Queen Size Magazine March 2017 issue

ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

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MARCH 2017 ISSUE

MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

Cover Model EBONY WALKER

Fashion + Lifestyle

Cover image by Rick Jones

2017 FACE OF KURVACIOUS ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT GINA HUMBER

SKINCARE + GETTING FIT AT HOME DON’T MISS THE MEAT

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT DOMINIC DAVIS WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MARCH 2017 ISSUE

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

Photography | PDrew Photography Dress and Boots | The Avenue

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ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

FROM THE EDITOR Tawana Blassingame Founder & Editor in Chief

Welcome to the March 2017 issue of Queen Size Magazine.

This issue I would like to dedicate to the many people that don’t think they can.

I am living proof that you can do anything if you put your heart and mind to it.

A recent conversation reminded me of how far I have come. When I started this publication I started it with a dollar and a dream. I learned so much along the way. There were many times when I wanted to give up because I didn’t feel like people took my publication seriously; but I stuck with it and gained the respect of so many people that told me no in the beginning. If you love what you do stick with it, but do it right! Make sure you are giving your potential clients what they are looking for and not necessarily what you like. You can be successful but you have to love and respect what you do.

Take the first step in Faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase; just take the first step. ~ Martin Luther King, Jr. Thank you all for continuing to support Queen Size Magazine. 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 NICOLE FRANTZ Executive Assistant to the Editor in Chief MEESHA ANN Fashion Editor CRYSTAL CARMEN Beauty Editor DOUG SWAIM Director of Photography for the DMV area DIONNE REEVES-GRUBBS Model Recruitment Manager

Photography | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Designer/Stylist | K-Nicole Collections Accessories and shoes| K-Nicole Collections MUA | Crystal Carmen, Pink Stiletto Cosmetics

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CONTENTS FEATURED STORY

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EBONY WALKER - 2016 FACE OF KURVACIOUS WINNER

HEALTH AND FITNESS

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DON’T MISS THE MEAT

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GETTING FIT AT HOME

By QSM

By QSM

MODEL SPOTLIGHTS

MARCH 2017 ISSUE

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BEAUTY&FASHION

12 SKINCARE +

By CRYSTAL CARMEN

AMAZING MAKEUP 14 SEVEN ARTISTS TO LOOK OUT FOR

By QSM

16 SPRING IS IN THE AIR

By MEESHA ANN

BUSINESS

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ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT GINA HUMBER

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By QSM

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WE MADE JANUARY 20TH GREAT AGAIN

By QSM

SPOTLIGHT 36 MODEL DOMINIC DAVIS

By QSM

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

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DON’T MISS THE MEAT

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Many of us are looking for those easy to do “drop pounds” diet. Some of us have even thought about not eating meat and becoming vegetarians. I myself have been a vegetarian for a couple of years. It was a great feeling. I dropped some weight and felt overall healthier. After some time I began to feel some not so healthy anymore. I was tired a lot, I noticed that my hair was thinning out and my nails were becoming very brittle. I thought to myself this could not possibly be from not eating meat because people do this all the time.

The world was filled with vegetarians so what was my problem?

Well of course you know I took my problem to the World Wide Web and began to do some research. My doctor always warned me against doing this because at the end of the research you are more than likely to probably diagnose yourself with the worst possible disease leaving yourself to countdown the days to your death.

DON’T MISS THE MEAT | QSM

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And that was just what I did. I came up with some awful diagnosis and thought I should go and get myself checked out just to see how long I had to live. Needless to say my over-dramatic self was wrong. My doctor confirmed that I was not getting enough protein in my diet.

body needs relatively large amounts of it. Vitamins and minerals, which are needed in only small quantities, are called ”micronutrients.” But unlike fat and carbohydrates, the body does not store protein, and therefore has no reservoir to draw on when it needs a new supply.

According to WebMD Protein is an important component of every cell in the body. Hair and nails are mostly made of protein. Your body uses protein to build and repair tissues. You also use protein to make enzymes, hormones, and other body chemicals. Protein is an important building block of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and blood.

Along with fat and carbohydrates, protein is a ”macronutrient,” meaning that the

Some signs that your protein intake may be low are: • You feel very tired when you shouldn’t be.

• Your hair is falling out. Meaning you actually take care of your hair and it begins falling out for no reason.

• Your body takes longer to heal itself.

• Your nails become brittle and soft.

• Your muscle density begins to

decrease.

Some foods that you can eat in place of your meat are: • Nuts and seeds • Eggs • Beans • Non Fat Mozzarella Cheese • Apricots The recommended amount of protein intake depends on your age, weight and some other factors. Be sure to always check with your physician before you decide to change your diet. And before you take out the meat make sure your body doesn’t miss the meat.

