ISSUE 2
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NYOTA Magazine was founded
by two sisters who shared a love for discovering new talent and young entrepreneurs. Nyota /niːˈoʊtə/ means star in Swahili, this magazine focuses on finding and promoting the rising stars in fashion, music and culture. So if you know a young person who is serious about their craft, please contact us! The magazine will be released quarterly, (winter, spring, summer and fall).
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@nyotamagazine
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INTRO
8 Contributors 9 Editor’s Letter MUSIC
10 Going Caraya Cecily 16 FASHION
22 30 Diversified Styles 36 Brick by Boring Brick Neon Lights
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CULTURE
52 54 Playlists 56 Love at First Selfie 58 Love in the Digital Age The Future Will Be Televised 60 62 Artistic Riches of Europe New Releases
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TEAM
CAROL WRIGHT Co-Editor in chief and creative Director NIARA WRIGHT Co-Editor in Chief and Fashion Director BREANNA RIDDICK Editor at Large, You tube host VICTORIA KESSLER DIY Editor ALEXANDRIA RODRIGUEZ Make up Director JOCELYN NAARDEN Digital Design Director
CONTRIBUTORS
JEANITA HOSEA Writer JUNIOR GONZALEZ Photographer DENNIS DE JESUS Photographer
FEATURES
JASON KOHLER DJ Caraya CECILY Alexa Bumbray DIVERSIFIED STYLES LUST FOR LIFE SHOES ATOMIK3 THE HOUSE OF FLAIR JENNIFER YAROS
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R E T T E L R’S
O T I D E
I can’t believe we are on our second issue already. Back in June, NYOTA was just a thought, we never imagined how big it would grow and how quickly! We now have contributors and features from around the world. Our features include a DJ from Oregon, fashion bloggers from NYC, a singer from DC that has performed for flotus herself! Of course as we grow, we want you to grow with us! Check us out on YouTube, IG, Twitter, tumblr and Facebook and be sure to hit us up! We want you to be part of our family! Thank you guys for all of your love and support. Love your Co-EICs, Carol and Niara Wright
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#NYOTAMUSIC
⌀一夀伀吀䄀䴀唀匀䤀䌀
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䐀
䐀䨀 ☀䌀愀爀愀礀愀 昀琀㨀
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#NYOTAMUSIC
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WRITTEN BY: NIARA AND CAROL WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JUNIOR GONZALEZ
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DJ CARAYA #NYOTAMUSIC
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How does a kid in Oregon become one of the hottest college DJs in country? Thats what we wanted to know from Jason Kohler aka DJ Caraya. Growing up in a small town on the east coast and now living life on this wild side in the west, Caraya’s life is a literal “Started from the bottom now we’re here” kind of story. NYOTA:
ever predicted I would do, but it opened my eyes to the many
Who/what is DJ Caraya? How did you come up with that name?
different ways DJ’s can find success. I personally would like to find a more genuine road to success that is paved with actual
DJ CARAYA:
passion for the music play and create. The competitive road is
I am DJ Caraya, it’s a name I chose a while ago. Caraya is part
pretty harsh, when you win people love you, but if you don’t
of the name “Alouatta Caraya” which is a species of howler mon-
win, you find yourself in a strange place where everything you
key. The “black howler” when I was first getting into dj’ing I fig-
put in to get as far as you did, doesn’t seem to matter to anyone
ured I would try to build a name from my favorite animal at the
because you didn’t walk away with anything to show for it.
time, and so I landed on Caraya. Although I think I pronounce it different from the original Latin way… Cuh-Ray-Uh
N: Do you ever hope to go beyond DJ’ing for college students? DJ: Yes, I would love to eventually DJ for a broader audience.
N: How & what age did you get into DJ’ing?
I do feel as though the music I play and make tends to target
DJ: I’ve had an interest in music production and blending for
people of a college age, so I would like to keep creating that
as long as I can remember, but my first DJ set I got while in high
same sound, I just want to do it for a larger crowd.
school. My brothers were the ones that really made me realize how much music meant to me, they always were showing me new music whether it was from their high school days or just new music I’d never heard yet.
N: What is your process for coming up with music/ remixing
songs? DJ: It’s not really a process, most of my inspiration comes from
my friends suggesting I try to sample this or remix that. I don’t N: How has DJ’ing changed the way you listen to music?
follow a process when creating, I think if I followed the same
DJ: I think that I’ve always heard music differently than most
steps each time, I would loose some of the creative content that
people, I feel as though when I hear music, I am interested in
goes into making music.
what went into making and creating the sound that a song contains. I’ve always been curious about the ingredients that make
N: What’s the best part of being a DJ?
up songs, I want to get inside the minds of the artists and just
DJ: I think the best part would be, the amount of people I get
see how they operate.
to make happy each and every time I DJ. It’s awesome to see people get excited because of the music I play. Music has a lot
N: What was it like being part of the college DJ competition?
of power over peoples emotions, I like to see music bring out
DJ: Competing as a DJ is hard, it’s not anything I would have
the best in people. NYOTA
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#NYOTAMUSIC
N: Has moving to Oregon had an influence on you music? DJ: Yes, I would say there is a ton of music I listen to here
that most people on the east coast would not know about, or at least they would not have the same appreciation that people here do. For example I grew up listening to B’more club and Jersey Club music on the east coast, and to this day I still have yet to play one of those song genres here in Oregon and get the same response that I would if I did it on the east coast. N: Where do you draw inspiration from? DJ: I usually follow people on Soundcloud.com, it’s my pri-
mary source to find new music, and to follow artists that I admire. N: How do you plan on growing the brand that is “DJ Ca-
raya”? DJ: I am looking to do some exciting things in 2016 and
hopefully focus on a more professional and organized approach to “DJ Caraya” N: Any new projects/EP/Mixtapes coming out? DJ: Without a doubt there will be plenty of new sounds
from me soon. N: If you could tour with any other artist, who would it be
and why? DJ: It’s hard to choose just one, but I think touring with
Flosstradamus would be a lot of fun because they are a group that I have followed since 2010, that I have always idolized. Also Josh and Liz and their son Lex are the coolest family ever. N: What social media front can we find you on? DJ: https://soundcloud.com/caraya-1
https://www.instagram.com/dj_caraya/ https://www.facebook.com/DJCARAYA
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“
I personally wo more genuine roa is paved with ac the music play a
ould like to find a ad to success that ctual passion for and create.
