NYOTA Issue 37

featuring

Meg Donnelly Issue 37

CONTENTS Fashion

Music Empowerment Playlist

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Esther Wallace 29

Meg Donnelly 09 Sleep State

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Vayda Otti 17 Maya Ixta 21 Jeff Draco 25

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Culture Amanda Belawski 33 Julia Mecey 35

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THE 3

TEAM

Editor in Chief

Carol Wright is a graduate of American University.

At a young age, she became interested in telling stories through photography which eventually led her down the path of creating NYOTA. Now, her passion for storytelling has given her the opportunity to pick the brains of musicians, actors, and influencers across the world.

Art Director Nicole Cox is a American University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design. She has always enjoyed the arts, from making pottery to painting and sketching in her free time. Thanks to her wonderful professors at school, she was able to explore her passion for the arts and further implement her skills in her professional career and hobbies.

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FEATURES Meg Donnelly

Esther Wallace

Sleep State

Amanda Belawski

Vayda Otti

Julia Mecey

Maya Ixta Jeff Draco

CONTRIBUTORS Sophie Sachar

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EDITOR’S LETTER According to my expert sources (Google), empowerment is the process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one’s life and claiming one’s rights. This particular definition resonated with me as it helps underscore what makes each of our features the perfect fit for this issue. Whether it’s a band putting out music for the first time in five years, a former women’s basketball player giving new life to the sport through merchandise, or a TikToker spreading wisdom and positivity while eating her breakfast. Each of our features proves that once you take control of your life, everything begins to fall into place. I hope this issue allows you to reflect on your empowerment journey and inspires you to go after what you want.

With Love, Carol Wright @_carol_wright

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HOV/ Toro y Moi HIGHJACK/ A$AP Rocky, Jessica Pratt

Talk talk/ Charli xcx, Troye Sivan

Empowerment Issue Playlist Curated by Sophie Sachar 7

#NYOTAmusic

Watching T.V./ Magdalena Bay

What’s Fair/ Blondshell

Simple/ Kali Uchis

Joker Lips/ MJ Lenderman

MoveOn/ NxWorries, Anderson .Paak, Knxwledge

dog without its bark/ Oso Oso

M/ Soccer Mommy

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Meg Donnelly Interview by Carol Wright Photographer: Cibelle Levi

Meg Donnelly is a chameleon on screen, playing everything from a singing-dancing half-human/half-alien in Zombies to a hardened hunter in The Winchesters. Now, she is reintroducing herself as a musician, and if her single “Title” is to be any indication, this next chapter will surely be a vibe. Donnelly talked to NYOTA about finding her voice, having a strong support system, and being inspired by musicians from New York and New Jersey.

You started doing musical theater at a young age.

Were your parents initially enthusiastic about your interest in performing or did you push them to let you participate in performing arts programs?

My parents have always been so supportive of my love of performing. Initially, they just wanted me to have an extracurricular activity that I loved to do. As it turned into this whole professional journey, I was definitely the driving force. As a kid, they always told me that the moment I stopped having fun, I could walk away. I love them so much!

The East Coast has a rich art history. Growing up there, were you inspired by the performers who came out of New Jersey and New York?

Oh wow… there’s way too many. To name only a few from NY: A Tribe Called Quest, Billy Joel, Luther Vandross; and from NJ: Whitney Houston, Frank Sinatra, Bruce Springsteen, Lauryn Hill, Sugar Hill Gang. NY and NJ are so iconic!

You are now four movies into the Zombies franchise, which is incredible. What have you learned about yourself as a person and performer through working on these films?

These movies have shaped me into the performer and person I am today. On the first Zombies movie, I had just turned 16 and now on Zombies 4, I just turned 24. So much life has happened. On Zombies 9

4 specifically, I think being one of the older cast really taught me a lot. I felt like I got to relive all my amazing memories through the incredible new young cast. I wanted to be a good role model for them and it really helped me grow as I learned so much from them as well.

You’ve been part of many unique projects, such as Zombies, The Winchesters, and Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths. Is there a particular movie or television genre you want to explore for your next acting project?

I would love to explore more coming of age or romcom type movies. Most of my favorite movies are in either realm. I would love to see them come back.

Also, any musical movie… I’m there!

