors open up for me To realize the value of ONE MILLISECOND, ask the and I didn't walk through because it was not like what I person who has won a silver medal in the Olympics had envisioned. Truth be told, there are those moments when the doors swung wide open but I started tripping and before I knew it, the moments slipped away. Whatever the reason, sometimes we do miss appointments and are fortunate enough to secure a second, even a third chance at getting it right. But there are those moments that are really once in a lifetime opportunities and if we are unfortunate enough to miss those kinds of trains, recovery is oftentimes, always impossible. Now I would love to tell you that you shouldn't worry, that it's gonna be alright, that you'll get your second stab at whatever "it" might be for you. There is the possibility that you could and that would certainly be my hope, but the fact of the matter is, sometimes a missed opportunity may never ever present itself a second time around. Here’s a quote from Wael Abelgawad that describes the
Do what you need to do to maximize on the opportunities that will come your way...
Bigger than the subject of time, is the Controller of time; the Master Designer and Manufacturer Himself. He still determines times and seasons. He still has jurisdiction over when things begin and when those very things come to an end. He still knows the moment when we will enter the realm of the natural and the very moment when we will separate from our physical bodies in a state called death. He knows the purpose for your birth, the destiny for your life and the trajectory or established pathway it will take for you to arrive at your expected end. He knows what it will take to get you to where you need to go; the vision that you have in your mind for your life. Now here is the clincher; if you don't know this or you know but choose to ignore this truth, your ignorance of or your reluctance to subscribe to your Master Manufacturer's way of living your life, could cost you your entire future and quite possibly with no second chance for recovery. If this idea scares you, it probably should! Right at this moment you might be trudging a pathway that was never designed for you. Right at this moment you might be burdened by a weight that you were never designed or assigned to carry. Right at this moment you might be entering into an alliance with someone that was never assigned to your life. Right at this moment you could be simply walking in disobedience because you have chosen to reject Truth. Be prepared, be ready. Do what you need to do to maximize on the opportunities that will come your way and when the doors swing wide open, do not be afraid to go boldly into the unknown. Remember, if you are with Him as He purposes to be with you, there is absolutely no need to fear. Don't miss your moment!
GEORGIA BRYCE Georgia A. Bryce is primary contributor to the Building According To Pattern Blog Series and host of the Building According To Pattern Podcast Series. As a certified Personal and Professional Development Coach, her thrust is towards helping clients begin the journey of self-discovery in order to build life by their own unique design.
SPECIAL EVENTS
SO...THIS HAPPENED
78 | CREATIV | Jan - Mar 2016 | www.creativmag.com
COMIC CON taking over Miami Photography by Sean Simpson
Spotted celebrity : Barry Bostwick
80 | CREATIV | Jan - Mar 2016 | www.creativmag.com
D
o you dream of being a hero? Do you even go above and beyond to impersonate that hero? you are probably thinking "but this is absurd" , "nobody has time for that", and yet we are here to tell you that it exists. Comic books and movies have always been a part of one's childhood no matter where you live around the world. In the United States it is celebrated through events such as COMIC CON. Comic Con held it's miami event on January 15 to 17 at the Miami Convention Center. Hundreds gathered in their costumes to partake in this 3 day festivity. It's amazing the amount of effort and attention these attendees put into their costumes. Some costumes immulate the charaters to the near milimeter. When entering the venue certain characters were instantly recognizable. We have listed a few in the following pages for your viewing pleasure. Between costume competitions and live performances, attendees and spectators had enough content to remain entertained througout the whole day. Participants portrayed new characters such as Amethyst from Steven Universe 2013 as far as old characters such as the Thundercats 1985. The icing on the cake was to be able to mingle with certian celebrities. We had the pleaseure of meeting Barry Bostwick. "He is best known for his roles as Brad Majors in The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975), Mayor Randall Winston in Spin City, Commander Ace Hunter in Megaforce, Grandpa Clyde in Phineas and Ferb, Roger Frank in Cougar Town, Mr. Tyler in What I Like About You, Mr. Bradley in Hannah Montana: The Movie, and Oliver Gates in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. Barry Bostwick originated the role of bad boy Danny Zuko in the stage production of Grease in 1972 earning a Tony Award nomination for his performance." - MagicCityComicCon.com He recently played the president's father in season 2 of the hit show Scandal. It was a delight attending Comic Con in Miami. We definitely look forward to the next one. We have had the pleasure of highlighting what we thought were the best costumes at the event. Enjoy! - continued on next page.
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1- Dr. Emmett Brown from Back To The Future Trilogy 2- Elsa from the movie Frozen 3 - Star-Lord from the movie Guardians of the Galaxy 4- Iron Spider from the series Ultimate Spider-Man 5- Amethyst from Steven Universe the cartoon 6 - Sailor Moon Cartoon character
Photographed by Sean Simpson 82 | CREATIV | Jan - Mar 2016 | www.creativmag.com
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12 7- Anna from the movie Frozen 8- Glorified Robin from Batman and Robin 9- Dick Tracy and his wife Tess Tracy from the series Dick Tracy Comics 10- The Joker and Harly Quinn from Batman 11- Luke Skywalker vs Kyler Ren in Star Wars 12- Link from Legends from Zelda
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Bulba Fett Army version
Spartan from HALO
The Rocketeer
86 | CREATIV | Jan - Mar 2016 | www.creativmag.com
Maleficent
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Twisted Fuzion Dance Inc. is a diverse talented group founded in 2009 by Thatiana Gustama. It was created as an after school mentoring program for the purpose of keeping young girls busy and developping their natural given talent. Their fuzion consists of Modern Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Caribbean Foklore and African dance. For Booking contact @Thatyloyalty Email : Twistedfuziondance@gmail.com Follow our page on Ig @Twistedfuziondance On Facebook Twisted Fuzion Dance Inc
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