-
MADE XXXX
LEGENDS
EDITION
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WWW.MADE-MAGAZINE.COM
Will Packer PRODUCER OF
8 #1 BOX OFFICE HITS & COUNTING
GAME CHANGER:
REVEALS HOW TO ACHIEVE LEGENDARY STATUS
“Power” Producer Courtney Kemp Explains How to Rev Up Your Engine for Greatness
COMMON & CHANCE THE RAPPER Return to Uplift Chicago at Aahh Fest!
MADE MOMENTS: Success Highlights
of 2016
PRODUCERS ISSUE NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2016
made-magazine.com | 1
Create a life that leads to legendary success
MADE XXXX The BMW 3 Series
EXCEL AT ACCELERATING. THE BMW 3 SERIES.
With a 0-60 that’s as quick as 4.6* seconds, accelerating is just the starting line. This is a car that's built to perform, with enhanced steering and suspension** system that provide an even greater command of the road. Then there’s the near-perfect weight distribution and the intelligence of the optional Adaptive LED Headlights that hugs corners right before you do. With the BMW 3 Series, be prepared to excel wherever the road takes you.
*340 i xDrive Sedan. **Compared to the 2015 BMW 3 Series Sedan. ©2016 BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name, model names and logo are registered trademarks.
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We are all producers who have the power to create the lives we want to live.
PUBLISHER’S
LETTER
‘Becoming legendary’ is an actionpacked, high-pressure statement that only a few may add to their list of to-dos each morning before breakfast. Those who do will mentally set themselves up to create successful futures and impactful legacies.
Kris D. Williams PUBLISHER
Legends are the 1% of humanity who consciously think about and diligently work on how they will leave their mark on the world. Like the lyrics to “I Was Here” by Beyoncé, since we’re talking about legends, some come to this earth to contribute in such a way that will touch generations long after they leave.
“I wanna leave my footprint on the sands of time, Know there was something that, meant something that I left behind. When I leave this world, I’ll leave no regrets, Leave something to remember, so they won’t forget. I was here.” What I have learned is that the picture of our lives today is only one scene in the movie we call our lives. I often wonder “If I took a screenshot of my life, what would it tell me? If I were to play a timelapse over the past years, what value has been created?” We are all producers who have the power to create the lives we want to live. We have the ability to direct and carve the path we want to follow. It is also our responsibility to build unselfishly for those coming behind us. On the other hand, we don’t have to accept a plan that others have give us. It is our choice to create a blueprint for our legacy that gives us the option to intentionally plan for the success we want. As it pertains to my time as an entrepreneur, I’ve learned there is no cookie cutter way to reaching our greatness. I do know that deciding to live a life of intention becomes meaningful and living a life of a meaning is how legends leave their legacy. Cheers,
Kris
THE
A + TEAM KRIS D. WILLIAMS PUBLISHER @KrisDWilliams
47.
DERRICK L. CHRISTIAN II EDITOR-IN-CHIEF @DChristianii CHELSEY LITTLE SR. MEDIA COORDINATOR @215imgs TAHITI SPEARS ART DIRECTOR @tahitian_treat OMAR AVILA DESIGNER
XUXA DAY CONTRIBUTOR @ iatekatemoss
JASMINE BROWLEY CONTRIBUTOR @jasminebrowley
INDIA MCMILLER CONTRIBUTOR @imcmiller5
39. 52. 26.
30.
CONTENTS PRODUCERS ISSUE made-magazine.com
SECTIONS MADE FEATURES Made to motivate you by the success stories of everyday people, entrepreneurs and entertainers.
MADE MUSIC Made to showcase a millennial point of view on the hottest musical talent.
MADE CONNECTIONS Made to cultivate relationships that inspire us to build a better world.
MADE NOW Made to inform you on current news, controversy and conversations in today’s culture.
MADE INC. Made to turn your business mind into a business gold mine.
MADE LIFE
06.
Made to style the way you live to match up to greatness.
62. DON’T BE SHY! Share your story with us that may help millennials of color navigate their professional + personal lives. Click here to contribute your story. 5
PHOTO CREDITS: Kerry King
From left to right: Emcee Reneé Starlynn Allen; honorees Rina Shah and Natalie Cofield; BMW’s Kevin Williams; honorees Edda Coleman and Kirby Bumpus; and Kris Williams of MADE Magazine.
PAY IT
Watch video here
4 WA R D NATION’S CAPTIAL Pushing the Envelope in Philanthropy The District’s rising entrepreneurs gathered at STK D.C. at an invite-only event presented by BMW and co-hosted by MADE Magazine.
On a beautiful Sunday afternoon in the Nation’s Capitol, global luxury automobile company BMW partnered with MADE Magazine to celebrate four dynamic women driving professional and philanthropic impact in the DC community. The fourth honors brunch in the “Women Who Pay It 4ward” series recognized the following honorees: KIRBY BUMPUS – Kirby currently serves as Sr. Marketing Manager of Under Armour. Previously she was Associate Deputy Director for Policy at Let’s Move!
at the White House. Let’s Move!, an initiative created by First Lady Michelle Obama in 2010, encourages children and their families to live healthy lifestyles. Kirby’s career has focused on improving the lives of Americans throughout their lifespan. She is an experienced provider of counseling and sexual health education to a variety of populations. While in graduate school, she worked with the Harlem Health Promotion Center as a Health Educator for the Mobile Health team. Kirby has worked with the education team at Robin Hood Foundation as a program officer, managing and evaluating a portfolio focused on after-school programs and mental health school based clinics. NATALIE COFIELD – A converted management consultant, economic fellow,
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MADE LIFE
and economic development director, Cofield is the Founder & CEO of Walker’s Legacy, a global women in business collective and Urban Co-Lab, a shared co-working community for urban innovators. She previously served as the President & CEO of the Greater Austin Black Chamber of Commerce where her work resulted in award-winning, case-studied, nationally covered acclaim including the development #IAMBLACKAUSTIN. Her work has spanned continents, communities and corporations and can currently be found impacting lives and bottom-lines at organizations in cities like Austin, New York, DC, LA, Nairobi and beyond. EDDA COLLINS COLEMAN – Edda Collins Coleman is Founder and Managing Director of The 316 Group, a boutique firm working across political party lines to focus on political engagement, public affairs, advocacy relations, inclusion and leadership initiatives. She is also the Co-Founder and Chief Public Affairs Officer for All In Together, a non-profit campaign dedicated to American women’s political and civic engagement. Edda serves ais an adjunct professor in American University’s School of Communication, Department of Public Communication. In addition to keynote presentations at other national universities and conferences, her insights have appeared in media outlets such as Huffington Post, The Hill, Forbes and the DailyWorth. RINA SHAH – Shah is the President and Founder of Rilax Strategies. She is also
a political and social commentator for various networks, such as the awardwinning PBS show “To the Contrary with Bonnie Erbé”, “The Daily Ledger” on One America News, and is a weekly Washington correspondent on WXJB 99.9FM morning radio show. She has served as as a Congressional Aide in the U.S. House of Representatives and as Vice President of the Tigerlily Foundation. The brunch was hosted by Reneé Starlynn Allen, a radio producer and commentator who is the President and Founder of Star Entertainment Group LLC and Vets 4 Life, and is also the host of The Reneé Allen and Friends Show. Prior to the brunch, guests had the opportunity to “Drive for a Cause,” a BMW test driving experience that allowed each guests to contribute to Sisters 4 Sisters Network for each ride. “It has been an honor to showcase such influential women who are making an impact across the country, while also raising money for such a worthy cause,” said Kevin Williams, Head of Multicultural Marketing at BMW North America. The event series will culminate at its next stop in Miami, Florida.
Be the legacy of the women who have come before us.” NATALIE COFIELD
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MADE LIFE
T O P TEN Rising Stars of Hollywood
MADE By Xuxa Day
There is a new wave of stars trending in music, movies and online. We conducted some research on new faces who have captured our attention. Get to know why these talented ten sensations should stay in your sight.
A JA N AO M I K I N G
Actress
T 01.
PHOTO CREDIT: Maxim
W
hen you Google his name for accolades, a British model pops up. However the name Stephen James, Canadian actor, will be causing a buzz soon enough here in the states. If you didn’t watch his latest role as track and field sprinter Jesse Owens in Race, we are almost positive you have noticed him in quite a few other historical remnant films such as Selma. Other than the big screen, James has grown up from his Degrassi days to take on more conscious and black culture driven roles. We believe one of the things that stands out about James most is his call to action in representation in film. After the Oscars uproar, James creates a refreshing mentality to the cliché facade of red carpets, trailers, and paparazzi. Once again, you’ll remember his name by next year for sure as he has been casted as Treston Perry and highly anticipated TV series, Shots Fired.
he Los Angeles native has made herself a familiar face within the comfort of our own homes, honing in the role as Michaela Pratt for hit series, How to Get Away with Murder. Other than the fact that the star is working with one of the biggest names in showbiz, Ms. Shonda Rhimes, King resonates a resilience with her career background alone. The actress is not new to the industry but has overcome challenges including a few short runs of previous series. Now that King has found her stride, she’s simply unstoppable. Let her story just go to prove that persistence pays off. Aja starred in the recent remake Birth of a Nation as Cherry.
ST E P H A N JA M E S
Actor
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02
PHOTO CREDIT: Stephan James
MADE LIFE
L A RA S H A H I D I
Actress
03. PHOTO CREDIT: Curls Understood
R
ated by Time Magazine as one of the most influential teens of 2016, Yara Shahidi is the Iranian-American actress mostly known for her role as Zoey in the TV sitcom Black-ish. Yara, only sixteen, is true a testimony that Gen Z is definitely “woke” in that her glow up is one meant to inspire others to act on their ambitions and dreams. Shahidi has given speeches at the White House and TED Talks in reference to the
signfiicance of cultural appropriation and how this is reflected in the acting world. This year the mini-activist for women’s equality and racial equality Shahidi also inked a modeling contract via New York’s Women Management modeling agency, in hopes of providing a platform to see more women of color in diverse roles. If Shahidi is any indication of Gen Z’s mentality, we must admit it’s going to be “lit” as the kids say.
04.
C
PHOTO CREDIT: Google Images.
D O N A L D G LOV E R
Actor / Rapper
oming in on the high of his recent casting as Young Lando in the upcoming Star Wars flick, Donald Glover has hit a phenomenal peak from transitioning in a variety of creative trades. Although Glover is said not to be a new face on the block of Hollywood Boulevard, this year has been a lightning bolt of success. Other than the new roles rolling in (no pun intended), Glover has hit the gold mine with his own hit show Atlanta. What really takes the cake is that Glover was hired on an all-black writing team to produce relative and representational dialogue which then landed the show yet another season within the airing of just the second episode.
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MADE LIFE
A M A N D L A ST E N B E R G
Actress
O 05.
PHOTO CREDITS: Entertainment Weekly
06.
h how far this beauty has come from her initial role in Columbiana. Amandla Stenberg has been noted as a force to be reckoned with as a Gen Z baby. The actress has been an activist for #BlackGirlMagic and even a guest editor for Teen Vogue. Going above and beyond on and off the set seems to be Stenberg’s knack as she tackles the taboo topic of cultural appropriation one hurdle at a time. Stenberg takes representation to a new level by taking on projects such as her own and always setting the bar when it comes to philanthropic causes like No Kid Hungry and the Ubuntu Education Fund, which nurtures children “from cradle to career” in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Stenberg’s latest role was in Hunger Games when she played the character Rue. The word in Hollywood is that Stenberg is now working toward making her comic a television series. For now NIOBE: She Is Life is expected to be released on Nov. 4 and follows the story of Niobe Ayutami, a young, black warrior on her adventures to save the world.
M I C H A E L B . J O R DA N
Actor / Entrepreneur
M
ichael B. Jordan has recently struck a chord that not many young actors get the opportunity to expand into: ownership. Congratulations are in order for the Jordan whom now just launched his very own production company and signed a multi-year film and television production deal with Skydance Media. The 29 year old actor has reeled in quite some standstill roles ranging from his most recent role in Black Panther to being one of the featured faces in the gun violence piece, titled “Against the Wall,” produced in association with Belafonte’s social justice organization Sankofa.org. When the actor isn’t dabbling in the fine arts, he is supporting lupus charities as it is a cause near and dear to him affecting friends PHOTO CREDIT: and family members. This balancing act beVulture. tween the big screen and being a millennial that gives back is one of the aspects that has propelled Jordan’s career at such a rapid rate.
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MADE LIFE
T E SSA T H O M P S O N
07.
Actress
T
essa Thompson, another Los Angeles native, has been making headlines from her tremendous style to her roles in the last two years alone in films such as Creed, Selma, and Dear White People. BuzzFeed News Associate Features Editor, Anita Badejo, stated in a recent interview “At a time when Hollywood is finally developing the kinds of projects for actors of color that had traditionally been out of reach, Tessa Thompson’s ascent to the A-list isn’t just welcome — it’s necessary.” When referencing the evolution of representation of black people in film, Thompson makes an interesting example due to the fact that she initially had to force her hand in being a part of gender and race specific roles. Whereas now she is being casted in once traditionally white genres. Marvel announced this September that Thompson will play Valkyrie, a Norse warrior goddess, in Thor: Ragnarok.
PHOTO CREDIT: Google Images.
08.