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#NYOTAMUSIC
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D.C. H T I W ILY. C E C EN ED V L E T I D T N F B, A & Y, SEL R A , M Z JAZ P IN L E A T S R E R SEV ER FI S H A D H E OPP CILY E R C D , E N SH TOW E M O RH ES. AS HE C N E and friends just hand me checks and sayINFLU O G O ing ‘We believe in you!’ that was the main G thing. Also, when I had my album release WAS YOUR FAVORITE SONG ON THE ALBUM
party it was really small, about 40 people.
AND YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE PRO-
I just cooked for people and played the al-
CESS?
bum. And people were really feeling it. I
A: My favorite song I think would be “Real
didn’t know what the process was like for
’ll be honest here, this was my
Love” which is a love song. It was actually
an album release party because I had only
first interview with someone I had
a song I recorded twice. I recorded it once
been to one and I didn’t really know what
never met before. I was prepping
with a full band and I didn’t love it so I de-
the vibe was going to be. I really wanted
like crazy and only got even more
cided to record it again with just piano and
people to listen even though it was party
intimidated when I learned she had
vocals… just really stripped down. I think
and I was really surprised to see people
performed in front First Lady Michelle
the essence of the song just comes out
just vibing to it and asking me questions
Obama, while I was doing my research
more and it ended up being my favorite
and having people really into it.
on her. I was so nervous I actually got
song in the project. My favorite part of the
the dates mixed up for when I was
process, that’s hard because it was kind
Q:SO YOU MENTIONED THAT IT WAS A BIT
supposed to be interviewing her and
of a stressful process but I think that, just
DIFFICULT BECAUSE YOU’RE AN INDEPEN-
came a day early. When I finally met
because I’m an independent artists and
DENT ARTIST. DO YOU THINK IT’S HARDER
Cecily, I began to ask myself, why was
I’m mostly self-managed so you know, the
TO PROMOTE AS AN INDEPENDENT ARTIST
I so nervous? Her overall personality
process of releasing a project and getting
THAN AS A MAJOR ARTIST?
so relaxed and friendly, you can’t help
funding can be daunting at times. But, I
A: Absolutely! I think major labels spend
but feel comfortable when you talk to
think my favorite part of the process- well
as much promoting the project as they
her. Whether you’re listening to her
there are two moments actually. It had
did making it. So, they spend a lot of
favorite song on her EP, “Real Love,”
little to do with me, it’s just about how
money… So as an independent artist,
or you’re listening while she performs
people believed in me and it was really
when you don’t have that kind of money
A Capella for you after you interview,
amazing to see that. I did a crop funding
behind you, you have to think creatively;
her voice and music reflect that soul-
campaign in order to make my project. I
you have to use your resources; you have
ful and relaxed vibe.
raised about $7,000. And just people’s
to use your friends.
Q:SO YOUR EP DROPPED IN MAY. WHAT
generosity in that and having my parents
I
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#NYOTAMUSIC
Q:BUT I FEEL LIKE THAT AS AN INDEPEN-
it’s kind of been just me having an idea of
Fitzgerald, Gloria Lynne so I grew up lis-
DENT ARTIST, YOU HAVE A SMALLER FAN
what I wanted and finding the right peo-
tening to that. But I always wanted to sing
BASE. DO YOU FEEL LIKE YOU HAVE A MORE
ple to work with.
R&B, I always wanted to sing soul music.
INTIMATE CONNECTION WITH YOUR FANS?
Q: WHEN DID MUSIC BECOME YOUR PAS-
But what was really funny about it is when
A:Yeah, I like to think so. I mean, there are
SION?
I really started singing I found myself do-
major label artists who maintain a very
A: I think the moment that really sticks in
ing more scatting than runs. I found my-
personal connection to their fan base.
my mind I was actually at a jazz festival
self going more towards jazzier form of
I feel like that at any stage, it’s up to the
in Italy 2009. I remember watching this
expression than your typical R&B, gospel
artist to decide what they want their rela-
woman perform on this outdoor stage
vibe. So I started scatting more. This next
tionship with their fans to be like. I think
with all these people around, beauti-
project I’m working on is definitely more
because I am so independent, I definitely
ful weather, people just sitting around
jazz influenced. It’s also because I’m just
have a close connection with my fans. I
drinking beer, wine, eating watermelon,
getting to know some of the jazz musi-
I WAS IN COLLEGE AT THE TIME STUDYING PO SCIENCE AND IT WAS IN THAT MOMENT THAT MA REALIZE THIS IS WHAT I ACTUALLY WANTED TO DO, WHAT MAKES ME FEEL perform around D.C. a lot and I see peo-
listening to the music and just enjoying
cians around D.C. So I started writing with
ple before the show and say, ‘Hey, thanks
themselves. I was in college at the time
them more and going to different jam
for coming.’ I see people after the show.
studying Political Science and it was in
sessions. I think the jazz influence is slow-
I’m the one sitting there selling my t-shirts
that moment that made me realize this is
ly growing. And Go Go, it’s funny because
so I have more opportunities to interact
what I actually wanted to do, this is what
when I was growing up I wanted to be in
and meet and remember faces. And D.C
makes me feel good.
a Go Go band and I never have been. But
isn’t that big so fans end up becoming friends and your community just grows.
