Queen Size Magazine September 2017 Issue by Queen Size Magazine

ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

COVER STORY:

SUPERMODEL

MEL O FAISON

SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE

MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

Fashion + Lifestyle

HOW TO AVOID THE MAKEUP MELTDOWN HAIR CARE TIPS FROM THE HAIR DOCTOR

SUMMER TO FALL TIPS AND IDEAS

MODEL SPOTLIGHT ANDREA SCOTLAND STACY VALENTINE ZENA BROOKS-VIGO

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

Photography | PDrew Photography Dress | Ashley Stewart Shoes | Anne Klein

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ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

FROM THE EDITOR Tawana Blassingame Founder & Editor in Chief

Welcome to the September 2017 issue of Queen Size Magazine. Summer is still around but you know itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to start getting ready for Fall. Time to start getting the kids ready to go back to school as well. Although I was born in the heart of summer, I am not a summer girl; I do not like the heat. Fall is my favorite time of the year because you get to enjoy the cool weather and not have to deal with those godforsaken allergies. I also look forward to pulling out my high boots and sweater dresses; my favorite fashion trend! In this issue we decided to do a double cover feature because while we are getting ready for fall, some are still enjoying the beach. We have also expanded our team so please join me in welcoming Courtney K. Pennington, Crystal Lewis and Lala Faces to the team. Each month they will be bringing you some great tips on health and wellness, hair and makeup, so look out for them. As always, thank you all for your support. We are six years in and still going strong; all thanks to you. We would love to hear your feedback. Email us at queensizemagazine@gmail. com and let us know what you like, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 ANDREA BLASSINGAME Makeup Artist EYANI COUTURE House Designer FLAVORS OF FULLNESS House Designer

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CONTENTS FEATURED STORY

MEL O FAISON

ANDREA SCOTLAND

By QSM

HEALTH AND FITNESS

SEPTEMBER IS SELF AWARENESS MONTH By COURTNEY K. PENNINGTON

BEAUTY&FASHION FAVORITE 2017 SPRING/SUMMER 10 OUR TRENDS

MODEL SPOTLIGHTS

SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE

32 16

By LALA FACES

12 AVOID THE MAKEUP MELTDOWN By LALA FACES

14 ARE YOU READY FOR FALL By MEESHA ANN

18 TIPS ON HAIR CARE By CRYSTAL D. LEWIS

20 FALL PRINTS By LALA FACES

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 40 MODEL STACY VALENTINE By QSM

SPOTLIGHT 46 MODEL ZENA BROOKS-VIGO By QSM

34 38 18 46

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

SEPTEMBER IS SELFIMPROVEMENT MONTH My name is Courtney K. Pennington, I’m a licensed massage therapist and Reiki Master/Teacher. I will be contributing wellness tips. I wanted to say thank you to Queen Size Magazine for inviting me to contribute to this publication. With September being self-improvement month, I thought it would be great to start off with some tips to bring out a better you this upcoming Fall. Here are my ideas for some easy and maybe not so easy efforts to make towards self-improvement. Try implementing a few each week during the month.

Just like it’s a great way to start your day, eating a better breakfast is a great start to improving your life. Try something simple like a “Honey Yogurt Fruit Smoothie”. Use equal parts fruit and yogurt about 1 cup of each. I love blueberries, and plain yogurt is great because you can build the flavor content of your smoothie just the way you want without conflicting fruit flavors. For a healthy sweetener use honey to taste (maybe 2 teaspoons) depending on your preferred sweetness level, and ice. Throw all ingredients into a blender and mix it up. You can use a little milk if you’d like a thinner consistency. Give it a taste before you pour yourself a cup so you can adjust your ingredients while still in the blender. Just a re-cap, throw 1 cup fruit, 1 cup plain yogurt, +(-) 2 teaspoons honey, milk and ice into a blender for an easy breakfast smoothie. Make “No -Cook Over-Night Oatmeal” by combining 1/3 cup milk, ¼ cup rolled oats, ¼ cup Greek yogurt, 2 teaspoons chia seeds, 2 teaspoons honey, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a 1/2pint jar with a lid; cover and shake until combined. Remove lid and fold in ¼ cup blueberries. Cover jar with lid and let sit in the refrigerator overnight about 8 hours. In the morning, its will be ready for you, when you start your day. Try an “Avocado Egg Boat with Bacon Waves”, Pre-heat your oven to 425 degrees, you’ll need 1 large avocado, 2 small eggs, at least 2 strips of bacon, salt, freshly cracked pepper, shredded cheese (optional). Wash then cut the avocado in half and remove the core. Place the avocado (hole up) in a ramakin or baking dish, crack egg into center of avocado, season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle on chopped bacon (if you like it crispy, precook the bacon), and cheese. Bake for 15-20 minutes, it may bubble but you don’t want it to be overly brown or burnt so make sure you check it after 15 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. You can eat it straight from the shell or spread it on toast. Get creative try it with tomatoes, potatoes, or your other favorite breakfast items, fruits and veggies.