C H A DW I C K B O S E M A N
Producer/ Actor
T
PHOTO CREDIT: Google Images.
he Howard alum has created a rumble amongst his peers in the acting world. Chadwick Boseman performs like a seasoned vet in highly appointed roles with the mission on pursuing the stories that go un-
told. Boseman also has a few playwright credits under his belt. Never admitting to being a celebrity, the actor exudes his humility when skimping on his accolades that include nominations for Breakthrough Performance
of the Year. The actor and producer is widely known for his roles in Captain America: Civil War, 42, and Get on Up. The Santa Barbara Independent conducted an interview with Boseman and asked if he was worried about getting slighted by the Academy and HFPA. The short answer is that he’s not. The longer and more hilarious answer is this: “When it comes down to it, I’d rather have an action figure than a Golden Globe.” Boseman was casted in the Marvel role as Black Panther last year and has not lost momentum despite being snubbed for previous work. At this rate, we predict an Oscar nomination coming soon.
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MADEXXXX LIFE MADE
WA R R E N B U R K E Actor
09.
H
ailing from Chicago, the actor pursued his niche for comedy all the way to LA. Warren Burke has stayed persistent in his hustle being a part of various TV series. Recently Burke was casted on Jimmy Kimmel Live! for some hilarious skits including the Oscars after party scene as well as a scenario between Jason Sudeikis, Lionel Richie, and Elton John. Burke hit the ground running once receiving training at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts. His experience spans across all genres of entertainment media such as writing, voiceovers, and dance. He’s recently appeared on commercials for McDonalds and has worked with BuzzFeed and Blavity. Being a creative millennial, Burke has set himself apart by layering his talents. We can’t wait to see what projects he has coming next!
PHOTO CREDIT: Warren Burke
AS H L E Y B L A I N E F E AT H E R S O N
10.
Actress
A
nyone who watched the hit web show, Hello Cupid, fell in love with Whitney, and understands our dying love for rising actress, Ashley Blaine Featherson. Another Howard University graduate and Maryland native, ABF is making her way in Hollywood creating thought-provoking content many times geared toward evolving the African American culture. Currently Ashley is shooting Season One of the film- turned television series, Dear White People on Netflix set to debut in the Spring of 2017.
PHOTO CREDIT: AshleyBlaineFeatherson.com
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MADE XXXX
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MADE MOMENTS HIGHLIGHTS MADE By Chelsey Sincerray
DRAKE, “VIEWS” ALBUM RELEASE April 29, 2016 Award Nominations: BET Hip Hop Award for Best Album of the Year, Danish Music Award for International Album of the Year
OF
2016
2016 has been one journey that is quickly coming to the end. Records have been broken, history has been made, while notable icons have left their legacy with us. When reflecting over the moments of the year, there has been a prominent rise of gamechangers within the millennial population. We are continuing to break cultural norms and embrace originality with no FRANK OCEAN, “BLONDE” ALBUM RELEASE hesitation. August 20, 2016
The 58th Annual GRAMMY Awards & Performances Kendrick Lamar, The Weeknd, Lady Gaga Released: February 15, 2016
WILLOW SMITH Named Chanel Ambassador
DESHAUNA BARBER crowned Miss USA 2016 First woman actively serving in the United States Army Reserve to win the title. June 5, 2016
March 8, 2016
FLINT, MICHIGAN WATER CRISIS - Donation of 1 million water bottles by Diddy, Mark Wahlberg, Wiz Khalifa & Eminem to Flint residents.
JESSE WILLIAMS Acceptance Speech at 2016 BET Awards June 26, 2016
January 25, 2016
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AVA DUVERNAY releases new documentary, “13th”, on Netflix October 7, 2016
Continuing the Celebration of #BLACKGIRLMAGIC
RIHANNA, “ANTI” ALBUM RELEASE
January 28, 2016
• Essence February 2016 Issue Cover Series • Zendaya Joins CoverGirl
Award Nomination: Billboard Music Award for Top R&B Album
Marvel’s LUKE CAGE Gives Tribute to Trayvon Martin
Success of Film Director and Screenwriter RYAN COOGLER
September 30, 2016
Creed (2015); 2 NAACP Awards in 2016 Announcing of directing and writing screenplay for Marvel’s Black Panther (2018)
BEYONCÉ, “LEMONADE” ALBUM RELEASE
April 23, 2016
PASSING OF TUPAC’S MOTHER AFENI SHAKUR May 2, 2016
2016 SUMMER OLYMPICS Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (first South American city to ever host the summer games) August 5-21, 2016
CHICAGO’S CHANCE THE RAPPER & MAGNIFICENT COLORING DAY September 24, 2016
GRAND OPENING OF National Museum of African American History and Culture September 24, 2016 HILLARY CLINTON Accepts Nomination and Makes History as US First Woman POTUS Nominee July 28, 2016
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COMMON & FRIENDS RETURN Despite the recent negative press on Chicago during presidential debates, Common continues to spread positive energy to unify Chicago’s neighborhoods through hip-hop. The event was kicked off by a community-based showcase on Saturday followed by more musical performances on Sunday. MADE By Wayne Young
The two-day festival spotlighted local artists, Chicago-bred entertainers and Common’s friends including Chance the Rapper, Vic Mensa, Sir the Baptist, Jeremih, Bilal, R. Kelly, The Roots, Ice Cube, and of course headliner, J.Cole. Hosted by Chicago Native and Comedian Deon Cole of Blackish stated, “We want to inspire and bring some unity and let everybody know that we’re here for them.”
MADE MUSIC
TO UPLIFT CHICAGO “I want people to feel empowered. I want them to feel inspired. As rough as the days are, we have some changes to do. We have to start doing things ourselves, we can’t wait for anybody.” - COMMON
PHOTO CREDIT: Chelsey Sincerray APJ Films
One of the day’s most memorable performances was Common’s latest track, “Black America Again” after he invoked the names of AfricanAmerican shooting victims from Laquan McDonald to Philando Castile.
This philanthropic festival empowered and educated black youth, reaffirming that indeed there are good things happening in urban Chicago.
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MADE MADE MUSIC XXXX
S O U N D WAVE HOT NE W ART I STS
SoundWaves is back on another wave of tunes from Chicago artists. These selected artists will be featured in our coming listening session entitled “Soundwaves” on November 9th at FAME Studios. These selected artists will perform live, each having on a 20-minute set in an unplugged, acoustic setting. RSVP here to reserve your seat.
MADE By Chelsey Sincerray
CRAW THE SAGE • • •
Soundcloud: @crawthesage Hometown: Maywood, IL Recent Project: “#Elixir”
01.
PHOTO CREDITS: Gonzo Gonzalez & Charlie Copeland
I work with a team who is constantly trying to allow new sounds to grow organically, while blending sounds of contemporary Hip Hop.”
Rapper Craw the Sage, born Eric Boyd, is a talented emcee with a vast array of poetic talent. He was raised in Chicago then moved to Maywood, IL around high school. Craw the Sage is gifted with words and possesses a unique style of rap that is all his own. He began rapping in his dorm room during his freshman year in college. He explains “I didn’t know I had a way with words...Rap found me, I was just doin’ it for fun and I just so happen to be decent at it, so I decided to take Hip Hop seriously around the end of my sophomore year.”
he felt comfortable performing in front of crowds. He took the opportunity to participate in open mics around his school and around Chicago, using the open mics as stepping stones to harness the craft of performance. Craw dropped his first fulllength project entitled ‘Joy of the Game’, on May 20, 2015. The project was largely produced and mixed by a fellow student and good friend Griffin Belzer (GRYFN). Joy of the Game is described as a coming of age story. Craw raps to inspire lives and share knowledge amongst his listeners. He expends a lot of energy and has an aura about him that cannot go unnoticed. Craw is currently working on his new project entitled #Elixir.
Craw eventually developed his skill of rap to a point in which
“We are born with the ability to create, a God given gift. We
BIO
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are all participants in this great cosmic event which is basically one big art project.” - Craw the Sage Three words that sums up your wave of music. And why?
My Wave: Experimental Trap, Mystic, Neo-Soul I work with a team who is constantly trying to allow new sounds to grow organically, while blending sounds of contemporary Hip Hop.
What makes your music different from others in your industry?
My music is different than others in the industry because I’m versatile with my beat selection, I bring my true authentic personality to each one of my songs, and there are layers of substance in my rhyme schemes.
MADE XXXX
02.
JOVAN LANDRY • • •
Soundcloud: @jlesliemonique Hometown: Chicago, IL Recent Project: “The Conscious
EP”
BIO
A complex soul with the mystique of regality, Jovan Landry is the ultimate triple threat. Born in San Jose, California, but currently living in Chicago, Illinois, this young upstart considers herself “1/3 filmmaker, 1/3 photographer, and 1/3 emcee.” As a graduate Columbia College Chicago, Landry has proven herself to become a force within her community, translating her opportunities found within the classroom to the real world. The proud creator of several successful YouTube channels such as LeslieMoniqueTV and KnottyDreadTV, Landry has amassed over 6,000 subscribers and 1 Million views, and is always looking for new ways to express herself, whether in front or behind the camera or on the mic. Possessing the desire to eventually combine her three passions into one huge entity, Jovan vows to breathe life through her work in hopes to create a legacy which lives on forever. - written by Tyler K. McDermott
PHOTO CREDITS: Kru & Kalyn Jacobs
What makes your music different from others in your industry?
My messages - taking in the fact that I can dabble in many things such as film & photography. I’m overall a creative person that likes to learn a lot rather than just staying into my comfort zone.
Three words that sums up your wave of music. And why?
Fun, organic, inspirational. Why? Because I love to entertain and make people happy, while being myself and being able to help someone as well as myself when I’m doing my music. made-magazine.com | 19
I love to entertain and make people happy, while being myself and being able to help someone as well as myself when I’m doing my music.”
MADE MUSIC
03. LA TOSCA •
Soundcloud:
@latosca-chicago • •
Hometown:
Chicago, IL
Recent Project:
“Nalewka”
BIO
La Tosca was formed in 2014 by Andrea Falcone, Davide Morelli, and Antonio Valdez in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago. Since then the group has grown to become a truly international collaboration, with members from Italy, Mexico, Poland, Bolivia, France, the American Midwest, and the Southwest. Inevitably, their repertoire is wildly diverse. Their music is timeless, combining elements of gypsy jazz, classical, latin, and traditional tarantella spanning hundreds of years of history. At one moment you feel like you are in a smoky hot jazz club in 1930s Paris, and in the next you are swaying to the whirling rhythms of a tarantella in 1700s Naples.
“It’s different because all the members are so different and we try to give space for each to express themselves. That simple fact inevitably leads to “something different.”
What three words sum up your wave of music? Why?
International time travelers. Everyone one of us has studied a different musical tradition, and we each thrive on sharing these cultures with the world. There are other bands that fuse cultural traditions, but none quite like ours.
PHOTO CREDITS: Julia Britkovskaya & Troy Heinzeroth
What makes your music different?
We’re not trying to make it different just for the hell of it. It’s different because all the members are soooo different and we try to give space for each to express themselves. That simple fact inevitably leads to “something different”. made-magazine.com | 20
MADE XXXX
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MADE MADE MUSIC XXXX
04.
MUEX •
Hometown: Chicago, IL
“Dynamic, Progressive & Alternative”
PHOTO CREDITS: Mason Jones and Amanda Huerta
BIO
Dynamic, Progressive & Alternative. MUEX is a combination of various different influences. Drawing from Hip-Hop, R&B and Electronic elements reinvented in a contemporary landscape, MUEX stands out in the use of various textures. What makes your music different?
With very distinct urban drums, heavy synths and haunting vocals, MUEX creates a distinctive mood of romance, mystery and nostalgia.
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MADE XXXX
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MADE XXXX
#MADEMoods :
CLASSIC OLD SCHOOL HITS (‘80s-’00s)
MADE By Chelsey Sincerray
For our Legends Issue, it’s a must that we take our readers back to the classics from back in the day. From basement parties to those long trips on the road, these throwback tunes made a mark in their eras of pop culture. Have those speakers ready yet?