I think that just the energy of the music Q: D.C. HAS A PRETTY DISTINCT JAZZ STYLE,
has definitely had an influence on me. It’s
WITH GO GO. DO YOU THINK D.C AND GO
not really a sound I’ve experimented with
Q: SO YOU MENTIONED T-SHIRTS. SO DO
GO HAVE INFLUENCED YOUR STYLE?
a lot. I actually did, for the first time a few
DESIGN YOUR T-SHIRTS OR DO YOU HAVE A
A: That’s a really good question. That’s
months ago, a show called Cecily Salutes
TEAM THAT MAKES THEM?
funny because I didn’t really start calling
D.C. where I interwove some of my music
A: No. Basically, what happened was I
myself a jazz singer until maybe like six
with people who were either from D.C. or
really loved my album cover and knew I
or seven months ago actually. And it was
lived in D.C. for a long time, so of course
wanted something simple and just graph-
really because people started asking me
I had to do some Go Go! So I did a Go Go
ically dynamic. Something that’s not com-
to sing jazz and I started doing it. I grew
remix of one of my songs. And then this
plicated to look at but when you look at it,
up listening to jazz music, because my
summer actually I performed with a Go
you feel it. So it ended up being sort of like
father loves it and my mom likes a lot of
Go band for the first time, the JoGo Proj-
a trace of my face on my album cover…
the great vocalist like Sarah Vaughan, Ella
ect. So I finally, this year got the chance
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OLITICAL ADE ME , THIS IS L GOOD.
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#NYOTAMUSIC
EVERY SONG IS KIND OF DIFFERENT. NOT EVERY PROJECT HAS TO BE A CONCEPTUAL ONE. to have some fun with the Go Go feel and
Not every project has to be a conceptual
the vibe of it.
one. So in that regard, for my last project I wasn’t pulling from any specific influ-
Q: YOU PERFORMED IN FRONT OF MICHELLE
ences. But for my next project I’m being
OBAMA! SO I’M TEMPTED TO ASK, “WHO’S
a little more intent on getting a certain
THE COOLEST PERSON YOU PERFORMED
sound. I’ve been mostly pulling from Min-
IN FRONT OF?” BUT NOW I FEEL LIKE I AL-
nie Riperton, who I adore. I think it’ll be a
READY KNOW.
little more cohesive.
A: I did! You know what’s funny? I didn’t even know she was there when I was
Q:
singing. It was at a tennis match and I got
COMPARED
asked to sing the National Anthem at the
MOST? AND DO YOU
game. So I walked up there and I sang
LIKE THOSE COMPARI-
and as I walked back to my seat I thought,
SONS?
‘That looks like Sasha and Malia… And that
A: Well, I know a lot
looks like Michelle Obama!’ So I’m kind of
of artists who don’t
glad I didn’t know before or I might’ve
like being compared
been really nervous. So that was cool. I
to other artists. It
find it most interesting to sing in front of
just frustrates them.
people who are just really into the music.
I don’t mind it at all.
They’re just staring at you or they’re eyes
I think it’s kind of in-
are closed the whole time and those peo-
teresting to see who
ple who just call out whenever they hear
people connect me
something they really like.
to when I’m perform-
WHO
ARE TO
YOU THE
ing. And it gives me a Q: FOR YOUR EP, WAS THERE ANY SPECIF-
better understanding
IC INFLUENCE? HOW DID YOU GO ABOUT
of how I’m actually
WRITING FOR IT?
portraying myself. I
A: For my EP I put out this year, it was my
might think I’m doing
first project. What really happened was
one thing and peo-
that I had been recording every now and
ple might be hear-
again for like the past three years or so. I
ing something else. I
was finally at the point where I was like, ‘I
just think it’s cool to
have some songs I really like. Let me finish
know what people
them and put them out.’ I didn’t sit down
are hearing. I get a lot of comparisons to
with a certain intention or a certain mind-
Minnie Riperton, actually, which is very
set or even a certain influence I was pull-
intimidating. I’ve had a lot of friends and
ing from. Every song is kind of different.
fans compare me to Corinne Bailey Rae,
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who I adore. Teedra Moses, who I adore. And Corinne Bailey Rae and Teedra Moses couldn’t be more different. Like sonically, Corinne is more alternative and Teedra definitely has more hip-hop influences to her R&B. The fact people compare me to both is kind of interesting, I guess because I do a lot different things. But no, I don’t mind the comparisons. Q: SO WHEN WE WILL HEAR YOUR NEXT PROJECT?
A: I’m working on a 3-song EP which I’m hoping to release in March. I have no plans right now to do a big album or a full album. The EP I released this year was five songs and the one I’m working on for March will be 3 and I’m planning on releasing another 3- song EP in September. Listening to Cecily’s multifaceted like how she explained that some of the songs on her EP don’t sound alike. She immediately followed that with, “Not every project has to be a conceptual one.” The idea of an album or EP that has songs that don’t sound exactly like may seem a bit foreign if you compare it to most of the music on the radio now. But this exact individuality in Cecily’s music is what makes it so interesting and gives it personality.
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#NYOTAFASHION
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#NYOTAFASHION
Heels by Lust for Life shoes $189.99 www.stilettoskop.com
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#NYOTAFASHION
Clutch $60 and bangles $20 each by The House of Flair www.houseofflair.co 26 //
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Earrings by The House of Flair $25 www.houseofflair.com NYOTA
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Heels from Lust for Life USA $159.99 www.stilettoskop.com Bangles by The House of Flair $20 www.houseofflair.co
#NYOTAFASHION
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Earrings by Atomik3 $30 atomik3.etsy.com Necklace by The House of Flair $40 www.houseofflair.co
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E I F I S R E V I D LES Y T S #NYOTAFASHION
Who doesn’t love a well dressed man? Well, we’ve got three of them! We chatted with the ever so stylish trio of Diversified Styles and talked, inspiration, fashion and how three completely different styles come together so smoothly.
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Diversified Styles is made up of 3 young Christians guys from Brooklyn New York with thriving minds and a passion not only for fashion, but a passion to inspire those with the same passion as their own. The decided on the name of their blog to be Diversified Styles because they felt that they each have their own unique style and wanted to have diversity within the group. The blog focuses on all things fashion and menswear like the latest sneaker news, latest runway dates, personal styles and more.