With “Title,” you’ve reintroduced yourself as a musician since coming out with your album Trust five years ago. Does this music feel more authentic to who you are as a musician?

Yes it does! I think five years ago I hadn’t found my voice yet. I couldn’t speak up for what I wanted when it came to my music, so it wasn’t 100% me. I’m so grateful I’ve had this time to just experiment and fail and try again. I definitely have a clear vision of who I want to be as a musician and I’m beyond excited to keep growing and share it with the world!!!!! eeeeeee!!!

#NYOTAmusic

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#NYOTAmusic “Title” has a fun accompanying music video.

How creatively involved were you regarding the concept, choreography, and other details?

Over the past six years, your life has changed drastically. How do you keep yourself feeling grounded and settled amongst the craziness?

Omg, thank you! Starting out this new chapter of my authentic music, I wanted to make sure it was rooted in my NY/NJ upbringing. My biggest inspiration was the “Electric Relaxation” video by A Tribe Called Quest where they are going about their day in the city. I really wanted to incorporate a huge dance element as well. Max Pham, the choreographer, really helped with everything and made the video come together. It was such a fun day of just running around the city and shooting as much as we could.

I’ll never forget it.

Oh goodness... I am still trying to figure that out.

I think having a small group of core people that I love, and trust is what has been keeping me going.

Having a strong foundation and support system is the most important thing in life, but especially in this business. I also love journaling and writing all of my spiraling, overthinking thoughts down during the course of my day. It helps so much to let it all out and organize my thoughts.

Next month, you’re coming out with your single “by my heart.” What was the writing process like for that song, considering it’s very vulnerable and introspective?

I would say to not compare yourself to anybody else. Just continue to understand your voice and accentuate what makes your art and your singing you.

I feel like I’ve spent way too much time comparing myself and thinking my voice wasn’t good enough, but don’t waste your time on that. If you have fun and it’s something you love, just go for it. You have nothing to lose.

I have always wanted to write a song like “by my heart” where I’m just completely vulnerable. I had been listening to “People” by Libianca for hours on end and that gave me a lot of inspiration. I had been going through an extremely tough year, and Kaydence, who wrote this song with me, is incredible and magical at creating concepts and writing lyrics.

She and I were really going through it at the same time, which ultimately led to this song. Recording it was really emotional, definitely tears were shed.

It was very therapeutic. I’m reeeeeeally hoping that people can relate to it as well.

What advice do you have for aspiring singers?

Who are some current musicians that motivate you to continue honing your craft?

There are so many past/present musicians that inspire me, I feel like I’m constantly taking inspiration from everywhere. Victoria Monet is a current performer who I admire very much. Her stage presence, concepts, dancing and vocals are just out of this world. Her work ethic and humility really inspires me to keep going. I also saw Jungle recently, and I was really blown away that nobody in the audience was on their phone. Everyone was present, just dancing to the music. I really hope to create an environment like that with my music one day.

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Sleep State Interview by Carol Wright Photographer: Juli Jackson

After a five-year hiatus, Sleep State is back and ready to give listeners the sun-soaked tunes they’re known for. The band talked to NYOTA about their creative process, processing chaos through music and not taking themselves too seriously.

Take our readers back to the beginning. How did Sleep State come to be?

Sleep State formed in 2013 with some (very poorly mixed) demos of what later became our self-titled EP (2015). Originally, Sleep State was just Troy, however, through the years we’ve cycled through several very talented members who helped shape the vision into what it is today.

In regards to the name, people used to tell Troy he looked tired all the time (which he was- they nailed it) and that his old songs made them sleepy.

How much has being from Southern California inspired your own music tastes and personal aesthetics?

Representing our hometown or Southern California in general has never been a direct goal of ours, however, we’ve had people tell us our music has “sunny California vibes.” If we had to pinpoint why, we’d say it’s because we love reverb, three-part harmonies, surfy guitar, and catchy hooks - all of which were used by the Beach Boys and other great artists of the area.

You are releasing music for the first time in five years. How has your creative process changed between now and when you first started making music together?

Our creative process is more collaborative than it was in the past.

Back in the day, Parker would still write his (badass) drum parts and contribute cool production ideas, however, “BEWARE!!!” is the first song truly co-written by the two of us. Also, this is the first song we mixed and mastered ourselves. We’re taking a more “DIY” approach to the band this time, which we feel makes the process more enjoyable and authentic for us.

