Queen Size Magazine June 2017 Issue by Queen Size Magazine

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“If you love what you do stick with it, but do it right!”

Photography | PDrew Photography Pants, Shirt and Boots | The Avenue Duster | Ashley Stewart

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ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

FROM THE EDITOR Tawana Blassingame Founder & Editor in Chief

Welcome to the June 2017 issue of Queen Size Magazine. Just a quick lesson on following your dreams. I remember when I first decided to come out with a magazine; I had a manager at the time who adamantly advised me against it. I recall him saying that it would never survive because people don’t want to read magazines anymore. For about a good year I listened to him and others say no don’t do it. But the passion for doing the magazine never went away; it actually grew stronger. So I went against the naysayers, fired my manager and began my journey. I really didn’t know what genre I wanted my magazine to fall in; I didn’t even know where to begin. So I started by doing what I loved; writing. I have to say that I learned a lot during my journey and I don’t ever regret starting it. Six years later and am still learning. If you have a passion for something GO FOR IT!!! Thank you all for your continued support. We would love to hear your feedback. Email us at queensizemagazine@gmail.com and let us know what you like, don’t like and/or want to see in future issues. We value your opinion.

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MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

MASTHEAD TAWANA BLASSINGAME CEO/Editor In Chief PHILIP DREW Executive Director & Director of Photography DOUG SWAIM Director of Photography for the DMV area ELVIRA ANDERSON Photographer DANA HALL Photographer MEESHA ANN Fashion Editor JACKIE PAYTES Fashion Blogger CRYSTAL CARMEN Beauty Editor LAWANDA SANYANG Beauty Blogger LA-FINA PHILLIPS Creative Stylist TANAYA JOHNSON Makeup Artist ANDREA BLASSINGAME Makeup Artist

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EYANI COUTURE House Designer FLAVORS OF FULLNESS House Designer

CONTENTS FEATURED STORY

K.NICOLE COLLECTIONS By QSM

HEALTH AND FITNESS

NATIONAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH By QSM

BEAUTY&FASHION

16 SUMMER PROOF BEAUTY By CRYSTAL CARMEN

18 AZURE MARIE DESIGNS By MEESHA ANN

MODEL SPOTLIGHTS

JUNE 2017 ISSUE

16 34

22 TOP 5 MUST HAVE ACCESSORIES By MEESHA ANN

23 LORALETTE By QSM

BUSINESS

MODEL SPOTLIGHT DORCHA CHANNER By QSM

BEHIND THE LENS SPOTLIGHT D. MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY By QSM

SPOTLIGHT 42 MODEL TOSHA LITTLE By QSM

34 38 18 42

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

National Cancer Survivor Month This month we are highlighting some of our survivors.

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NATIONAL CANCER SURVIVOR MONTH|QSM

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

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NATIONAL CANCER SURVIVOR MONTH|QSM It was at the age of 25 during a trip to Mexico when I experienced my first symptom, the second time was at 27 then again at 30, and lastly at 32. I was seeing my physician not just regularly but eventually frequently and my doctor at the time kept missing my symptoms and misdiagnosing me. After several years of unexplained anemia, gastric discomfort, bloody stools, and extreme fatigue, I met my current doctor who referred me to a gastroenterologist. It was then that an emergency colonoscopy screening was performed and I was diagnosed with Stage IV Colon Cancer. The cancer had spread throughout several parts of my body and I underwent a couple of surgeries and chemotherapy. Who am I? A mother to a beautiful boy, a contributions clerk for a nonprofit, Miss New York Plus America Ambassador 2016, an aspiring Plus Size Model, and an Advocate for Colorectal Cancer Awareness with a focus on the Young, Black, and Latino communities. I have joined the Colon Cancer Alliance and the Never2Young organizations in the fight against Colorectal Cancer. My first fundraiser was a Birthday Brunch and the proceeds were provided to the Colon Cancer Alliance, I have done public speaking, and I have been partaking in the Scope It Out 5k for the past 4 years with the team I created by the name of Kolon Kats, and have recently started the bluephotochallenge on social media. My supporters are family, friends, co-workers, fellow models, my pageant sisters and my social media followers. They are in this fight with me; my strength is knowing that I could potentially save a life.

