ppm Winter 2017
Mimi Faust Live Love & Prosper 2017 Model Watch Musical Gems Oliver Van Niekerk
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Winter 2017
Pink Pearl Magazine
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Letter From the Editor
Table of Contents Letter From The Editor & Table of Contents
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Production Team
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Featured Women: Actresses
Happy New Year Pink Pearls!
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This issue of Pink Pearl Magazine, I went with A Live, Love and Prosper theme. I believe that those three words are very important words to live by. They are simple but yet very significant. Live is such a broad term. If you write the word live down on a sheet of paper, how many words do you think you will come up with to define what live means to you? Think about it and try this exercise. Let’s look at Love. This is a term that some will say has no meaning. Others say this is an action word. Some say Love is an emotion or a feeling. Whatever it is to you is what matters. Does it make you feel good? Does it motivate you? Love is your own personal inspiration. Spread it all over the place. if it promotes positivity, Go for it! I certainly won’t say I qualify as an expert on this word but I will say it is much better than hate. Wouldn’t you rather love than hate? I know I would. Prosper is defined as succeeding in material terms or being financially successful. Everyone has a level of prosperity, own it, reach it and grow in it! I am so excited about our Musical Gems! Drae Singleton and Elliot Trent are both a force to be reckoned with. The talent amongst these pages is amazing and it is my honor to share them with you! Make sure you read their articles and learn more about them. They are both superstars in this industry.
Around the Way Pearls
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Musical Gems
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Tomorrow’s Leaders
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Community
Pg. 22 Fitness
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Speaking of Superstars I stumbled upon a “sweet baby bird” in fashion by the name of Melria Marie. This model watch feature slash designer has an amazing treat for you. She is sharing her personal designs and giving tips on creating the looks!
Poem
I have helpful fitness tips from the lovely supermodel and supermom Kimberly Mills. She was also a fitness instructor when she wasn’t working a runway so she knows what she is talking about.
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I have a tomorrow’s leader in the music industry Oliver Van Niekerk. Last but certainly not least, my new writer Lauren Arielle. She was one of my featured Model Watch and fashion Hiccups writers in the Embracing the Arts Issue 2016. Lauren is now officially a writer for every issue to come. Please read and enjoy. As always, Thank you for your support
Pg. 27 Fashion How To’s
Model Watch: Melria Esta-Jonell Milliner
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A Man’s Perspective
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Laneeta Smith Editor In Chief
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Winter 2017
Production Team Editor
Laneeta Smith
Graphics & Layout
AndrĂŠ Hawkins Kenosis Design Innovations www.kenosisdi.com
Photographer
Candace Bennett Carol Pham
Malik Moman
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Contributing Writers Kimberly Mills Lauren Arielle Laneeta Smith
Printer
Capitol Citicom Print & Graphics
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Featured Women: Actresses
MIMI FAUST Mimi we know that Love and Hip Hop depicts real life situations that may occur
(Laughing) It is so real! It’s as real as it gets. There are no scripts or cue cards; it’s just all the way real. When we met you were so nice, sweet and really friendly, completely different from what we see on the show. Is it the situation you’re in that brings out the mad, angry, attitude side of Mimi? That’s the crazy thing. I’m not a mad/angry kind of person, but yes, it’s definitely the situation. I think that anybody in my shoes would be just a little bit mad and angry. ANYBODY! And I think I have handled it well and better than a lot of people would have. You hear a lot of people say “why don’t I do this? “Or how come I don’t fight and this and that, so I really think that I’m handling this in a manner that won’t lead to violence and all that. I don’t think it’s necessary. I really don’t.
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Yeah, people take your kindness as a weakness, but like you said you’re handling it the grown up way. Right! Why fight for someone that’s not going to fight for you. So me fighting her would be pointless. If that man is not fighting for his family and for me, why am I going to fight this woman? That’s stupid! Why would I do that? Why would I break a fingernail fighting for somebody who’s not going to fight for me? That’s asinine! I’m not going to do it. That’s true and so many women need to hear that, so I’m glad you said that. Tell these women to stop fighting for a man that’s not fighting for them! Right! Stupid! So are you with Stevie? EXCUSE ME?! (Laughing) WHAT?! Well that answered that question. We know that there’s a history of you two going back and forth we just wanted to clarify where you two stand as of now. Do you know if Stevie and Jocelyn are together? Girl, all you have to do is go one social media and you can figure that one out. Ok? Just go on Instagram or whatever you do and figure that one out. I don’t need to say nothing. Do you have any advice for women that aren’t in the spot light that are going through the same situation? The best advice I can give is when you recognize and see the signs of your relationship going array, just take heed to it. A lot of people will ignore it. Don’t ignore it! You ignoring it is just going to perpetuate the situation. Take heed to the signs because they’re there! Good advice! Enough about the show, per say. Let’s talk about you. Did you ever see yourself as a reality TV star? Never! Never, never, never. This reality TV thing just kind of fell into my lap. I had a girlfriend call me and say they are casting for Love and Hip Hop Atlanta, do you and Stevie want to go out for the casting? And that’s all she said. She hit me with a text message. I told her I needed more information. She told me when and where, so I called Stevie and asked if he wanted to go to the casting for the show, since he wasn’t doing anything else. We went down and we were chosen. We actually had an argument in the lobby of the hotel. A real live argument! They chose us immediately. I never planned for this. It happened so fast. My life literally changed overnight. It’s been crazy. So no, I
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So your company was established before you met Stevie J?
never had aspirations or dreams to be on television, none of that. I got a text message, I called him, and we went down, had an argument and we were on TV.
Yes, my business was my business. Stevie had nothing to do with my business, like I had nothing to do with his music career.
What were you guys arguing about at the casting call?