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SELF IMPROVEMENT| COURTNEY K. PENNINGTON

Sometimes a great morning starts with a great night. Work on getting a full night of sleep 8-12 hours. It may not always be easy but try by going to sleep earlier than normal in the beginning to get the rest you need. Get in tune with your higher self and raise your vibrations. Try meditation, or reiki. Meditation isn’t always easy especial in this busy, get on your grind kind of world. Strong meditation takes practices so start off with 5-10 minutes in the morning or before bed, adding more time the more confident you become with being Zen. Another great way to get in touch with your higher being is Reiki energy work. Reiki is a non-denominational form of natural healing, do your research, and find a reiki practitioner you connect with and feel comfortable seeing. If you’re not sure where to start, ask a trusty massage therapist whom they recommend. Take time to enjoy life. Find some time to laugh with friends and have a good time each week. They say laughter is the best medicine, and if you’ve ever laughed so hard you couldn’t breathe you also know how great of an ab workout it can be (I think that counts as exercise for the day too *wink wink*). Get in touch with nature. Get some fresh air, lay in the soft grass, take in a scenic view. Slow down to appreciate the beauty of this world. Treat yourself! Take time to pamper yourself and relax. Have a spa day; get a massage, facial, a new hair style or mud wrap treatment. Buy something you have had on your wish list, or treat yourself to a nice dinner. Form a good habit like exercising or stretching every day. Don’t overwhelm yourself, 10 minutes of stretching a day is perfect. Take deep slow breaths through the stretch and hold each one for at least 10 seconds. If you’re not excited by exercising start off with 15 minutes of cardio, walking for 20 minutes, or 25-30 minutes of yoga. You can build slowly and challenge yourself a bit more each week. It takes about 21 days to form habit, so track your progress over three weeks and see how great you’re doing becoming a better you. Set a goal and see it through. Accomplishing a goal can be a confidence boost, and a sure way to implement self-improvement. Think and speak positively. Acknowledge your own beauty, take time each day to look at yourself and tell yourself you’re beautiful. Look in the mirror and say three things that are great about you and at least one thing that makes you a gorgeous amazing being. If you’re “too humble” think of somethings compliments people have given to you.

Please take note. The information provided is as an information resource only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patientphysician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider to discuss if these exercises are appropriate for your lifestyle or medical conditions. By: Courtney K. Pennington Reiki Master, LMT, Owner of UaHanSon.com Sources: http://allrecipes.com, http://www.personalcreations.com/blog/self-improvement-tips.

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SUMMER TO FALL LOOKS FROM AVENUE

www.avenue.com

Model: Jenny Runk – JAG Modeling Agency Hair: Liam – Bernstein & Andriulli Makeup: Vincent – Bryan Bantry Agency Stylist: Keith – Utopia Agency Photographer: Francesco Benson

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www.avenue.com Model: Naimah - Dorothy Combs Agency Makeup: Tiffany - Bryan Bantry Agency Hair: Vivi - Creative Management Agency Stylist: Keith - Utopia Agency Photographer: Francesco Benson

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6 10

BEAUTY AND FASHION

OUR FAVORITE SPRING/ SUMMER 2017 TRENDS

1. Ombre lips 2. Cut Crease 3. Dewy Face/Natural No Makeup Look 4. Nude Lips 5. Bold Eye 6. Highlights

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SPRING/SUMMER 2017 TRENDS | LALA FACES

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2 4

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

AVOID THE MAKEUP MELTDOWN | LALA FACES

AVOID THE MAKEUP MELTDOWN The heat is still here with us! You may be looking for ways to get that summer glow with a foundation routine without the makeup meltdown. There are many products on the beauty market that serves that purpose and leaves you glowing like you have been bronzed by the Gawds. If you are looking for a light application that gives you a big bang without feeling too heavy, try Nars Pure Radiant Tinted moisturizer with SPF Sunscreen. This product helps prevent sunburn, can help decrease the risk of skin cancer and early skin ageing caused by the sun when use with other skin protections. It provides a translucent veil of color, it is oil free and helps hydrate the skin to produce a natural glow. Pair Nars Tinted moisture with a Relvon Color stay Mineral Finishing powder. The powder is an all over enhancing color in a talc free mineral formula and is longwearing. Highlight the cheekbones, bridge of the nose and under the brow bones with your favorite highlighter such as Anastasia’s Beverly Hill Golden Dawn or MAC’s Mineralize Skinfinish for that soft settle low. If you want a full coverage foundation for the poolside try MAC’s Pro longer wear Nourishing Water Proof Foundation that will give you that full coverage without the meltdown. The foundation is an oil-free watertight product that stands by its reputation for repealing moisture from the surface of the face; not even rain or tears will cause the foundation to budge. Great option for a poolside or beach photoshoots. Be sure to use a ratifying primer to help block the oils and maintain your flawless foundation application. Don’t forget to set your makeup with Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup setting spray to hold everything in place for hours. Pack some Blotting papers in your purse to help with freshening the face by absorbing the oils and you are on your way to a fabulous Summer Glow.

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Are you ready for Fall 2017? Well we are; and as usual we here at Queen Size Magazine have you covered. We are pleased to announce this year fall colors! Ready for it!! Our fashion radar predict that this year will be filled with an array of blue, green and red. Typically, each season we see a specific shade trending within a season. Right?? Well fall 2017 has proven that fashion has no boundaries and as such a new trend is here. Here go our predictions: Blue 1. Navy Blue 2. Royal Blue 3. Baby Blue Green 1. 2. 3. Red 1. 2.