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#NYOTAmusic Do you feel that the new music you’re coming out with represents your true sound as a band?

The music we’re coming out with now is a reflection of what we’ve experienced as individuals over the last five years; during this time, we weren’t actively releasing material as a band. The lyrical content is more honest and the music is a more matured version of 2013-2018 Sleep State. That being said, our “new” sound still fully encompasses what Sleep State was always destined to become (our love for groovy melodic baselines will never die).

Your song “BEWARE!!!” touches on accepting chaos in our everyday world. Does making music help you two process the chaos that can occur in your own lives?

Absolutely. Like so many other passionate artists, music is our creative outlet and allows us to share our triumphs and struggles in a format that words cannot always express. Other peoples’ music has positively shaped our lives in so many ways and we can only hope our music will do the same for those in need.

What were your influences for the “BEWARE!!!” music video?

While initially planning the video, we brainstormed countless ideas that never felt fully genuine. Finally, we landed on a jam session which was easy to execute and brought us back to our roots as friends and musicians. Fortunately, Parker’s dad has a cool warehouse space behind his office in an industrial complex - this was our practice space back in the day. Parker’s wife, Juli, filmed the video with her iPhone using a stabilizing arm. This was the first video filmed and edited by our home team rather than outsourcing another artist’s work.

I love the lyrics “Scared but I’m hanging on / Steering clear of all the roads that I can’t come back from.” Now that you’ve been making music for a few years, do you feel as though you know the pitfalls to avoid that some artists tend to fall into?

At the end of the day, we’re all human and therefore going to make mistakes. The length of time we’ve been writing music - in addition to the time we took off from actively releasing music - has definitely allowed us to reflect and grow as musicians. For the younger musicians out there, we think it’s important to pave your own path and experience trials and errors first hand - sometimes personal pitfalls teach us the best lessons.

What advice do you have for aspiring musicians?

Surround yourself with good musicians and even better people. Don’t take yourself (or your music) too seriously and never let your ego get in the way of listening to other peoples’ ideas. Always listen to what you love and cook up some fun yams with your buds.

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Vayda Otti Interview by Carol Wright Photos Courtesy of Vayda Otti

Vayda Otti uses her voice to create fresh, soulful pop music and encourage people to start listening to more Black pop stars. Otti talked to NYOTA about her musical inspirations, experimenting with her sound, and growing up with MTV. How old were you when you realized making music is what you wanted to do as a career?

I must’ve been 9 or 10 years old when I knew I wanted to seriously pursue music for a living. Growing up, we had this TV in our kitchen and it was constantly on MTV. This was back in the early 2000s, when MTV was really music television and they’d only play music videos. I can remember coming downstairs to eat breakfast, or sitting in a chair in the kitchen while my mom did my hair, and my eyes would be glued to the screen as I watched the music video countdown. This was my first introduction to music, and specifically to pop stars. Watching Katy Perry, Kesha, Lady Gaga, all those girls, it made me realize how much I wanted to be doing that too.

Who are some of your musical inspirations?

My favorite singer of all time is Amy Winehouse and I would say that she’s definitely a musical inspiration of mine. I discovered her debut album, Frank, when I was 18 and it really inspired me to challenge myself as a songwriter, and it was then that I started writing real, honest music. I love Sade as well, and also Adele. I love soulful music, but I also love pop. Someone who’s quite underrated but very inspirational for me is Madison Beer. You can tell how much of a music lover she is when she talks about music in her interviews and also when you listen to her discography and I love how you can also hear her influences in her music.

When it comes to songwriting do you frequently pull from real life events or media as a source of material?

Real life events, definitely. I’m only ever really inspired to write about people or feelings that impact me enough for me to start writing about them. But it’s all coming from a personal place.

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#NYOTAmusic

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#NYOTAmusic You have a specific visual style and aesthetic as an artist. How did you decide on how you wanted to present yourself as a singer?

I think I just pull from my own personal, day to day style and play off of that. Even though I grew up watching and being inspired by Hannah Montana as a kid, I’m definitely not trying to create two separate identities for myself like she did. I’d wear the same thing off stage that I would while performing on a stage, well perhaps a bit less dramatic while off stage, but I just want to feel, act, and present myself in the most authentic way possible.