Are you where you want to be in life?
HIM NOT COMING HOME! (Laughing) It was really happening. Our situation was really happening in real life!
If you ask me, no one is where they want to be. You are always striving for something more. You want bigger and better things. So I’m always trying to do better and become better than I was the day before. So, never did I in my farthest imagination think I would be on TV. I still haven’t gotten used to the whole television thing and being recognized. Even gas station trips and grocery stores trips are just bizarre. You can’t even go to a resteraunt without camera phones in your face. I still haven’t gotten used to that aspect of it. It’s interesting; I love it and hate it at the same time. I can’t really explain it. It’s been a wild and amazing journey.
So outside of Love and Hip Hop, you are a business owner, which is great for our Pink Pearls, because we feature women business owners. You have a cleaning company, right? I do have a cleaning company. It’s called Keep it Clean and I have had it going on 13 years now. I do commercial and residential cleaning. It’s my baby! Funny story how I got started I was at a house party years ago. My friends call me OCD and whatever you want to call me. I was standing in the kitchen, the party was winding down and the house was just a mess and it was driving me insane!
Does this make it hard for your love life? Do you find it hard to find a date or even for men to approach you romantically?
Mimi, you didn’t start cleaning up the man’s kitchen?!
It makes it hard to trust, definitely. Yes, people approach me all the time, but trying to weed out who’s really real and who’s genuine and honest, that’s the hard part.
(Laughing) I started cleaning this man’s kitchen at the party! I think I cleaned the whole kitchen in maybe 15 or twenty minutes. The home owner came down and was like “Oh my Gosh, who cleaned the kitchen?” and everybody pointed and said “she did”. And he jokingly said “do you want to come back tomorrow and clean the rest of the house?” I told him I would come back and do it if he was going to pay me. I came back the next day and cleaned the rest of the house and I just got started from there. He was my first client and he referred me to a friend and that’s how my business got started.
from now?
Ok, so where do you see yourself five years
Wow! I can’t believe you were cleaning the kitchen in your stilettos and make up at a party!
Five years from now, Keep it Clean will be franchised. I am coming out with a children’s apparel line, I want that to be all over the place. I am coming out with a home accessory line; I want it to be in every Target worldwide. So in five years I want my stuff everywhere. People are going to know my name as far as my cleaning business is concerned. My children’s apparel line, I want every child in my clothing. That’s where I see myself in five years.
I couldn’t take it! When I saw those red cups lying around it was driving me insane!
Good for you! Do you have a name for your clothing line?
I love it! It’s amazing how we can take something we love to do or something we feel we need to do and turn it into a business venture.
I’m going to name it after my daughter Jazelle. Sounds so exciting! We wish you nothing but success!
Yeah, I just turned something that I normally do into a business.
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Fiona Whitelaw’s writing work includes theater plays short and full length, site specific projects, theater for young people and theater in education. As an actor she worked in most media including - Film TV, Theater, Live Art.
FIONA
WHITELAW
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TEA & TENACITY Tea and Tenacity are a female led producing theatre company in Birmingham UK. They commission work that reflects on the past to provoke discussion and represent the female voice and experience. Fiona Whitelaw submitted her play Tinned Goods to a call out for new play and Caroline Frewin chose the play to produce for a national tour. The Press Release is provided in this issue as well.
Theatre Company
was there a certain standard she was looking for in the cast? A certain look. She explained that Tea and Tenacity’s producer (Caroline Frewin) and director Alison Belbin led the casting process to find the three additional cast member. Caroline and Fiona had already been cast as Rachel and Sue. They were of course looking for a high professional standard from the actors they auditioned and as the company is based in Birmingham they put out a call for locally based actors. They did not have s specific ‘look’ in mind as thy all believe in casting as diversely as possible so they were open to actors from any background.
Everything that happens in the play is based on factual events, research and testimony of the women who were involved in the miners strike and ‘Women Against Pit Closures’. Factual details around loss of income and deprivation are accurate. However the characters are fictional; as a writer I have asked ‘What if?’ in exploring the family dynamic within the story. ‘What happens to a marriage when placed under this kind of pressure’? ‘What happens when an event divides a community, families and people who believed they were ‘friends for life?’ Most fundamentally though; what has happened to our society when the ability to strike and protect our jobs and conditions of work has been so eroded?
Fiona explains that she has been in the industry as an actor, writer and theatre maker for twenty years. She says that the steps or preparation to create a successful play begins with an idea and then after many script drafts working with an artistic team that all believe in the project and come with their own energy and ideas to give to the rehearsal process. I asked Fiona how she knew when the writing process is going to be a good project?
During the interview, Fiona explained how the plot of tinned goods relates to her reality as a woman. She lived in the North of England as a young person in the 1980’s and can testify to the deprivation caused by high unemployment at that time and the strain that this put on personal relationships. After reading the press release Tinned Goods stands to be an empowering message for women.
She explained that often at the very start she will be sure of the idea and the excitement of bringing that idea to life. However it is invaluable for writers to be able to work with a director and dramaturg to refine the play and the structure. This play is now on draft 9 so you can see how much work is involved. I have always believed that there are different types of rituals a writer or creator performs when writing or completing a big project. Fiona shared hers with me:
Fiona explains the type of impact this production anticipated before the release. During the tour they have had women’s groups from Trade Unions coming to see the play and speaking to the cast after the performance about the importance of seeing female history portrayed on stage. Also people who were involved in the dispute have said how much they appreciated having their story told. At the time the national press reported very little from the strikers and their families point of view. Another impact that Fiona and the company hope to achieve is empowering younger women with the knowledge of the activism of women from normal backgrounds (many of whom went on to do degrees and change their lives dramatically, including one woman who became an MP).