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

QSM: Thank you for taking the time to talk with us and share your story. Do you remember your first thoughts when the doctor said you have colon cancer? Kathy: I first want to say thank you for allotting me this platform and helping me in the fight against colorectal cancer. My first thought.. I had just received an emergency flexible sigmoidoscopy (it’s a way to check the lower part of your colon) and I was still a little loopy from the anesthesia. The gastroenterologist tells me ”Ms. Santos, we found a tumor and it’s a full blown circle” he takes a pause and then says I regret to inform you this but you have Cancer.” He kept talking but it became background noise. My first thought was that he may have the wrong chart... QSM: Obviously, cancer puts your whole life on hold. Do you remember a specific moment when you were hit by this realization? Kathy: Not many are aware, but chemotherapy is cumulative, meaning that for some, overtime the side effects of treatment will begin to take its toll. With that being said, everything was tolerable early on (initially it felt like I had a really bad flu virus) but not for too long, it soon became worst. It was New Years Eve and I had spent the majority of my day at Memorial Sloan Kettering (I was scheduled for Chemotherapy). I said to myself, once I get home I’ll just get dressed and bring in the New Year with my family (as usual). I was in so much pain and fatigued by the time I got home I couldn’t do much else but sit up in spurts. I couldn’t believe that I would not be able to be with my extended family as this had become a tradition. It hit me then, that this may be my new reality. QSM: How long were you in treatment? What helped keep your spirits up and gave you support during this period? Kathy: I received treatment for about a year and during this period I would get on social media and read others’ stories (which also lead to my aspirations of becoming a plus model). There was a blogger (who wasn’t a blogger at the time) who was sharing her weight loss journey through IG and she was very inspirational. I enjoyed seeing other people’s happy moments captured in pictures and small video clips. I joined a Facebook support group page; it’s great to know you have others that you can identify with. I had and continue to have some very wonderful people in my life. My son who took on an active role very early on, dad who would at times come visit and/or pick me up or drop me off at treatment, my brother who always taught me to be strong, fellow survivors who would give me the pick me ups and medical advice I would need at times, My biffles a.k.a best friend who I tirelessly called for everything and nothing at all, my cat Puff who would give me hugs and has yet to leave my side, my mother who had the world on her shoulders and never let it show, and most importantly God! My relationship with God grew immensely and continues to grow. All praise be to God! QSM: Are you still going through treatments? Kathy: I currently am not receiving anymore chemotherapy. I do continue to follow up with colonoscopies, MRI Scans, and

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Blood Work. I am happy to say that I am now 4 years cancer free! QSM: Did you begin your modeling journey before or after your diagnosis? Kathy: I decided to pursue modeling not long after treatment. I remember an audition being held in the Ashley Stewart store in Harlem. I dropped my son off at the Dance Theatre of Harlem and got on the bus to the Ashley Stewart store. I was on the phone with my best friend the whole time. I finally get there (it felt like an eternity but it was my nerves getting the best of me), I was amazed at all the beautiful women who were waiting to audition. They had on the trendiest clothes, some had really high heels on, and their faces beat to the gods. I said to my best friend, these women are tall and drop dead gorgeous!!!! I am in plain ole jeans with a side braid, lip gloss, and mascara. I’m not sure that I should stay! She says to me! Kathy, you’ve wanted to do this for some time now! Go for it, what’s the worst that can happen???? They say no!!! You beat Stage IV colon cancer, who gives a Sugar Honey Iced Tea!!!! FYI she really said s***. Lol and I said to her girl!!! You are absolutely right. I have since modeled for Curves Rock Fashion Weekend 2015, have been crowned Miss New York Plus America Ambassador 2016, modeled for Harlem Fashion Week 2017 and District of Curves Full Figured Fashion Showcase 2017. QSM: Tell me about the bluephotochallenge. Kathy: I want to help educate those in the Black, Latino, and underserved medical communities. Not everyone is able to make monetary donations but there are other ways to help. I noticed that challenges became a trend on social media and I was already taking pictures of myself dressed in blue for the Colon Cancer Alliance Dress In Blue Day campaign. I thought to myself, hey why not start a #bluephotochallenge. You can wear anything you want so long as there’s some blue involved using the hashtag #bluephotochallenge and tag me on Instagram kittykat_05. It’s a fun way to get others involved in spreading awareness and potentially help save a life without having to break the piggy bank. Colon Cancer is on the rise in young adults and blacks are at a higher risk. This disease is 90% preventable if caught early. Yet, it’s the second leading cause of cancer death! The hope is that the #bluephotochallenge will spark enough conversation to help decrease and eventually diminish Colon Cancer. QSM: Any advice you would give to someone newly diagnosed or currently battling colon cancer or another colorectal cancer disease or syndrome? Kathy: Read, investigate, do research, become your own advocate. Question your own doctors if you have to; never settle when it comes to your health. Try to understand your new normal. Join support groups, seek God/Higher Power. Never forget that you are not a statistic, you have a name! It is ok to cry, to be mad, to hurt, to ask for help, to laugh, be happy, and yes you are allowed to live not just exist.