ERYKAH BADU
BEYONCÉ
“CRAZY IN LOVE”, DANGEROUSLY IN LOVE (2003)
“ON & ON”, BADUIZM (1997)
USHER
“YEAH!”, CONFESSIONS (2004)
BRANDY
“I WANNA BE DOWN”, BRANDY (SELF-TITLED ALBUM) (1994)
BUSTA RHYMES
“PASS THE COURVOISIER PART II”, GENESIS (2001)
MADE MUSIC
COMMON
“I USED TO LOVE H.E.R.”, RESURRECTION (1994)
WHITNEY HOUSTON
PRINCE
“WHEN DOVES CRY”, PURPLE RAIN (1984)
“I WANNA DANCE WITH SOMEBODY (WHO LOVES ME)”, WHITNEY (SELFTITLED ALBUM) (1987)
SWV
“RIGHT HERE”, IT’S ABOUT TIME (1992)
MICHAEL JACKSON
“ROCK WITH YOU”, OFF THE WALL (1979)
A TRIBE CALLED QUEST
JILL SCOTT
“AWARD TOUR”, MIDNIGHT MARAUDERS (1993)
“A LONG WALK”, WHO IS JILL SCOTT? - WORDS AND SOUNDS, VOL. 1 (2000)
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MADE MADE FEATURES XXXX
‘ACTING OUT’ HIS DREAMS:
LIL REL
Just try to turn on your TV without seeing comedian and actor Lil Rel these days; it’s pretty though. He’s starring on NBC’s The Carmichael Show, he’ll be featured in two major motion picture films set to be released sometime next year and he’s the host of a brand new show airing on MTV. If you ask Lil Rel himself, though, he’ll tell you he’s just a guy from the West Side of Chicago who wants to make the city he loves proud. We sat down with Lil Rel to learn all about his rise to fame and talk about his return to his comedic roots with his role on MTV’s groundbreaking new comedy series “Acting Out.” MADE By Sylvia Snowden MADE: Take me back, all the way back to the West Side of Chicago. When and how did you discover you were funny? LR: That’s a good question. I mean, I thought I was funny for a long time; because most of us are funny. And that’s not to say black people are funny, but, we’re funny. Humor is a part of our culture and our lives. Now, the first time I thought I might actually be able to become a comedian and an actor was when I started doing the plays at my uncle’s church. I always did well and this was as a kid. But, it wasn’t until I went to Providence St. Mel on the West Side of Chicago (that I really believed in my talent). I was cast in the school play. It was a high school play and I was only in 6th grade, but I auditioned anyway; I got casted for it! That’s when I knew. I thought “if I can beat out a bunch of 15 and 16-yearolds for a part in a play and I’m 12, then I might be onto something (laughs)!” made-magazine.com | 26
MADE: How did you go from that realization of “Hey, I’m talented” to actually pursuing standup comedy? I heard a rumor that you used to hang around a little comedy spot called the Lyon’s Den. Is that true? LR: I used to work at a telemarketing company and I had Mondays off, the Lyon’s Den had a Monday night open mic. And the only way I knew about these spots is because when I was in high school, the Chicago Sun-Times newspaper put out a “Weekend Plus” newspaper every Friday where they’d list the weekend theater
MADE MADE FEATURES XXXX
shows and comedy clubs. So, I’d been looking at this newspaper forever and I’d spend every weekend just circling the comedy clubs. I just had to wait until I was old enough to actually go and perform in them. And I really wasn’t old enough, (when I finally went to the clubs), I was still under 21, but man, yes, Lyon’s Den was the first place I went to, on Chicago’s Northwest Side. I was just talking to some friends about that place because it created a lot of dope comedians you see out here now, actually. MADE: And let’s fast forward to today. You have gone far beyond being just a dope comedian; you’re a TV and movie star! You keep coming back to standup comedy, though. Why? What’s the draw? LR: Stand up is therapeutic. It’s what opened all of the doors for all of the things that I’m able to do now. That’s the one place you can go to on that stage, by yourself and create and say whatever you want. And there isn’t a script. I can go up there and do whatever I want. It’s more therapy than anything. There’s nothing like going on stage and telling your truth. MADE: And now, you’re teaming up with MTV for a new stand-up comedy series, “Acting Out.” How did that partnership come to be? LR: MTV was already interested in doing
something with me. I had a chance to meet the execs at an MTV awards show and we had a really good conversation. And I was telling them that if we do something together, I would love to host something on the network. They said that my name had come up for a project and that project was “Acting Out.” My name had come up to just be featured on the show, though. And I knew the producers because I’d done Last Comic Standing. So when the first host, turned the show down, they’d called me to just be featured on the show, and I told my manager “well before we say ‘yes’ to me doing the show, can you tell them I want to host?” And my manager took that back to the executives. They (the executives) had a meeting and said: “oh, this would be the perfect show for Rel.” And it happened that fast. It became my show. MADE: Wow. Talk about making your own luck! Now, tell me more about “Acting Out.” You all are doing something very innovative with standup comedy, correct? LR: You know something; it’s amazing to watch these jokes come to life. And that’s so fun to watch to me! People who love standup comedy in general and love watching comedians know that the comedian is usually good at painting
the picture. On this show, though, you don’t have to paint a picture in your mind. We’re actually showing you the painting. Viewers will be able to actually see the jokes come to life. That’s what’s so amazing about this show and that’s the funniest thing about it so far. MADE: You’ve credited the show “In Living Color Reboot” with giving you your “big” break. You’re going to be giving a lot of fresh faces the chance to shine on this show. What does it mean to you to be able to give other comics the same sort of “big” break someone gave you? LR: It means a lot to me, actually. With this show, I was able to get a lot of the talented comics on this show and also get them acting in this show. And that feels great. I’ve always done that. I still come back to Chicago and I have showcases I do all of the time for comedians to actually perform in front of big management or agents or producers and that’s only going to get bigger. I LOVE helping out, I love giving back, I love opening doors. And this is just the beginning for me. *Acting Out airs on MTV on Thursday nights, 10:30 EST/9:30 C
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CLASSIC READS WHAT EVERYONE SHOULD HAVE ON THEIR BOOKSHELVES
We’ve all heard Will Smith and Julia Roberts publicize their admiration for this classic, but we couldn’t just take their word it. For our book club, we selected The Alchemist, a magical masterpiece that keeps giving the gift of life and moving inspiration through a parable of worldly traveler in search of treasure. Here are our FAQs as you add it to your shopping cart. MADE By Jasmine Browley
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“WHEN YOU REALLY WANT SOMETHING, THE UNIVERSE ALWAYS CONSPIRES IN YOUR FAVOUR.” This powerful phrase, along with countless others just like it is riddled throughout The Alchemist. The 28-year-old book’s undeniable appeal has transcended generations, managing to remain relevant enough to not only be quoted by those who bought the book more than two decades ago, but those readers’ children as well. Just take a look at the lines from the book turned into inspirational memes. Coincidence? I think not. SO, WHY SHOULD YOU READ THE ALCHEMIST? It’s easy to see why it’s a mainstay on bookshelves. A quick read, the 163 page book tells the story of Santiago, a Spanish boy who works as a sheep herder and has a dream that he will find treasure and great fortune in the Egyptian pyramids. An elder who called himself the King of Salem tells the boy that he knows his Personal Legend – his calling in life – but most times an unseen but clearly heard force tells people that the legend won’t happen and they give up. But the old man stresses to the boy that, “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” The book follows Santiago during his journey to the treasure and depicts his obstacles that he somehow manages to overcome along the way. After much trepidation, he takes his search to the desert, where he meets The Alchemist, who may be able to help him find his treasure. Just when he’s near the treasure, the boy faces one of the most important challenges of his life. As you can imagine, the book is just one huge pile of symbolism waiting to be applied to our everyday struggles. Sounds corny, but the likes of Oprah, Julia Roberts and countless other wildly successful figures have been singing the book’s praises for years. WILL YOU LIKE IT? It’s hard to say. If you’re a sucker for inspirational memes and Oprah show re-runs, this book will be dog eared just a few pages in. If you’re more of the cynical type, the story will probably be less applicable to your life and the thinly veiled motivational plot tropes will be more obvious than epiphanic. However, it’s clear that the story is one that can easily be appreciated, especially for millennials going through the dreaded quarter life crisis and need a bit of reassurance that everything really is going to ok
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WILL PACKER Living His Legacy in Hollywood Notable for producing high-profit films such as Stomp the Yard, Think Like A Man and the Ride Along franchises, Will Packer has carved his own path to success in Hollywood. In an exclusive interview with MADE, Will shares the formula to becoming a legendary leader.
MADE By Kris D. Williams
M
ADE: You’ve accomplished an amazing career by being a dynamic storyteller and your personal story is something we want our readers to know more about in terms of the actual journey. How would you describe your entrepreneurial journey and where your entrepreneurial itch came from? WP: The journey to being a film producer started in college. I would say the journey to being Will Packer, the successful person, entrepreneur, father, husband, anything else that I do well, really started at home. And that’s something I try to encourage other parents to do. Encourage your kids and tell them they can be anything they want to be and tell them they can do whatever they
want to do. My parents definitely did that, so I had a drive that formed my hustle. My drive always allowed me to go after anything and it always forced me to give 110%. And that what’s landed me at Florida A&M University with a full ride scholarship and it’s what allowed me to make my first movie while I was at Florida A&M University. Still didn’t know what I wanted to do after that first movie got made and was done, then I realized that what I had just accomplished was no small feat and is what they call in the movie industry “producing”. And I realized that I did it and did it well and made a profit. This was going to be my entrepreneurial endeavor. So I’ve always wanted to be an entrepreneur, I just didn’t know what kind.
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movie all the way up to now, from the set of Being Mary Jane to everything that I’ve produced in between, I’ve used some of those analytical skills that I’ve learned from my engineering career. MADE: For those entrepreneurs who read our magazine, what advice can you give for managing a team and being able to work with several different types of people to execute one goal?
My drive always allowed me to go after anything, and it always forced me to give 110%.”
MADE: While pursuing your college degree and having a passion for producing, how did you use the skillset of electrical engineering to transition into film? WP: It’s really different, but it prepared me in a strange way. I majored in engineering because I was really adept at math and science and I got a full ride scholarship to FAMU to study engineering. And that’s what I did, I took advantage of that opportunity to have my college career covered. But I knew that wasn’t my passion and I found my passion along the way when I made my first movie “Chocolate City”. The interesting thing about it is that even when I made that first independent
WP: I would tell them that leadership is extremely important and there are several qualities that you must have if you’re going to be a successful leader. One is definitely people management. You have to be able to have a diverse team with a variety of perspectives, personalities, people with different backgrounds, different views of the world, different energy. Everybody’s not gonna be the same, everybody’s not gonna be you and everybody might not get along. And that’s okay because you don’t always necessarily need that for your team to be efficient. As a leader, you have to put the efficiency of the team above everything else. You want to be able to manage conflicts. Conflict resolution is another very important skill - it’s going to happen. You’re going to have issues internally and externally with your team. The way that you manage those conflicts will make all the difference in terms of the levels of success that you are able to attain. Also, you have to make sure that you are hands-on, dealing with people in a way that makes them feel good to be a part of your team. Do not micro-manage because you have to put smart, qualified people in positions and let them do what they do. MADE: So how do you get your vision across while having them staying in line with what they are supposed to deliver? WP: Yeah, it sucks sometimes because you have visions and they might not have one. One great skill of a leader (and something I try to practice on a daily basis) is getting others to see that - especially in the film industry, but this is applicable across multiple
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industries - collaboration is good. If you see something one way and I see it another way, if we work together then it’s highly likely that we can both see it a different way that neither of us did initially that ends up better than both of our initial ideas. A lot of times people feel like you’re standing in their way because you’re not doing exactly the way that they want you to do it. You have to get them to understand that, “No, we’re better together.” We’re better if it’s an idea that you and I both think is amazing as opposed to just one of us. Just because we’re working together on a vision that’s a little bit different from the initial one that you came up with alone doesn’t mean that we aren’t working towards your vision. That is still an iteration of your vision. You have to get people to buy into that. MADE: So when you’re looking for
partners and leveraging collaborations, what do you look for in people and companies that you work with? WP: In terms of partnerships and companies, you definitely look at track record and you look at relationships. It’s really, really important no matter what you do to maintain good relationships because before I enter into an agreement with another company, entity or person, I always want to check references. I want to do my research and do my own work on that person or that business. If they’ve gotten a bunch of bad reports and a bunch of people saying negative things then it’s highly unlikely that I’m going to go into it with the same level of trust (if I go into at all) that I would with somebody who’s had a good relationship with people and everyone has positive things to say. It’s important. A lot of times, especially the younger people in this generation, they want to “keep it real”, they want to be honest. They want to be in your face, not worry about the politics and be unfiltered. Well, that’s not how business works. The way business works is that people work with those that they like and hear good things about. If you’re somebody that doesn’t know how
to manage relationships, doesn’t have good people skills, you’re probably not going to be somebody that others are going to recommend working with.
MADE: How do you think upcoming actors can break into the industry and pave their own lane without all of the experience specifically those who may not have a track record, but they may have talent being one who’s still early in the industry? WP: Well remember, building a resume is just what it sounds like. You have to build it and sometimes you have to build it from the ground up. Sometimes that means that you just have to get on a set any way possible. That may be being an extra, being in the background and then you work your way up getting to know the casting director, director, producer and then you can get an audition. You may not get the job off your first audition. You may have to audition a hundred times. But it is about building it. It is about not just going from step A to step Z, but continuing to climb and making sure that you don’t just go to step A and just stay at A. You must get to B, C, D, E on down the line if you’re progressing, only if you’re progressing - even if it’s slow. Even if it’s at the rate that you don’t want it to be. Even if you’re not the number one person on the call sheet, above the title on the billboard, and got a bunch of movies coming out. If you’re working better today than you were yesterday, than you were the day before, than you were the week before, than you were the year before then you’re progressing. That’s what important. MADE: Seeing the difference within the industry, from the 2000s to now, do you have any tips for future producers on bootstrapping in a digital era or being resourceful? WP: The tip that I would have is using the resources that you have. You may not have the same level of resources that I have or maybe someone with a long track record may have. But, that doesn’t mean that you
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can’t be successful. What do you have access to? What can you get your hands on? Use that. Use that to hone your storytelling skills. Maybe you can’t do a full feature, maybe you can’t do a 30-minute short. Maybe you can only do a 5 - 10 minute piece that you can put out onto the web and someone says “That’s talent, how much did you spend on that?” (In response) “I spent $60.” “Well you know what, I’ll give you $600 to see what you’ll do...or $6,000... or $60,000.” Ultimately, you might get to $6 million or $60 million. But you gotta work your way up. Sitting back and talking about what you don’t have and dwelling on what you don’t have will ensure only thing - that you will stay right where you are.