“I always like to write a first draft in pencil in a notebook. This way I am able to work anywhere and will often work on trains or while waiting somewhere. I then edit as I type it up. A screenplay requires a slightly different process working out all the ‘beat’ of the film before even beginning a scene.” Fiona explains. This was an interesting concept or ”ritual” as I called it. Very unique and the first I have heard of this. It’s always a learning experience when speaking with other artistic geniuses. We went on to discuss Fiona’s upcoming projects. She is developing a theater play with a director and has a commission for a piece of site-specific theater for a housing charity and also working on a screenplay for Rebel Without Crew Films.
Fiona is the sole author of the play, Tinned Goods. I asked Fiona if when Casting for Tinned Goods,
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‘Tinned Goods by Fiona Whitelaw
Tea and Tenacity presents its second production ‘Tinned Goods’, which toured in the U.K. in March and April 2016. This new play, set in 1984 tells the story of the women in a mining community whose relationships and community are dramatically affected by the men’s decision to strike or not. With their friendship suffering from the strain of politics and principles, with Sue’s husband on strike and Rachel’s crossing the picket line, forgotten wrongs resurface and loyalties are pushed to the limit.
fewer great female roles out there compared to those available for men.” Directed by Ali Belbin, who has experience with the Greenham Common protests in the ‘80s and using in depth research about the strike and the effects on communities across the country, ‘Tinned Goods’ hopes to illuminate and entertain audiences and encourage them to get involved in politics and make their voices heard. Tickets are limited and were available from the Brindley Theatre Box Office on 0151 907 8360 – you could check out their other tour dates on www.teaandtenacity.co.uk
This compelling new play features a cast of women playing all the roles from miners to police, school girls to grandmas. It follows on from the debut production, ‘First Do No Harm’, another true story set which was set in 1913 amidst Lloyd George’s welfare reforms, which gathered praise from audiences who saw it across the Midlands. Producer and performer Caroline Frewin remarked that “I love looking to history to find parallels with today and Fiona’s brilliant and passionate play makes us consider what we would do in Rachel’s position and just what principles are worth standing up and fighting for. And I am passionate about bringing femaledriven stories to the stage when there are still
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Winter 2016 2017
Around the Way Pearls Vanessa King is the Founder, President & Executive Director of Queen Nefertiti Productions LLC, which produces pageant competitions, including Ubuntu Pageants International, Hope Pageants USA and Canada and the Ohio American Royal Miss and Master Pageant. In addition to directing pageants, Vanessa is a pageant judge and competitor. She also competes in pageants and has won local, state and national titles.
VANESSA KING
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HISTORY of
The Story of Ubuntu Pageants International
4. Have a proper self-assurance that comes from knowing that she belongs to a greater whole and is diminished when others are humiliated or diminished, when others are tortured or oppressed.
Ubuntu Pageants International is the “brain-child” of Vanessa King, President & Executive Director of Queen Nefertiti Productions, LLC. After several years of competing in pageants and being a director for other pageant systems, I decided to venture out on my own and design a new pageant system, different than any pageant currently existing, after seeing too many things didn’t like how I saw directors and contestants treated in some of the other pageants I was involved with. I was also encourage former contestants and friends to create my own pageant system.
The goal of Ubuntu Pageants International is to instill selflessness among black women and men worldwide through community service, volunteerism and giving back to the community. Each delegate is required to complete a minimum number of volunteer hours within their community. Each delegate is be able to earn money for herself/himself and for their favorite charity within their own community. Ubuntu
I knew I wanted my pageant to focus on community service and it to be an ethnic pageant celebrating black heritage, with some type of tie to African heritage. I begin researching African words the meant working together and various other terminology that would describe working together. I finally stumbled upon the word “Ubuntu”. Ubuntu (pronounced uu-buun-too), is an African word, originating from the Bantu languages, that means “humanity to others” and the belief that “I am what I am because of who we all are.” I decided on this name based on my personal beliefs of what I would do that would benefit all involved with my pageant. It took me only 3 days to come up with the basics of what I wanted as the concept for my pageant and decided to call it Ubuntu Pageants International. The mission of Ubuntu Pageants International is to build the self-confidence, poise and values of each of our delegates to obtain the following attributes: 1. Be open and available to others, 2. Is affirming of others, 3. Does not feel threatened that others are able and good,
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Pageants International also donates a portion of its total profits to a selected charity each year in the location of the pageant competition. These are things that makes Ubuntu Pageants International unique!
appearance, poise, confidence and originality)
Our pageant is open to black females and males ages 13 and up from all over the world! Delegates may represent their current country of residence or any other country of heritage. In addition, we also have our Batebe Princess and Ade Prince Mentoring Program for younger children, ages 2-12.
Interview - 20% (In business suit; scored on communication skills, confidence, poise, and appearance)
Evening Attire - 15% (Females in floor-length evening gowns and Males in tuxedos; scored on appearance, poise, confidence and style choice)
*Talent - 15% (In appropriate Attire for type of talent; scored on natural entertainment value, technical skill, and stage presence) Swimsuit or Aerobic Wear - 10% (Females wear one-piece or two-piece swimsuit or aerobic wear and Males wear swim trunks or aerobic wear; scored on appearance, poise, confidence and style choice. Photogenic - 10% (Photo must be no larger than 8x10; scored on natural facial beauty and photogenic quality...no retouched/enhanced photos permitted) Self-Introduction – 5% (Introduce self on stage in ethnic attire; must include name, platform and name of charity of choice; scored on communication ability, confidence and poise; limited to 30 seconds) *Princesses and Princes have the opportunity to participate in our talent showcase for fun at no cost or for a small fee for an opportunity to win one of our Princess/Prince Talent Awards Side Awards and Competitions:
Requirements For Our Competition
Cover Model - given to delegate who raises the most money from ad sales and sponsorships. This award is given to both a regular delegate and to a Princess/ Prince
Delegates Must: • Be A Natural-born Female or Male • Be Any % Black • Live in, go to school in, work in, be born in, have family in or own property in the city, region, state or country you want to represent
Visibility Award - given to the delegate who makes the most public appearance to promote the pageant Achievement Award - Delegate who has overcome the greatest adversity or obtained the greatest achievement
Ubuntu International Pageant Competition Categories For Teens and Adults
Director’s Award – Presented to the Delegate who is the first to submit all paperwork, photos and fees
Volunteerism/Community Service - 15% (required 15 hours: 1 point per hour completed and must provide documentation. Bonus of 1 point, up to a maximum of 5 points, for each additional 3 hours)
Congeniality Award – Voted on by the delegates and goes to the delegate who is the most helpful and friendly to the other delegates throughout the competition
Ethnic Attire - 10% (African attire; scored on
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the Kingdom and the word “Ade” means King.