Teal Green Army Green Aqua Green Wine Red Christmas Red

ELOQUII

~Meesha Ann

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ARE YOU READY FOR FALL | MEESHA ANN

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Model: Riley - Wilhelmina Agency Hair: Vivi Creative Management Makeup: Vicky - Bryan Bantry Stylist: Keith - Utopia Agency Photographer: Francesco Benson

www.loralette.com

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SUMMER TO FALL LOOKS FROM LORALETTE

Model: Stella MUSE Agency Hair: Carmel - Ray Brown Agency Makeup: Vicky – Carole Bantry Agency Stylist: Keith – Utopia Agency Photographer: Francesco Benson

www.loralette.com

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BUSINESS

I Say Yes Back to Basics Hair Care

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TIPS ON HAIR CARE | CRYSTAL D. LEWIS

TIPS ON HEALTHY HAIR ASK THE HAIR EXPERT

HELLO, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN I would like to introduce myself, my name is Crystal D. Lewis and I am the Owner of I Say Yes Salon & Spa in Delanco, NJ. I have been in the Beauty Industry for over 20 plus years. I have worked with all types of hair and I only use natural eco-friendly products. The question that I am always asked is, how can I achieve healthy hair? So I began my research …….. I read about different alcohols and chemicals that are in hair products. There are hair friendly alcohol products and non-friendly alcohol hair products. Fatty alcohol is your good alcohol, then there is basic chemistry alcohol, this is a subject I will discuss at a later time. Back to healthy hair. To achieve healthy hair, you must begin from the inside out. What you put in your mouth, may affect your hair. For instance, most of the medication people take, tends to dry or cause hair loss: Some medications that causes hair loss or a dry scalp are: High Blood Pressure medication Cholesterol medication

Diabetes medication Water Pills Chemotherapy Treatments Kidney medication There are other medications that causes hair dryness and hair loss. Stress is another main cause of hair loss. So, the question is how can I have healthy hair while on medication and suffering from stress. Let’s go back to the Basics, DRINK YOUR WATER!!! your body is made up of 90% of water. How many of us are really putting that back into our body? Coffee, soda, and juice are not considered water just because it is a liquid. The recommended amount is eight glasses of 8 ounces of water

which equal out to 64 ounces. As we get older and our weight changes, the amount of water intake changes. You should be drinking half of your body weight. I know that this seems like a lot but it is very necessary for your body and organs to function properly. Drinking plenty of water will cause your skin to glow, with no break out and it will help your hair to grow. Not having enough water leads to dehydration, which can lead to serious health problems. If you want to spruce up your water so it doesn’t take bland, drink coconut water or you can add fresh fruits to give your water a great flavor.

One of my favorite recipes for flavor water is Mint/ Lemon Water: 16oz-32oz of Purified water 1 sliced lemon 1 bunch of mints Place in a pitcher with all the ingredients and let stand for 2-24 hours in the refrigerator, then proceed to enjoy a refreshing drink.

I always tell everyone that for hair growth we need to take a muti-vitamins or a pre-natal vitamin that can make your body, skin and hair healthy. (always consult with your physician first) I also recommend you have regular blood work done to

see if you have any vitamin deficiencies. This concludes my advice on how to make your healthy. The two main important pieces of advice is to drink plenty of water and take you vitamins I will be sharing advice on a monthly basic about, haircare

and skincare. Stay tuned! I SAY YES ! HAVE ANY QUESTIONS: Please send them too “Ask Crystal the Hair Expert” at queensizemagazine@gmail. com

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BUSINESS

FALL PRINTS |MEESHA ANN

fall prints

from ELOQUII by Meesha Ann WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE

BUSINESS

Mel O Faison Mel O Faison is a multifaceted entertainer with over 20 years of experience in acting, directing and vocal performance. She obtained her degree in theatre from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2008 and has since gone on to develop her craft expanding to modeling and dance. Mel has been blooming as a part of the Flower Child Productions family since 2015 and has been featured as a dancer, actor, and model for stage and film being seen recently as an Extra Fine Dancer in the world renowned Shelly Garrett’s Beauty Shop: Divas Unleashed 30th Anniversary tour and member of 432 Plus Size Dance Troupe whose premiere video “Look but don’t touch” was a viral sensation. Since 2016 Mel O has been a featured model at The Curvy Fashionista’s Style Expo, fit and active wear model for Alexis Simone Intimates, as well as the face and brand representative for Designs for DeAngelo during Small Boutique Fashion Week. Most recently Mel O had the esteemed honor to serve as a model and expanding the knowledge of her craft by working alongside the Original Runway Diva Sharon Quinn and the Mogul herself Ms. Gwen Devoe during 2017’s Full Figured Fashion Week in New York City. Outside of modeling Mel O was sought as a contributing writer for her sororities 20th Anniversary Newsletter highlighting the body positive movement and the importance of self acceptance and love. Through artistic expression Mel O uses her skill set as a director and actor to produce videos that tackle issues affecting herself and her community. Her most recent work centers around self acceptance and love and can be found on youtube and melofaison. com. Passionate about sustainability and her community her current work will examine local food deserts and the successes and failures of Senate Bill 498. Mel O considers it a blessing to be able to inspire those around her to be the best version of themselves and to never stop fighting to make your dreams a reality.