MADE: What are lessons that you’ve learned from your mentor and lessons that you’ve taught your mentees? WP: One of things is what Warrington (Hudlin) said after I first met him and told him I wanted to be a filmmaker. I’d done a small movie at FAMU called “Chocolate City” and I showed it to him and I had asked him if he would watch it. He said, “I might.” He told me, “Listen, the most important thing is that you have done something. You have a completed movie. Most people in this industry are talking about what they’re going to do, what they want to do, what they’re about to do. You have done it. You have something to show. Always be a doer, and not a talker.” Ultimately, he did watch it. He watched “Chocolate City” and he gave me his feedback on it. And he told me, “Now if you shot this, shoot another one. And then shoot another one. And then shoot another one.” For me, I was going with, “Look, I didn’t make it or get in the door with the first one? I don’t have the money to shoot another one. I have poured my heart and soul into this one. Can we stay with this one for a minute?” And he told me, “That’s what it takes...You have to grind, and grind, and grind, and grind.” That’s what I encourage my young mentees, filmmakers, writers, actors to do - is to don’t stop. Don’t ever stop. The only thing that can stop you is you.
MADE: What has been your biggest challenge and what did you do to overcome it? WP: The key is knowing your audience. It is being open to your audience, listening to your audience and real people. Hollywood sometimes can be a bubble that thinks very monolithically. Sometimes Hollywood’s execs, filmmakers and producers don’t take into account enough of the perspectives and the sentiments of real people out in the world who don’t work in Hollywood - and I try to do that no matter what. That has certainly helped me to create commercial fare.
MADE: For your upcoming film Almost Christmas, what are you looking forward to fans walking away with after they see that movie? WP: It’s an amazing experience. It’s a really good time. That’s the key with “Almost Christmas” is that we want to make sure that people know that this is a film - it’s a family film, there’s something in it for multiple generations - that’s literally going home for the holidays with the craziest family around. With everything that we’re going through and everything that has happened recently in this presidential election, we need to laugh. We need something that says, “We’re not trying to be too serious, we really just want to entertain and allow you to have a good time”. That’s what this movie is. MADE: What is your encouragement to
film creatives about how they can change our situation with their art or platforms? WP: I think being true to yourself - it’s nothing that will change overnight. But, don’t be afraid to put important issues on film and television, even as you “the filmmaker” try commercial fare. Don’t be afraid to have a message. Whatever your message is, whatever you may feel. I think that film and television are so powerful. It can get people’s attention and keep it for long periods of time. And with that
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being the case, I think that you have to take advantage of that and say something important.
MADE: Do you feel like you’ve made it, and if so, at what point was that? And if not, what does that look like for you?
MADE: How do you push yourself as a producer after you’ve reached so much monumental success? How do you continue to reach new heights? What’s left?
WP: I’m a very driven person, so I am able to sit back and take comfort and find real personal joy in my success and the level of success that I have attained. But to me, the implication of making it means that there’s nothing else to attain. So I would say, no, I haven’t made it, because I have so much more that I want to do. I don’t know when that will be that I will have “made” it. Because what drives me and what’s gotten me to the point that I’m at is the mentality that I can always do better. I think I’ll always have that mentality. So while I am comfortable in why I am ecstatic about what I have been able to accomplish and I am very thankful about it, I don’t think I will ever be somebody that just sits back and says, “Well you know what, I made it.” I think I will always be somebody that says, “I can do more.” Now, there will come a time when I’ll transition perhaps into a second a phase of my life, my career and maybe look into something different or do things differently, but I will always be somebody that feels like what else could I be doing or what could I be doing better - even as I joy my life and my situations.
WP: [Chuckles] You don’t stop, that’s how you do it. Don’t stop. You don’t get complacent, you don’t allow yourself to rest on your laurels and get too caught up in what you’ve done. Take a moment to enjoy the view of how high you’ve climbed and then set your sights on a higher preference that you want to attack or want to get to. A higher goal that you want to attain. And you keep getting better. Continue to progress.
MADE: Do you think that is what it takes to be legendary in the industry? WP: No question. Legendary people don’t allow themselves to be satisfied by just accomplishing one thing or ten things or a hundred things. Legendary people don’t sit back and say, “Wow, let me pat myself on the back and allow others to pat me on the back.” Legendary people are too busy moving forward on to the next thing to even get the pat on the back. Legendary people are continuously pushing and striving and grinding to get to that next level. PHOTO CREDITS: Drexina Nelson for Drexina Nelson Photography Hair: Reginald Doss Grooming: Denise Tunnell Styling: Leah Taylor for Taylor-Ector Studios Producer: Staci R. Collins Jackson for The Collins Jackson Agency
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Pride is holding your head up when everyone around you has theirs bowed. Courage is what makes you do it. BRYCE COURTENAY
I AM... MADE BY Chelsey Sincerray
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Once we believe in ourselves, we can risk curiosity, wonder, spontaneous delight, or any experience that reveals the human spirit. E.E. CUMMINGS
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I AM...
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GAMECHANGER
ALL THAT
POWER #GameChanger and Power Producer Courtney Kemp explains her journey to producing primetime television.
MADE By Kris D. Williams
MADE: To start off, can you give us a rundown of your journey to success? CK: Well, here’s the thing. Something interesting about that. It wasn’t smooth. I started a doctoral program in English at Columbia University. I left there after I got my Master’s and went into Magazine Journalism. When I was at GQ, I wrote an article about interracial dating. Two writers Chris Alberghini and Mike Chessler (who now run Awkward on MTV) - those guys read my article and wanted to turn into a TV show. We pitched that show at HBO when I knew nothing about TV and it didn’t go anywhere. But, what was nice is that I realized that’s what I wanted to do - I wanted to write for TV. I went back to New York, I worked at the J.Crew catalogue (writing the catalogue) and I worked at Origins doing makeup and facials. I wrote and then I went back out for staffing season the next year. I got nothing. Went on a bunch of interviews, I had an agent at that time so I was very lucky because they are the same one I have now. I flew back. We laugh about this now, but I got an interview with the TV show Girlfriends and I flew back out the same night to meet with Mara Brock Akil, who didn’t end up hiring me. MADE: It definitely sounds like a rollercoaster ride. How did it pick steam? CK: [laughs] So, fail, fail, fail. I ended up writing a “spec” for Bernie Mac. That spec got me a meeting on The Bernie Mac Show. But in that interim, my (then) husband and I decided that I should move to California. Moved to California on June 16, 2004, and I got a meeting at The Bernie Mac Show in July of that year. A month later I had a pitch meeting there, but they gave me off the script. And then they hired me. So in August of 2004, I started as a staff writer on The Bernie Mac Show. And then I got fired at the end of that season because it wasn’t very funny. And that’s okay, because that’s not what I’m supposed to be doing. I’m not supposed to be doing comedy. I’m supposed to be doing drama. So, I wrote a spec for CSI, and that spec CSI got me a job on In Justice (which is was my first drama job for the Kings [Michelle and Robert King]). And this
is very important that you get this, In Justice was “that” show. The second show that I worked on and it was Robert and Michelle King who ended up hiring me for The Good Wife so many years later. MADE: For those interested in the perfect pitch, you’ve had a lot of history with that. What three things would be the key to getting the perfect pitch for getting a job as a writer? CK: They have no business pitching a television show. I believe it so firmly. If you’ew a young person, and you have not worked in TV, you have no business pitching a TV show. They will take the show from you and give it to a showrunner. You are not going to be able to run your show. You have to have experience. Although Power was the first show that I ever pitched, I’ve been working in the business for ten years before that happened. I had already reached co-VP level before this happened, so people seem to think that it’s just as simple like, “Oh, I have a great idea for a TV show.” First of all, a great idea doesn’t make a TV show. But second of all, they have no business (literally no business) pitching a TV show. If you are young, you don’t know what you’re getting into. You may or may not have the right protections in terms of agents and a team behind you. I see this happening all the time now with young people and then they’re all like, “What happened, what happened to my show? Now, I am unemployed.” So my three tips would be: Get a job getting coffee, get staffed on the television show and wait until you know enough to run it yourself. MADE: Anything else young writers should keep in mind? CK: I think that young writers need to constantly be writing. They need to have spec scripts of existing shows in their arsenal. They need to have pilots. But if someone wants to work for me, I don’t want to read your pilot.
both characters are right. In a way we always just try to make sure that every character is right. Every scene has natural conflict, as supposed to giving someone a monologue. MADE: What habits or routines do you create for yourself to spark new ideas for the next episode? CK: We do a season arc pitch at the beginning of the season. We actually have broken the larger strokes of the season in advance - in May we do that. So, it’s not like each episode is sparked by new ideas. We have a theme (and we’re working very hard towards those themes. That’s very systematic. MADE: How would someone get through the door with you? What would they need? CK: They need to get a job as my writer’s personal assistant or as my assistant or a writer’s assistant or as a script coordinator. I promote from within usually. I don’t hire anyone who’s not an aspiring writer. I only hire aspiring writers. I don’t hire people who don’t write. So, even PHOTO CREDIT: you’re the person getting © 2016 Starz Entertainment, LLC coffee at my show, it’s because you’re writer and I’ve read your script and I like your script because I believe you can make it on the show. Scripts come in, but I don’t read full scripts because that could be dangerous. I go through agencies - you have to get an agent. There’s no substitute for working on a show and seeing how a show works. I think those people who want to skip the lines, those people who want to get their show on the air right now (today), they’ll get their punishment. Which it’ll work and then they’ll be out on the streets. They won’t know how to run it. And that would be very sad. When you have no television staffing experience, you have nowhere to go.
MADE: Do you feel like the traditional path is the appropriate time to prepare for the industry? CK: Everybody’s path is different. Mine happened because God came for me. I got a phone call out of the blue. I had an agent when I came out here and so it’s hard because the easiest way that I know to get into the system is to get an entry level job in a writer’s office. That’s how you meet writers, that’s how you know writers and that’s how you get the script coordinator boards. Everybody knows what jobs are coming up. It’s really about that. MADE: Sounds like you’re encouraging people to be in the middle of where the action is happening. Say, Los Angeles?
CK: The number one thing that you have to do is move to Los Angeles. If you’re not in Los Angeles, there’s no point. If you really want this job, you gotta move. If you really want this job, you gotta be broke. If you still have a day job (right now) that’s paying a good wage, it may mean that for one more year you save your money to come out here in case you don’t have a job for like six months when you arrive. I know as a television scripted writer, you have to live here. There is no choice, you have to live here. You could get to a place in your career where
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MADE: What was the biggest challenge for you that prepared you to be that fighter and work through it? CK: Ultimately, it’s a freelance business. So you have to be unemployed a lot. The shows I worked on kept getting canceled, so then I would have to go to staffing season every year and staffing season is rough. You have to go and get yourself ready and excited to go and work on different shows to prove that you would be the right hire for those shows. I think everyone goes through staffing season about six times, that’s probably the greatest challenge - being able to do that. MADE: In your in opinion (specifically as an African-American woman), do you believe that Black female perspectives are accurately represented and acknowledged in Hollywood? CK: I would say that all different kinds of perspectives are not represented fully, but that’s okay. I happen to be a right-handed Black woman from Westport, Connecticut, so that’s what I write (from that perspective). I’m 39 years-old. I’m a Democrat. I am a mom. I write from that perspective, that doesn’t mean that I can’t write other kinds of characters, but I write from that perspective. Not every Black woman works in Hollywood, therefore, not every Black female perspective can be portrayed or represented. I don’t think we’re amonolists. I don’t think there is a single female Black perspective. So I don’t know how you can represent that. I ask are there enough Black females making television shows? No! Are there enough Black characters for Black female actresses to play? No. But we’re getting there. MADE: How does the concept of diversifying ways of portraying black women show up in the hit STARZ series, Power? CK: A woman had written to me that because Ghost and Angela [characters of Power] were together, that I hated Black women. And, I am one, and I very proud of that fact. But I also think that it is so weird to me that people look at Tasha as a representative of all Black
women. If you remember in the first season of Power, Tasha was like, “You can’t quit being a drug dealer, I’m not interested in that! I only want you to deal drugs.” I don’t know a lot of Black women who are like that, but what’s real is that there are people like that in the world. What’s real is that there are all different types of women. And this is a woman who had a very specific perspective and she was not written to be every Black woman. She isn’t supposed to represent all of us. She’s supposed to be a specific character at specific time with a specific mindset. I think that it’s so frustrating that there’s so few Black female characters that women identify with - that they want them to be everything. MADE: So you’re working to evolve the different types of stories you tell so all women are represented? CK: I think we’re beyond the time - Thank God we’re beyond the time - where every Black character on TV has to be Claire Huxtable. Because we think that it’s cool and badass Tasha has a gun in the back of her bustier and then Canin comes to the house and she’s like, “Uh, don’t try it”. Also, that doesn’t mean that I’m carrying a loaded weapon in my house with my kids. [Like hello!] Is that the person that you want to be? [laughs] MADE: In what way do your characters hit home on a personal level for you? CK: Every character on the show definitely represents all different parts of me. As a writer, I will tell you - this is a piece of advice every character that you write needs to have something in common with you. Because when it’s three in the morning and you’re doing your rewrite and you’re up against it, you don’t have someone else to talk to - you have yourself and your computer. You have to be able to dig within yourself to find those feelings. So when I write a scene between Angela and Tasha, I’m both of them. We have a rule which is that every character has to be right in a scene. So on Power, both characters are always right. So, what that means is that every scene has natural conflict that the audience is invested in because
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FEATURED: GENTLEMAN JACK ENTREPRENEURSHIP NIGHT WITH FAME EVENTS
T
raditional networking is not for everyone.When it comes to connecting with new people, many people are “Networking Naked”, a phrase coined by tech founder Jason Johnson. “Each year, 225 million event attendees suffer from Networking Naked. Networking Naked is networking the way it is right now. It’s awkward, stressful, and inefficient,” he said. But Johnson has done more than just diagnose people with this disease, he’s created the cure through his app, Konveau. When it comes to connecting with new people, many people are “Networking Naked”, a phrase coined by tech founder Jason Johnson. “Each year, 225 million event attendees suffer from Networking Naked. Networking Naked is networking the way it is right now. It’s awkward, stressful, and inefficient,” he said. But Johnson has done more than just diagnose people with this disease, he’s created the cure through his app, Konveau.