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

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GETTING FIT AT HOME Ladies, one huge misconception is that being Plus Size gives you a free pass not to work out. I cannot begin to tell you how wrong you are for thinking that way. We all must work out to maintain good health and healthy hearts. In addition to being healthy, you want to tighten up your body and try to get rid of as much body fat as you can. No one is saying that you must work out to get skinny but it is a scientific fact that an excess of fat in the body can cause major health conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes, High blood pressure, Stroke, heart disease and certain types of cancers. You want to try to get yourself on a workout regimen. We all know that it is very difficult to build up enough motivation to get started and it is that much easier to quit; but you want start with a regimen that you know that you can and will stick with.

Start out slow at first and then work your way up. You don’t necessarily need to join the gym; you can very easily create workouts at home using things that can be easily found in your home. You can do exercises while you are doing household chores as well. Here are a few suggestions that I have done myself.

Squats: This can be done while you are doing laundry. Put your clothing on the floor or in a basket in front of the washing machine. Do proper squats to pick up and put the clothes in the machine.

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GETTING FIT AT HOME | QSM

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Climbing stairs: This is a great exercise for toning your butt. If you have stairs in your home, spend some time walking up and down then a few times each day.

If you work in a building with stairs, take the stairs instead of taking the elevator. Or if your work too high up, walk a few flights and then catch the elevator the rest of the way.

Chair lifts: This is not lifting the chair; this exercise will work on your abs. Find a chair in your home and while sitting on the edge of the chair with your arms to your side, lift yourself off the chair with your abs moving towards the ceiling. Continue to do this motion in a slow, steady movement, taking approximately 5 seconds. Rest for a second when you brush the chair and come slowly up. Breathe in as you lean back and out as you sit up. You can do this while watching your favorite TV show.

Jump rope: Why not borrow that rope that your kid is not longer using or just go to the store and buy your own. Jumping rope is a great fat burning exercise; don’t underestimate that.

Walking: One of the simplest and underappreciated exercises there is. We can find MANY opportunities during our day to accomplish some walking. Instead of driving to the store, walk. If you take the bus, get off a stop or two ahead and walk the rest of the way.

These are just a few suggestions on regimens that you can add to your daily schedules. We can now stop using the excuse of not being able to afford a gym.

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

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BEHIND THE GLAM

By CRYSTAL CARMEN

PAMPER YOUR SKIN, EVERYWHERE...

THE RUSTIC BRIDES

While trendy makeup is hard to ignore and so much fun to try, keeping that pretty canvas (your skin) in tip top shape is a totally must. In the beauty world it's easy to love the glitz and glamour but your skin is the body's largest organ and you should put as much effort into caring for all of it as you do making that winged liner sharp enough to cut.

Skincare + EVERYWHERE

I love: www.amentaskey.com Wholesome ingredients and delectable scents body care, candles and more... www.pinkstiletticosmetics.com Enjoy the beauty of makeup without sacrificing your skin.

Luxury Skincare Brand, Amenta's Key

"Chose a brand with lots of the ingredients your body will love and less that your body won't. "

Say Nope to Commercial Soap Chemicals are absorbed by the skin. This is fact. The amount varied widely base don amount of exposure, concentration and length of time exposed to name a few. The does makes the poison as they say. While some have adjusted their skin care like those who use, Pink Stiletto Cosmetic's Rewind Organic Day Cream or their Renew Luxury Facial Bar, some are slow to adapt this upgrade to their soaps and washes. **https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Absorption_(skin)

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Fragrance is the #1 reason people buy a soap or a bodywash over another.

Little thought goes into formula. Skin is on your whole body so let's go over where chemicals are absorbed the fastest. In general the rate of absorption of chemicals through skin follows the following scheme from fastest to slowest: Scrotal > Forehead > Armpit≥ Scalp > Back = Abdomen > Palm = under surface of the foot.** That being said take care of of all of your skin. You have it for life.

ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

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SEVEN AMAZING MAKEUP ARTISTS TO LOOK OUT FOR

Photography by Andre McNeil MUA | Crystal Carmen

Photographer & HMUA: Graciel Vale

Crystal Carmen is a cosmetic

Katherin Laparra

formulator, beauty educator and professional makeup artist with over 10 years in the fashion and beauty industry.

From celebrity clients to the girl next door, Crystal is known for treating every client like a star. She has cultivated five years of formulation experience and study of the effects of makeup on the skin to create her own organic based cosmetic line; Pink Stiletto Cosmetics. Crystal Carmen is former plus model and has extensive experience both on the runway and behind the scenes as Creative Makeup Director. Notably she is also the first cosmetic brand owner that is plus size AND her brand’s own spokesmodel.

Crystal is alco the Beauty Editor for Queen Size Magazine.

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Certified Makeup artist/ hairstylist/ airbrush/spray tanning. She started in the world of Fashion two years ago in different shows. Register New York Fashion Week Fashion Gallery, Latin Fashion Week, Bronx Fashion Week, Brooklyn Fashion Week, New Jersey Fashion Week and many independent shows as well as Pageantry Shows.