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FEATURED STORY | MEL O FAISON

Model | Mel O Faison Photographer | Jose Pagan Designer | Designs by DeAngelo Hair and Makeup done by Model

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BUSINESS

QSM: Well hello there my favorite Samoan. Tell us about life growing up for you. Mel: Talofa and Hey ya’ll! Well, I was born in Pago, Pago American Samoan and grew up in rural NC as an only child. I am incredibly blessed to be the daughter of two amazing humans who prayed endlessly for a child of their own to love. They are the only parents I have ever known and loved. I was raised Fa’a Samoa, the Samoan way, where God, Family, Respect for elders, ancestors and culture are core foundations of character and Love is central to everything we do. It was common place for my entire family to be together daily and at special events and you could get a whooping from whatever auntie or uncle was in proximity. My Dad was instrumental in providing structure and guidance, though I’ve always been too stubborn to listen and my Mother has been my hype woman, never missing a performance and always loving me through my storms. Their unique ways of love created the realest optimist you know today. I question everything while still seeing the best in everyone and situation. My extended family is my heartbeat with cousins who are sisters and brothers and a beautiful niece and nephews whom I consider my own. I grew up a little brown island girl in a small Southern town with two white parents so I’ve grown accustomed to being the center of attention even when it was unwarranted and I learned to make the most of it. Though my family is a beautiful Cultural mélange frustration from the lack of diversity and expression in the community served as a catalyst for me to excel artistically. I found solace and autonomy in exploring the works of Zora Neale Hurston, Maya Angelou, and Josephine Baker and eventually found my release on stage.

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FEATURED STORY | MEL O FAISON QSM: I’m not going to ask you your age. But I will say this; if you have over 20 years of experience then you must have come out the womb acting because you look about 20 something. Were you a dramatic child growing up? And is that what made you pursue a degree in theatre? Mel: Listen, I came out of the birth canal doing THE most! As all good Southern girls do I started singing in church with the adult choir as the only person under 40 and my passion to entertain just branched off from there. By the time college came around I had performed with all state choirs, at theatre competitions and numerous productions nationwide so when choosing a major Theatre was a no brainer. Pursuing a degree in theatre at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro allowed me to explore all aspects of the industry and I gained a wealth of knowledge not only from a performance standpoint, but also stage management, publicity and marketing and production. This education afforded me great tools that have allowed me to be well versed in all areas of creation that translates remarkably to the fashion world. QSM: Tell us something about you that people would be surprised to learn? Mel: Though I love to be the life of the party I am actually an extroverted introvert, while I thrive in social settings they often exhaust me and I need several days to recoup from the energy surge. My happy place is most often by myself or with my tribe embracing the moment and vibing. Disney clearly stole my face for their movie Moana and a portion of my life story; my grandfather was the chief of our village and my father and I hardly ever see eye to eye. I don’t have an animal side kick but I’m still voyaging the seas to put on for my people. Cheehoo! After conquering the world I can’t wait to retire to an island, go off

25 the grid, and live off the land. QSM: What are your thoughts on the body positive movement vs full figured fashion? Mel: Ooh honey! That’s a good one. Let’s see what kind of trouble I can get myself into with this, lol. In my opinion, body positivity is the ideology and practice whereas we positively reinforce that the body we currently are in is enough. It’s seeing our bodies as being vessels to get us from one level to another, cherishing our physical and mental health and not allowing societal standards of acceptance and beauty limit our self-acceptance and self-worth. Full figured, Plus fashion is a space in the fashion industry allotted to men and women who fit sizes 12 and up. I don’t believe it’s a question of one vs the other, they’re separate entities that often service the same communities. I love that the full figured fashion industry is beginning to include more body positive marketing as seen with Lane Bryant’s recent move to not edit out stretch marks however it’s frustrating when other brands bolster body positivity as a means to generate income but fail to service the community with diversity in marketing and merchandising. That parasitic behavior dilutes the body positive movement and is not a good look for those brands. At the end of the day, I love any movement that is intersectional (cough,cough) so it would be great to see both the body positive movement and Plus fashion include a more diverse range of melanin, ages, and body types and ableisms. REPRESENTATION MATTERS!!!

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BUSINESS

26 QSM: BEST RESPONSE EVER!!!! When did you realize that you wanted to dip into modeling? Mel: I’ve always been a ham in front of the camera, so it only seemed natural to add modeling to the repertoire. I wish I would have started earlier but I feel everything works on divine timing and this just happens to be my moment. QSM: In your opinion, what do you think the biggest misconception is when it comes to modeling? Mel: I think a lot of people forget that at the end of the day it’s a business. Fashion, Modeling, Product promotion and social media all of it is up for consumption. As a model, you need to have that business mindset from day one. Every move you make should be done with your goals in mind. It can be glamorous and fun and alluring but don’t get caught up in the hype of the likes. If you’re modeling as a hobby and self-gratification then by all means, do you boo! If you want to make a living in the industry, do your research and put in the work. QSM: What do you do for a living? And how do you balance all the many different aspects of your life? Mel: My Monday-Friday is in finance. My hours outside of my 9-5 grind are dedicated to the arts and modeling and nurturing human beings who I’m raising to be agents of change in a world that is in constant need of light and love.

familial roles. We have a tendency to hoist the whole entire Universe on our shoulders forsaking ourselves. I started my journey as a model at the largest I have ever been. Before that, I spent my life waiting for the right time to make moves and sometimes that never happens. Sometimes it’s never the right time to start a family, or change your career or follow your dreams. It’s in these moments, when you have to take a step back, reevaluate what you really want and determine how you’re going to put your thoughts into action. So that’s what I did, I wanted to model so I started modeling. I didn’t wait to lose that 30lbs or for the green light from family and friends, I just went for it because I knew this is what I was supposed to be doing. My biggest accomplishment thus far has been taking the first step and learning how to balance the world while leaving room for myself to give and receive life as it comes. QSM: You have walked in some top names shows; what is your ultimate goal for modeling? Mel: To God be the glory for the amazing shows I’ve been blessed to walk in, that’s really all there is to that! I’ve only been modeling a little over two years so any opportunity I receive I count it all joy and make the most of the moment. My first major show was The Curvy Fashionista’s Expo. I’m forever grateful to Marie Denee and the TCF team for taking a chance on #YourFavoriteSamoan.