Diversified Styles – Dennis (designer/ photographer), Kevin (singer, songwriter, stylist & model), Bryan (Designer)
from inside is only right. Life is about learning from others and sharing with others. Music definitely does that for me. DENNIS: WHAT INFLUENCES YOUR PERSONAL STYLE? What re-
HOW DID YOU ALL MEET? Well we all go to the
ally influences my style is really how I feel that day. If I wake up
same church and that’s basically how we all
in the morning and I feel happy and joyful then I’m putting on
met. Through that and mutual friendships.
floral patterns and bright colored pants. If I’m feeling down I’m
YOU ALL DRESS REALLY WELL, WHO ARE SOME
either dressing in jeans and sneakers or I’ll put on my best suit
OF YOUR FAVORITE DESIGNERS? KEVIN: I don’t
to cheer myself up. Because like someone once said, “If you look
really have a favorite designer. BRYAN: My
good, you feel good”.
favorites designers are Alexander Wang, Rick
DENNIS: WHAT PHOTOGRAPHER’S INFLUENCE/ INSPIRE YOU?
Owens, Haider Ackermann , Kris Van Assche,
Well my photographers that inspire me the most are not world
and Jason Wu. DENNIS: Mine are Alexander
known photographers but they do have somewhat of a big fol-
McQueen, Mark McNairy, David Hart,
lowing on Instagram. They are Naskademini (@Naskademini),
ARE YOU ALL FROM NYC? IF SO, WHICH BOROUGH? Dennis was born in Brooklyn, Kevin was
Jeremy Mitchell (@xxjmitch), Naj Wareham (@najwareham) and Karl-Edwin Guerre (@guerreisms).
born in Ecuador and moved to NYC at age 13
DENNIS: WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT PHOTOGRAPHY? WHAT
and Bryan was born in Dominican Republic
KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED TO TAKE PHOTOS? Photography is an
and moved to NYC at age 14. But we all live in
art, and as an art you’re able to express in any way you’d like.
Queens.
Weather it be through fashion, nature, or just people in general.
KEVIN: HOW DID YOU BEGIN YOUR MODELING
What keeps me motivated the most is being able to be as free
CAREER?I started modeling with the guys doing
as I can when using my camera. I usually don’t take too kindly
outfit photo shoots ever since I knew the guys.
to being told how to do things. Even as child I was the same. So
We began shooting and dressing up together and ever since, I
when I can go out there and do what I please, it just drives me
been modeling at fashion shows and photo shoots for brands.
more to becoming the best that I can be. And that goes to every
KEVIN: YOU SING, STYLE AND MODEL, WHICH ONE OF THESE PASSIONS DO YOU LOVE THE MOST/ WANT TO PURSUE THE MOST?
aspect in my life. BRYAN: WHEN DID YOU REALIZE DESIGNING WAS WHAT YOU
Well I love styling people. I also love modeling, but singing is
WANTED TO DO? I realized I wanted to do fashion design when
where I find myself. Music is where I release and share my emo-
I made my very first piece, which was a T-shirt with two zippers
tions as well as my experiences. I have been through things that
on the front chest level. At that moment I knew I had a talent
others have probably gone through as well. Which makes me
because I didn’t have any experience with sewing but still man-
feel like sharing who I am not only from the outside but also
aged to construct a garment. NYOTA
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BRYAN: WHAT INSPIRES YOUR DESIGNS? Lately I’ve been try-
anything, and by anything I mean that for very rare garment,
ing to get inspiration from anything I see, not just clothes but
there’s always going to be at least one customer that’s going to
people, nature, and everything overall. I love art, art is how my
purchase it. D: Well Kevin and Bryan basically took the words
passion for fashion began so most of the designs I am working
right out of my mouth. But to be honest what I love most about
on currently are inspired by artists such as Jack Pierson and Cy
the fashion industry relates more to the actual work that goes
Twombly.
into making clothes. What I love the most about it is that now
BRYAN: WHAT IS THE INSPIRATION FOR YOUR LATEST COLLEC-
a day there’s a tool for EVERYTHING! Tools for ironing some-
TION? The collection was really a sudden thing, I was just going
thing a specific way, tools for cutting things you didn’t know you
to make a portfolio for school but as I was finishing up most
could, and even machines that sew the button and the hole at
of the pieces I realized I needed to put something out there if I
the same time.
was going to call myself a designer and so I did and It was just me finding myself to be honest.
LIFE IS ABOUT LEARNING FROM OTHER AND SHARING WITH OTHERS.
I didn’t have a main inspiration I just did what I like which is tailor garments with a bit of Avant Garde to it.
WHERE DO YOU GUYS SEE DIVERSIFIED STYLES GOING? K: I see
diversified styles going into a very expanded new era where we
WHAT DO YOU ALL LOVE MOST ABOUT THE FASHION INDUSTRY?
all will show our own personal confidence in style. B: The guys
K: What I love about fashion is that we could just share how we
and me are doing so much that our blog is like a talent show
feel through our way in style. B: I love that I can be myself and I
online that you can visit at any time and be inspired to follow
also love that there’s a customer for everything. You can make
your own dream. I see our blog expanding in the next few years. NYOTA
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#NYOTAFASHION
NO MATTER WHO YOU ARE OR WHERE YOU ARE FROM, YOU CAN HAVE YOUR OWN PERSONAL STYLE AND BE COMFORTABLE WITH IT NO MATTER WHAT. When we started we had this idea of featuring groups of fashion
QUICK FIRE QUESTIONS: NYC OR LA? FASHION OR STYLE? FASH-
entrepreneurs in other states and countries and I believe it’s
ION SHOW OR PRESENTATION? STAN SMITHS OR SHELL TOPS?
time for that to happen. D: Well when we started DS we were
CUFFED OR UN-CUFFED JEANS? IPHONE OR ANDROID? SS OR
planning on naming it Diversified Styles: Brooklyn. But we felt
FW? FORMAL TUXEDO OR CANADIAN TUXEDO? COKE OR PEP-
like that would be too selective to just Brooklyn or NYC. So that’s
SI? K: NYC and style . Fashion show. Stan smiths with cuffed
why we went with just Diversified Styles. So when we expand
jeans. Definitely a iPhone and S/S with a formal tuxedo and a
and have more people from all around the world we can name
Pepsi. B: NYC. Style. Fashion show. Stan Smith. Cuffed jeans.
it, DS: London, DS: California, DS: Australia, and/or DS: Brazil.