That visual style can be seen in your music video for “boys, boys, boys.” Were you heavily involved in the creative process for that video?

I was 100% involved! I had a lot of fun creating mood boards on Pinterest for that video.

Each of your songs has its own distinct feel which is refreshing. When it comes to production do you often try to experiment?

Thank you so much! My first few songs were naturally really experimental because I was making music for the first time and was really trying to identify my sound. I work with an amazing producer who now really knows me and also my influences. Right now we’re really working on trying to establish my own sound. Like I mentioned earlier, I love soulful music and also pop music and I would love to create a world in which both can exist at the same time. We’re starting to get there and I think you can start to hear that with my most recently released single, “(don’t) let the love in.” The song is super reminiscent of Janet Jackson’s “Rhythm Nation,” but I think the influence of Sade can be heard as well. In short, yes I often try to experiment and create something that sounds fresh, but the most important thing to me is that it feels like me at the end of the day.

it did in the early 2000s. And female pop stars are absolutely killing it. Artists like Tate McRae, Sabrina Carpenter, and Chappell Roan are really having their moment right now and that’s incredible. People are deeming them as the “main pop girls,” but then at the same time, I see posts on X all the time where people are asking for more Black pop stars. That’s actually what had inspired me to make that TikTok in the first place. It’s frustrating to see people asking for something that they won’t even support.

What advice do you have for aspiring singers?

Keep the big picture in mind. It reminds you of where you’re going and why you began in the first place.

Pursuing music can feel really discouraging at times, for very long periods of time too. But you won’t ever get there if you quit. It’s all about taking baby steps and continuing to put yourself in optimal positions.

The right people will find you. I felt like I was on the verge of giving up before I made the TikTok about giving Black artists visibility, then that video did really well unexpectedly. And that’s the thing. Every day is a new opportunity to try, to put yourself out there and see what comes of it. People are listening and one day the right person will hear your art. The stars will align and everything will fall into place and you’ll be happy you kept pushing forward and trying!

You made a post on TikTok that focused on giving Black pop artists visibility. As a Black, independent artist. Have platforms such as TikTok been able to give you a voice and exposure to listeners?

Although the algorithm can sometimes be questionable, it has worked in my favor a good amount of times which I’m very grateful for. I’ve noticed myself slowly but surely building an audience on that app, and I’ve found that there are people that agree with what I’m saying which is nice. Pop music feels like it’s taking over all over again, the way 20

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Maya Ixta Interview by Carol Wright Photographer: Devin Dygert

Maya Ixta is a singer, songwriter, and actress whose love of performing was evident at a young age. After honing her craft, she has released her debut EP, Diary Entries, a collection of songs torn from the pages of her diary. Ixta talked to NYOTA about releasing vulnerable songs, supporting arts education, and her advice for aspiring musicians.

You’re a singer, songwriter, and actress. When did it become clear to you that you had a passion for performing?

From a very young age, singing and performing have been my greatest passions. I would often transform our living room into a stage, putting on performances for family and friends. When I was 8 years old, my grandmother recognized my love for singing and encouraged my parents to enroll me in vocal lessons. After the first lesson, I knew this is what I wanted to do! I also did a lot of musical theater. I thought that was going to be my career path because I loved singing, acting, and dancing. I was always told I was a triple threat. Although I had been performing and singing cover songs, I always had a calling for writing music. As a freshman in high school, I completed two one-year certificate programs from New York University (NYU) Tisch School of the Arts. One was for performing arts and the other was from the Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music. I was able to learn more about both industries, the business aspects that artists should consider, and how to develop and evolve as an artist. Now that I am a senior in high school and getting ready to apply for college, I have decided to major in music business.

You recently released your debut EP Diary Entries. What did you learn about yourself as an artist while working on it?

Over the past few years, my transition from a teen to a young adult has really influenced my music. There are so many situations and experiences that occur during this phase of our lives and really shape our persona. For example, I experienced my first crush, COVID and the feeling of isolation that came with that, going through the emotional rollercoaster of being a teen, and thinking about my life goals and future. I did a lot of journaling, which really helped me sort my thoughts and anxieties about life. Through this journaling, I created lyrics, which then became Diary Entries.