NATIONAL CANCER SURVIVOR MONTH|QSM

”my strength is knowing that I could potentially save a life”

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

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NATIONAL CANCER SURVIVOR MONTH|QSM

On May 7, 2014 Alma Harris should have been preparing to celebrate her 47th birthday, but instead she was at the doctor’s office receiving the worse news she’d ever gotten in her. Her doctor delivered the words no one wants to hear; “You have cancer”. Alma had no family history of breast cancer but she still did her self-examinations just as we’ve all been preached to. One day while doing her self evaluation she felt something unusual and immediately went to get checked out. And it is a good thing she did because after having all the necessary testing was done she was diagnosed with Stage I Breast Cancer. Stage I is an early stage where the cancer has spread to other tissue in a small area. Even though it was an early stage Alma still felt like she had been given a death sentence. Alma’s diagnosed took an emotional toll on her; at times she found herself crying uncontrollable, but she never questioned her faith. Her family was very supportive throughout her treatment process, although it effected them emotionally as well; but they stayed by her side until she beat it. Three years later, Alma is cancer free. She helps to raise awareness by sharing her story with everyone. She wants people to know that their diagnosis is not necessarily a death sentence and that with early detection it is beatable. She also helps to raise money to help find a cure.

ALMA HARRIS

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

QSM: It was such a joy to have you on set with us; we truly enjoyed you. How has your life changed after your diagnosis? Alma: When I was diagnosed with the breast cancer I told myself that it could only make me a better person. First thing I did was STOP SMOKING which in turn helps me and helps other too. QSM: During your fight against cancer, what were some of the challenges you faced in your everyday life? Alma: Without going into specific details I will sum it up by saying that everyday life was a challenge such as eating, sleeping, bathing just to name a few components of life. Everyday during my ordeal was a fight for life. QSM: Even though you were at Stage One, did you still have to go though chemo and radiation? Alma: Yes I did, I went through 12 rounds of chemotherapy which in my case I was administered two different types of chemotherapy. QSM: I understand that you made the choice to undergo a double mastectomy; what lead you to that decision? Alma: As I have told my story before I have said ”my breast didn’t define me.” So if my decision meant it would lessen my chances of getting breast cancer again then I felt like that was the right thing for me. I can get some new breast which I did, but I couldn’t get another life. QSM: Three years later, even after being cancer free, where are you emotionally? Alma: Emotionally I am doing well. But I must say that if you allow yourself, you can be on an emotional roller coaster. So I keep God first and believe that everything in life happens for a reason and that have a purpose. QSM: For people out there looking to help, what type of fundraisings do you participate in? Alma: I participate in American Cancer Society breast cancer walks in which I raise money and awareness. I also participated and will continue to support different local fund raisers such as bowling against cancer. During breast cancer awareness month at my job we bring awareness by giving literature to our customers encouraging them to seek help early. QSM: What are some words of encouragement can you

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offer other people that are fighting through ailments? Also others who don’t have ailments and think it can’t happen to them. Alma: The first advice I will give is to have a great spiritual relationship with your higher power; keeping your faith especially during your time of adversity. Know that you, me and everyone has a purpose in life. Don’t under estimate the unknown, if you think or believe something is wrong or not right with you or your health check it out. Early detection is the best key of defense. To know is to have half the battle won. I would like to take this time to thank QSM for the opportunity to share my story. I very special thank you goes out to Tawana for showcasing my story. My sister in which I love very much, Elvira Anderson for the fierce photos. Crystal Carmen for that drop dead gorgeous make up. Lafina for her creative fashionable style.

NATIONAL CANCER SURVIVOR MONTH|QSM

”you, me and everyone has a purpose in life”

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

SUMMER PROOF BEAUTY

8 WAYS TO STAY BEAUTIFUL THIS SUMMER WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|JUNE 2017 ISSUE

"IF YOU RATHER SKIP THE FULL ROUTINE FOR SUMMER TRY PINK STILETTO COSMETIC'S 5 MINUTE MAKOVER KIT! EASY AS 1-2-3

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT| AZURE MARIE DESIGNS

Azure Marie Designs The fashion life really started for me when I joined a modeling program for plus size models in Philadelphia. I was trained professionally in runway by two amazing coaches of Fashion Forever Entertainment Jessica Porter and Arthur Burgest III. After participating in numerous fashion events as an aspiring model, the fire was lit inside of me. I looked at clothing designed by some amazing designers and I thought to myself “I think I can make this outfit.” I knew it was time to develop the clothing line that I dreamed of. My very first design made its grand entrance into the fashion industry in February 2013. Since that time I connected with a close friend who has an eye for fashion as well. Dana “Marie” Burgest of Self-Conscious Designs joined me and helped grow the vision. Dana is more of the behind the scenes co-designer and seamstress, but she is extremely talented, creative, and I could not imagine designing a clothing line without her.