iPhone. S/S. Formal tuxedo. Coke. D: NYC or because I haven’t
DO YOU GUYS SEE YOURSELVES AS INSPIRATION FOR YOUNG MINORITY MEN IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY? HOW ABOUT YOUNG CHRISTIAN MEN? WAS THIS ONE OF THE OBJECTIVES FOR DS? We
definitely do. Not specifically for young Minority men or young Christian men most men we feel like we inspire more are in that group of guys. We have noticed that a lot of the guys from our church have now taken interest more in what they wear and how they present themselves. That’s one thing we really wanted to do. Is to show men that no matter who you are or where you are from, you can have your own personal style and be comfortable with it no matter what. For us it’s all about being who you are, expressing what you do, and finding that passion in what you love most without having to fear what anyone is going to say about it. We’ve taken a lot of shots, not only through our walk in this enormous world of fashion but also our walk with God. But has brothers we hold each other up, encourage each other, and make sure that we always try our best to get to our end goal no matter how hard the circumstances may get. Whether that be with singing, modeling, designing, photographing or anything else. And that’s what our objectives are for Diversified Styles!
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been to LA yet. Style. Presentation. Stan Smith. Cuffed jeans. iPhone. F/W. Formal tuxedo & Canadian tuxedo. Coke & Pepsi.
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PHOTOGRAPHED BY: CAROL WRIGHT STYLED BY: NIARA WRIGHT
Don’t know how to look cute at an ugly sweater party? Haven’t mastered how to look haute in the cold? Here is your shopping guide to the perfect winter party outfit.
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Necklace from The House of Flair; $50 Model’s Own Sweater Stylist’s Own Dress
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Sweater from Forever 21; $17.99 Dress from UrbanOutfitters; $80
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Jacket from Zara; $150 Necklace by Atomik3; $30
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Vintage Denim Levis Jacket, Stylist’s Own Shirt from Micheal Kors; $40 Jewelry by Atomik3; $30 each Skirt, Stylist’s own
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#NYOTACULTURE
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#NYOTACULTURE
New Releases Movies STAR WARS EPISODE VII : THE FORCE AWAKEN S (DEC 18, 2015) FANTASY & SCIENCE FIC TION DIRECTED BY J. J. ABRAMS. The loved cult classic is back with its seventh ins tal lment, Star Wars: The Force Awakens is set to release on Decembe r 18t h. The film is set to take place thirty yea rs after the events of Th e Re tur n of The Jedi. Han solo (Harrison For d) and his allies are back an d fac ing a new enemy, Kylo Ren (Adam Dri ver) and his army of sto rm troopers. I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to go back to a gal axy far, far away.
CONCUSSION (DEC 25, 2015) DRAMA DIRECTED BY PETER LANDESMAN Will Smith stars in this must see new film abou t a forensic pathologist named Dr. Bennet Omalu (Will Smith) who discovers neurological deterioration that is sim ilar to Alzheimer’s diseas e while conducting an autopsy on former NF L football player Mike We bster. Omalu calls the disorder chronic tra umatic encephalopath y and publishes his discoveries in a medical journal. When other ath letes face the same diagnosis, Omalu emba rks on a mission to rai se awareness on the dangers of football relate d head injuries.
THE REVENANT (DEC 25 , 2015) DRAMA/ THRI LLER BY ALEJANDRO GONZÁLEZ IÑÁRRITU This unsettling new film starring Leonardo Dicap rio, as you’ve never seen him will have you on the edge of your sea t, as your eyes stay trained on the screen. Taking place in the 180 0’s the film is about a frontiersman Hugh Gla ss (Leonardo Dicaprio) wh o sus tains injuries from a gruesome bear attack. When Hugh’s hu nti ng tea m leaves him to die, he must put his survival skills to use to fin d his wa y back to his family. Hugh sets ou t on a journey fueled by his rage against his former confidant John Fitzgerald (Tom Hardy) who abandoned him.
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h c t a W o t s l e d o M
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#NYOTACULTURE
WRITTEN BY: JEANITA HOSEA
WHAT WAS ONCE HANDWRITTEN LETTERS CROSSING CLASSROOMS, IS NOW BLUE AND GREEN SPEECH BUBBLES ON A SCREEN; AND AS THE WAY WE USE TECHNOLOGY CHANGES SO HAS THE WAY THIS DIGITAL AGE HAS APPROACHED LOVE. Ah, young love. Many of us may remem-
munication, it’s changed how we relate
less significant? Now there will always be
ber the intensity and ecstasy of puppy
to one another. Technology is like a coin,
a third party present and the ones closest
love. Trying to figure out different ways
there are both positive and negative
to you aren’t the only ones that know ev-
to fold your penned letters, decorating
sides. It comes down to the choices you
erything about your relationship.
it with highlighters and stickers to make
make and how you use or react to it. If we
Being in love in this digital age presents
the lined paper, that you ripped out of
choose to use it for positive things then
itself as being hard or easy to hold. Love
your exercise book, look somewhat entic-
it will have a positive effect on our lives
used to be about the boy that would walk
ing. High school was an exciting place to
and vice versa. However, because of our
an extra thirty minutes just to see you for
be when you had a special someone and
diminishing attention spans, romantic
ten, or about somebody who could steal
being in love meant a lot more than MSN
commitment seems increasingly difficult.
your heart with a smile; not the guy who
messaging and late night phone calls. The
We are always somewhat absent when
messages, “Hey bae, running L8.. probs
weekends turned into what felt like for-
we are present because a part of us is out
another 20, C U @ 7 :-) ”. What was once
ever and face to face time together was
the door, engaged with people and places
true love and fairytales in person now ex-
more significant than it is now. You’re in
other than where we actually are. Even
ists in a click of a button. Technology has
love and the only people you’ve told are
when we are focused on what is in front
given us access into people’s personal
the ones closest to you. But how have
of us, we are often overshadowed by the
lives, allowing us to be able to learn ev-
those relationships changed in an era of
need to document it for broadcast later,
erything we can about a potential date
constant communication, over sharing
and to have an audience to validate an
before even meeting them. We are begin-
and emojis?
event increases. If a couple doesn’t make
ning to trade face-to-face experience for
it Facebook official, does it make it any
experimental approaches. All this infor-
With advances in technology and com56 //
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MAGAZINE
HEY BAE PROBS A CU@7:
mation yet no true proximity to them and
trying to understand whether you are still
somehow it falsely satisfies us to think we
in love or whether it’s just the feeling you
“know” who they are.
are in love with.