I have a great husband and dope village of family and friends that make it possible for me to take advantage of all these amazing opportunities. They’re the real MVPs.

I had the most incredible experience participating in Mogul Diva Gwen Devoe’s Full Figured Fashion Week this Summer and under the tutelage of The Original Runway Diva Sharon Quinn! It was a goal I set on my vision board at the beginning of the year that I really had little expectation of accomplishing so when I learned I had been cast it was full shout and cry session with my loves.

QSM: Besides being a mom and wife, what do you think is your biggest accomplishment thus far? Mel: I really pride myself on following my dreams and taking leaps of Faith while allowing God to take me wherever I’m destined. As a woman, wife and mother I know how easy it is to lose “you” in our

My ultimate goal for modeling is for this thick model chick from Samoa with Southern roots to turn the industry upside down with a heart to serve others and tenacity to unapologetically live out loud. I want young girls and women to see me working and be encouraged to walk in their purpose and let their own light shine.

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Model | Mel O Faison Photographer | Jose Pagan Designer | Designs by DeAngelo Hair and Makeup done by Model

ARTICLE TITLE FEATURED STORY | BY|AUTHOR MEL O FAISON

QSM: When you hang up those heels, what are some of the things that you want to look back on and say I did it? Mel: Well brown don’t frown so I don’t foresee myself ever hanging up my heels BUT I want to leave a legacy of integrity and gumption. I want to be able to say I did the best I could with the cards I was dealt without compromising my faith or character. I want create art that is fearless and organic and disrupts the status quo. Should I ever leave the industry, I would want to know I made an impression that destroyed archaic values of beauty, while elevating women to take ownership of their radiance and presence. QSM: What are some of the other things that you have done as a model that is not listed in your bio? Mel: I believe we’re blessed to be a blessing so I recently established Malia’s Closet, a clothing pantry with the focus of providing clothing to young school aged people who are in need of plus sized garments. Growing up a thickums it was always a challenge to find clothing that not only fit but was age appropriate and helped me feel confident. At Malia’s Closet we believe that when you look good, you feel good and when you feel good you make positive decisions. There are tons of clothing pantries for young people but nothing for plus sized kids specifically. It’s my hope to lighten the load for parents and caretakers and create a source of confidence for the young people in my community. Malia’s Closet is 100% volunteer and donation run.

QSM: What advice can you offer to other models trying to come up in this industry? Mel: Get started now! Don’t wait until you feel like you’re ready, in life, you’re never going to be ready so do the most you can with the time and resources you have at your disposal. Surround yourself with people who love you for you, whether it’s family, friends or colleagues, you need to have people in your corner who are going to tell you the truth about yourself and hype you when you’re winning. Consistently, self-check, self-care, self-love. Comparison is the thief of joy, learn to celebrate those around you without doubting your own purpose and lastly, go where you’re celebrated not where you’re tolerated and learn how to get up from the table when love is no longer being served. QSM: Where can people follow you Mel? Mel: Fb: Malia Mel O Faison IG: Melofaison www.melofaison.com QSM: Thank you for your time and keep up the great work. Mel: Go into the future knowing that you are loved and your purpose was determined long before your existence. Love yourself unconditionally and live apologetically. And always, Be a pineapple. Stand tall. Wear your crown. Be sweet on the inside. Love, #YourFavoriteSamoa

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BUSINESS

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FEATURED STORY | MEL O FAISON

Model | Mel O Faison Photographer | Jose Pagan Designer | Designs by DeAngelo Hair and Makeup done by Model

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ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

ADVERTISING Rates & Sizes

Founded in 2011, we are a magazine dedicated to Queen Size women. Queen Size is not only about the physical size, but also the mental. We are dedicated to highlighting women of all walks of life. If you are a woman making Queen Size moves, then this is where you belong. We do not limit ourselves to just women; this was the basis of why we created the magazine. We are looking to highlight and promote small businesses owners/entrepreneurs, both men and women. Queen Size Magazine puts out a new issue every month with realistic articles written by real life people. We have writers that cover health and fitness, true life situations and experiences, fashion, recipes and more.