Two Apps That Will Spark Up The Right Conversations
Trying to hook up with a potential customer or client can be daunting, particularly for new entrepreneurs. Because the stakes are so high, revealing their new product or service to a complete stranger for the first time is a “thing” that causes fear, anxiety and most often, awkwardness. “At first it was hard to explain my business because I assumed no one would understand it,” said Jake, a newly transitioning entrepreneur from Milwaukee. “Admittedly, I am also a little timid in large forums like conferences or career fairs so I needed to get outside of the norm to network. Wtih this type of technology, I finally have the resource I need to help my company get to the next level.” For Jake and those like him,, a new wave of networking events with a mission to combat the awkwardness of networking is rolling in. Held as a series of “Entrepreneur Nights”, the purpose of igniting ideas, IGNITE is helping spark meaningful networking experiences for entrepreneurs
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to the next level.” For Jake and those like him,, a new wave of networking events with a mission to combat the awkwardness of networking is rolling in. Held as a series of “Entrepreneur Nights”, the purpose of igniting ideas, IGNITE is helping spark meaningful networking experiences for entrepreneurs in an authentic and digital way using the likes of the Konveau app and more. By identifying Investors, Visionaries, Builders and Connectors by color-coded LED pins they’ll wear, attendees will connect with others who have complementary business goals. The introductory Entrepreneur Night was held recently in Chicago started with app demos of from nationwide tech founders and treated fans with experiences sponsored by Gentleman Jack, which included virtual reality booths to tour the distillery for the iconic alcohol brand. Kris Williams, Publisher of MADE Magazine and Managing Director of FAME Enterprises decided to activate the “IGNITE” series as a solution to not being able to connect directly with
225 million event attendees suffer from Networking Naked. Networking Naked is networking the way it is right now. It’s awkward, stressful, and inefficient.” - JASON JOHNSON, KONVEAU APP FOUNDER other full-time, creative entrepreneurs in a low pressure atmosphere. “Networking for me has always been something that I’ve had to mentally prepare for,” Williams admitted. My concern was that I wasn’t making the right connections, so the IGNITE series was made to address this and other networking pain points by creating the environment I know entrepreneurs were looking for. Because I was looking for it!” Although the event is a step towards combating networking-rejection, what about dating awkwardness? Asking someone out on a date could be comparable to asking a potential client out for coffee, right? The conversation can go one of two ways as Chathum Tate, Founder of Go Dutch Today, explained. “On one hand, you can gain a rewarding, mutually beneficial relationship or it can be a complete energy killer and waste of time.”
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Aside from the fear that your time may be wasted, there’s also the fear that your mula will be too. Spending money on a person who simply isn’t “for you” is a major “L” (loss). Keeping this fear in mind, dating app Go Dutch Today has created a solution to any apprehension linked to footing the bill for blind first dates. “By neutralizing the financial aspect, Go Dutch Today levels the playing field for dating. The awkwardness doesn’t start when the bill comes. It is there looming over the date as the order is taken. With Go Dutch Today, you can treat yourself the way you want to be treated and only have to worry about having fun. Whether you’re at a meeting or on a date, hopefully these apps will help forms long lasting bonds easier and hassle-free,” said Tate. Events like IGNITE not only use the technology that it promotes to power the event, but it also empowers other businesses to let their light shine from working in their passionate areas. With the fuse lit in Chicago, entrepreneurs all over can look forward to this concept catching fire across the nation and spreading the inspiration of working for the life they want to build through their companies.
By neutralizing the financial aspect, Go Dutch Today levels the playing field for dating .” - ALYSIA SARGENT, GO DUTCH TODAY made-magazine.com | 44
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KNOWLEDGE
IS POWER: Summits & Conferences to Attend MADE By Chelsey Sincerray
01.19 - 01.22 | 2017 United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship 2017 Conference Philadelphia, PA The next USASBE Annual Conference is set to take place in Philadelphia during the third week of January 2017 with the theme of “Advancing Entrepreneurship Teaching and Research”, emphasizing the goal of raising the bar in entrepreneurship teaching and revolutionizing entrepreneurship history. 02.09 - 02.11 | 2017 PubWest 2017 Portland, OR PubWest is one summit exclusively for creatives in the writing industry. Through implementation of educational programming and providing direction on new opportunities in publishing, this annual summit delivers new ideas and professional advancement for publishers, writers, and more. 02.24 - 02.25 | 2017 17th Annual SEA Conference Naperville, IL This two-day conference is exclusively targeted towards artists who are focused on career development. Hosted by SelfEmployment in the Arts, this conference will include discussions and workshop sessions by keynote speakers who not only sharing solid takeaways to apply towards the
Surround yourself with words of wisdom from leaders of the creative industry. Share and explore ideas and stories around like-minded individuals that will only keep your curiosity growing for more. Here’s some upcoming summits and conferences across the States that should be considered to add towards your creative experience and journey for the year ahead. artist’s journey, but also artists who’s sharing their stories and advice to mentor upcoming creative talent amongst us.
Editor’s pick
02.28 - 03.02 | 2017 High Five Conference 2017 Raleigh, NC Hosted by the AMA Triangle, the High Five Conference was created for the creative community of marketers, strategists, and developers to make new ideas come alive. The conference brings all creatives together to encourage the essentials of partnership and collaboration to achieve creative marketing success. 03.03 - 03.04 | 2017 The Makers Summit Greenville, SC The Makers Summit is designed exclusively for creative entrepreneurs who are looking forward to furthering their business. Within the two days of the conference, the creative will become part of hands-on, collaborative workshops, in addition to one-on-one sessions with experts from the creative industry.
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PHOTO CREDIT: Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic
WHO RUN
IT?
In an exclusive interview with MADE, Insecure Showrunner, Prentice Penny shared his journey to running the show. MADE By Kris D. Williams
MADE: What helped you get focused as you were working on building your name in the industry? PP: One thing was my wife. She was like, “It’s fine that you’re writing here and there, but you’re not acting as if you’re a professional writer. I know you’re not getting paid for this yet, but you need to treat your time and your resources like they’re precious and valuable.” For example, I’d get up during a weekend day, this is before we had kids, and I might wake up and fool around. Then I’d look up and it’s like 2 or 3 o’clock once I started writing. I wasn’t treating time right. MADE: And then kids came into the picture! The time management lesson probably intensified, right? PP: You know, I really appreciate it now - being a father of three and I’m married, doing different shows. Time is the only thing. I can’t make more time. Money can’t buy you more of it. It is what it is at the end of the day. We only get 24 hours of it. I understand now
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that God was working me towards being organized, professional and enabling me to be more prepared. I started to get up around 8 o’clock, start writing and treat it like a job even though I wasn’t getting paid for it. I treated my time that way. I think you have to step outside of your comfort zone. While you’re waiting, we think “Oh, I’m gonna just sit here and wait while this thing will eventually come to me.” That’s not how things always work out. MADE: What do you think contributes to that lack of movement on their dreams? It’s scary when you realize the effort that it takes and you have to really commit to it. One thing I believe every writer has had is being scared to be great in a lot of ways. I would sort of write and then share with people who would tell me the things that I wanted to hear. It wasn’t making me better and it wasn’t pushing me forward. I was kind of staying in neutral because I wasn’t doing things that were challenging me - I was kinda doing like “just enough”.
MADE: It sounds like stepping outside your comfort zone was a key ingredient in your cure for how to move forward. PP: I think you clearly have to step outside of comfort
zones. I think perseverance gets dramatically overlooked a lot of times. Sometimes it’s not sexy, especially before Instagram where people can pretend on who they want to be. That’s not really what their life is. And so, I think there’s a tendency to see other people and start to compare what they’re doing with what you’re doing. My thing is you have to put your head down and literally not quit that day. Like literally just being like, “I’m going to just show up” when it’s not a pretty day. There’s no success in it,
ance in daily showing up is the thing that’s overlooked. So, I think showing up everyday and staying committed to the goal regardless of the situation, because those things can change in a heartbeat. MADE: Speaking of formulas, you’ve got the right mix of creativity going on in the new HBO series Insecure. How did this show come to be? PP: It was created by an amazing and talented woman, Issa Rae. MADE: Love her!
PHOTO CREDIT: truTV
but it’s just teaching you how to go forward. When there’s nobody telling you that you’re amazing, when there’s nobody saying you’re great, when there’s nobody validating the choices you’re making, you have to validate those choices. MADE: So one tablespoon of stepping outside of your comfort zone and one tablespoon of perseverance when you make that step? PP: I think there’s persevermade-magazine.com | 48
PP: She had a web-series, Awkward Black Girl, and HBO was developing that with her for a couple of years. Awkward Black Girl is like college (me figuring it out) and Insecure is like the grown-up, graduated version. And the show is different now. It’s different from doing a five-minute web series every week to a 28-minute show. You have to bring in more characters, you have to bring in more artists, you’re gonna have to grow it up a little and mature a little bit and try to figure out how all those pieces work. The show is inspired by that and have a lot of ties to the original, but it definitely branches out with Yvonne Orji who plays her best friend Molly. It shows two black women who are dealing with not just life, relationships and careers, but also what it’s like to be African-American and what it’s like to be an
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African-American woman, more specifically what it’s like to be an African-American woman in Los Angeles. MADE: Especially for millennials, a lot of people are in that familiar period of self-discovery like the lead characters. What elements of “finding yourself” are covered in the show? PP: It’s circled around dealing with things of culture, race and politics that we all sort of talk about behind closed doors. Some characters talk openly, some make fun of situations and we just kind of like unapologetically talking about all of these things. Just on a very human level, it’s about what it’s like being insecure and what it’s like to question yourself. What it’s like when you’re in a relationship and you’re not sure it’s the right thing and if you’re just making the right choices as a human being. So I think it has all those elements that are interesting for our show. MADE: We heard that you have a writers’ room of diverse individuals of both men and women. How important was that for you, especially knowing the show is about Black women and there are only certain struggles that Black women know about? PP: It was extremely important. I’ve worked on shows where I’ve been the only young black person, and there might only be one person of color. So, seeing and having a diverse room (and I hate repeating that word... just makes it seem like it should be the norm) that’s more reflective of the world we live in was important. It’s important because I’ve seen where, you know, having a room that isn’t just filled with eight people who have the same voice will get rich and very complex stories. You get very “Oh, I didn’t think of that” kind of stories from their point of view. The show was about two Black women given an opportunity and also having the opportunity to voice for Black women (which doesn’t typically doesn’t happen a lot either). We knew that we couldn’t just hire comedy writers. We didn’t just want a couple of single people. We didn’t want a certain
age group. We wanted a wide variety to give us different stories, ideas, thoughts and perspectives that would make our show better. Event if we would have had eight Issa Raes in the room, we don’t need another Issa. The Black women we have are completely different and no one has a background like the other. MADE: It feels like Issa Rae and Yvonne Orji are our new #FriendshipGoals. What are the long-term goals you all want to accomplish with this series. PP: You know it’s funny that you asked that because Issa and I just met a couple of weeks ago and we were just talking about and asking ourselves bigger picture questions for the series. Asking where we want these things to go, where we want to end up at the end of the whole series and obviously that’s predicated on HBO deciding to make more. MADE: *Fingers crossed* PP: I don’t think we have an overall “this is where they’re going to go”, but the one thing we have maintained is that if the story makes us feel uncomfortable, then we want to explore it. Those were the things that gave us the best stories because the room was split. Everybody had a point of difference about that. I think those are the things that I can’t wait for people to see because I think that’s what people will naturally respond to. You’re going to have five or six friends watching the show who will all have a different opinion about what happened that we [writers] had a different opinion about. Our best stories were when we said “Oh okay. This is a good idea, but what if we push it there”. Those are always the moments that made it livelier, real and more interesting stories. I think that has always been our thing. I think going forward is asking how do we make ourselves uncomfortable and then what does that bring up for other people. What questions will that prompt? And there’s no right or wrong answers. We just want to certainly ask those questions, push the envelope and challenge people. I think that is very important for us.
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MADE: How do you create content that builds a loyal audience? PP: You know, I don’t know. I didn’t create all the shows I’ve worked on, but I’ve contributed to them. I always try to ask myself if this is anything that I would watch or if this is something that I’m personally interested in. MADE: So, do you actually put your real life situations in the work that you create or is it all imagination? PP: Yes. I think it’s not just about writing what you know, it’s also about writing what you’re experiencing. There is something that I’m developing now that has nothing to do with anything I know, but it personally has to do with my personal life right now. So, I’m putting it in a show where I can do that and I can talk about those things. So I think as long as you’re honest with yourself and you’re putting a part of you in the show - whichever part that it is - as long as PHOTO CREDIT: you’re truthful to that. Truth, HBO I think, is always a great place to start. What hit, what doesn’t hit...who knows. It’s the time we live. I don’t know if our show would’ve gotten picked up if we had a different director because they probably wouldn’t have shot it. I don’t know if they would’ve gotten another showrunner. So many of those of things are kind of like whatever you believe in (God, the universe) putting those things together.
was ready to try something else. I was just looking to make a change just within itself, because I had been there for years and I’ve been on a lot of shows that were just starting. I’ve been on Happy Endings and Brooklyn Nine-Nine and they were great shows, but there it always in the beginning (which was a blessing), but it takes a lot of work to get a show up and figure out what’s the DNA of the show and what’s the spine of the show. But when I was on Girlfriends, that
show had been on for four years already, and I was coming into a machine so it was a different energy there. We kind of know the rules since the rules have been set. So I was looking to do something different and I just happen to look on “Deadline” that morning. And I’ll never forget I was in my office early and I have never got there that early. And I was just scrolling through Deadline and it was posted that HBO was going to do this pilot and they needed a showrunner.