Photographer | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Model | Azure Marie Designer | Azure Marie Designs

Azure Marie Designs was birthed out of a vision that I had since the age of twelve. Growing up, I was the youngest of five, and my mother who was the sole provider of the household could not afford to purchase the latest fashion trends and shoes. As a result I was often ridiculed about my clothing and my weight. At that time I knew that I wanted to do something in fashion, and I thought it would be pretty neat to wear my own designs. As a young adult, I was taken under the wing of my Godmother who helped me develop my skills as a seamstress and designer. She truly took interest in my vision and encouraged me to continue to hone my craft. I have been a designer for 6 years, and I could not imagine fashion not being a part of my life as it is today

The name Azure Marie is a combination of myself and my codesigner Dana. We thought our middle names put together were authentic, and a representation of what we dreamed our clothing line would be- unique, classy, and fierce! Since then we have collaborated on designing collections for fashions shows and photo shoots to promote our brand. We work together for major projects, but continue to build on our personal brands separately. We have worked with aspiring and signed plus sized models who have an interest in our designs, but also believe in our mission and vision for our line. Azure Marie Designs stands for equality to women of all shapes and sizes. We primarily focus on plus size women due to the lack of clothing options that fit and look “just right.” After years of being ridiculed by mainstream society about clothing for the average curvy woman, we decided to put our talents and efforts to work by custom designing clothing for women. We work with you to enhance your fashion vision, and she is fashion forward with a unique sense of style. In times when I felt like giving up, my thoughts about how short life is kept me motivated. The curiosity of how far I could really take my business also keeps me chasing my dreams. I believe so deeply in what I am in pursuit of that I can’t give up. Looking at all that I have overcome, I can’t turn back now.

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photographer | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Model | Meesha Ann Designer | Azure Marie Designs

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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT| AZURE MARIE DESIGNS

Photographer | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Model | Nataljia Liberacki Designer | Azure Marie Designs

Photographer | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Model | Detras Powell Designer | Azure Marie Designs

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

We asked and you answered! Here goes the top five most important accessories a woman must have:

Of course material things can make you look and feel great but don’t forget THE most important non material accessories are confidence and a great attitude. And don’t forget that shiny smile! Until next time ~ Meesha Ann WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|JUNE 2017 ISSUE

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Photography | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Models |Meesha Ann (left), Unissha McNeil (right) Makeup done by models Outfits by Loralette

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photography | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Models left to right |Stephie Ali, Janelle Simmons, Natalie Dawn Makeup for Natalie and Janelle | Natalie Dawn Makeup for Stephie done by model Outfits by Loralette

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Photography | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Models left to right |Nataljia Liberacki and Desiree Dabney Makeup done by models Outfits by Loralette

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BUSINESS

ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

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BUSINESS

K.Nicole Collectio

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FEATURED STORY| K.NICOLE COLLECTIONS

ons The fashion industry was recently blessed with another outlet created for women to shop for quality clothing and accessories. Meet Khia Abanyie, CEO of K.Nicole Collections. I had the pleasure of meeting Khia after she debuted her line at a fashion show in Philadelphia. I was completely floored by her talent, and even more when I learned that she was a self taught designer. Her eye and taste for fashion is impeccable; but then again her love and passion for fashion goes way back to when she was just a young child. Khia took all of the things she learned from her Nana, then did some research on how to read patterns, pinned ideas from Pinterest and went to work. Khia knew she was ready to take that step of faith and become a full time designer but she was nervous; this was a big step for her. So while sitting at her makeup table she prayed on this new venture she was about to embark on, she said that God told her “you can’t be afraid to fail”; that was her sign to go forth and that she did. She came forth with a mission. K.Nicole Collections was birthed because Khia was tired of seeing plus size women being overlooked within the fashion industry. Her passion to help women look and feel better about themselves is the very thing that propelled K.Nicole Collections to a new level! K.Nicole prides itself on using quality fabrics and accessories. Who would have ever though that a little girl born in Woodbury and brought up in Camden, NJ would have her own successful clothing line? Now including custom wigs back into to her line and adding shoes for the summer of 2017. K. Nicole Collections is the up and coming line to be on the look for!