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Tell our readers about Diary Entries. What story is the EP telling?

This EP is incredibly special to me because each song is inspired by an entry from my diary, which has always been one of my “safe spaces” throughout my life. When I feel inspired to write music, I usually go to my diary for more inspiration. Diary Entries reflects heartache and loss, but also perseverance and the “little things” in life that are so special.

Are you ever nervous to release songs that are particularly vulnerable or do you see it as therapeutic?

Although these songs are very personal to me, I also feel they will resonate with listeners. Even though I’m sharing my experiences in my songs, I know there are people out there with the same feelings. I hope that anyone who listens to my music can relate to my stories. Everyone has a unique perspective, and I want anyone who has had similar experiences to know there is someone out there who understands!

I love the line “Little things are all I ever notice / And simple things are all I never focus on” in your song “Little Things.” How has being an observant person aided in your songwriting process?

Writing “Little Things” was kind of cathartic and made me realize I’m often too hard on myself. I realized that focusing on the little things in life is what’s truly important to me. I realized small moments, like walking my dog, baking my favorite cookies, enjoying a cup of tea on my patio, calling my grandpa in Florida, are what brings a sense of peace and joy to my life. Those are the beautiful little things I choose to focus on.

Were you excited to experiment with bilingual songs on the EP and introduce listeners to something different?

Outside of working on music you’re also a supporter of arts education programs. Why do you believe that arts education is vital and what can people do to make sure arts programs don’t keep disappearing from schools?

Arts education is important because it’s a way for people to uniquely express themselves. So much of our lives and experiences are influenced by pop culture, music, movies, and more. It’s a way for people to find connection and understanding. Creating the next generation of artists is also creating the next generation of hit songs, movies, experiences, and leaders in the industry. As a supporter of the arts, I started a nonprofit foundation called HeARTs of Maya, to support young people who share my passion for the arts. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of training at exceptional studios and learning from incredible coaches, but I’m aware that not everyone has the financial resources to access this level of training. I’ve met many talented aspiring artists who can’t afford classes, and I believe they deserve the same opportunities I’ve had. To date, we have awarded over 50 scholarships to deserving artists. My hope is that HeARTs of Maya can help make a change, one artist at a time.

What advice do you have for aspiring musicians?

Perseverance is everything! I’m very thankful that I’ve surrounded myself with good people because having a strong support system is so important.

Align yourself with people who are passionate about your art. Sometimes, those people are not necessarily the most recognized in the industry but are very passionate about music. Also, allow yourself to evolve as an artist. This industry is ever evolving, and I am also growing as a person with it. This industry is full of possibilities if you have dedication, perseverance, and a hard work ethic.

Time is my first bilingual song in the EP. My mom is first-generation Mexican and my dad is firstgeneration Cuban, so I like to call myself “CubaMex!” My first language growing up was Spanish so writing a bilingual song has been a long time coming. My culture and traditions are a big part of who I am, and I plan to write more bilingual and full Spanish songs.

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Jeff Draco Interview by Carol Wright Photographer: Briana Derosa

Growing up in a family of musicians, it was almost inevitable that Jeff Draco would pursue a music career. Since 2018, the indie-pop artist has been coming out with sun-soaked, introspective songs that quickly get stuck in your head, and the five tracks on his new EP Attitude are no different. Draco talked to NYOTA about his creative influences, getting outside perspectives on his music, and deciding which songs belonged on the EP. Growing up in a musical household did you ever have another career path you thought you’d pursue or was music the only way forward?

Honestly, no. Music has been the only thing that has ever felt right, and I still feel that way. I’ve gotten my foot in the door while doing design and marketing, but it’s not the side of the industry I want to live and breathe. Performing is when I feel most myself and like it’s what I’m here to do/supposed to be doing.

How did you go about figuring out your personal music style and sound as an artist?

It’s changed a lot; in high school, I was obsessed with the 2010s SoCal punk scene and fronted a surf punk band for a few years in high school.