Ad Rates Full Page ½ Page ¼ Page Cover Story Inside Cover Back Cover Inside Back Cover ISSUE December/January February/March April/May June/July August/September October/November

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BUSINESS

Andrea Scotland

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FEATURED STORY | ANDREA SCOTLAND

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Andrea Scotland The beauty & essence of a woman comes from her soul & is more than skin deep. She has to be the embodiment of everything her heart desires.” Andrea Scotland embraces all these qualities. This stunning island beauty was raised in the Caribbean. Her strong Caribbean roots stem from the country of Guyana & the Island of Barbados. She has traveled & experienced different cultures & countries which have helped this intelligent & talented young lady ALWAYS think outside the box.” Her modeling career was sparked partly by her love of fashion, and also by her desire to create social change in the industry by influencing the perceptions of plus-sized models and ”curvaceous” body types. She continues to spread her messages,”LOVE THE SKIN YOU’RE IN”, and ”FIT, FAB & FOCUSED ALWAYS”. Andrea Scotland has worked with many well known designers. Her Game 2, Big Girls United (BGU), Thomas Lavone, Robert E. Knight, B. Pretty Inc, John Ashford and Jewel Shannon to name a few. She is currently involved in a few acting projects, TV show Vish Merrick, web series Supply and Demand, movie To Capture Steele and previously featured talent on Dr. Oz, Meredith Vieira, Bethenny, Amazon.com to name a few. Andrea is a Realtor, health & fitness coach and engaged in various entrepreneurial endeavors such as her Charm school program (www.fitfabfocused.com) for girls, project management for the consulting firm Sustainable Initiatives (www.sustainitall. com) and 1/3 CEO and member of the entertainment/empowerment group The Phoenix Jewels (www.thephoenixjewels.com). She currently resides in New York. WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE

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FEATURED STORY | ANDREA SCOTLAND

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38 QSM: This has been a long time coming and I am so excited to finally get you in our publication. How long have you been modeling Andrea? Andrea: I’m humbled and honored to be featured in your publication. I have been modeling for 10 plus years. QSM: So how long have you had this love for fashion? Andrea: My love for fashion and the art of transformation began seeing my late grandmother Gracie Durant, a seamstress, create garments identical to pieces in magazines. In addition, my mother who is quite a fashionista in her own right, watching her continuously carry herself with elegance and class through her style of dress and meticulously selecting each piece…which oddly enough seemed to tell a story every time she ventured out. QSM: Can you share some of your earlier years with us? What kind of child were you? Andrea: Some of my earlier years were spent in the country of Guyana (my dad is from there) where I was mainly raised and partly in Barbados which is where my mum is from and is also my second home where I spent some time. I was an extremely shy child and I really didn’t truly become comfortable in my own skin and know who I am until late High School into College. College is where I truly blossomed and became my “own woman” so to speak.

QSM: In an industry saturated with models, how do you stay relevant?

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Andrea: I stay relevant by ensuring I solidify the relationships I’ve already built which often lead to more referrals, interact with new photographers, MUA’s, stylists and staying true to myself. People like original and I embrace that. QSM: When you got into modeling did you think that you would make it this far? Was that your goal? Andrea: I really didn’t have an idea how far this passion and career would take me. My goals were always to be the best I can be, be true to myself and to never allow people and the industry change who I am……to thine own self be true. QSM: I have come across many models who also act. Which came first for you and is this something that kind of goes hand and hand? Does one usually spark an interest for the other? Andrea: Modeling was my first passion however I do feel the two go hand in hand to some extent. I do feel modeling is a form of acting since you are constantly portraying/transforming into various characters on set. QSM: Let’s talk more about your Charm School Program. What does this program entail and what sparked that interest? Andrea: I’ve always been passionate about giving back. IBF Charm School is my way of helping ladies young and old be comfortable in their own skin. I feel like empowering women to be better versions of their current self is one of the most beneficial things for any society and I wanted to be a part of grooming the next generation of women trailblazers. Yeah I know it sounds like a lot, but hey a girls gotta dream big!! LOL

FEATURED STORY | ANDREA SCOTLAND

My interest was sparked when I was approached by Timothy Marshall the owner and teacher of Ebenezer Preparatory School, the school I first attended when I migrated here. He expressed his admiration and how proud he was of the way I carried myself and the young woman I had become and urged me to think of a way of giving back. That summer I brainstormed and dreamt up this idea. I struggled with finding a motto for my program however while speaking to my fellow Jewel sister Tiffany-Nicole, she reminded me of a term I always said daily “FIT FAB FOCUSED”….I screamed, hugged and thanked her profusely and the rest is history. LOL QSM: Have you always been into fitness? I heard the stories from the other ladies of how hard you work them LOL Andrea: I haven’t always been passionate about fitness, however fitness has been a part of my life stemming from my father (a black belt..forgot what degree 2nd or 3rd) and my brothers and I who all took karate in Guyana. My passion for fitness began when I became more health conscious after being unhappy with the way my body looked, what I ate etc. I changed my lifestyle and started documenting my journey which in turn empowered women along the way. So I started a #FITCHICKS group where women empower, share, uplift each other regarding health and fitness struggles, accomplishments and goals. As far as the stories you’ve heard from other ladies of how hard I’ve worked them….they’re all Untrue….LOL… where’s the proof. LOL! QSM: I’m sure they have some proof lol. Speaking of the other ladies, tell us about The Phoenix Jewels.. Who are some of your clients? Andrea: By definition: The Phoenix Jewels are a group of 5 uniquely remarkable esteemed women who aspire to inspire others to greatness, through empowerment workshops, philanthropy and specialized events. Founded by Tiffany-Nicole, Sue Blackwood and myself. These women collectively hone so many talents from make-up artists, cosmetologists, dancers/ choreographers, singers, actresses, charm school, fitness bootcamp and overall brand ambassadors. They are happy to share their talents with the world and work together as successful multi-cultural women. Tiffany-Nicole, Sue Blackwood, Keesee, Tiffany Crafton and myself are…. The Phoenix Jewels. QSM: How did you ladies meet? Andrea: This unique group came together as a result of Deborah Williams CEO of Her Game 2 Inc. Apparel line, who brought us together through Harlem Fashion Week fashion shows, charity events, hosting and acting gigs etc. over the years.