Katherin had work in short Films, editorials weddings, and proms.

Last year she started working with a Fashion Week Show in NYC as a Coordinator, working hand to hand with the Producer. She also started working with a TV Show as a Host and collaborates with diverse communities in NYC in different events which made her received two awards and recognition for her work and talent projected.

Pjotography by Jose Pagan MUA | Rayyan

Rayyan is a New York based

licensed hairstylist and makeup artist. Formally trained at Paul Mitchell the School in North Haven, CT, Rayyan’s work has appeared in fashion and beauty publications across the country, as well as on the catwalks of major industry events including New York Fashion Week and Full Figured Fashion Week.

Nayyara Beauty is an independent start-up style brand. It serves as not only a platform for Rayyan to showcase her work, but as an outlet to share her tips, recommendations, tutorials and more. Inspired by the fashion industry and being extremely passionate about her craft she hopes to develop her own beauty line under the Nayyara Beauty name.

SEVEN AMAZING MUA’S TO LOOK OUT FOR | QSM

Jahi J.Sadiq-el Photographer for Intricate Photography

Angela Perymon is a

native of Florida and now resides in Philadelphia, Pa. Angela is an accomplished model, MUA and actress. She has been in the beauty business for over 20 yrs.

Her beauty looks have been shown internationally on the 2014 Sensational Next hair campaign in Korea and the USA. Her makeup looks have been featured in multiple publications such as Queen Size magazine 2014 Breast Cancer issue. Most recently she was featured in BB Magazine 2016 End of Summer issue on stands in Manhattan.

One of her great accomplishments was to have her looks featured on a billboard in Philadelphia for her company Top Line Divas.

Angela has done makeup for multiple models and designers at over 60 runway shows in the Tri- state area since 2011.

She has recently collaborated with B Pretty Inc to teach women about makeup and skin care at the annual Catch My Lash panel discussion in 2015 and 2016.

In 2015 Angela started Top Line Divas with her business partner Jennifer Laws. As the Executive Director of TLD she assists models with their skin care, image, runway walks, and style.

She was instrumental in opportunities for the TLD Models to be published and be scouted by her agency MMA(Model Management Agency).

She became a live on-air model for QVC, and her beauty looks are seen weekly on air.

Angela believes that ”Beauty comes from the inside out and you must first love yourself! Makeup should enhance your natural beauty not change it!”

Photography by April Zurenda MUA | Kelsi Dunn Stylist | Model

Photographer by Alyssa Longchamp MUA/Stylist: Tanya J.

Unissha McNeil is

Tanaya J.

a freelance makeup artist based in Raleigh, NC. She learned how to apply makeup when she was in school as a teenage girl. She has always loved colors so it came natural to her to experiment with different cosmetics. After becoming a model, other models and photographers took notice of her skills and began booking her to do their makeup and to work on projects. The bookings for her MUA services at runway shows and on sets of photo shoots started coming in. She has had the opportunity to work with Combat Boots to Make-up Brushes (CB2MB) which helps give back to women veterans. Her along with the team provide makeup services at an event in DC for head shots and other skill building tools. “I just love doing make-up and showing off different sides of one’s personality”.

A native of the Manhattan’s Lower East Side, New York’s hippest and trendiest neighborhood; Tanaya J has always had a passion and vigor for making the world one beautiful face at a time.

She believes that ”Beauty is Inspiration” and with over 8 years of experience in the Fashion and Beauty industries, Tanaya J has dedicated herself to making women from all walks of life feel their best selves!

As a Pro Makeup Artist her skills range from Bridal, Beauty, Television, Runway, and Fashion makeup applications. Tanaya’s work has been featured on the Tyra Show, Canada’s Reality Series Wedding In Law War’s, Zion Society.com, Full Figured Fashion Week, Celebrity Kenyatta Jones of Hit television show “House of Curves”, Celebrity blogger Marie Denee of the Curvy Fashionista, Actress Vicky Jeudy from the hit Netflix series Orange is the New Black, Fashion Networking Event Fashion Fete NYC, Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, and Harlem Fashion Row. Currently, Tanaya J is a National Core Trainer for Sephora and travels the country training Sephora employees on all facets of the Makeup, Skincare, and Hair care.

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Photographer by Rick Crank MUA | Lawanda Sanyang (Lala Faces) Sylist | Florence Wallace

Lawanda Sanyang,

also known as (Lala) is a self-taught freelance makeup artist and owner of Lala Faces Makeup Artistry in Raleigh/Durham North Carolina. She began her journey in makeup as a young girl. Make up was her hobby for years. Inspiration from a fellow Makeup Artist, Vanita Henderson, propelled her to GO FOR It! Her journey as a freelance artist started in 2014 has afforded her the opportunity to meet many wonderful artists such as, Celebrity Artist Iris Sinclair DePaulo who believed in her talents and gave her the opportunity to work as a Makeup Artist during New York Fashion week 2015. This was one of her most rewarding experiences to date.