MADE: Since you mentioned the universe, let’s chat about you and Issae Rae. How did MADE: Now that really sounds like the you all even meet and start collaborating to end up combining creative energy to produce Universe calling. such a great show? PP: I remember I called my agent that morning. I was like “Hey, get me a meeting PP: That’s a good question. So, what to run this show”. I was just adamant about happened was I was involved in the show it. Again, it’ about how God works things. I Brooklyn Nine-Nine. I think at that point I made-magazine.com | 50
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was at my CAA and one of the agents there went to college with Issa at Stanford. My agent reached out to her and said, “Hey, can you introduce Prentice to Issa?” like next day. And my agent was like, “Why don’t you write her a letter just to say why you think you’re good for it?” and I was like, “That’s a great idea.” I read the script and thought it was amazing. And I wrote her this letter about why I thought I would be good for it. And obviously I was like, we don’t get shows like this everyday and I was like “I don’t want this to get f’d up”...this is too important. And so, I was like “I don’t know if I’ll be great, but I don’t want to f*** this up.” I met Issa at a book signing and she was like “I read your letter”...and we just sat and talked maybe a half hour after the book signing was done and we just hit off.
ing relationship. So far, so good. MADE: Any other insights you can give us about Insecure? PP: Hmm, I don’t want to give anything away. I would say all of our talent is... we wanted to use a lot of new talent. Our talent is amazing. I think Jay Ellis is one a lot of people will notice from The Game. I think Jay is our biggest name. Yvonne Orji who plays Molly is going to be a huge star. Obviously Issa...Lisa Joy, who plays Issa’s co-worker Frida. There’s also another actor Alon Noel who was in The Hustle who plays Daniel in the pilot. We have Amanda Seals who’s in the show. It’s a show that is obviously well timed for right now and I think it’s important. I hope that people will appreciate it in that way.
MADE: Wow. Was that awkward? PP: It was never weird with us, it was never awkward, we just hit it off really quick and then pretty much from that point. I met with her management company, the producers, met with HBO and say by that Friday night I got the job. I think one thing is that at the end of the day it is her face on the poster, it’s her show. She sold this show, HBO bought her voice. I’m very protective that never gets altered. If it was reversed, I would never want somebody as a showrunner to come in and try to get their shine off me. So there’s no agenda on my side, her side, Lena’s side. We all kind of work together to make the show. We’re all respectful and supportive of the role we bring as a collective to move the show. But there’s no mistake that I always want to be helpful and give her voice to be clear in the show that’s first and foremost. MADE: How do you stay true to keeping her voice in things? PP: So from that standpoint, it becomes “Why this is the best way to do that” and she may think this is the best way to do that. We will dialogue about something. It all starts on a mutual respect. Everything from there is how you treat each other and go from there. So I think that’s always important with any work-
When there’s nobody telling you that you’re amazing, when there’s nobody saying you’re great, when there’s nobody validating the choices you’re making, you have to validate those choices.”
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VISION OF G R E AT N E S S : HOW TO PICTURE YOUR FUTURE MADE By Jasmine Browley If you think vision boards are useless, you’re mistaken. Because...science. Vision boards, based on the law of attraction and the act of visualization, open powerful new pathways of thought and help in the manifestation of goals. Researchers at the National Library of Medicine found that mental practices are almost effective as true physical practice, and that doing both is more effective than either alone. Think of it as a form of ‘mental rehearsal,’ or preparing your mind for the work that’s necessary to achieve your aspirations.
CREATING A VISION BOARD
2. GATHER SOME AWESOME IMAGES
Some people use the web for images, turning to Pinterest as an alternative to a cardboard layout, but most find it more effective to go through magazines, as physically touching the pages can trigger certain sensories, making the process more fulfilling. Cut out the images and plan their placement.
What can a vision board do for you? Among other things, your vision board can evoke important emotions needed to fulfill difficult tasks and ready your subconscious for change. Malcolm Gladwell’s Blink outlines how reading lists of words designed to bring forth a certain feeling such as aggression or cooperation can indeed bring out that emotion without our conscious awareness, even if we know we’re being manipulated. That’s one reason that the usage of words on the boards are important and why it should be kept it where it can be easily seen.
CREATING A VISION BOARD
1. PICK A THEME Hone in on a particular set of goals and make your board focus on them. Whether that means titling it “My New Body” or “Career 2017,” being intentional about what you want on your board makes it easier to determine the same for your aspirations.
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CREATING A VISION BOARD
3. PLAN YOUR BOARD
After gathering the images you want, arrange them in a way that fits your aesthetic. Once you’ve planned out your board, take a photo of it before gluing because you’ll have to move everything to start gluing things down.
Still skeptical? Here are some examples of some super successful vision board-ers and their stories of triumph.
KATY PERRY In 2009, MTV asked Katy Perry about her journey to success and she described making a vision board when she was just nine years old. “Her teacher asked the class to make a “vision board” — a collage of images cut out from magazines that represents the dreams and aspirations you hope to manifest in life. The year was 1993 and Selena had just won a Grammy Award, so nineyear-old Katy chose a photo of the young Latin pop singer holding her golden statuette.” One decade later, Perry was nominated for her first Grammy Award.
ELLEN DEGENERES CREATING A VISION BOARD
4. ADMIRE YOUR WORK
Revel in the glory of your success plan. You’ve put your desires onto paper and out into the universe. Now it’s time to see that it manifests.
In an episode of the Ellen show where she shows the audience her vision board about her dreams of being on the cover of Oprah’s magazine, which was quite ambitious since Oprah was the cover girl of every issue. But, Ellen eventually got her wish.
BEYONCÉ She’s conquered the hell out of the music industry, but being a big screen queen is still a goal of hers. That’s precisely why she placed a picture of an Academy award right near her treadmill that she looks at daily so she can keep her goals literally right in front of her. The movie Dreamgirls that she starred in was nominated for an Academy award.
Skip to about 2:10 in the video below to see Beyonce talk about it.
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EAT, DRINK, & BE MERRY: FOOD & DRINK SEASONAL RECIPES
MADE By India McMiller
November and December both mark seasons of reuniting with loved ones, giving back . . .and eating. Nothing says Thanksgiving like a freshly baked Turkey. Christmas without apple cider or pie? Not a chance. However, sometimes tradition needs some spicing up. Check out these food and drink recipes that provide both old and new ideas for your holiday meals.
CHAMPAGNE COCKTAIL Ring in the new year with this fresh, yet simple spin on traditional champagne from Flay.
EGGNOG Famed British chef Jamie Oliver shows you how to make “the best eggnog in the world.”
SIMPLE BREAD PUDDING Add this easy, delightful bread pudding recipe to the dessert menu.
HOLIDAY SANGRIA Give your holiday meal a Spanish flair with this delicious, fruity cocktail recipe from chef Bobby Flay.
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HOLIDAY ROAST WITH GRAVY Use this recipe for a satisfying Christmas roast, complete with gravy made from scratch.
BROWN SUGAR BRUSSELS SPROUTS Add some holiday cheer to your veggies by sweetening them up with this recipe.
SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE Shake up the traditional sweet potato pie and try out this sweet potato casserole dish!
BAKED MACARONI AND CHEESE You can never go wrong with golden, cheesy goodness on your plate.
BUTTERFLIED CORNISH HEN WITH SAGE BUTTER Try swapping out turkey for this delicious cornish-hen recipe by Food Network star Sunny Anderson.
DINNER ROLLS Accompany your dishes with a light, freshlybaked, dinner roll.
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D I A R Y
O F
A
# M O M M Y
MOGUL MADE By Kris D. Williams
B
eing a wife, mommy and TV producer during an election year gives “multitasking” a whole new meaning for Scarlette Whyte. Scarlette is a seasoned producer who recently left MSNBC to join CNN’s The Lead w/ Jake Tapper as a senior editorial producer. From keeping up with the 2016 candidates to running behind an energetic one year old AND attempting to keep date nights with her husband, Scarlette seems to have achieved the work/life balance. But she admits, it is a daily struggle. Scarlette experienced the harsh realities of being a working mom in television within the
first few weeks of returning to work after maternity leave earlier this year. “I was working at MSNBC at the time. Primary season was in full swing. That meant working late nights. I knew that daycare was not an option. I needed a nanny! We were not happy with any of the nannies we interviewed .” With no other choice, Scarlette sent her then 4-month-old son to Michigan to stay with her parents. “I was devastated. My son leaving was hard, but not knowing when he was coming home tore me apart. I was breastfeeding at the time. So I was pumping, and overnighting breastmilk every 5 days.” It was the advice of her parents, grandma and another mom who was a fellow TV producer that got Scarlette through.
MADE INC. TIP ONE: My parents told me to do what was best for my son, not what was comfortable for me.
9:30 AM- 2 PM: At CNN work trailer to prep for the show.
TIP TWO: As another fellow “tv mommy” as I call it told me, “Life is a juggling act. Some of the balls you juggle are glass and must always be kept in
2:45PM: A big name guests cancels, “I have to find a replacement ASAP.”
the air. GOD, family, and career. Some balls are rubber..social life and vacations...These balls can fall and bounce back.”
3 PM: At the makeup tent near the set to make sure all guests have arrived while frantically texting and emailing. “We are less than an hour before showtime, and I still need a big name guest.”
TIP THREE: From Grandma Pearl, “Hold your peace and let the Lord fight your battles.” Fast forward to this fall; Scarlette has been at CNN for a few months. We recently caught up with her while she headed out of town for the first presidential debate in New York.
3:45 PM: A top campaign adviser comes through at the last minute. “I flagged her down after she did an interview with another news network.” 4 PM: Showtime!
3 AM: Scarlette is glued to her work phone. “I’m following up with both campaigns to see which advisers can join Jake for our show”.
5 PM: On to planning the next day. “My work does not stop when the show is over. There’s always tomorrow.”
3:30 AM: Organizing her son’s clothes and toys for the day. “This kid’s toys have taken over my house. He is obsessed with Paw Patrol”.
6 PM: Dinner and video call with her husband and son. 6:30 PM: Back to work!
3:45 AM: Tiptoes in her son’s nursery, and eases him out of his crib. Walks slowly to her bedroom to put him next to her husband.
9 PM: DEBATE time. “What happens tonight will shape our guest pursuits for tomorrow’s show.”
4:15 AM: Arrives at Reagan National Airport
11 PM: In the spin room post-debate
5:59 AM: “One last look at emails before I turn off my phone.” TAKE OFF.
12 AM: Heading to hotel 8: AM: Flight back to DC
7:30 AM: Lands and heads straight to the show set at Hofstra. “Our show is not on until 4 PM, but I want to get the lay of the land.”
10: AM: Back to work, “I am not going to see my family until this evening. That’s the nature of the beast during this campaign season.”
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FOUNDER’s
ROW Founder’s Row is a community for creative entrepreneurs of color whose mission is to provide entrepreneurs a first-row seat to entrepreneurial success. Our mission is to share practical solutions and opportunities with founders representing start-ups in the tech and creative industries through a variety of online and in-person forums. Follow the column to hear from more of founders’ stories.
IVAN LAND Jr.,
Brand + Marketing Strategist, Startup Consultant, & Creative Director 1.BE A CONTRIBUTOR. We all benefit from the countless mounds of free information on the internet that teach us everything from best entrepreneurial branding practices to gaining more clientele. But – the most fulfilled and successful creatives have learned to be contributors more than consumers. It’s our job as entrepreneurs to help our peers excel while empowering our successors. The Point: Don’t Be an InfoHoarder, Give Back Every Chance You Get. 2.BE A GOOD “BUSINESS PARENT” Don’t make your business decisions
based on what you, the person, would do – think deeper. Because the honest truth is: if your business is only grown within your capacity, unlike actual children; it’ll die when you do. * The Point: Always Look for Room for Growth Beyond Yourself 3.CREATE FOR: EVER. If you’re not building something with the intent of it growing and one day being self-sustainable, essentially you’re self-sabotaging instead by not giving your ideas the opportunity to live and grow beyond you (or your fifteen minutes of fame.) The Point: Create Solutions That Solve Future Problems.
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1.ABSENCE MAKES THE HEART GROW STRONGER. Journey outside of your comfort zone in exploring new geographical areas, building new relationships, and learning new skills. Feeling vulnerable and uncomfortable is one of the greatest ways to learn and empathize. 2.PRESS PLAY. PAUSE. PRESS PLAY AGAIN. Know when to scale fast, slow down and sometimes pause. We must gauge our momentum as we are growing an organization and always be willing to receive feedback to ensure that the product or programs we are growing are resonating with the community and making an impact. 3.IT’S ALL ABOUT US. Change your use of pronouns from “I” to “We” and from “My” to “Our”. It’s a simple change, but one that demonstrates that it is a team effort and not just all about one person.
ALICIA GONZALEZ
Founding Executive Director at Chicago Run
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FOUNDERS AT Go Dutch Today Alexandria Willis, Olamide Bamidele, Alysia Sargent
1. BE FLEXIBLE. In the early stages of business your mind and body should be nimble. Obstacles as well as opportunities will present themselves, despite having a plan, and you will need to adjust or pivot in order to do what’s best for your business. Being flexible is also an attitude so it is best to respond to unexpected change with poise and control.