Once two of the members (who were a year older) went off to college, I had more time to explore the ideas coming to me that did not fall in line with the music I’d been writing for the past several years. I was discovering a lot of new music, a lot of which revolved around Mac DeMarco in the mid-2010s. I think part of me was also a little burnt out on what I’d been doing, and I’d found this new sound that I’d never really heard and wanted to explore. The first song I ever wrote for Jeff Draco was “Dry You Out,” but I wouldn’t end up recording it or any of what would become JD songs until a year or so later. I grew up around really great 60s-70s music from my parents, a lot of rock and underground early 2000s indie music from my, at the time, collegeaged brothers, and jazz and bluegrass from my aunt and uncle. I’ve felt like having such a wide range of influences since a super young age has given me so much room to explore different types of music and culminate all those influences into my sound.

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Tell our readers about the process behind creating your EP Attitude.

Was it difficult to narrow down which songs would make the cut or did you have a clear idea of what songs were meant to be included?

Yeah, it was honestly pretty tricky. I had about 30 demos I was trying to narrow it down between, and I initially had a plan for an entirely different project with more and completely different songs, but as I spent more time toying with the first idea for how I thought the project should be laid out, something was feeling off, so I revisited the demos and realized some of the tracks (which are now all on the EP) had a lot of similarities in the style I wanted to put forward and in their theme.

Once I had a new vision, the songs came together much clearer, and it became much easier to cut the project down to where I wanted it to be.

The EP sounds very upbeat and dreamy while covering a range of complex emotions, which truly reflects the topics the EP addresses such as wanting to feel carefree while going through turbulent parts of life. What were some of the creative influences behind Attitude?

Many of the creative influences behind Attitude came from revisiting music I used to love. I found myself diving back into UK new wave— Prefab Sprout’s “Appetite” definitely had a big impact. Bands like The English Beat, Haircut 100, and The Cure also played a major role in shaping the sound of the EP. Beach Fossils and Royal Otis also inspired me during the process. I have a playlist of what I was listening to while writing and recording the project. Check it out here.

“Mirrors” and “Daisy” are nicely juxtaposed on the EP. Are these songs meant to show a relationship in different stages, the early bliss and the pain of something ending?

Yes, pretty much exactly that, haha! The songs aren’t written about the same relationship or person, but I wanted the overarching theme and message of this project to come across that way throughout the EP. And even though they’re not based on the same relationship, I think the lessons learned through putting these songs together can be utilized as reflections/lessons in any relationship.

Now that Attitude is out in the world, the next step is performing the EP live. What would be your dream venue to play these songs in?

I know many others have this same dream, but I think my absolute dream venue to play these songs specifically would be Red Rocks Amphitheatre or another outdoor venue that has an epic level of emotion within it. These songs feel so big and lush to me and almost anthemic, and playing them as the sun sets over a desert feels like the perfect atmosphere. Another mention, and something hopefully more attainable in the short term, is Baby’s All Right in New York. Since I was young, something about the lights behind that stage has been captivating and memorable, and so many artists I’ve looked up to have played on that stage.

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#NYOTAmusic Do you often touch base with your family when working on projects to get outside perspectives?

Absolutely. My brothers are people I always look to for advice or critique since they’ve been playing in bands since before I was born. I always tend to send demos to my parents, too, whether it’s for any critiques or to just show them what I’m working on. My mom and dad always keep it real with me and give their true, honest opinions. They give me in-depth thoughts about certain songs or parts of songs.

What advice do you have for aspiring singers?

Play and sing as much as you can. Don’t let the current digital landscape of the music industry inhibit your motivation to put yourself out there creatively. Try to find creatively driven friends, one to support you but also to help you grow as a musician, singer, or performer. Having a tight-knit group of friends and creatives around me has greatly benefited me and provided me with inspiration or motivation when I feel a creative lull.

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Esther Wallace Interview by Carol Wright Photos Courtesy of Esther Wallace

Esther Wallace is an artist turned athlete turned entrepreneur who founded the brand Playa Society in 2018. Imagine never wanting to play basketball, growing up as a 6’1 kid in the city where the game originated, Springfield, MA. Well, that was her until she fell in love with the sport as a sophomore in high school. Before basketball, her dream was to design apparel. So, after she retired from the game, she returned to creating. Playa Society began in a basement apartment in Boston, MA – made to bridge the gap and establish culture for women’s sports. Wallace talked to NYOTA about the brand’s mission, seeing her designs on prominent players and her advice for entrepreneurs.