Her belief and motto is that she is providing “The Beauty that Every Woman Deserves”.

Everyone has a story and truth that they carry. “If I can help women to move toward that truth through the beauty of Makeup, I have done more than I could ever dream”.

Makeup is not just about painting the face, it is about a sense of freedom from emotional and physical trauma and with the right beauty tools she believes that women can begin their transformation.

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

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Spring is in the air and it’s time to shift the color game.

This time of year, infamous for its vibrant colors which are definitely welcoming coming the gloomy gray winter we had. However, Spring 2017 promises to a bit more soft and warm this year and as a result, we will be seeing a lot of primrose yellow, hazelnut, island blue and kale green on the racks. Now that you are fully aware of the upcoming trends let me see your fashions style on Instagram. Remember to use the hashtag #queensizemagazine for us to see those spring outfits.

FOREVER 21

~Meesha Ann

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SPRING IS IN THE AIR | MEESHA ANN

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ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

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BUSINESS

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Ebony Walker

Photography | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Designer/Stylist | K-Nicole Collections Accessories | K-Nicole Collections MUA | Crystal Carmen, Pink Stiletto Cosmetics

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EBONY WALKER | QSM

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BUSINESS

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GETTING TO KNOW

Ebony Walker In June of 2015 when something clicked in Ebony Walker’s head; she decided no longer wanted to just be the “normal” wife and mom of three kids. She decided that she wanted to live. That meant doing something she has always wanted to do since she was fifteen years old. She decided at thirty three years old that she wanted to be a model. Ebony started researching local events coming up in the DMV area that she could attend and network. She also reached out to local models that she searched for on Facebook and starting sending them messages for guidance. The first and only lady who reached out to her was Monica Day. She welcomed Ebony with open arms and took her under her wing to show her the ropes. Once Ebony had a mentor she started working on a plan to expose herself to the right people. She found a local photographer Robert Jacobs that agreed to help her with a few looks and shots. Once she got the images back, she began her journey as a model. She first began posting the images on her social media pages (Facebook and Instagram). Ebony knew from the beginning that she wanted and needed support from her family and friends so it was important to keep them up to date with her process. Next it was time to learn the walkway for that runway. Like most models, she began her practice by researching different walking techniques on YouTube. Then she began walking up and down the floor in her kitchen to come up with her own unique style of walking. When she was comfortable in her walk it was then time to put it to use. She auditioned at a local fashion show in Richmond, VA, her hometown, and was chosen. Once she stepped on the runway that was it; she instantly became a favorite and people could not keep their eyes off of her. The confidence she possessed on the runway was undeniable.

”Your success is not measured on how many shows you do but on how many people you inspired”

She then realized she did not want to just be a local model. It was time to make weekend trips to NYC and get in the face of the game changers.

Believe it or not when she went to NYC for the first time for a small event and the NYC models recognized her from social media. She was excited about this. This confirmed to Ebony that she was doing something right.

Next thing you know she started going to NYC more often. Her trips to NYC included going to Liris Crosse Life of a Working model boot camp. This class taught Ebony what needs to be in a model bag, top agencies to submit to if you wanted to become a signed model and improving your run walk. Learning from the “Naomi Campbell’ of plus was something she was humbled by. But it did not stop there. She also took Jeannie Fergusons “Walk this Way” runway class and was hooked. It was something about Jeannie that Ebony connected to. She respected the criticism and used it to make her walk even better. Jeannie became like a model mother to Ebony and helped to make sure she did the right things to be successful in this industry.

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EBONY WALKER | QSM

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By the end of the 1st year anniversary of her modeling journey, she had already accomplished far more than some of her fellow models who have been in the industry for much longer. She has walked in Curves Rock Fashion Week, The Great American Hat show and District of Curves.

She was one of the chosen models for the 2016 official Kurves Calendar created by Francie Maupin. Ebony also made “The Wall” for Full Figured Fashion Week. The most prestige accomplishment Ebony made in 2016 was being crowned the 2016 Face of Kurvacious. The completion has opened up so many doors for her including becoming the campaign model for The Fashion Avenue News fragrance “Fabulous” as well becoming a cover model for the November 2016 issue of Fashion Avenue News Magazine. Ebony has received several messages from people telling her how they are inspired by her pictures and her journey, and that they too have started their own journeys; journeys that they thought that could never accomplish. So far this entire journey has been so humbling and she is not done. 2017 is going to be bigger and better for her. She is definitely someone to watch out for.

Photography | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Designer/Stylist | K-Nicole Collections Accessories | K-Nicole Collections MUA | Crystal Carmen, Pink Stiletto Cosmetics

THE 2016 FACE OF KURVACIOUS

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BUSINESS

EBONY WALKER

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Photography | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Designer/Stylist | K-Nicole Collections Accessories and shoes| K-Nicole Collections MUA | Crystal Carmen, Pink Stiletto Cosmetics

EBONY WALKER | QSM

QSM: Reading your bio almost made me want to begin a modeling journey too. LOL. You made it look so easy.