QSM: How do you all manage to collectively run a company without killing each other? Lol Andrea: We all manage to collectively run a company without killing each other because we first of all put God first and have genuine RESPECT and LOVE for each other. We respect each other’s differences, opinions both positive and negative and know our bond is unique, special and blessed. Agreeing and disagreeing is built on mutual respect and having each other’s best interest at heart is ultimately what truly matters. QSM: Do you intend on adding anything else to your plate? And how do you balance it all? Andrea: I am always willing to learn and experience new things, I’m a bit overly ambitious so I won’t so no, I’ll say anything is possible LOL. QSM: What is your secret to success? Andrea: My secret to success is to stay humble, compassionate, confident, ambitious, loyal and always reinvent yourself. QSM: For the male followers…. Is Andrea single? Hey I know they are going to ask. Andrea: A girl’s got to keep something to herself. LOL QSM: LOL sorry fellas I tried. Thank you so much for your time and thank you for allowing us to pry into your whole entire life. LOL… Any final thoughts you want to leave us with? Andrea: Remember “Positivity breeds Productivity” = Success “Empower instead of devour” “Beauty radiants from within” “Believe in YOU!!! You are your brand and only You can pave your future In ALL you do stay “FIT FAB FOCUSED” QSM: Where can people follow you? Andrea: My social media Facebook: Andrea Scotland Fan Page: Andrea Scotland IG: andreascotland Twitter:andrea scotland Business www.sustainitall.com @sustainitall www.thephoenixjewels.com @thephoenixjewels @shemustbeajewel @IBFCharmschool @wearefitfabfocused @getrealwithDrea

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BUSINESS

STACY VALENTINE S

tacy Valentine, a model and actress of Jamaican descent, was raised in Brooklyn, NY. She works full-time as an IT Director in NYC and recently began exploring a career in acting and modeling 2 years ago. She has walked for Fashion on the Hudson, UBM Fashion Week, Ashley Stewart, and The Avenue. As an actor, Stacy has credits in off-Broadway theater in productions of “Nothing Serious” and “The Thalia Festival”, short films, the upcoming feature film, Monster, starring Jennifer Hudson, as well as TV shows such as Orange is the New Black, Madam Secretary, Homeland, The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmitt, and HBO’s Crashing. Most recently, Stacy won 1st place in the Manhattan Monologue Slam in NY, NY. She currently resides in her Northern NJ home with her daughter.

Model | Stacy Valentine Photographer | PDrew Photography Hair and Makeup done by model Wrap Dress | LaBeautique

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT | STACY VALENTINE

Model | Stacy Valentine Photographer | PDrew Photography Hair and Makeup done by model Blouse and Skirt | Ashley Stewart

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QSM: I remember when I first met you Stacy; I sized you up and said to myself “now she is unique, in a refreshing way”. Tell us about how your journey as a model began and why. Stacy: I swear I love you, Tawana. Haha! Well, “journey” is the perfect term for how I have been blessed to walk this amazing path with such beautiful and confident men and women. To make a long story, not so long, the events of 9/11 played a big part for me. Having experienced this day first hand, I really began to reflect on the unhappiness in my life in the form of my health, self-esteem, and being emotionally and professionally unfulfilled. On that day, I weighed just over 450lbs and had little to no self-esteem. I lived in Brooklyn at the time, and carrying this much weight on my 6-hour walk home from my upper west side office was remarkably eye-opening. I had already earned a double Bachelor degree in Clarinet Performance and Arts Management, as well as a degree from Connecticut School of Broadcasting since I was a part-time radio personality. I wanted to earn my Masters in Music and found myself with a great graduate assistantship opportunity at NYU. During my tenure at NYU, I had to take classes in other arts disciplines. Since I had taken acting classes before, I decided to rekindle that love and picked up a couple of classes. By 2015, I had lost more than 200lbs. and people started to ask me if I was a plus size model. My response was always like “Oh God no!” I was vaguely aware the growth and demand of using more full-figured models in runway, print, and even on television. In addition to focusing on living a more physically healthy lifestyle, I also worked simultaneously on a more mentally healthy lifestyle. In a seminar, I went to for work; I sat through a presentation on “Living Above your Comfort Zone.” I realized that the thought of being a model, for me, was unheard of, or even appalling to think about. By that time, plus models I did see in magazines or on runways were never more than a size 14 or 16. Fast forward to the summer of 2015, I visited an Avenue store to grab a couple pairs of shorts for an upcoming trip. The manager approached me and asked if I was a model. Again, I have my usual response and she replied, “well you should be! You are gorgeous!” She then asked me if I would be available for an in-store fashion show they were having in a few weeks and I thought this was the perfect opportunity to live above my comfort