Age Divisions
The Batebe Princess and Ade Prince Mentoring Program will allow children to work closely with the one of our Local, State and/or Country titleholders who will serve as their role model and mentor throughout their representation. The Mentoring Program gives each participant the opportunity to shape positive attitudes and behaviors in the children of today, who will become our leaders of tomorrow.
Miss Teen (ages 13-17) or Mr. Teen Ubuntu (age 13-18) and single and never married; may not have children) Ms. or Miss (ages 18-29) or Mr. Ubuntu (ages 19-35) (single, divorced or widowed; may have children; males may be married and females have option of using Miss instead of Ms.)
The Mentoring Program is not a competition and is open to girls and boys ages 2-12 (based on age at time of International Pageant) who are any percentage black and are residents of the state, region or country for which they are applying; all girls who meet the eligibility requirements are eligible to apply for membership in our Mentoring Program. There is no cost for membership in our Mentoring Program; members must just pay a one-time fee for their crown and sash. Member includes:
Ms. Lady (30-39) or Mr. Elite Ubuntu (ages 36 and up) and single, divorced or widowed; may have children; males may be married) Ms. Elite Lady Ubuntu (ages 40 and up and single, divorced or widowed; may have children) Mrs. Ubuntu (ages 21-39; married and living with husband) Mrs. Lady Ubuntu (ages 40 and up; married and living with husband)
• Mentoring by one of our Queens/Kings • Opportunity to appear on stage in the State/ National/International Pageant Finals • Opportunity to make appearances with our Queens/Kings • And More!
Miss Elegant Teen Ubuntu (age 13-17, size 12 and up, single and never married; may not have children) Ms. Elegant Ubuntu (ages 18-29, size 14 and up and single, divorced or widowed; may have children)
Conclusion
Ms. Elegant Lady Ubuntu (ages 30-39, size 14 and up and single, divorced or widowed; may have children)
Ubuntu Pageants International will be celebrating its 5th anniversary in 2017. We are excited to have delegates planning to participate not only from the USA, but from Botswana, Zambia, Namibia, Keya, South Africa and Nigeria. We hope to have more countries join us prior to the application deadline!
Ms. Elegant Elite Lady Ubuntu (ages 40 and up, size 14 and up and single, divorced or widowed; may have children) Mrs. Elegant Ubuntu (ages 21-39 and size 14 and up; married and living with husband)
To find out more information about Ubuntu Pageants International and become a delegate, Princess, Prince, sponsor, advertiser or vendor, you may visit our website at: www.ubuntupageantsintl.com or email me at director@ubuntupageantsintl.com.
Mrs. Elegant Lady Ubuntu (ages 40 and up and size 14 and up; married and living with husband)
Batebe Princess & Ade Prince Mentoring Program The purpose of this program is to help girls and boys realize that there is more to this industry than meets the eye and that their success in life will be determined by their choices the make…even at a young age. The term “Batebe” means First Lady of
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Winter 2017
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Musical Gems Photographer: Jovy Emanon
Drae
Singleton Vocalist 15
Winter 2017
Born and raised in one of the most slept on cities... Columbus, Ohio, Drae Singleton is one third of TNS (Trill Nation Salute) which includes his childhood friends/brothers Duzzo and Ru who dropped a banger called “Money Dance” that got them noticed by Power 107.5 and landed them a spot on “Power 107.5’s Power Fest” line up, alongside Yo Gotti, Juicy J, Rae Sremmurd, Kirko Bangz and more!!! Want to see what he does, hit his Instagram: @DraeToo200 Twitter: @DraeToo200 or Facebook: @DraeSingleton! Follow the team on Instagram: @TnsWeTrill
“The things that inspire me to make music is everything that happens to me or around me. Knowing that I can feed and provide knowledge for others making music inspires me. Going to work every day at a place I don’t want to be, inspires me. Waking up knowing I’ve been blessed with a natural talent inspires me not to waste it.” My first project “The Seed” is part of a mixtape trilogy. It will go “The Seed”, “The Growth” and “The Bloom”! Pretty much self-explanatory. “The Seed” consist of playa music, ride and vibe music, stoner music (one of my favorite tracks “High Off Love”, you would think I was talking about a love interest), baby makin music, mob music and thoroughbred music. What I mean by thoroughbred music is (TSO) Trill Shit Only!
• Create jobs for a select few family and friends.
Things that make me different from other artist is the simple fact that I’m true to myself with no intentions to be or sound like someone else. There is a lot of duplication going on and honestly, I can’t stand it! I have originality and my sense of creativity is far beyond what you can imagine and soon you will see. Follow me on my social networks! Take this journey with me! Some believe in me and some don’t, I look forward to making believers out of all!
• To travel the world.