What inspired you to begin with?

Ebony: I was always told how beautiful I was and I should consider modeling. Even at an early age. I let life get the best of me and pushed it to the side. When I turned 32 (this is when I felt I became a woman) I decided I was going to finally do what I wanted to do and not let the world tell me what I should be do. I wasn’t living I was just existing before this time. Although I had a good husband, successful career and kids it wasn’t enough to make me happy or complete.

QSM: Let me just say that was a joke. I am good writing this magazine. LOL. What did you want to be growing up? And what do you do for a living now?

Ebony: When I was young I wanted to be chef. I went to Le Cordon Bleu in Pittsburg for one year but got so homesick I dropped out. I am now a mortgage loan processor for Navy Federal Credit Union. It is a stressful job but also very rewarding. It doesn’t hurt that they pay me well also. My goal is to be a full time model though. I haven’t figured out how to live off of just modeling but I am working on it.

QSM: Has there ever a time when you want to quit?

What are some of those reasons?

Ebony: Absolutely. Not that long ago actually. At the beginning of January 2017 I got the thinking and I thought about not modeling anymore. The reasons are because I felt the odds are against me to do this as a full time career. I am a petite model (5’5) and I live in Northern Virginia. Although I am good at what I do reality is doing this full-time is slim to none. I talked to my close mentor in tears and said I don’t know if this is worth it at the end. At the same time I couldn’t think of anything else I would rather do. I would just be existing again and not living and that was not an option. I might have the odds against me but I am not a fighter and I know it is possible for me to be successful. I just have to keep pushing and networking with the right people. I will not happen overnight but I am sure it will happen.

QSM: What is it that keeps you going on those days that you want to give up?

Ebony: I have inspired so many people and I get private messages all the time from people that I didn’t even know that was watching mu journey letting me know how my story made them finally do this or that.

I also have to be a role model to my kids and show them to never give up on the goals they have set for themselves. Failing or being defeated is not an option.

QSM: You have done pageantry, runway shows, campaign ads, magazine features, etc. What else is

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there left for you to conquer as a model?

Ebony: Hmmmm. I want to dabble in being a FIT model.

I think that is something I need to explore this year.

Ultimately I want to be one of the major plus models in the industry as well. I think some people think the only face of plus modeling is Ashley Graham and that is not the only person that represents us. I want to be a household name across the world.

QSM: What are your thoughts on the progress of the plus size industry thus far?

Ebony: The plus industry is so small and I feel like only a few models in the industry are noticed and seen. I think in 2017 the industry should let some new faces in for the spotlight. I definitely feel like it is favoritism going on in the industry right now.

QSM: What are some changes that you think we all can make collectively to help us grow?

Ebony: I think we just need to allow the opportunities to be spread equally across the industry. You see the same models at all the shows and campaigns. I think again as I stated before it is time for some new faces. It is time for some new household names to be recognized.

QSM: What are some of the things (in your opinion) that a model should have under her belt before she can earn the title of a model?

Ebony: Great pictures and a few paid gigs is what I think will make you a “model” Once some of the head honcho’s in the industry recognize you because of you work I think it is time to drop the inspiring from the inspiring model title.

QSM: Congratulations on becoming the 2016 Face of Kurvacious. What made you enter the competition?

Ebony: I wanted to of course network with some of the top people in the industry and I knew entering this completion would give me the exposure I needed. It also continued to inspire other to pursue the dreams they thought were impossible. I met a lot of great people. To be honest I didn’t think I was going to win. I really just wanted to enjoy the experience. Being that it was my first year I didn’t think I would win the title.

QSM: Did you go in thinking that you would actually win? You had some real competition there. Lol Ebony: To be honest I didn’t think I was going to win. I really just wanted to enjoy the experience. Being that it was my first year I didn’t think I would win the title.

The goal was to get my feet wet see what happens and enter next year in 2017. Of course I was still going to give it a good shot and made sure I had the best clothing for the event but certainly didn’t think I was going to win it.

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QSM: Besides this cover feature (shameless plug) what are some of your other winnings and responsibilities that came along with your crown?

Ebony: I became the campaign model for Fashion Ave News magazine fragrance “Fabolous”. It was the 1st Face of Kurvacious winning model to achieve that. Great exposure again for me a Ms. Tiff brand Kurvacious.

QSM: Who are some of the models in the industry that inspires you?

Ebony: Jeannie Ferguson for sure. She is a petite model just like me and a hustler. To be honest if it wasn’t for her honesty and help I do not think I would be where I am today. I love and appreciate her very much. Probably know. She is a boss and I want to be like that in this industry. I also find my inspiration from Liris Crosse, Laura Lee and Samantha Lebbie.