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FEATURED STORY| K.NICOLE COLLECTIONS

QSM: Tell me about your earlier years; did you always want to be a designer? K.Nicole: It’s funny I never thought I would grow up to be a designer but I’ve always loved everything about fashion. All the women and men in my life were always so fashionable. I thought I would be an art professor at Temple University. I was very artistic as a child.

QSM: What is success to you? Do you consider yourself successful? K.Nicole: Success to me is being happy with what you do and people appreciating your gift. I feel as if I’m a very successful I have such an awesome support team. The fact that I have such an awesome base of loyal clients as well makes me feel that I have accomplished true success!

QSM: Is it safe to say that Nicole is your middle name? K.Nicole: Yes Nicole is my middle name

QSM: What is the worse piece you’ve ever made? Do you still have it? K.Nicole: Yes... I made a pair of sage green lace pants and they were so bad I threw them right in the trash!

QSM: It is obvious by looking at your garments that quality is very important to you. Does this mean that your designs are more expensive? K.Nicole: Thank you! Most of my pieces are reasonable compared to other designers but some of my pieces are a bit on the pricey side due to the fabric or embellishments I use. QSM: Do you find it difficult to keep the quality of your garments up with still making them affordable? K.Nicole: No even though my fabrics are of good quality I still try to get them at the best price so that my customers don’t have to worry about going broke rockin’ K.Nicole Collections. QSM: I have seen some of your pieces and I must say that you have a very unique flavor; where do you draw your inspiration from and how do you manage to stay so unique? K.Nicole: Believe it or not I really love classic pieces because you can interchange them. I also have that alter ego side that comes out and creates some funky pieces as well that you can pair up with those classic pieces that can change the whole look. I get allot of my inspiration from the classics; Tommy Hilfiger, Michael Kors, Dolce and Gabbana and my alter ego’s icon ... Iris Aphel. QSM: When clients come to you for pieces what are some key questions that you ask them that will help you deliver. K.Nicole: I like to ask what the parts you love to show off are. What would they say their style is? If I’m working with new models I like to also just go on their page and get a feel for who they are. QSM: As a writer I get writer’s block sometimes; do you ever get creatively blocked and how do you get unstuck from that? K.Nicole: ABSOLUTELY! I like to look through some magazines as well as spend time on Pinterest to get some ideas. Sometimes some jazz and some alone time helps me as well.

QSM: Have you ever looked into getting your pieces in stores? K.Nicole: I’ve had a few boutiques reach out to me and would love to work with them in the future. I’m also hoping within a five year time frame to work with a factory in NY to mass produce my items. QSM: Right now where do you get your clientele and what are your plans on expanding? K.Nicole: Most of my clientele have come from word of mouth or fashion shows. Right now I’m working on expanding my line by adding wigs and shoes. QSM: In your opinion what is the key to staying in this business? I have seen designers come and go because they spend money on fabrics but don’t have the clientele to sell them to. K.Nicole: I feel the key to staying in business or with anything your working on doing is to maintain a humble spirit! Meaning; know that there’s always something to learn... don’t be so head strong that you’re not open to learning new things within the field you’re in. I also pick and choose who I want to work with. Sometimes we work with clients and it ends up being a headache that money can’t cure. I have always told myself peace of mind is something that is priceless. I’m so determined not to burn myself out and I think will always keep me in the loop as well. Some designers get burnt out because they don’t know when to say no. QSM: Do you have a website where people can see your work and possibly support? K.Nicole: Right now I’m working on opening my shop through etsy.com and I’m also on Facebook as well as on Instagram.

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BUSINESS

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FEATURED STORY| K.NICOLE COLLECTIONS

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BUSINESS

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT | DORCHA CHANNER

D C orcha

hanner

Because of her struggles she is determined to help others who are currently struggling to find themselves;

Dorcha Channer is originally from St. Catherine, Jamaica where she began her modeling journey at the age of 18 years old. Dorcha is a 5â&#x20AC;&#x2122;10â&#x20AC;? fashion enthusiast and model who takes pride in her locked natural hair. Back in Jamaica she attended an All Girls High School and played major Roles in Sports such as Field Hockey & Volleyball. She was also involved in Cadet Core and Peer Counseling. She currently holds a degree Computer Servicing & Electronics and is currently employed at a major Health System in New York while pursuing her Bachelors in Nursing. For many years Dorcha had been surrounded by people who discouraged her because of her weight, but she overcame that and learned to love herself. Because of her struggles she is determined to help others who are currently struggling to find themselves; struggling to fit into a world that is constantly trying to make us conform to the idea that curvy is fat and unacceptable. Dorcha is working on developing a non-profit organization geared towards empowerment for both Teenaged and Adult Women. For the past year, Dorcha has worked as a photo model; she loves being in front of the camera. She has a huge passion for runway and editorial photography. Dorcha finally gained the confidence to compete in her first model competition in 2016, which was Face of Kurvacious held in New York City. She has then graced the runways of Curvy Revolution during NYFW 2016 and the Ankara Bazaar Showcase for NYFW 2017 Curvy Revolution during NYFW. Dorcha was also chosen as a Published House Model for Queen Size Magazine and has then signed on their growing Team of Queen Size Model Management. Photographer | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Model | Dorcha Channer MUA | Arya Bynoe Multicolored skirt |Addiction Luxe Shirt| Banana Republic Belt, Shoes and Accessories | Aldo