2. BE RESOURCEFUL. You don’t need to have a ton of money to start your business, validate or market it. There are numerous ways to execute on your business by being resourceful, do your research, understand your market, target and competition and don’t be afraid to speak up and tap into your networks to help you achieve your goals.
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3. BE YOUR OWN CHEERLEADER. You are not going to win every deal, competition, or potential user/ customer and people will not always believe in your business, but do not let that discourage you. Celebrate your own successes, losses and milestones throughout your journey. By maintaining a positive outlook, stay focused and your business will continue to grow and attract supporters.
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DIMA ELISSA CEO & Founder at VisMed3D
1. TIME KILLS ALL DEALS – AND OPPORTUNITIES – Execute, execute, execute. The learning from trying different things is what informs you, quickly. The art of iteration and pivoting is what gives you the advantage in conquering your market opportunities. 2. YOUR NETWORK IS YOUR NET WORTH - YOU CAN’T DO IT ALONE – Build a network of trusted friends and colleagues to help you in areas that compliment your skills. You can’t know everything or everyone, so get out there, network, meet people build a cadre of expertise across every area of business, marketing,
finance, promotion, operations, funding, etc. 3. ORGANIZE INTRO MEETINGS INTELLIGENTLY – So everybody wants to get 5 Minutes with you. We all get request to meet people, from prospective vendors to colleagues and investors. BE SMART ABOUT YOUR TIME --- Find a regular weekly slot that is able to bring in those folks for an initial meeting, if possible in a more social cadence so you can evaluate whether more of your time is necessary. I use happy hour every Friday to invite people all at once, so I’m vetting them for further interest. This protect my most valuable resource. TIME.
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PHOTO CREDIT: Victor Group LA
DAY IN THE LIFE OF BAUS MADE By Chelsey Sincerray
PHOTO CREDIT: 2 with Reese in Black: Derrel Todd. Reese in White: Victor Group LA
Branding strategist, marketing professional and CEO of Victor Group, Victoria Reese has built an agency that continues to bring clients’ ideas into fruition. In an exclusive interview with MADE Magazine, Reese shared her experiences and story behind the beauty and business of her developing her brand.
MADE: Can you provide background on Victor Group. How and when did it start? VR: Victor Group started in February 2014. I have always been doing Victor Group and always been a brand architect, but that’s when it started. I was working full-time in advertising and really just looking for a way out. Looking for some type of fulfillment that I wasn’t able to get. I had worked in advertising with a few agencies, and I’ve even worked in talent booking as a Hollywood assistant. I had really amazing jobs working with A-List celebrities, but it just never gave me everything that I needed - I knew I needed more and should have been doing more. So when I started Victor Group I went to go see a life coach, where he helped me organize and list out what I was interested in, what I like to do and what I saw my future as. I literally only saw him for one session, and with that I was able to develop and birth Victor Group. From then on, it has been blessing after blessing. One of my testimonies is that when you are a doing things that are in your purpose, you’re doing things that you’re excited about and good at, all of these doors open. That’s because you
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are not exhausting yourself in things that you’re interested in. The other jobs that I had, I was not performing well. I was not used to underperforming. You have to come to a point where when you don’t fit in a box, you have to get out of the box. No one really tells you what you should be doing if you don’t fit in the box. Once I figured out that I don’t need to fit in a box and not be so traditional in my career method and path, everything started happening.
I’m thinking like Superwoman, I’m trying to do the best that I can. It doesn’t mean that I have to kill it everytime, but it means that I aspire to. As long as I’m aspiring to be the best that I can and know my limit at the same time, that’s what makes me Superwoman.
MADE: What are essential elements of a girl boss and how does she make a difference in the creative industry as an entrepreneur?
VR: Well, each client is different. But even if they’re doing the same thing, when it comes to branding everything with be different. Branding is storytelling, branding is emotion - and it will be unique. Even if I wanted to copy an idea from one client to the next, I never could because what could fit for one person will not fit for the next. I just believe in authenticity. That’s one of the primary things that I teach to clients and preach. But it’s also one of the things that I exude being a brand strategist and businesswoman. I believe authenticity is key. Everybody has a unique lane, so I try to teach that.
VR: When I think of girl boss, I think of just as strong as a guy, like a beast - but in the most elegant, classy way. There’s a certain nurturing nature that I woman has and they have a certain finesse to things that only a woman can do. We have certain gifts and traits that are innate to us (that we were born with), and we can use that to our advantage when we realize the power in it. I would say finesse - that’s the first one. That strong, confident thing, but it also has a finesse to it that can’t quite be pinpointed. It is something that you need because when you come too hard or too aggressive, it’s intimidating. Beauty. Beauty is just engraved in what we are. We have this thing that we can use. So whether it’s your smile, your smell, your grace. We have this advantage that makes everybody happy when you walk in the door. A beautiful woman who is confident and educated with a purpose in life has certain beauty. It’s not something that you abuse, but use. The fact that we can have brains and beauty is something. That is power because both men and women appreciate beauty. I think is essential, while also using it to say, “I can do all these things and be beautiful too”. The “Superwoman” thing too. There are pros and cons to it because you feel like you can do everything and have to do everything even though you’re exhausted. But that’s not the case. You don’t have to do everything, and you don’t have to be 150% in every aspect in your life. However, I’m the type of person where if
MADE: As a brand strategist, consultant and entrepreneur, how do you generate new ideas for each of your clients?
MADE: How has your career in entrepreneurship affected your life? VR: Entrepreneurship has taught me how to trust myself. I think sometimes we don’t really ask ourselves the right questions. A lot of times we think we know ourselves so well and really have a good grasp on things. But you don’t really know yourself until certain things are presented to you. I would have never asked myself before being an entrepreneur do you trust yourself. And if I did ask myself that I would be like, “Yeah, of course I trust myself”. But not until you have to eat what you kill - not until you are responsible for your own success, growth, and paycheck. You are responsible for so much as an entrepreneur. You are responsible for every single thing when you have a business in every aspect - in marketing, business development, finances, promotion. Literally everything. When you first start off, it is just you. You have to figure out everything on your own. You have figure
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out how to build this business that you have never done before. I trust myself in a whole new different light now. When things don’t do right, I know how to figure it out. The second is that you know you are talented and have a skill, but seldom do we exercise it and put ourselves out there. I always felt that I had certain things that were qualities that stood out, and not until I put myself out there did other people know and notice. The most satisfying is that people trust me. People pay me their hard earned dollars to help them. They trust my opinion. They go out and use it. I give them advice, and then I see them go out into the world and apply it. I could have told them anything. That is so humbling and amazing.
PHOTO CREDIT: Derrel Todd
MADE: In your opinion, how important are goals for short and long-term success as an entrepreneur?
VR: Goals help you see the big picture, and they help you go in a direction even when everything is going crazy. It keeps you on point towards the right direction. In entrepreneurship, things are going to go all over the place but you have the drawing board of what you want to happen next. Regardless of what’s going on, this is where I need to go and need to focus on. It’s important some type of board to keep you on track. MADE: How would you define success? What do you believe is needed to accomplish success? VR: Defining success is super interesting, but it depends on the person. Success to you could be money, just being able to pay your bills (and your mom’s bills), and buying this house or car. Success to me could be career, family, making sure that I’m married to a great partner in life with three kids and that’s it. Success to me is being happy, but also walking in purpose. I think that everybody is placed on earth to be (no matter what you believe in) servants. We’re not placed here just to chill, we’re placed here to do work higher power work and everybody is just a vessel in different ways. If I’m here as a vessel and I have a short period of time on this Earth, then what am I doing? How am I letting the universe or the world use me to add value to it? So, if I’m living in my purpose and adding value and I’m happy, that’s success. I feel like we spend so much time in our careers and not be your best. I’ve always wanted a career that I was happy because I was adding value to people’s lives - making a change, difference and impact. I have always wanted to be a help, being part of the movers and shakers that were making a difference, leaving an impact and making things better.
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MADE: We would love to hear your insight on the power of both projection and rejection as a businesswoman. As an entrepreneur, why are both of these elements important to understand?
something, people hold you to it. So if you don’t deliver, people will remember. The moment that you have said you have a business, the moment that you have placed a dollar on an idea - you have taken a risk. I think it is getting comfortable at taking risks. VR: Rejection is natural. You’re not going to do Saying that, “How can I get comfortable with everything right. With rejection you have to be this feeling”. Risks are a part of life. Also, being an entrepreneur one important thing mature about it. You’re going to get no’s right? When you get a no, I’m going to have one little is to know what are healthy and dangerous counter to it. With rejection, you definitely have risks. A risk in the right direction is a healthy to develop a tough skin for it. When you think risk. A risk that will help your business grow is a healthy risk. It’s really about being about it, you’re going to get more no’s than comfortable with the risks that you take. “yes”. I come from a background of pitching, so I know that when you pitch a million times MADE: What are the major keys to you’ll get ten good ones. So I’m a little trained establishing a distinctive identity as an on rejection - which in a way I’m numb to it. entrepreneur in the creative industry? But also know that I won’t pay attention to it, because I’m on to the next. You don’t want it, VR: Major keys to having a brand identity but somebody else does. You may not want it is one, first and foremost, authenticity. It’s today, but in a year from now, you’ll want it. best when you have a brand that reflects So, I’m moving on. I don’t really harp on the rejection too much because I take it as learning you and your own target audience. When it’s something that sticks to you, it’s really lessons. You’ve gotten rejected because you’re important to be as smart as possible. You have not ready or prepared, so go back to the to be very strict on yourself to determine if drawing board and go be that, and don’t be it is for you. Communication is the second rejected again. Always use it as fuel. You need one. You have to communicate not only to to make sure that people see you. However, your audience, but you have to communicate sometimes if people don’t see you it’s good. value clearly. I think a lot of people miss You know when you’re supposed to be seen. that. You might have a good thing, but if you In terms of projection, I was always taught to don’t communicate that to the right people stay ready (so you won’t have to get ready). the right way, it doesn’t matter. No one is Perform as if you’ve already accomplished listening. Third, every business is a brand, what you want. That’s how I rock and what but every brand is not a business. You can I try to encourage other people what to do. have a brand that makes no money. Having a You need to be performing and representing yourself like you are an enterprise. People will strong following does not mean that you have a business. A business makes money and has approach and treat you based on how you present yourself. You came to win, so show up been business-minded from the beginning - has a business model, generates revenue, to win. fulfills the need. If you’re not solving a MADE: How has taking risks affected you as problem, you pretty much don’t have a brand. So, with that you have to make sure there’s a a brand strategist and entrepreneur? need for it. You can create a need, because a lot of people has to be taught that they need VR: [Risks] It is the basis of being an stuff (that’s how consumers work). You must entrepreneur. The moment I said I had be able to communicate that you are solving a business and I offered these services, a problem. that’s taking a risk. The moment you say
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MADE TO
WIN PHOTO CREDIT: Trae Patton/FX
Director of telvision shows including The Wire, True Blood and feature film, Red Tails,
Anthony Hemingway
W
hen you are born to win, it’s hard not to recognize it. Anthony Hemingway was born to become a director of groundbreaking television shows and films, some which may have heard of before including The Wire, The People v. OJ Simpson, Underground, Red Tails, The Infamous and American Crime Story. Although he had a late start (pivoting from pre-med to the film production industry prior to college) his decision to follow his passion was ultimately a no brainer. “I always knew I was born to be a director. I was designed and built to be a part of each one of the projects I’ve been involved on. I am serving a purpose and I’m doing what I am called to do.” Anthony shared with MADE in an exclusive interview. Apparently, Anthony did not take the elevator, he took the stairs. Starting as a production assistant, his seeds were sown and watered over time. When asked if he
MADE By Kris D. Williams
sought out such meaningful and inspired films, Anthony denied intentionally putting thought behind his big feats. “All of these jobs (People vs O.J Simpson, The Wire, Underground, Red Tails) came to me. My path prepared me for each one of those opportunities.” Anthony explained that the universe did its job. The legacy that he built was shared through lens of historical films of the stories of characters through time that have heavily impacted the culture.
“It’s so funny because I don’t ever go after anything. What’s meant for you will be yours no matter what.”
MADE FEATURES
Talk about legacy. Noticeably, the common thread of all of Anthony’s work is the meaningful and purposeful stories he tells. According to Anthony, meeting the Tuskegee Airmen in the making of the award-winning film “Red Tails” had the biggest impact on his life. Anthony noted the true success and reward of his films lied in the global reach and community impact his stories had.
“If we seek the best in each other; if we seek to listen to each other; if we seek to learn about each oth“Everybody can’t be er; if we seek to fora hero, but everyone give each other and can be excellent. Excelforgive ourselves, then lence is the thing that I maybe JUST maybe we strive for.” can leave this world A hero in his own right, Anthony contin- a better place than we ues to bust through glass windows and found it.” create more opportunities for those coming behind him. “My goal is to use this platform and visibility to make a difference PHOTO CREDIT: Eliza Morse/WGN America and lift up those behind me.” Indeed, he is directing his legacy.
I’m continuing to carry the torch and pass the baton.”
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for.”