They are definitely heavy hitters in the industry and I want to follow their steps.

QSM: If you had the opportunity to sit down and pick the brain of one person who would it be? And what would you ask them?

Ebony: Liris Crosse. I would ask her all that she did to be successful as she is and then prepare a plan to make sure I became as successful and accomplished as her. I would also find out all the people I should connect with and make an effort to network with them.

QSM: Name two things that you can do without in this industry. Yes I am being bad. Lol Ebony: Favoritism and so called model friends that are not really for you but against you. I certainly learned that over the past year. You can’t let everyone on what you have going on because it is cut throat in this industry for sure. Don’t get me wrong I have a small circle of amazing women that I know got my back but like I side that circle is small.

QSM: What is next for you Ebony? What can we expect to see within the next few years?

Ebony: I hope to walk in Full Figured Fashion Week this year and hopefully become a signed model. I want to do ecommerce for some of the major plus clothing lines. I hope to travel internationally to get exposure in other countries as well.

QSM: Thank you for this interview and good luck to you. We will be following. And speaking of following, please drop your contact and social media information.

Ebony: Just a bit of advice for inspiring models coming into the industry for the first time. Do your own research. Google is your best friend. Sitting around sending people messages saying”how do I become a plus model” will not help you in your journey. You have to find out for yourself.

You can follow me on Instagram and my Facebook Model Page.

Instagram: ebony_walker82 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ EbonyPlusModelWalker

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Photography | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Designer/Stylist | K-Nicole Collections Accessories and shoes| K-Nicole Collections MUA | Crystal Carmen, Pink Stiletto Cosmetics

EBONY WALKER | QSM

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”Failure is just a word.

It’s not an option”

Photography | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Designer/Stylist | K-Nicole Collections Accessories and shoes| K-Nicole Collections MUA | Crystal Carmen, Pink Stiletto Cosmetics

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Photography| Tanzie Johnson Photography Studios

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ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT | GINA HUMBER

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GINA HUMBER

Author & CEO Diversity is a Verb LLC Gina I. Humber is a national speaker on diversity and education, a NYC educator and an accomplished author of It’s All Good- A Book About Self Acceptance and Diversity for young children. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from City College of New York, where she earned her master’s degree in Special Education and a minor in African American Studies. Ms. Humber has written numerous curriculums for the NYC DOE and has received certificates and awards for her work with youth and youth

catapulted her as the new face in the industry willing to ”keep it 100%”. Ms. Humber has been quoted in saying ”Because what’s at stake is the lives and minds of our youth. Caught up in a political, social and economic system designed to steal, kill and destroy our existence. I cannot consciously allow this to continue.”

empowerment programs in New York City.

of diversity combating global racism. So much so, she has created the company Diversity Is A Verb LLC. Her company works with schools/youths orgs/companies who wish to empower their students/members with empowering books, educational material and speakers geared to improving academics, social behavior and self acceptance. Creating a cultural sensitivity environment where our differences aid in student and job performance and our similarities remind us of our humanity.

Ms. Humber has self published It’s All Good- A children’s book that helps build self acceptance and esteem in children who look different or feel different, in a world that minimizes people to categories and biases. While at the same time giving a true perspective on diversity and creating open dialogue with children to discuss and celebrate their differences and similarities. Ms. Humber is a radio guest on the Maggie Linton Show on Sirius xm, on the Manny Faces radio show here in NYC and on ”In Focus” with Marc Clarke. She remains to be a highly sought after guest speaker on numerous other media platforms such as her television segment on ”The Importance of Having Books With Diverse Images” on ABC CTSYLE. Her expertise and frankness on racism and its effects on education has

QSM: First and Foremost, I thank you for granting me this interview. And I commend you on what you are doing. Gina, tell me about your early childhood years.

Gina: I grew up in an upper middle class family in Westchester, (moved from NYC) with my two other siblings, both parents. Lived well, but experienced racism daily from the all European American community we lived in, so I got a clear indication who I was, and how I had to move in their world. Which was a large contrast to my previous world where I was surround by those who looked like me and talked my language, nor was

Ms. Humber has sat on many panels regarding racism and has been a speaker who understands the importance

We welcome you to visit our website Ginahumber.com and join our Twitter with 10k followers who feel and support Ms, Humber in her endeavors. Along with her Facebook family @ Gina Humber.

there a threat of safety based on my melanin.

QSM: When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

For some strange reason I wanted to be a teacher. Not sure why though; when I got out of school going back was the last thing on my mind. Lol Gina: lol...I just wanted to famous, whatever in my mind famous meant. I just basically knew I wanted to live in downtown NYC, eat well, dress and drive well....I don’t necessarily think I planned out...how? But in time, being an educator became what I drawn too, basically because that’s what

people were mostly around me. Dr of this or that, you getting lessons of the greats who have changed Black culture based on their ability to have access to education, and therefore skilled to change the conditions of self and community.