Drae Singleton, TNS #WeTrill
Goals in the Music Industry: Drae Singleton says he does not want to sign to a major label and if I sign anything it’ll be a distribution deal. The reasoning behind this is because he wants to have full control of his music and creative abilities.
• To show the world where I’m from and how I became the man I am today. • Last but not least is to show my mother I was a blessing! Drae Singleton is a product of rape. His mother was raped and birthed him. He was not raised by his biological father.
Photographer: Jovy Emanon
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The Growth of Drae By Laneeta Smith
It has been exactly one year that I met the man, the singer, the artist, Drae Singleton. When I met Drae he was actually stepping off a party bus singing. I did not have a clue that after this initial meeting I would be blessed to manage this individual. This may sound cliché but I witnessed the evolution of Drae Singleton from Leondrae Singleton in just one year of knowing this rare talent I have seen a maturity and focus in him that seems unreal at such a young age. I will not get into the stereotype of what some say black men are doing in their late twenties. I will say I am proud to be a part of the movement that Drae has mapped out in his mind. He has evolved into this mature and focused creator on a mission to “Reach One, Teach One” using his gift of vocals to grab the young mind and twist the way he or she may see life and where the future is taking them. The first perception of most, when meeting Leondrae Singleton, the man is: Look at this “Thug” Did you see all those tattoos?? I bet he been to jail a few times. “I wonder how many baby mama’s and kids he has?” You know the usual stuff. A few of those perceptions are correct. Yeah, he has been to prison. He does have two sons that he loves very much. Thug he is not. Do not be mistaken. Leondrae is a fighter. I am not attempting to take away his, street credit, if you will, but I digress, Don’t judge a book by its cover. This is a good man. Let’s get nito this music: Drae’s very first project was called the Seed. He has a trilogy that he put together before we met. The Seed, The Bloom and The Growth. The Seed was made to reach the adolescent minds. That playful, flirtatious, grimy kid out here playing in these streets. There is sex and poetry and stories about real life situations coming through with soulful sounds you would not expect to hear. The seed is definitely a banger.
Photographer: Jovy Emanon one of TNS , and many upcoming artist you will see with Drae in future projects. Please be on the look out for those. This project was started June of 2016 and is set for completion this year. We will be launching this in several cities, such as Atalnata, Chicago, St. Louis, Dallas and Detroit to name a few. There is so much to share about Drae Singleton and much more platforms to come. He is definitely a forc e to be reckoned with. Find Drae Singleton on all social media @DraeToo200. We look forward to making music for you and your coming with Drae Singleton on this journey!
The growth has not released yet but is almost self explanatory and there is the Bloom. Before you get to enjoy the Growth and the Bloom you will witness a mix tape entitled, “Room Service and also “Felonious Relationships” Which is a five part video movie series. Leading lady of the project is my niece, Atyauna Jones. There are special guest feaures by Ru Story,
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Elliott
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Singer/Songwriter/Producer
Trent
Where are you from? I was born in Cali, but moved to Chicago at three, when my mom passed. Then to Ohio in ‘07 Where did you attend school? I went to Walnut Ridge High School. Do you have any vocal training that you went through? Where did it take place? My father helped nurture my voice. When did you start your music career? I started my music career in 2004. How many shows have you done since you started? I really can’t remember, but I started when I was about 11. Is there any “celebrity” artist that you have worked with? No, I haven’t had the opportunity to work with anyone yet. Who would you like to work with, if anyone? I want to work with Chris Brown, Justin Timberlake and Mike-Will-Made-It.
I attended the final event where you were crowned the winner, how was that entire experience? It was a dope experience. It surprised me. I got to meet a lot of different artists in the city.
You seem to be a Veteran at what you do, your following is crazy, what advice can you offer a “baby” wanting to reach your status in this industry? Stay true to yourself, stay focused, and never stop chasing the dream.
I heard you mention that you are the master creator behind your music. How did you get there? I’ve been producing my own music since I was 11. My dad used to manage an R&B group and when we moved to california, I started using it.
Are there any rituals you go through before performing? I dont really don’t anything special. I just focus on putting on a good show.
Is it true that you have turned down record labels? Yes, I have turned down major and independent label deals.
When you are booked, are there any must haves” that you require? AllI need is a microphone and a stage with an audience.
If so, why? It can be a number of reasons: some situations just don’t happen according to plan, others may not feel right or a we can’t come to an agreement.
Out of all of your music that you have created, what would you say is your favorite project? I don’t have a favorite. I put my heart into all my work.
What’s next for Elliot Trent? After my first time video drop, just expect more. More music, more live entertainment and more dope 90’s vibes.
How did you get into the Take the Crown contest with 106.7’s MidwestMally? Heard about it through instagram and posted a video with the contest tag.
Please share to all Pink Pearl Magazine’s readers how to find you, follow you, find your music, etc. instagram: @elltrent twitter: @elliotttrent facebook: elliott trent
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Winter 2017
Tomorrow’s Leaders
OLIVER VAN NIEKERK
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Oliver is a talented 14 year old musician! Olivier van Niekerk is a young Dutch jazz guitarist, composer and bandleader. He studies at the School of Young Talent of the Royal Conservatory in The Hague, Netherlands. He started playing guitar when he was seven years old. Despite his young age (borne in June 2002), he has a substantial experience on stage and developed a mature sound. In 2014 he won the reputable Princess Christina Jazz Concours. He plays in multiple bands and with his Olivier van Niekerk Quartet he plays his own compositions and arrangements of standards.