Have you always had an interest in fashion and design?

Yes, since elementary school, I was walking around with my sketchbook, watching runway shows, and dreaming up red carpet gowns. My goal was to go to FIT and then work for a brand like Vera Wang or Tracy Reese.

Tell our readers a bit about Playa Society. What is the mission of the brand?

Playa Society is a streetwear brand that prioritizes women. Our mission is to use design and storytelling to bridge the gap between women’s sports and culture. We use apparel as a medium to build community with players and their fans.

There has been a rise in appreciation for women’s basketball. Why do you think this is and how has that momentum helped Playa Society?

I think it has a lot to do with the infusion of culture. More players, like A’ja Wilson, have been unapologetically true to themselves. More fans have been excited by the individuality of their favorite athletes and they find a lot of common ground beyond just their on-court personas. Seeing more players bring their full selves to the game has been inspiring. So as much as Playa Society has helped to create women’s basketball culture, I’ve also been very much inspired by the women within the space. Much like a team, we’ve all played our roles in contributing to the momentum. For Playa Society, we create opportunities for players and fans to express themselves and “communicate” through style. Playa Society is growing in tandem with the game.

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#NYOTAfashion The merchandise you create for each WNBA team has a distinct look. How did you narrow down the aesthetic for Playa Society’s designs?

Our aesthetic was very natural and organically crafted. We really do what makes sense, and authenticity is our biggest driver. Also, I care a lot and I really think that’s at the root of every design.

I want everything I design to be the best thing I’ve done. It’s an obsession almost. The details are so important to me, and with a league that is 80% black, I understand the importance of the community having something that makes them feel seen.

What advice do you have for aspiring designers and entrepreneurs?

My advice is to take actionable steps towards your goals. At the end of every day ask yourself, what did I do today to get closer to the thing I want to be doing. If you really want it, double down on what will get you there. Even if you don’t quite know ‘how’ to get there, the small steps to figure it all out are still important.

Playa Society had a pop up store at WNBA Live and you got the opportunity to interact with customers face to face. Do you see pop-ups and activations being a large part of Playa Society’s marketing tactics moving forward?

For sure! I love when Playa Society gets to be "outside” and we learn so much by listening to our customers. We want to bring our unique community together whenever we can, to keep providing them with the energy and the hype they deserve.

How does it feel when you see your clothing on prominent women in the industry such as LaChina Robinson and Nneka Ogwumike?

It never gets old. Every time, I take it as a reminder that I’m on the right track and on the right path.

It’s lowkey encouraging, and because it’s always so authentic and organic, it’s more impactful. When players and broadcasters can wear anything, and they choose Playa Society, I definitely don’t take that for granted.

Could you see Playa Society expanding into accessories or other items of clothing as the brand grows?

I love to create! So I want to make all the things.

I honestly have just been feeding the community what they want for six years, I actually have barely scratched the surface of what’s truly in my design bag! But I think in the next year you’ll start to see a lot more along those lines. My sketchbook is full!

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Amanda Belawski Interview by Carol Wright Photographer: @johncottermedia

Amanda Belawski is using the power of TikTok to make photography accessible. Her concert photography, as well as her editing tips, have garnered a large online following. Belawski talked to NYOTA about making the industry more inclusive and developing her style and favorite photo equipment.

What led you to discover your passion for photography?

I actually started in videography and making short films. I loved telling stories and bringing my ideas to life. I found a lot of inspiration through YouTubers I loved in the 2010s. Once I started working with Respective Collective they were the ones to introduce me into photography and I just fell in love.

When you first started shooting did you have a particular focus (ie: architecture, nature) or did you always find yourself drawn to shooting people and live music?

Because growing up I was one of the only people in my friend group to have a camera. I used to take all of my friends’ Instagram photos. I used to love taking my friends photos and editing them the way I liked for their personal Instagrams. I feel like that really foreshadowed my future of loving to edit photos.

It can be difficult to be distinctive as a photographer.

How did you develop your style?

I feel like I show my style through photo editing and my style has definitely progressed over the years with trial and error of editing.

Has social media been a helpful tool when it comes to getting your work seen by more people, and/or booking more jobs?

100%. I think more people should take advantage of social media because it truly is the only way to get your name out there. Unfortunately people do care about the number of followers you have.