QSM: Was there anything in your past that lead you to becoming such a big advocate on diversity?

Gina: I guess dealing with racism as a child. Realizing that you can have a large home, horses, an in ground pool and though your parents feel like, you’ve made it, you understanding this isn’t it.

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QSM: What was that moment like when you decided to become a national speaker?

Gina: Funny thing, as an educator you are always speaking, so it wasn’t foreign when I was getting asked to speak in venues outside of my work environment.

I was more impressed, that people vibed with my message, that I was saying something that though they couldn’t convey...I was willing to tell a story that resonated with them, and the story caused such a connection, they wanted others to hear it too. And of course, the most powerful part...when that story/ connection moves you to action.

QSM: Have you always been so outspoken?

Gina: lol Always….and it hasn’t always been a good feeling.

QSM: Let’s talk about your book “It’s All Good”. Why did you choose to self publish?

Gina: I’m not one for crap, the crap of believing by publishers in I didn’t have a message or a story. That now for them to publish you, you’ve got to already have sold out Madison Square Garden, I believed in my children’s book based on the needs of my own daughter, and my students, and that was enough. I moved based on the need not based on their outcome, to worlds they don’t experience.

QSM: What is the book about and who was it intended to appeal to?

Gina: The book has many layers, seeing main characters who distinct ethnic features (Asian, Latino, African American... etc) the discussion of melanin, fat shaming, and those with disabilities.

The book was intended for parents to understand that most children have never heard the word melanin and how to have a conversation about that. That children are curious as to why one parent is light and they are dark, especially in a world that cultural conditions them that there is a preference. It was intended to aid in those conversations, that most teacher deal with in class, because those conversations are not being had at home. It was intended for diverse ethnic

groups to be able to tell their story, see their images and understand that our books...our part of the conversation not spoken of, if I don’t see me, and hear my story...I am invisible. And no one wants to be invisible, my book is about seeing the girl in the hijab, about understanding what melanin is, to have a conversation about fat shaming, to know that your ethnic feature make you...you. And you are seen and validated.

QSM: I have two sons; and what I have noticed is that children will be children if you let them. However, a lot our children are misguided by adults who teach them to dislike other children because they are different. With that being said, do you intend to write a book for adults too?

Gina: No, but adults learn through this book too….I have received countless emails from parents that forget they got teased about their eyes, body or skin tone, but they never passed that power to their child. So their child/children struggle with learning the lessons you forgot, believe it or not...a great children’s book teaches both, parent and child. I tried very hard to master that in this book, and I believe it’s been accomplished from the letters I receive.

QSM: What services do you offer under your company Diversity Is A Verb LLC? Gina: I go to schools for an author visit, either in person or virtually through Skype.

I help businesses understand how diverse content can increase their sales/bottom line and create global growth through speaking conferences and workshops.

And we now have a youth division on facebook called: Diversity is a Verb Youth Nation, where we get leaders and experts in diverse aspects of a teens life to provide that teen through live video chats issues that address specific needs: How to study better, developing self esteem, college info, career choices etc.. For free happening 7/7/17 at 7pm! But, parents most join the FB group for their teens by 6/30/2017 to get in the group. We got some heavy hitters signed up for the launch in July, and we’re very excited!

QSM: How many schools have you had the opportunity of speaking at?

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Gina: Too many to count lol, because we also do it virtually...so if there is a school in California, and I am on the East Coast we can virtually do an author visit. It allows me to go national!

QSM: I have done some research on you and one of the many things that I have come to absolutely admire about you is that it is pretty obvious that you are passionate about this. On behalf of every parent, I thank you. What are you currently working on that you can share with us?

Gina: lol I beat you to it...it’s our Diversity is a Verb Youth Nation, we have partnered up with Hype Magazine and other youth groups who will be having launch parties in their facilities. That means if you have a Girls or Boys Club in your town, they can on 7/7/2017 at 7pm have their kids get on their phones/computers/smartboards and get in on the video chat! Asking questions, and getting their group shouted out and possible be the place we video live from.

QSM: Please tell everyone how they can request or refer you to others that need to hear what you have to say.

Gina: Thank you so much, visit our site at Ginahumber.com, and connect with me on Twitter @ghumber720 where we have a following of over 10,000 and IG @GinaHumber and of course FB @ GinaHumber but if you’re a parent of a teen needing them to be successful join our Diversity Is a Verb Youth Nation Group on Facebook, because we are our own answers.

QSM: Before we end our interview is there anything else that you would like to share?

Gina: I am grateful you took the time to want to highlight what we are doing, it’s your type of platform that ensures, and we are not invisible to the community, and our stories and images being heard.

QSM: Gina, thank God for you. Please continue to do what you do. You have the support of Queen Size Magazine.

Gina: Humbled!