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BUSINESS

QSM: You share the same story of so many women; the story of overcoming lack of confidence due to their size. Why do you think so many women share this struggle? Dorcha: Society is usually unsympathetic to life’s changes pertaining to the woman’s body in particular for e.g.. Women will gain weight after pregnancy, but if she does not lose her weight quickly, she is ostracized. Being plus sized is generally regarded as ”Taboo” in most cases. If for instance, one goes to the store to purchase clothes, the smaller sized Shoes and Apparel are most times more fashionable. We are often referred to as ”Fatty” or ”BBW” in certain cases, which often is offensive. QSM: You were into sports growing up back in Jamaica; were you a fashionista as well back then? Dorcha: Oh no! I was a Tom Boy growing up! My personal issues with weight gain started in my early 20’s , but I struggled with being comfortable in my skin during puberty. My chest was small, my buttocks were well developed and my calf muscles were prominent. I possessed a strong personality and showed leadership qualities at an early age, which awarded me the position as Team captain. It resonated in my mind when Classmates would comment on my flat chest in my Sports gear; therefore, I started to wear baggy clothes to hide my imperfections. QSM: You talked about your struggles with your weight. We all know that people can be mean. Can you share an experience with us where someone bullied you about your weight and how did you handle it? Dorcha: This happened in my late 20’s while working at a Rehab Center. There was a male charge Nurse who cracked jokes on my size and weight constantly. ”Oh Dorcha is here, she’s big and strong enough to handle combative patients”. He would continue to make snide remarks at Lunch time every day, stating how I should eat more greens and drink only water. As I tried to maintain professionalism while on the job, my last straw was when he asked me a question about my dating life. I decided to have a meeting with the Director and with watery eyes I told her of my ordeal. She scolded me for not coming to her sooner. He was suspended without pay for a couple of days after admitting to the awful things he said. Immediately after, a staff meeting was held on my behalf. I spoke on the incident and encouraged my colleagues to speak out on body shaming if it had or should happen to them. QSM: What made you enter into a modeling competition and what did it do to your confidence? Dorcha: I was tired of being insecure, fearful and nervous about my approach to life. I actually had a dream about me being a Plus Model. Last summer on a Saturday Morning, I suddenly had an itch. I went online and started my research on Plus Size competitive modeling, and then I came across “Face of Kurvacious” casting call and competition. I was ecstatic after meeting the requirements, so I entered the competition. With my sense of style, my love of craft and African print fabric, I decided to prove to myself and the naysayers that I am more than just a pretty face. So I decided to start a project called ”Dorcha’s Passion”. I was inspired to make Afro-Centric Necklaces, Bracelets, and Earrings that would compliment my outfits for the Competition. Surprisingly, I sold several pieces because of my Social Media postings. It was at that very moment I realized my true

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potential, ”There is much more that you have to offer Dorcha, keep pushing” Even though I was not victorious in the competition, the exposure and experience gained was invaluable. QSM: Share that feeling you get when you are about to hit the runway. Dorcha: When I first hit the Runway, I was sweating profusely and my knees were wobbling. With practice and dedication to my new found craft, things have improved because I gained more experience and confidence. Now, that feeling of nervousness has deteriorated somewhat. QSM: I recall in one of our previous conversations that you were interested in starting up an organization back in Jamaica; can you share some of that with us, without giving away too much of course. Dorcha: I want to influence both Women and Girls in Jamaica on how to view their bodies in a positive light irrespective of their weight. At the same time, I don’t want to downplay the importance of exercising and maintaining good eating habits. Music and main stream media tend to denigrate plus size Women and Girls. So I want to help in improving their confidence and teach them how to benefit from their assets. Generally speaking, I want to stand for something positive, and also helping to bring ”light” to someone else’s darkness. QSM: When you look ahead to the next five years where do you want to be? Dorcha: I want to indulge in Commercial Modeling and represent a large Fashion house. Appearing in the cover page of a Magazine and be one of the selected few to walk for Full Figured Fashion Week. I also intend to continue being a positive influence to the Plus Size Community here and Abroad.