Olivier played with many national and international jazz musicians including Frank McComb, Joe Cohn, John Marshal, Peter Beets, Teus Nobel, Benjamin Herman and Eric Ineke. His guitar teachers are Jens Larsen and Reinier Baas. He followed master classes of Vic Juris, Kenny Wessel and Barry Harris. Oliver is definitely an example of one of Tomorrow’s leaders In his industry. He is one to get to know. Follow him during his journey in life as he continues to blossom into a well rounded, intelligent, musical talent!
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Winter Winter 2017 2017
Community Foreword: With Pink Pearl’s introduction to the New Year being titled “Live-LoveProsper,” I thought it would be quite fitting that I formally introduce myself with an article written on the subject. In my past experiences, I’ve been a professional model, an Editor-in-Chief for a photography business, a business manager, a dancer, a brand rep, a lobbyist, an activist, and most of all; I’ve been an innovator. My work has never been about me. My work is about other people; serving them, helping them, and inspiring them. That is my objective. And this glorious publication in which I reside my words, I can honestly say that we, as a magazine and as a company, don’t just empower women. We empower people. We are here to shine light on the gifted, the talented, the brilliant and the rebellious. We don’t take your talents. We recognize them. We show the world who you are and what you are capable of. You become a part of our publication and a part of our family. With that said, I hope you enjoy reading this article as much as I enjoyed writing it.
Lauren Arielle
Pink Pearl Magazine
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Labor of Love:
A Kiwanis Toy Chest Sitting on a couch in Pittsburgh and I get a text from my mother. My twin sister has to meet with David Fincher’s cast and crew tomorrow morning and our mother is texting me. It’s after midnight, and she’s excited. I’m asking her why she’s up so late, when she works an average of 11 hours every day. “I have an idea.” She says. And so I’m waiting for her quick rebuttal. She sends me a long message about how she wants to design a float for the Cambridge City Christmas Parade on behalf of a nonprofit organization. She knows what she wants and she already has a blueprint of the design. Now I’m forced to think back on how her idea came about. She’s calling it, “A Kiwanis Toy Chest.” My mother, who is a force of nature with a Godcomplex, is in fact the Vice President of Kiwanis in the city of Cambridge, located in southeast Ohio. She is a world leader type, with her intentions neck deep in the esteemed organization. Kiwanis, also referred to as a club, marks children as their focal point. They believe that when you give a child the chance to learn, grow, experience and dream; prodigious things can happen. And with my mother being a mother to many, and a grandmother to an army, it is her purpose and desire to help children dream and to succeed. She believes that every child should have opportunities. That every child should be given a choice on who they want to become. She dares them to dream. So when she assumed her title as VP, she took the responsibilities with hast and enthusiasm. The float design titled, “Kiwanis Toy Chest,” is a derivative of “Duncan’s Toy Chest,” from the ever so popular and timeless holiday classic, “Home Alone: Lost in New York.”
The plot is about a little boy (played by 90’s child star, Macaulay Culkin) who is separated from his family at the Chicago airport, and is accidentally put on the wrong flight by the airport staff. While his family is put on the correct flight out of town, Kevin (played by Culkin) ends up flying solo into New York City. With Kevin’s natural craving for mischief, he goes on quite the vacation, staying at 5 star hotels, riding in limos, and ordering nonstop room service. And like any little boy, he stumbles upon a toy store, and not just any toy store, but one made out of dreams. It’s called “Duncan’s Toy Chest.” While Kevin is exploring this wonderful toy chest, he meets the owner of the beautiful establishment and asks him questions. Kevin sees a trunk filled with money in the store and asks the owner what he does with all the money saved up. The owner tells him that it’s for the children who are less fortunate, the ones who don’t get presents under the tree. Kevin knows now that Christmas is not about spoiling one’s self, but by giving and sharing the Christmas spirit with others. My mother, who decided to use Duncan’s Toy Chest as inspiration; reminds us all that it’s not about what we have in our bank accounts, what we consumed for ourselves or what we attain. It’s about dreaming, and encouraging others to dream. It’s about what we give up, what we give away, and who we are giving it to. I think Dave Matthews Band said it best in their song, “You Might Die Trying,” when they sang the words, “If you give, you begin to live.” So in my years dedicated to service, I’m still reminded of my role in this life when my mother texts me, “I have an idea.”
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Winter 2017
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Fitness
Abs
are not made in the Gym;
they are made in the KITCHEN UGH! Have you done so many crunches before that you can barely raise yourself up out of bed in the morning? Or how about reaching for something on the top shelf and your entire core sends a shockwave through your body. Yeah, we’ve all been there. Belly fat; the nemesis of almost every middle-aged woman and man and unfortunately, a growing population of children and young adults. UGH! I hate it! Call it whatever you want: love handles, belly, pouch, pinch an inch, Dunlap’s disease (belly done lapped over your belt); it’s fat! And it’s dangerous! According to the Mayo Clinic and many other obese experts; regardless of your overall weight, having a large amount of belly fat increases your risk of: • • • • • •
reducing fiber in the fruit has been removed, leaving only the pure fruit sugars that go straight to your waistline. Juicing your own fruits and veggies is also an alternative. Juicing at home can be used as meal replacements and cleansing as a great start to losing weight and cleansing your system of toxins. Juicing at home also leaves some fiber in the juice and it’s without all of the added sugar. Here’s a great meal replacement/cleansing juice recipe: 2 apples 2 carrots 1 piece of ginger Eat More Vegetables. They should fill up at least half your plate, especially at your biggest meal. Choose more non-starchy varieties (think leafy greens, broccoli, and beans) than their carb-filled kin (potatoes, corn, and carrots).
Cardiovascular disease. Insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Colorectal cancer. Sleep apnea. Premature death from any cause. High blood pressure.