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Photography| Tanzie Johnson Photography Studios

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We Made

January 20th Great Again

On January 20th the nation experienced some change. For some it was a great day, for others not so much. I am a bit optimistic so I like to focus on the bright side of things. So let’s focus on and highlight some individuals who chose to make January 20th great again.

The fabulous Ms. Mogul (Gwen DeVoe) launched her long awaited blog on this day. I remember speaking to Gwen months before the launch and she mentioned that she was working on a blog and I was excited. I waited for months and counted down the days. Why? Because we all love Gwen, anything that Gwen puts out is quality so you know when you read her blog you are going to be educated, informed and entertained. Check out the blog for yourself. Don’t take my word for it. www.mogulmoments. com One of my favorite models, Lakisha Ellis, launched her modeling consulting. First, why is she one of my favorites? Because she is serious about her craft. She educates herself, she practices,

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she networks and she WORKS; continuously. So much so that she is now offering her services to new up and coming models.

Ellis Elliments Model Consulting specializes in assisting new and upcoming Models with the basic Model 101 knowledge they can use to get started in the Model World. This includes Model Coaching, Model Posing, Makeup Consultations, and Scheduling Photo Shoots with great photographers in the Maryland, DC Virginia area. If you are in the area and need some assistance check her out at www.elliselliments.com.

WE MADE JANUARY 20TH GREAT AGAIN | QSM

Also on this day The Original Runway Diva, Ms. Sharon Quinn did the very first live audience taping of her show “Model Behavior with Sharon Quinn�. The show has been on the air since December 2014 and is a great show for people who aspire to have a career in fashion and/or entertainment, be it out in front as a model or backstage in production.

The show focuses on the proper steps to follow to have a successful career in the fashion industry from industry veterans who have already achieved that goal. Model Behavior airs on the following cable channels on Saturdays at 11:30am. (FIOS 34, RCN 83, TWC 56, TWC 1996) You can also watch each show when it airs online via live stream at: http://www.mnn.org/live/2-lifestyle-channel.

Many models announced that they were selected to model in shows for New York Fashion Week; which is a great accomplishment. Congrats to you all.

Acceptance letters came in for many seniors preparing for college and high school.

Many people on my timelines are staying committed to getting healthy and shedding pounds. Keep going ladies and gentlemen, I am with you.

Congratulations to everyone that has purchased cars, homes, gave birth, announced pregnancies, engagements, marriages, or even made decisions to be a better them.

Thank you to all of you that contributed to making January 20th great again.

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Model | MAllory Richardson Photography by Casha Dess

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PHOTO CREDITS: PHOTOGRAPHY | RON MAYES PHOTOGRAPHY - MUA | ASHLEY FOREMAN - WARDROBE STYLIST | SHARONDA GRANDBERRY - ZEBRA SHIRT, VEST, AND BLACK PANTS | NEW YORK & COMPANY - SHOES | MICHAEL KORS

DOMINIC DAVIS| MODEL SPOTLIGHT

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ominic avis

”I truly believe a woman have to love themselves enough not to worry about the naysayers”

I am Dominic Davis, a plus model from Huntsville Alabama. I began my modeling career about 4 years ago. Over the years it hasn’t always been the easiest job in the plus size community because of what the world thinks an average plus size model should be. I began modeling to show everyone there is no one size, shape, or figure that women should be in order to be a model. You can be beautiful no matter what. I truly believe a woman have to love themselves enough not to worry about the naysayers, to surpass all the hate and pursue their dreams.

Self-love is a real reflection of who you are. I was the girl that was told “you will never be nothing or get anywhere in the industry” because of my size. Over the last four years, I have been in various photo shoots and modeled in a number of fashion shows. I look forward to doing many more fashion shows and photoshoots in and out of state. I have always enjoyed fashion and photography. The runway is a different level; it’s like therapy when you need it. The next upcoming event for me is Alabama Fashion Week with Alabama Fashion Alliance March 1-4, 2017. Outside of modeling, I enjoy being a teacher and child advocate here in my community where I partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Alabama.

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”Modeling is never

about being pretty or small enough, it’s about about being confident enough” ~ Dominic Davis

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DOMINIC DAVIS | MODEL SPOTLIGHT

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Photo credits: Photography | Ron Mayes Photography - MUA | Ashley Foreman Wardrobe Stylist | Sharonda Grandberry - Cape dress | Classic Maven boutique - Choker | New York & Company - Shoes | Steve Madden

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Photo credits: Photography | Ron Mayes Photography - MUA | Ashley Foreman - Wardrobe Stylist | Sharonda Grandberry - Zebra shirt, Vest, and black pants | New York & Company - Shoes | Michael Kors

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”Slay any day, anyway no matter what they say because we were built for this life”

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Photo credits: Photography | Ron Mayes Photography - MUA | Ashley Foreman - Wardrobe Stylist | Sharonda Grandberry - Cape dress | Classic Maven boutique - Choker | New York & Company - Shoes | Steve Madden

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