On social media you share editing tips, photo equipment information and more. Is making photography more equitable a personal goal of yours?

This industry can be very lonely and every man for themselves and I hate it. I’m trying to make this industry a little more inclusive and less scary to those who are just starting out.

If you were stuck on a deserted island and could only have one camera and one lens with you to shoot with.

Which camera and lens would you choose and why?

I think I would have to choose my Sony a7iv and 24-70.

That is my ride or die setup.

Are there myths surrounding photography that you hope to bust as you continue sharing your photography journey online?

I think the main “myth” of photography is that you have to follow the “industry standard way” and I think that is a bunch of BS. The awesome thing about photography and photo editing is it is open to your interpretation and your self expression. Which can also help you create your own personal style.

What advice do you have for aspiring photographers?

Keep shooting and practicing new techniques and when you think you’re done editing a photo think of ways you can make it better or different. Really push yourself creatively.

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Julia Mecey Interview by Carol Wright Photos Courtesy of Julia Mecey

With each of her posts, Julia Mecey proves that sometimes the best content is unfiltered. She has created an uplifting and positive corner of the internet by sharing her new purchases from Trader Joe’s, her morning routine, and sage advice. Mecey talked to NYOTA about practicing self-love, choosing topics for her videos, and making content because she loves it.

What was the catalyst that led to you wanting to create content on social media?

The catalyst for myself starting to create content was learning how to be alone in college. It was a hard transition from having a whole bunch of people I had spent 18 years familiarizing myself with to suddenly going to a new school where I didn’t feel as familiar. That’s where it all started, and everyday I am grateful that the time I thought I’d never get through put me exactly where I belong today.

There are many preconceived notions of how content on social media should look, and most of the time, it veers into the realm of inauthenticity. Do you find that people resonate with your content more because it’s so natural and unfiltered?

I think that it is comforting to watch someone who you relate to and find comfort in watching. For myself, content creating isn’t something I have to do, it is something I get to do because I love it. I make videos when I feel excited to show off the new yogurt addition I got at the store or when I get excited to share a new piece of advice I thought about on my morning stroll. I think that when you make videos because you love it people can see that through the camera.

Content creation can come in many forms. Regarding your TikTok specifically, how did you land on creating the more chatty/personable videos you’re known for?

One day I made a plate of food and set up the camera on the back porch of my parents house to talk about random things that came to mind. Then slowly I started to do more serious topics and important reminders that I had thought of throughout my day.

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#NYOTAculture A video you posted that resonated with me is your TikTok on not being your biggest hater when you’re already trying so hard to be your strongest self.

What are some of your favorite self-love practices?

I have a few that I do. The first is understanding, reminding myself that my life has no audience and I am not practicing for a performance to be perfect. I think it is important to remind yourself that at the end of the day you’re human and will make mistakes, you will love too hard, care too much, embarrass yourself, have bad hair days, but all of that is part of that is the beauty of living. I also love to take myself on solo dates to go shopping, morning pilates, or even make a meal I pinned on pinterest. I spend a lot of time alone and I think it is important to make that time one where you learn what you love or remember why you love it.

When you sit down to record do these topics you discuss come to you in the moment or do you pre-plan what you want to share?

I have notes that when I feel inspired or throughout my day if I learn something I write it down. Then I make my food, sit down, and remind myself of that simple sentence I wrote in my notes and just speak off the top of my head in depth about it.

You also post long-form content on YouTube. Do you find that longer-form content allows you to be more experimental and creative?

I actually prefer TikTok! I feel as though I can do more short-term fun things without the pressure of making a longer-formed video. I have also started making more vlog-like content via TikTok so I can be more creative with the editing and sharing parts of my day.

Many viewers find comfort in your videos and truly take your words to heart.

Has it been rewarding to see the positivity you put out in the world having an impact?

Absolutely. I have gotten many DMs about how my videos have helped people through tough times, and even when I see comments of someone expressing how they needed someone to relate to, to be seen, it is comforting to know we’re not alone in a world that feels so lonely.

What advice do you have for aspiring content creators nervous about taking the leap?

I would tell any inspiring creator that every day you wait ‘til you’re perfect to start is a day where that would’ve taken you closer to your finish line.

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