It comes as no surprise then that digital
Breakups come easy, getting back to-
communication has had its role to play to-
gether even easier and both most likely
wards the end of relationships. We crum-
happen over the phone or online. Its the
ble at the unrestrained access we have
use of social media as an outlet or even
and now our relationships are challenging
as an indirect message for public viewing,
to keep. It becomes manipulating, maybe
that gives us the satisfaction and pride
deceiving at times, commercialised, full
that we somewhat crave in bad situations.
of pride and full of insecurity - it’s a free
It will always be an ongoing debate
fall. Because of this, feelings are no longer
whether technology has made “love” a
entirely based upon how a person acts
grey subject and ultimately shaped soci-
around you or towards you, but also on
ety to despise being in love. However, for
the way in which they speak to you. Ac-
others it has been a godsend.
cally distant.
cording to dailymail.co.uk, social media is
With the help of mobiles, tablets and
Technology has provided an overflow
now a factor in an increasing number of
computers, long distance relationships
of communication channels to replace
divorce cases, as partners search online
are more feasible because of apps like
meeting in person and for all those singles
for evidence of infidelity. Not that this is
FaceTime, Skype, Viber and instant mes-
looking for love, through the use of online
limited to just married couples, it runs
saging. It is seen as a key ingredient and
dating and mobile applications, your po-
across all ages as young as teens because
becomes the medium in which the rela-
tential partner could be a click away.
our affection and commitment has been
tionship can be maintained - specifically
Some say that the blue and green text
digitised and cheapened.
due to its quick nature and instant ac-
bubbles on a screen have damaged the
As we become insecure about being
cessibility. Going overseas for lengthy
way we approach and perceive love. The
able to hold onto a relationship we think
periods is no longer an anxious time for
digital age has replaced most forms of
we need, we turn it into a competition.
couples as their mobiles play as a direct
written text - with it the practice of writing love letters. However, what we tend to forget is that technology
BECAUSE OF OUR DIMINISHING ATTENTION SPANS, ROMANTIC is just a tool. It may have changed the way we approach certain situCOMMITMENT SEEMS INCREASINGLY DIFFICULT.
ations but it shouldn’t change the way we love, who we love and how
E, RUNNING L8.. ANOTHER 20, :-) The thought of being someone you aren’t
port of communication to each other.
we love - that is all under our control.
takes over and the attempt to maintain
In a report written by Hertlein and An-
At the end of the day, when the phones
your partner’s attention is your ultimate
cheta, participants identified technology
are down and the computer screens are
goal. Changing who you are to try and fill
as “a different form of publically announc-
dim it’s just you, your thoughts and the
the shoes of someone online, who may be
ing a relationship” and has allowed ways
ones you love that love you back. As Wil-
on the other side of the planet, spins into
for “people to publically show their love
liam Shakespeare once said “The course
your “here and now” problem. In addition
for one another”. It grants couples the
of true love never did run smooth”. So as
to your spouse’s presumed infidelity, the
ability to “show one another things done
technology and the digital world contin-
relationship is further fractured when you
throughout the day”. Between the all day
ues to change and adapt our perception
light up in front of someone else. Mental
conversations, Facebook postings and
of true love, may we transform with it and
cheating, if you will. The relationship is
emoji sending it makes one feel closer to
allow the click of a button to change our
ultimately sabotaged and it’s a matter of
their partner even when they are physi-
lives for the better and not for worse. NYOTA
MAGAZINE // 57
#NYOTACULTURE ally call him (like dial his number and call him) to tell him how I was feeling. When I asked him why he could never just dial my number and call me instead sending me essay long texts, his answer was “Talking makes me nervous because I can’t plan out what I’m going to say… then I don’t articulate myself as well. Sometimes, I end up saying things I don’t really mean.” Solid explanation. The digital age has taken away some of our sense of accountability. Jackson, a junior in high school, explained this very well. “[Love in the digital age] has it’s ups and downs. The instant connectivity can be very convenient but I also think it can WRITTEN BY: BREANNA RIDDICK
take away from the personal face-to-face aspect. Like how some people have started or ended relationships, which is not
the digital age? Easy. I can go on Twitter,
right.” When you text or DM someone you
Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, Tumblr,
have all the time in the world to choose
etc. from the comfort of my room in New
what you’re going to say, how you’re go-
First disclaimer, I’m not a love expert.
Jersey and meet someone from Australia
ing to say it, if you’re going to say anything
Second disclaimer, I’m not a technology
through those forms of social media. The
at all, and how long you’re going to take
or social media expert. Even still, my voice
interconnectedness of it all is beautiful.
if you decide to respond. For this very
is unique. Why? Because I’ve grown up
I’m probably biased, but I truly do believe
reason, Kierra, a senior in high school,
in this “digital age.” I’ve grown up in the
that as a global population this genera-
explained that “it’s harder to ascertain
generation that attempts to decipher the
tion is more open-minded about other
people’s intentions.” Unless you’re Faceti-
difference between “okay, O.K, kk, and K.”
cultures. This is in part, I think, because
ming, Skyping, or Oovooing someone, it’s
Some might see that and laugh because it
we are all so easily connected now. Long
a lot harder to know what they are ac-
sounds silly, but in reality there is a stark
distance relationships may not seem as
tually feeling. And because we’re going
difference between the four. So with that,
far because people can Skype, Oovoo, or
to be logical and assume that everyone
welcome to love in the digital age.
Facetime to talk from opposite sides of
has done something they regret at some
Globalization is the first thing that comes
the world. These are just a few of the sev-
point, we’re now going to pretend you
to mind. This isn’t going to be a history les-
eral benefits the “digital age” has brought
may be the “bad guy” here. Suppose you
son, I promise. But just for some clarifica-
us. But like anything else in this world, for
hurt someone’s feelings and they’ve text-
tion, Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines
every benefit there can be an equal num-
ed you asking for an explanation. If you
globalization as “the act or process of
ber of detriments.
choose to respond, you can spend three
globalizing: the state of being globalized.”