MODEL SPOTLIGHT | DORCHA CHANNER

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BEHIND

THE LENS

D. MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY D. Marie began her makeup career in the year 2000. Already being a nail technician for 10 years she decided to take up the art of Makeup. Her career evolved into the print world, as well as TV and film. D. Marie is also a published photographer. Picking up a camera in her early teenage years, she has been clicking away ever since. Taught by her father, D. Marie learned the fundamentals of photography shooting film on an old Olympus OM10 camera. She loves to shoot Portraiture such as beauty and fashion and also has a love for landscape photography.

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BEHIND THE LENS| D. MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

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D. Marie Photography Makeup | D. Marie Models | Jessica Vaughn (top left), Aleah Davis (bottom left), Shaqunna Shell (middle right)

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ARTICLE TOUSSAINT JESSICA TITLE | BY AUTHOR | BY QSM

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT | TOSHA LITTLE

T L osha

ittle

Because of her struggles she is determined to help others who are currently struggling to find themselves;

From the City of Philadelphia, PA, Tosha Little is courageously paving her way into the fashion industry as a curvy petite model and actress. The curvy beauty has been featured in several magazines, runway shows and movies. Beginning her career in 2010, she traveled to New York to receive training from the top industry influencers. Once grasping the concept on how to be an aspired plus size model, Tosha made her first television appearance for a fashion segment on the NBC 10 Show in 2010. From there her modeling career began to flourish. At the height of 5’5” the curvy beauty graced and walked the runway of many shows including: South Jersey Fashion Week, New York Fashion Week, Ms. Full-Figured USA Pageant Fashion Segment, Fashion On the Hudson, Style Week, Macy’s, Ashley Stewart, Dress Barn and many more. She can also be seen in a few magazines including: Hype Hair Magazine, Fashion Avenue News Magazine (The First Plus Size Edition) and Rack Plus Magazine (Model of the Month Spotlight). Not only has this curvy beauty graced runways, been published in magazines, worked with many plus designers but has also been given opportunities in television/film industry. She appeared as a guest judge on the Cooking Channel Show ”Best of Chow”, in the 2015 indie film ”Slow Learners” and the 2015 drama film ”Creed”. Tosha is progressively rising to the top and continues to work hard in the modeling/television and film industry as the best has yet to come. Outside of modeling, Tosha enjoys traveling, coaching and mentoring to youth. She has a love and passion for helping other people. She works as an Emotional Support Assistant, High School Varsity Cheerleading Coach and serves as a Union Building Committee Member at her job. Tosha is currently working on opening a child development center which will provide services for children, youth and families. Photographer | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Model | Tosha Little MUA | Arya Bynoe Outfit and Shoes | Charlotte Russe

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44 QSM: You are beautiful young lady and I just love how involved you are. What first planted the seed in you to begin mentoring the youth? Tosha: Thank you so much for the compliment, I try my hardest to stay busy and involved as much as I can. Growing up as a child I’ve always had the passion and love for helping other people. Working with at-risk youth/adolescents is what really inspired me to begin mentoring the youth. These youth often face many traumatic/ challenging events throughout their life and often lack love, guidance and attention. QSM: You mentioned that you enjoy coaching; what kind of coaching do you provide? Tosha: Yes, I currently coach high school varsity cheerleading, which I have been coaching for 4 years. I enjoy and love what I do because it allows me to not only teach dance and cheer technique but also help build character, confidence and discipline to our youth. Dance has always been a passion of mine as I have been dancing since the age to 10. QSM: How long have you been acting and what got you into it? Is modeling and acting similar to you? Explain. Tosha: I have only been acting for a few years. From 2013-2016 I was signed to Brittney Carter Bookings who served the role as my booking agent. My booking agent was the one who encouraged me to broaden my horizons and consider getting into acting, since she felt like I had a lot of potential. Brittney knew getting into acting as well would allow me to gain more exposure and create a bigger fan base if I committed and became serious with it. I started off doing background extra work, which made me get a better understanding acting. I grew a love for it, but I realized that I needed to invest a lot time and be fully committed to taking acting classes as well to be successful. Acting and modeling is somewhat similar because it consists of you putting yourself in a character and being in front of a camera. Modeling is about feeling and opening yourself up for the camera, which is thinking outward. Acting is slight different and much more harder because it consists of a person thinking inward, putting yourself into character where you have to remember and express words/lines (known as a script) for whatever role that is being given to portray. QSM: What exactly is modeling (in your opinion)? What qualities should one possess to be in the profession? Tosha: Modeling is when a person serves as a visual aid that plays the role to promote, display or advertise products. Some qualities that a person should posses for modeling is confidence, determination, great personality, poise, and naturally photogenic, strong runway walk, hard working and professional. QSM: Can you name some of the people that you have had the opportunity to train under?