Go Natural. Processed foods are not your friend. When you’re in a rush, it’s easy to overlook the fact that packaged foods are often loaded with trans fats, sugar, and salt -- all guaranteed to boost belly fat. Bulk up. Muscle burns more calories than fat, so the more you have, the more pounds you’ll torch, even when you’re sitting still. Do strength training exercises twice a week in addition to your regular exercise regimen. Also large muscle strength training (like leg work), burns more calories.
And why is belly fat more dangerous? Because belly fat is not limited to the extra layer of padding located just below the skin (subcutaneous fat). Don’t we all wish it was just that? But It also includes visceral fat — which lies deep inside your abdomen, surrounding your internal organs.
Get Enough Sleep. Lack of sleep leads to weight gain, diabetes, and other health problems. Four or 5 hours a night just isn’t enough. Try to get between 7 and 8.
Here are some things to try to reduce belly fat: Skip The Fruit Juice. It might seem like a healthy swap for sugary colas, but it’s not. All the fat-
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Winter 2017
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Black Statue of Liberty Jessica Care Moore
I stand still above an island, fist straight in the air Scar on my face, thick braids in my hair Battle boots tied, red blood in the tears I’ve cried. Tourists fly from all over just to swim near my tide Or climb up my long flight of stairs But they trip on their shoe string lies. Piece by piece they shipped my body to this country Now that I’m here, your people don’t want me. I’m a symbol of freedom, but I’m still not free I suffer from class, race, and gender inequality. I wear a crown of knowledge, ’cause I’m a conscious queen My mask is one of happiness, though my history here is full of misery. Done deliberately. I am America’s true statue of liberty. You placed a bible under my arm, after you ripped me of my faith And made me pray to a fictional imposter So, if you were trying to maintain liberty Too late, you just lost her ‘Cause her torch is about to serve as the night light for truth In the slums and the ghettos that you find so uncouth. Education will be delivered not from the tree, but the root. So, little black girls and boys will check their pockets For spirituality rather than loot
I sweep crack pipes out of school yards I nurture my man when times are hard. So, where the hell’s my statue? What’s the liberated woman gotta do? Place my name in wet cement Every month I pay the rent. Put my silhouette on a stamp I’m not a ho, slut or tramp. My children aren’t on crack, and neither am I. I want to see the words, “Go, strong Black woman,” When the Goodyear blimp flies by. I can bake cookies, bear babies, preside over revolutions Get rings out of tubs, wear a suit, sport baggy jeans, slick my hair back Or tie it up in braids. My aura is unafraid. So, no statue in the big apple can mess with me. I am the walking, talking, surviving, breathing, beautiful Black Statue of Liberty.
‘Cause liberty is just old mother nature And although you don’t lover her, she’ll never hate ya. She’s earth, wind and fire, don’t tempt her to show her power. Turning all weeds to flowers. Looking into her wise eyes will make a blind man see How can you dare name a eurocentric girl after me? Assata Shakur Barbara Jordan Nikki Giovanni and Angela Davis. These are the real symbols of liberty ‘Cause that stone faced French woman ain’t gonna save us. The same folks who enslaved us. I’m sitting at the back of the bus, ’cause I feel like it. And I play ball Not ’cause you pay me to dunk it, dribble it or hike it. I’m taking all my people back home, and breaking them mentally free. I am the walking, talking, breathing, beautiful statue of liberty.
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Winter 2017
Fashion How To’s
MELRIA ESTAJONELL MILLINER Photographer: Carol Pham This is a three piece couture look. Rabbit fur that has been dyed fuchsia pink for the collar. The denim vest is also dyed a lighter shade of pink to add dimension to the entire look. The train that is attached to the vest is what pulls the entire look together. White roses that have been hand-painted a pale pink to add to the entire look. Mother of pearl necklace adds to the look with, diamond earrings
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A black wide leg pantsuit with cutouts on the side with a deep v neckline. Jersey material , With a rabbit fur neckline. Mother of pearl necklace.with a black train to add drama to the look.
Photographer: Carol Pham
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Winter 2017
Model Watch: Melria Esta-Jonell Milliner in the morning with a very close family member. She was helping me re-build what I had lost. And then I dozed off and had a dream of me being in a studio and I had a mask on and I could see myself painted and sketching and sewing all while in this mask.
My name is Melria Esta-Jonell Milliner I was born in Wurzburg, Germany and lived there till I was two. I’ve been in Columbus, Ohio since 1998. Right now I work in Human Resources for the federal government. I actually started designing clothes right after I graduated high school. I fell out of it a little to be out of state for college.
The name Sutured was spray painted on the wall in the background in red. I woke up from that dream with a name and a focus of what my life was going to be like. I not only sew but paint too. These two elements come together in my clothing line. I’ve painted groves of flowers on a military jacket. I’ve painted and sewn a full length grown with a train. My life and designs cannot be held together with simple stitches. They need to be surgically sewn together.
Q. How does fashion speak to Melria and How important is it you? A. Fashion speaks to me as being about to wear something that no one else has and the sure confidence that you know they don’t have it and you look fantastic in everything you are wearing. What’s important to me in Fashion is that it shows creativity and individuality. I’ve never ever strived to look like anyone else. If it looks easy to make or anyone can pull it off, I usually stray from it.
Q. Describe your dream setting to create/work in.
Q: Describe yourself in creation mode.
A. My dream setting would be just a big wide open studio warehouse. Where I could just paint and sew and move straight over to a photography studio that’s included in my design studio. I wouldn’t have to leave for anything expect for food and replaces supplies.