Accountability is the second thing that
hours working on the most heartfelt apol-
Then there’s the next part of the defini-
comes to mind. My sophomore year of
ogy, without actually feeling sorry, the
tion that has to do with global economies
high school I was talking to a boy who was
same way some students write A+ papers
and free trade and other political terms
interested in me while I was interested in
on books they’ve only skimmed.
that we don’t need to get into. So what
him. Despite our mutual interest in each
does globalization have to do with love in
other, I was the only one willing to actu-
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The digital age has made everything ac-
cessible. Nothing, essentially, is off limits. Kathryn, a senior in high school, says, “With social media I can pine over the person I like more than is healthy, instead of being able to get over them.” It’s pretty hard to tell someone, “well just stop looking at his profile,” because when it’s so easily accessible, it’s only natural to want to know what he’s up to, how he’s doing. It then becomes harder to get them out of your mind and consequently, out of your heart. Love in the digital age is beautiful. But love in the digital age is also difficult. Love in the digital age is just as complex and multifaceted
as
love
has always been but for different reasons.
But like anything else in this world, for every benefit there can be an equal number of detriments.
Instead of shoddy mailing systems and the classic stories of forbidden loves, we’re navigating the “okays” and “catfishes” of the world. This does not mean we should all give up on Tinder or stop “sliding into DMs,” but rather to recognize how we may be limiting ourselves when we don’t take the time to arrange to spend the quality time face-to-face.
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MAGAZINE // 59
#NYOTACULTURE
WRITTEN BY: CAROL WRIGHT
WHO ARE YOU HOPING TO INSPIRE BY DOING THIS TALK SHOW? We hope to give teens a place to share their opinions and not feel alone and possibly inspire them to have more interest in HOW DID THE HOSTS OF THIS TEEN TALK SHOW MEET?
their community; as well as giving Princeton Public television a
Rachel, Misha and I met at an acting class we took about 3 years
new TV audience.
ago at Jody Woods Actors Studio based in Princeton, NJ. DO YOU EVER WANT THIS TO VENTURE TO OTHER TV STAWHAT MADE YOU START THE TALK SHOW?
TIONS? BECOME AS BIG AS THE VIEW OR A TALK SHOW OF
The Manager at Princeton Public Television had been looking
THOSE SORTS?
to add a segment for a teen talk show and when we heard that
We would like to travel to other stations but we are currently
they were interested, the 3 of us decided to get together and
sticking to Public Access, YouTube and Vimeo, and most impor-
pitch them an idea of a talk show , Cue the Lights , a unique pro-
tantly, for right now we are focused on our academic years.
gram developed especially “For Teens, ByTeens, About Teens”. We decided we wanted to focus on topics that we can relate to
WHAT IS EACH OF YOUR PASSIONS?
and are important to teens of today, no matter what the sub-
My passion is modeling. I am signed with an agency in NYC and
ject.
hope to do more with it as I get older as well as pursue acting. I am also interested in learning more about the behind the
WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO GAIN BY DOING THE TALK SHOW?
scenes of TV Production and love computer digital illustration. I
We hope to bring awareness to the public regarding the trends
love golf which I have been playing since I was a little girl as well
and topics that are relevant to our generation and at the same
as taking lessons in gymnastics. Last but not least is my love
time, enlighten teens about topics they may not be familiar
of animals and I volunteer at our local animal shelter a couple
with. Finally support local businesses in the Princeton and sur-
times a month.
rounding areas to help them get their message out.
take classes at the Jody Woods Acting Studio now in the Masters
Misha is really into acting and continues to
program. She also loves to write, draw, cook, read, knit and is 60 //
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MAGAZINE
very active in taking classes in the circus arts. She loves to travel
would love to do this in college and also venture into scriptwrit-
using her many languages exploring various cultures. Rachel’s
ing and/or acting so this is a great way to continue in the media.
passions are writing, reading, traveling and drawing. She would
I want to do something in acting or modeling or media. Even the
love to write and would like to do scriptwriting for TV series or
production of TV is so interesting and all 3 of us have so much
writing realistic fiction or supernatural book series. She would
more to learn. We are really just learning as we go with no for-
love to someday tour Central and South America, Europe and
mal script but ourselves.
New Zealand. She also likes to draw in the style of the Archie comic books and other cartoons. Rachel continues to take
WHO HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE GUEST SPEAKER ON YOUR
classes with Jody Woods Acting Studio in the Masters Program.
TALK SHOW SO FAR? We have had several who are our favorites and it is a tie be-
DO YOU THINK THIS TALK SHOW WILL HELP TEENAGERS OPEN
tween 3 – all filmed on location: SAVE, which is a local no-kill
UP ABOUT TOPICS THAT ARE IMPORTANT TO THEM?
animal shelter in Princeton, NJ; The Cambridge School which
We do think that as we produce more shows with topics that are taboo and not brought to the forefront, it will make teens feel more comfortable knowing other teens are going through the same thing such as learning differences, bullying, bulimia and dating abuse as just some examples. Our vision though, is to mix it up with some fun and interesting guests and as an example we had a
We
hope
to
bring
awareness
to the public regarding the trends and topics that are relevant to our generation...
local singer/songwriter who sang on the program; make-up artist who showed us the latest and greatest make-up
is s school dedicated to support kids with learning differences,
techniques and a local actress trying to make it big.
based in Pennington, NJ and finally the Jody Woods Acting Studio based in Princeton, NJ.
WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED TO DO THE TALK SHOW? First and foremost it is a lot of fun. It is so interesting to be part of a show and learn what goes on behind the scenes with the filming, editing, and just the production in general.It is also great coming up with different ideas to bring to the show and meeting all different types of people. Each of us always learns something new that we didn’t really know before or wasn’t aware of which always keeps things very interesting. I KNOW THIS IS LOOKING KIND OF FAR AHEAD, BUT DO YOU THREE HOPE TO CONTINUE THIS INTO COLLEGE/ OR DO SOMETHING IN MEDIA IN COLLEGE? Misha would love to continue this and do more acting. Rachel NYOTA
MAGAZINE // 61
#NYOTACULTURE
In August this year a friend and I travelled to Europe. Covering just over 13 countries in the space of 3 weeks with so
how such mastery could have been created as early as the
much to see and so little time, one could say that the experi-
1300s, it makes you wish your own city had more history
ence was the furtherest it could be from a relaxing holiday.
and turn itself into the streets of Paris.