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MADE IN AMERICA with Jamel F
In my best Allen Iverson voice, “We talking about EMAILS!” This election season has been exhausting! Between Donald Trump bragging about sexual assault on video, three mentally draining debates that were more like Love and Hip Hop reunions and the media still talking about Hillary Clinton’s emails…I am so ready for November 8th. I told ya’ll last issue that we should Hillary Rock on any block and now I am saying let’s make her Madam President already! Cut
the BS. Donald Trump cannot and will not be the president of the nation that elected a black man to the highest office in the land… twice. But there are still Americans choosing to forego their right to vote in this election. I had a debate with a good friend recently who is not voting. He simply does not trust Hillary. From his perspective she is dishonest, shady and he strongly disagrees with her actions against Muammar Gaddafi in Libya. I shared my thoughts on some of
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her noteworthy accomplishments and how prepared she is to be President, but I think I failed at persuading him to vote for anyone. I walked away with an important realization. This race is about an entire nation’s dislike for Hillary Clinton. Allow me to break this down: Donald Trump entered this race with no political experience and four bankruptcies. Through the past year we’ve learned that he is a misogynist, showing multiple public displays of lacking respect for women, a lack of respect for the disabled and he is completely absent of decency. And yet, he may walk away on November 9th with nearly 40-42% of the vote. A man that has completely turned politics on its head. The candidate that said you can “grab them by the pussy”, the candidate who said Mexicans are rapists and “laziness is a trait in blacks.” Almost half of Americans will exercise their right to vote for this candidate because they do not like Hillary Clinton. Some liberals, even myself, have tried to write this off by saying – his supporters are all racist and maybe “deplorable”, but a majority of those voters simply don’t want Hilary Clinton as their president.
“We should not be weighing how much we like a candidate when she is up against a racist, disrespectful, gross man. We need to vote for the candidate who is most prepared to be President of the United States of America.”
If Democrats nominated Bernie Sanders or if Uncle Joe (Biden, for those not following) decided to run, the landslide
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against Trump would be tremendous! I strongly believe if the American electorate had another alternative they would not have backed Trump after his outrageous comments and actions. But that’s not the hand we’ve been dealt and in this election folks just cannot get behind Hilary. Oprah said it best when she said, “She’s not coming over to your house - you don’t have to like her.” She’s not invited to your day party or your holiday celebrations. We should not be weighing how much we like a candidate when she is up against a racist, disrespectful, gross man. We need to vote for the candidate who is most prepared to be the President of the United States of America. Granted, she is not perfect. I concede to that, but I know she is the best person for the job considering the alternative. My hope is that we get Hillary the grandmother to show up in the Oval Office. The grandmother that is sweet, caring and fights for her children. We hear so much about a Hillary that is warm, passionate and charming. That’s who I’m voting for. On January 20, 2017 Madam President has a HUGE job waiting for her. She has to mend a divided country, where almost half of it despises you, where a liberal wing of the Democratic party doesn’t trust you and Congress will fight you at every turn. On that 1st day, the United States will need that grandmother to show up and show out, spread love, fight for us, pull this nation together and propel us forward in a way only Hillary Clinton can.
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GLOBAL ISSUES of 2016:
C A L L T O AC T I O N
The year 2016. Although it’s not quite concluded, the 16th year of the new millennium will certainly stand as one of the most significant in recent memory when it comes to the singular issues and events that dominated both the transient news cycles, and people’s daily lives.
From the repeat headlines we saw all too frequently to the even more important stories that somehow didn’t make the editor’s lineups and were found only on social media, what was considered to be newsworthy this year followed the ongoing, historical pattern of being subjective and yet globally impactful as the craft of journalism continues to evolve.
MADE By Ronald E. Childs
1.THE OBAMAS. President Barack H. Obama ends arguably the greatest and most accomplished tenure of a chief executive in the White House, in the history of the United States as of the election on November 8th. Though his final official day in office will be January 20th, 2017, Obama leaves behind an indelible imprint on the country, having pushed through an incomparable record of economic, legislative, social, environmental and military successes, bolstered by the work of the most elegant First Lady the nation has ever seen at his side. Michelle Obama championed the causes of military families, and youth nutrition, fitness and health and made it all look seamless with two daughters in tow. The nation’s first African American president, his wife and family spent two scandal-free terms in the house that the sweat and labor of slaves built, and generations of black American youth now
have a tangible example that anything they put their minds toward achieving is truly attainable. 2. THE ELECTION. This year marks the most important presidential election ever (to date), with drastically divergent choices that include former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in the running to become the first woman in the seat of power after earning the history-making nomination of the Democratic Party, and businessman-developer Donald J. Trump, who has self-funded his very controversial campaign for the White House. While both candidates are rife with apparent character flaws—real and perceived—the choice should be clear as to who between them deserves to succeed the Obamas, and the whole world is watching. Vote: Many paid the ultimate price for our right to do so.
3. THE VOICES OF YOUNG PEOPLE. An ancient Biblical scripture begins, “out of the mouths of babes…hast thou ordained strength...”
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This could be considered the overarching mantra of 2016, as young people on college campuses like the University of Missouri, and in urban centers all across the country took to the streets in 2016 in attempts to make their voices heard with respect to racist incidents, police harassment and the unwarranted use of deadly force against African American victims, among myriad other issues germane to them—and to all Americans. Even Black Lives Matter, once an untethered national network of black liberation organizations which was established in 2012—and the banner under which youth protests and violence were carried out in many cities over those years minus any unified agenda, objective or coordination—began to take steps beyond a hashtag, and to actually resemble a movement. BLM finally developed and announced a platform in 2016, for the first time listing a slate of specific demands, and professional, collegiate and high school athletes alike took a stand on the issue of race by kneeling during their games’ playing of the national anthem—though none reportedly went as far as to refuse to play. Black girls’ lives also mattered a bit more, too, this year, with the quiet release of 21 of the 270 Chibook boarding school girls to Nigerian government authorities by the militant group, Boko Haram. The story regrettably failed to garner the degree of international attention that it did when they were forcibly taken by the soldiers in 2014, sparking the celeb-driven #BringBackOurGirls campaign and similar efforts.
4. TRANSITIONS. Noteworthy African Americans from the realms of the arts, sports and social justice sadly departed this life in 2016, with the untimely passing of superstar musician, singer-songwriter, producer, bandleader and actor Prince, who died April 21st; three-time world heavyweight boxing champion and outspoken activist Muhammad Ali, who died June 23rd and political activist-businesswoman Afeni Shakur, mother of late, legendary Hip-Hop performer Tupac Shakur, who transitioned May 2nd. May their souls rest in peace.
5. OLYMPIC-SIZED PERFORMANCES. The 2016 Olympics, held in Rio de Janeiro Brazil, was predicted by some smug Western media organizations as a looming failure for the so-called “third-world” country. But Brazil proved its naysayers wrong and staged a scintillating, unique and unforgettable production. The colorful backdrop was a much-deserved world stage for several luminary African American athletes who defied stereotypes, and excelled in an array of what are considered non-traditional sports for them. Simone Biles became a household name from coast to coast, winning four gold medals in gymnastics; Simone Manuel won gold and silver medals in swimming; Michele Carter earned the gold medal for shot-put, Claressa Shields won gold in boxing and Daryl Homer was awarded a silver medal in fencing, all black American firsts. And the U.S. women’s track & field team, represented by Allyson Felix, Kristi Castlin, Nia Ali, Dalilah Muhammad and Brianna Rollins? Well, they just took everything…gold, silver and bronze.
6. OPENING THE DOOR TO CUBA. President Obama visited the island nation of Cuba in 2016, in a long-awaited move to shore up relations that have been strained for more than 50 years. While there, Obama announced a coming end to America’s decades-old economic sanctions, opening the door to trade, travel and tourism with the U.S. and signaling a dramatic shift in foreign policy toward the nation. Hopefully, with leaders from both countries expressing a commitment to the future, the move also foreshadows a reversal of Cuba’s human rights policies and ultimately improves the day-to-day lives of Cubans.
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2016 has been quite the eventful year. From a rather controversial presidential election season to both national and international disasters to shock celebrity breakups, the year has been nothing short of newsworthy. As we reflect on the highs and lows and gear up to ring in a new year, there are a number of beloved, iconic individuals in entertainment that the world lost. Here is a list of those we had to say goodbye to in 2016:
AN ODE TO the
LEGENDS
MADE By India McMiller
MUHAMMAD
ALI
Considered one of the best-known figures of the 20th century, legendary boxer and humanitarian Muhammad Ali passed away on June 3rd, 2016 after being hospitalized the day before, due to septic shock from a respiratory illness. He was 74. The three-time world heavyweight boxing champion was revered for his worldclass boxing skills, defeating former champions Joe Frazier and George Foreman, among others, and success, but also made his made his mark in history with his unabashed stance on politics and civil rights. He famously refused to be drafted in the Vietnam War, joining the Nation of Islam in 1962 and changing his name to Muhammad Ali, saying his birth name “Cassius Clay”, was a “slave name.” He received worldwide tributes upon the news of his death, with President Barack Obama stating, “Muhammad Ali shook up the world. And the world is better for it.”
DAV I D B OW I E The iconic singer-songwriter died on Jan. 10 from liver cancer in Manhattan, New York, two days after both his 69th birthday and the release of his 25th album “Blackstar.” He was hailed as an innovator in music, fashion and culture, for his flamboyant, rebellious style, most notably through his alter ego Ziggy Stardust and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996. With an estimated 140 million record sales worldwide, he is one of the world’s best-selling music artists. His wife of 24 years, supermodel Iman, posted a quote on Instagram days before the star’s death: “Sometimes you will never know the true value of a moment until it becomes a memory.”
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M AU R I C E WHITE
The British actor, perhaps best known for his turn as the mysterious, dark Professor Snap in the Harry Potter franchise, passed January 14 after a private battle with pancreatic cancer.. He was 69, The award-winning actor had made a name for himself before the Potter series, starring as Hans Gruber in the 1998 Die Hard alongside Bruce Willis. He played the Sheriff of Nottingham three years later in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, for which he received the BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. He would go on to win a Golden Globe, Emmy and Screen Actors Guild Award for playing the title character in the 1996 biographical TV film, Rasputin: Dark Servant of Destiny. Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe, who considered Rickman to be a close friend and inspiration wrote: “Alan Rickman is undoubtedly one of the greatest actors I will ever work with.
ALAN RICKMAN
The Earth, Wind & Fire founder and horn player died in his sleep on February 4 after battling with Parkinson’s disease since 1992. He was 74. The multi-genre band has enjoyed immense success over the decades, receiving 20 Grammy nominations, 6 of which they have won, along with American Music Awards, and NAACP Image Award and Soul Train Music Awards. The group’s string of hits include “September,” “After the Love has Gone,” and “Shining Star.” In 2000, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, with White being individually inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2010.After news of White’s death broke, the group tweeted: “Our brother Maurice White passed peacefully in his sleep this morning. The light is he, shining on you and me.”
actor, best known for his role as Martin Lawrence’s TO M M Y The best friend “Tommy” in the 90’s hit sitcom, “Martin,” passed 12 in an Atlanta hospital. He was 52. Ford had been FO R D October hospitalized and placed on life support for the previous three days after an aneurysm ruptured in his abdomen. TMZ reported that the aneurysm developed from complications that arose after Ford received knee replacement surgery two weeks prior to his death. Ford’s representative, Joy Pervis, released a family statement confirming his death: “It is with great sadness that we announce the untimely passing of our beloved son, father, brother, husband, and friend.” In addition to “Martin,” Ford appeared on television shows “New York Undercover,” “The Jamie Foxx Show” and “The Parkers.”
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PRINCE The iconic figure passed on April 21, after being hospitalized the week before due to what was said to have been the flu. He was found unresponsive in his estate elevator the morning of his death. He was 57. Prince was known for his unique, androgynous style and fashion, along with his wide vocal range. He was one of the best-selling artists of all time, selling over 100 million records worldwide, with more than 50 Top 40 hits around the world since 1979, including hits such “When Doves Cry,” “Little Red Corvette,” and “Kiss.” Countless stars took to social media to express their condolences after news broke of the icon’s death, such as Alicia Keys who tweeted: “Prince was a gift and a genius. He showed us that we have no limits. His music left me forever changed.”
GENE WILDER Likely known best by millennials for his Golden Globe nominated performance in the 1971 classic “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” the actor passed away on August 29th in Stamford, Connecticut at the age of 83, after a three year battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. Wilder was known for his comedic, eccentric touches to the many roles he played. His first major role came with playing accountant Leopold Bloom in the 1968 American satirical musical comedy film “The Producers,” directed by Mel Brooks. Wilder received his first Oscar nomination with the role, his second earned for his performance in the 1974 American horror comedy film “Young Frankenstein,” also directed by Brooks. He often commented on his rule for being a comedic actor: “ Don’t try to make it funny; try to make it real. “I’m an actor, not a clown.” Upon hearing of Wilder’s death, Mel Brooks wrote on Twitter: “Gene Wilder-One of the truly great talents of our time. He blessed every film we did with his magic & he blessed me with his friendship.”
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HARPER LEE The author of the infamous novel To Kill a Mockingbird, passed on February 19 at the age of 89. Published in 1960, the novel received instant success and acclamation, winning the 1961 Pulitzer Prize and becoming a modern American literature classic. It was turned into a film in 1962, which is now considered one of the best films ever made, being selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress in 1995.After receiving immense success and fame for her work, Harper chose to live out the rest of her life out of the public eye, preferring a quiet, private life. She did find herself back in the spotlight decades later, when then-president George W. Bush presented her with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2007.
GLENN FREY
The co-founder, singer and guitarist of the Eagles, one of the most popular rock bands of the ‘70s passed January 18 at the age of 67, after a battling with complications from rheumatoid arthritis, acute ulcerative colitis and pneumonia. He found fame with the group, writing or co-writing hits such as “Take It Easy,” “How Long,” and “New Kid in Town.” After the group disbanded in 1980, Frey embarked on a successful solo career, recording Top 40 hits such as “Livin’ Right,” and “You Belong to the City.” The Eagles were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998.
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