Tosha: I had the pleasure of training under the amazing Jeanine Ferguson and Tricia Campbell who are very successful petite plus size models in the industry. Jeanine Ferguson literally served as my role, mentor and model coach who exposed me to many opportunities. Jeanine and Tricia perfected my runway walk and enhanced my posing skills. I literally invested and attended all the workshops they had. Joy Ashley (may her beautiful soul continue to rest in peace) also provided me fundamental knowledge of the modeling industry, showed me the Do’s and Don’ts and provided me with several modeling opportunities. QSM: How exactly does one grasp the concept on how to be an aspired plus size model? That is an interesting statement that I would love to hear you elaborate on. Tosha: Sure, in the beginning of my modeling career I didn’t know anything about modeling. All I knew is that I wanted to do it, especially since people kept encouraging me to do so. When I first started modeling, I would cast for everything I seen within the tri-state area (Philly, Jersey and Delaware). Most shows being hair shows, which consist of a model showing personality and giving signature style runway walks. Most show producers, designers and hairstylists I came across loved my look and often used me for print/ promotional work. I joined a few modeling organizations, attempted to build a portfolio and was just listening to so many different advice people were giving me which was sometimes not often the right advice. Money and time was being wasted and I was getting frustrated because I noticed when I branched out and attempted to cast for fashion shows in New York I wasn’t getting booked. I was confused because I thought I knew the modeling industry especially since I had people who say they were knowledgeable training me. When I would cast for shows in New York, I started asking for feedback on things I needed to work on if I wasn’t casted for the show. Most agents informed me that I had a beautiful look but was too short for the runway or that I was too curvy as I was casting for shows that did not consist of plus models. Most agents or show producers thought I would be great a plus print model. I wasn’t aware of the plus industry until I was referred to a model workshop for plus models in New York. From there, I learned about the plus industry. I took the time to actually learn and research about being a model and the different types of modeling. I had to figure out what type of model I wanted to be (runway, fit, print, etc.) From there I attended many model workshops, networked with many models, designers and photographers, trained under the top industry influencers who literally became my model coaches/mentors that guided me throughout the process. I was able to learn what was best for me once discovering the correct lane I needed to be in. From there my model career began to flourish. Doing my research, deciding the lane I wanted

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to focus on as a model, connecting and networking with the right people, investing in training workshops and building a portfolio allowed my modeling career move to the next level. Once I seen the change and growth as well as became confident in my modeling career, I realized I had finally grasped the concept of correctly becoming an inspired plus size model. QSM: You are on the smaller scale of plus; do you get the stare downs for other models like you are in the wrong industry? Tosha: It’s very seldom I come across models giving me stare downs for being on the smaller scale of plus, they usually tell me they love my shape, but I’ve had come across some designers telling me I am not considered “plus”. Most designers often love my body shape, but I came across a few designers in the past who got frustrated when their garment did not fit my body how they visualized it would. The designers had to find something that could fit me or alter the garment they wanted me to wear which often took up additional time. I would often be confused as designers were not the only ones informing me that I was not considered “plus” because I was smaller. General people would often ask me why am I referring to myself as a plus model” when they didn’t feel like I was. As I would inform them, the modeling industry considers anybody over the size “6” plus which surprised them even more for those who didn’t know. I became more comfortable when I started connecting with other plus models on the smaller scale whom informed and provided me with information on how to deal with those situations as they often encountered the same thing. QSM: Are you pro “drop the plus” or against it? Tosha: I actually stand neutral when it comes to the pro or against “drop the plus”. I actually don’t mind having the “plus” in front of model. Using the term “plus model” allows you to be different from the rest. In my opinion I honestly believe using the term “plus model” makes us stand out, compared to blending in with regular standard models. Now are plus models often given the same opportunities as standard models, not often which is why I understand people would be against in dropping “plus” in front of model as we all should be equal, given the same opportunities as I have always felt strongly the same way. The good thing about separating standard vs. plus is that it allowed the plus industry to create their own lane, creating many opportunities for plus models while still encouraging, empowering and uplifting them along the way to always be confident and love yourself. Beauty truly comes in all shapes and sizes. The plus industry is really making some power moves and I love it.

MODEL SPOTLIGHT | TOSHA LITTLE

Photographer | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Model | Tosha Little MUA | Arya Bynoe Outfit and Shoes | Charlotte Russe

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