As the late nights rolled in and the early mornings became
You are walking down Champs-ÉlysÊes from Arc de Tri-
The city s priceless
the norm; Europe is easily one of the most diverse conti-
omphe peek-
nents. Because of this, it makes it challenging to keep up
ing
with all the different currencies, languages, histories and
windows
culture. Even though these significant differences play at
some of the
the forefront of each country, the raw ethnicity and love for
worlds
artistry is the one common element they all managed to en-
iconic fashion
compass in their architecture and traditions.
houses before making a pitstop at one of the crepe carts
through of most
As beautifully meticulous art cascades over the countries
in the Tuileries Garden. The fountains are exactly how they
from the castle-like buildings to the timeless art works that
are in the movies and as you are sitting eating your per-
sit in museums; places like Paris, Rome and Prague seem to
fectly warm nutella crepe, with an elderly man playing the
capture the very essence of pure artistry almost naturally.
harmonious accordion behind you, you cant help but notice
As you become captivated and intrigued at who, what and
the beauty of the statues and postcard views that surround
62 //
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MAGAZINE
Artistic Riches of Europe WRITTEN BY: JEANITA HOSEA
city without any help from our dependable travel guide to get a glimpse at what its like to be a Czech local. There was an old man sitting on the street tempting tourists to sit down while he painted them (then charged over $50 for them). There were beavers playing amongst the planks below as you gazed over the Charles Bridge. Countless musicians and artists lined up on the iconic bridge as tourists and locals merge around each other gazing at all the talent. The John Lennon wall before the 1980’s was just a normal wall, but now in Prague it has become a John Lennon inspired-graffitied-monument where written lyrics of the Beatles songs are illustrated from one end to the other sym-
you. This comes as no surprise being home to some of the
bolising love and peace. Absolutely blown away at the kind
most famous and important art museums in the world. Par-
of city my friend and I didn’t expect even though we hadn’t
is holds iconic art works that date back thousands of years
even experienced half of it yet, we stood in the afternoon
from modern and contemporary artists. Just beyond the
sun on Charles Bridge in silence taking in the beautiful city
Tuileries Garden lies the Musée du Louvre, which according
that surrounded us.
to ibtimes.com is predominantly known for holding Leon-
Completed in 1402, Charles Bridge lined with 30 baroque
ardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the world’s most-famous paint-
statues of saints was previously known as the Stone Bridge,
ing. Sitting behind a bulletproof glass, getting your bucket
before the Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV commissioned
list selfie in front of the iconic masterpiece however, might
its construction is 1357. Connecting the Old Town Square
not be as easy as you thought. With swarms of tourists bar-
and the Lesser Town, the bridge is one of the top things to
ricading the artwork its almost impossible to squirm pass,
see when visiting Prague. According to Shanberg, one of the
but it does it makes it so much more rewarding when you
authors of myczechrepublic.com, the best time of the day
finally make your way through the chaos. Being the home
to visit the bridge is “at sunset when you can take in the
of other iconic pieces like the Venus de Milo and the Winged
breathtaking view of the fully lit Prague Castle against the
Victory of Samothrace, Paris falls nothing short of also mak-
evening sky”.
ing the whole city look like the inside of a museum. On the
Between the astonishing Musee du Louvre and the vibrant
other hand, it isn’t the only country that looks like a gallery.
streets of Prague it can be difficult to find a city with more
Prague, Czech Republic. Nicknamed “the City of a Hundred
artistic heritage and historic legacies. However with the Col-
swarms with s treasures
loseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome is a city you cant just glance over. Italy’s Eternal Capital is no doubt one of the world’s most inspiringly beautiful cities; every year millions of tourists come from around the world to admire the globally influential art, architecture and culture that dates back nearly 3000 years.
Spires,” Prague is well known for its Old Town Square where
Home to the ancient ruins of the former Roman Empire, a
the famous Astronomical Clock lies, located in the heart of
walk through history is at your feet.
the city. With its colourful baroque buildings and the very
The Roman Colloseum, also known as the Colosseo, was
detailed Gothic looking churches, Prague is definitely a city
commissioned in AD 72 by Emperor Vespasian. Housing
you would have only seen in your imagination.
55,000 spectators who were seated according to rank, Ves-
One morning my friend and I decided to experience the
pesian’s aim was to gain popularity by staging deadly com-
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MAGAZINE // 63
bats between gladiators and wild animals for public viewing; most gladiators being slaves, criminals or prisoners. From the past to the present and thousands of years later, what we see nowadays is just a skeleton of what was the greatest arena in the ancient world. According to italyguides.it, three-fifths of the outer surrounding brick wall are missing. As I walked through the big stoned arches, up the steep stairs and onto the grandstands of the ampitheatre, it was clear to see why the Colloseum is easily one of the most imposing and most famous wonders of the world. The city swarms with priceless treasures that without even knowing it you may come across masterpieces by Michelangelo or even Caravaggio. The dolce vita lifestyle in Rome surrounded by art and culture through the picturesque streets and mediterranean
sounds,
all whilst eating at a street side cafe, is all apart of the Roman experience. As day turned to night it was another one off the bucket list and a glass of cool white wine to tip off another unforgettable city. You could say the experience was the furtherest
Between the astonishin Louvre and the vibrant Prague it can be diffic a city with more artist and historic legacies.
it could have been from a relaxing holiday. But between crossing through mountainous countrysides, whiling away hours at baroque cafes indulging in the locals best and being able to witness the beauty of art over 13 countries, it became the most cherished experience of a lifetime. A holiday that is definitely one for the books as I raise my parisianwine-filled glass to the artistic riches and historical legacies of Europe.
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NYOTA
MAGAZINE
ng Musee du t streets of cult to find tic heritage
NYOTA
MAGAZINE // 65