A: Creation mode to me is having a few glasses of sweet red wine and hard to believe I need to be able to listen to trap music to classical music. I’m talking about Mozart from centuries ago classical music. Q. Where does the brand name Sutured come from? A. The name Sutured came about when I was detaching from a rough emotional and mental point in my life. Everything that could go wrong had gone wrong. I was up late one night, like 330
Q. Who are your fashion icons/inspirations?
Jogger grey splatter stretch highwaist pants with a light bomber jacket with black leather sleeves and the sutured logo. A salt and pepper fur collar. Wide collar style. And also some open-toed black studded booties. Photographer: Carol Pham
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A. Vera Wang. I did a report on her as my final for art design class. She does her own thing and started at the age of 40. If that does not motivate I don’t know what will. She started when most people start thinking about retirement nowadays. She has unique styles and sticks to it. Never too old to start and dominate your dream.
few friends. I have no reason to walk around in a negative manner. As a creative that type of energy is draining mentally and physically, and it will kill your creativity and you will lose yourself in it. I rather stay positive even when I’m having the worst days Q. Where is Sutured headed in say five years? We’ll go short term for now.
Q. When choosing your color pallets, which is a common theme for you?
A. Five years from now, sutured will no longer be the masked artist that you see today. Sutured will become very exclusive on designs. I will still have my promo pieces like sweatshirts and sweatpants and beanie but they will be more polished more upscale. I will be incorporating a lot more shapes and trends. Sutured will basically be a household brand.
A. I don’t have a set color theme. I adapt to any situation. I do have my favor colors like pastels and shades of gold but I’m never afraid to try something I wouldn’t typical pick out myself. Q. Your line has such a girly, sexy, feminine flare to it. How will you approach the men’s line of Sutured?
Q. Please advise our Baby Pearls in the making watching and reading about you how to accomplish what you have.
A. I go back and forth on that one that everyday. Sutured is a reflection of me, I have my tomboy moments and then i have my I want to be drop dead gorgeous today. The men’s side of sutured is still currently under the construction right now. I should have a little something ready for the spring.
A. My determination came from someone telling me I was not strong enough or smart enough to go off on my own and start to build something for myself. That I was never meant to be in the spotlight, I was only meant to be behind the scenes. I advise you to cut that type of person completely out of your life because they are not meant remain in your life. If its not encouraging you to do your all at something you want out of life. LEAVE IT ALONE. You are given one lifetime and do not waste. We don’t know how long we are meant to be here. Do not take your time here for granted
Q. If you could choose any celebrity model to be your walking billboard, who would it be and why? A. I’m honestly stuck in between lady gaga, because she exudes sexy, but very out spoken and when she wants to be red carpet ready, she comes full force. My other choice would be Teyana Taylor, she is coming into her own right now and I’m loving her growth as an artist, dancer and woman
Q. Is there anything else you would like to share?
Q. You are such a sweet spirit and happy person overall, how important is it to you to project positivity into the universe?
A. Sutured will be growing within in the next few months. We will be looking for interns and models that will be used on our online website and when we do events, just stay tuned and watch for further growth! Thank you!
A. It is very important to me. I read and feel people energy everyday. I’ve always been surrounded by love and kindness from family to a
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Winter 2017
LAUREN ARIELLE Photographer: Can Bemnett
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Photographer: Can Bemnett
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Winter 2017
A Man’s Perspective I Love women, I have been accused of being flirtatious to all women. I was raisedby a strong woman. This may seem a little odd but my mother was a great influence in my life. I have nine or so aunts, multiple girl cousins and one sister, that I know for sure! I have a wife, two daughters, two stepdaughters and three nieces. So when I give you this perspective, it’s from a place of understanding, caring and responsibility as a husband, father, son family member and friend. Women, especially younger women, need to understand that a man or boy, sees you for what you present to us. If you present yourself to a man as a conservative, conscience, self-aware woman, a “Real” man will conform himself to accept those standards of you, and treat you as such. This doesn’t mean he will be flawless. It just lets him know how far he can challenge your womanhood, knowing what you’re willing to accept. If you present to a man, a point of object, Booty pictures, stripper poses or ideology of that magnitude, expect a man to treat you as sexual object. Today’s social media world, has made it easier for men to target the weakness of women’s insecurities, by watching a post and hitting like. There are lots of women that base their worth on how many likes they receive on a certain picture. The picture doesn’t have to be sexual, but as innocent as, do I look fat in this. When you ask for approval from an open comment box such as, Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, you have just let the wolves prey on your sheep (insecurities). Men can now hide behind a profile pic and say whatever comes to them without any filter nor respect for the person you are or your friends or family. Men want a freak in the bed, but a Michelle Obama in the public. Generally, we won’t marry, what we truly are attracted to, we weigh the options of image, perception, upbringing, character, occupation and fit, as opposed to a wild nymphomaniac sex god! Women know how to be honest with their feelings, men know how shelter women’s feelings with
Pink Pearl Magazine
comforting words. This is where the disconnect happens between men and woman, if I were to be honest with my wife about wanting oral sex at a specific time of day, it would help grow our relationship even more, but because I’m a man, I don’t know the proper way to ask without making it sound creepy, so I hint towards the notion of what I want, with gestures, code names and so forth. This is how men approach women, with eyewinks, flashing money and different gifts, giving women a falsetto of what we’re thinking, so we throw bait out there to see which of you fish will bite. Men can be in a relationship, but his eyes wander, always wondering “IF”, we chose the right person to give our life to, but a man knows when he has something worth fighting for, because he will do everything possible to cover his tracks, if he were doing something outside his relationship. A man who doesn’t care about his woman, is sloppy or arrogantly loose with the other women he’s in bed with, he physically beats his woman, or he finds ways to embarrass her in public settings. A woman has all the power to control a man, because man has been scared of a woman since birth, rather it be his wife, mother, grandmother, aunt or whatever female in his life, Men are afraid of women, because we don’t want to let you down, It Might mean no sex, no acceptance, no gifts, no love...We all want to be loved! That’s my Perspective!
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