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zone. It turned out to be an incredible experience with a lot of great feedback, compliments, and encouragement. From there, I became obsessed, but I wanted to be perfect in this journey. I googled any and everything plus-sized, including Queen Size Magazine, Full-Figured Fashion Week, and District of Curves. I started to attend castings and submit for everything. I very quickly learned that my runway walk was like a baby calf in heels. I started taking classes in everything I could afford – Runway walking, model lifestyles, posing, Make-up Application, anything I could get my hands on. After a few adjustments in my approach, I started getting casted for shows and the rest is my never-ending history. I am truly working at living above my comfort zone. QSM: WOW, that is quit a story. I have to ask you the same question I asked Andrea since she also does modeling and acting. Does the two go hand and hand? Does one usually spark an interest for the other? I am noticing a lot of models doing acting and modeling these days. Stacy: In my opinion, they do not necessarily go hand in hand. They certainly CAN in some instances, but only in applying acting techniques to modeling. I don’t really know how you could apply model techniques to acting as I approach each art very differently. Acting is really about “not” acting but living in the moment of whatever it is you are conveying to your audience. Whereas modeling is extremely poised and perfection of the human hanger so that the star is always going to be the garment or jewelry, or hat. You cannot be poised in acting. In my experience, many times photographers, model casting directors or model producers may suggest taking acting classes to “learn” how to express certain looks or sentiments, but to a well-trained actor, that would be exactly the opposite methodology used to express what is being conveyed to the audience. I won’t bore you with how all that methodology works though. Haha. I know some men and women who have gotten into modeling to get their acting resumes or faces out there. For me, it was opposite. The bookings I got from acting were paying far better than modeling, so that was really how my interest to re-vamp my acting career was sparked.

MODEL SPOTLIGHT | STACY VALENTINE

QSM: Being in the modeling industry for two years I know there are some things that you’ve seen that you would like to see change; can you name a few? Stacy: Oh my goodness, so many things that I would love to see change. However, you know what, I am a baby in this industry and will be a forever student and flexible in keeping myself and art relevant. With that being said, I would love to see more love given to size 18 and up models. I mean, there are some amazingly beautiful women out there who can slay a runway in 5 inch heels and have a tight, hourglass figure that would put any size 4 to shame. However, I do feel much underutilized in that area. Part of that issue is contributed by the lack of a “plus size” standard when it comes to modeling. Rhianna is being called “plus size” and I know she is not more than a size 10. Many model management companies do not sign models over a size 14, maybe a size 16 if you are out of this world. I would also love to see plus models be a little more assertive with protecting their brand and careers. Many times I feel like we can be so desperate to be seen, booked, cast, or noticed that we compromise who we are to enter shady agreements, or “pay to play”, or post all their half naked pictures on IG or Facebook to get a like. When I think about the plus models that are actively working and paid for their craft are smart enough to know that if you want to see what I can do, you will hand me a contract and a check. Save some for the booking. QSM: Who are some models that you aspire to be like? Same question for acting. And why? Stacy: Wow, there are a few that immediately come to mind for breaking the standard with their uniqueness, class, business sense, beauty, and just their runway skills are fire. Jerza, Bishamber Das, Christina Mendez, Tess Holliday, Liris Cross, and Nedra Phillips to name a few of my model inspirations. As far as acting, the genre I work in mostly are dramatic roles. Those I am most inspired by are Viola Davis, Kerry Washington, Rutina Wesley, Condola Rashad and Oprah Winfrey. QSM: As I understand, you also do spoken word correct? Stacy: Not on purpose, but it seems that a lot of what I do on stage can be interpreted as spoken word. I participate in a lot of monologue slams, festivals, and showcases and whatever is coming out of my mouth must be engaging, personal and all about performance. So, yes, much of it is spoken word. I would love to write and perform a true spoken word piece in a televised setting one day. QSM: Which one is your first love? Which one would you pursue if you had to only choose one? Stacy: If I only had to choose one, I would probably choose acting. There is an exhilaration and sense of fulfillment involved when you learn how to leave your soul on the stage. At the last Monologue Slam that I won, I had three people tell me afterwards that my piece made them cry, or that I inspired them to continue to pursuit of acting, or that I had gave them chills. To have that type of effect on someone is indescribable. If I do a great commercial retail shoot or kill it on the runway, mostly I’ve just inspired someone to purchase whatever I was wearing.

Model | Stacy Valentine Photographer | PDrew Photography Hair and Makeup done by model Wrap Dress | LaBeautique

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BUSINESS

Model | Stacy Valentine Photographer | PDrew Photography Hair and Makeup done by model Wrap Dress | LaBeautique

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT | STACY VALENTINE

Model | Stacy Valentine Photographer | PDrew Photography Hair and Makeup done by model Blouse and Skirt | Ashley Stewart

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT | ZENA BROOKS-VIGO

ZENA BROOKS-VIGO Zena is a native of New York but now resides in New Jersey. In 2014 she won the title of Queen at the BBWP International Pageant. She is a curvy commercial, print and runway model. Zena has walked on quite a few runways. In New York she graced the runway in Mt. Vernon at the World Is My Runway Fashion Show and Le Coiffeur Styles The Runway. She has also walked in Philadelphia at the African American Museum and Atlantic City Fashion Week as well as In-store fashion shows for Ashley Stewart in New Jersey. Zena is the current reigning Queen for The National Garden Mrs. Pageant. Zena is a Model, Marketing Representative and Event Decorator for Top Line Divas LLC. which she has been

a part of since it was founded. She enjoys mentoring the new models and sharing the knowledge she gained in the industry and working with TLD LLC. One of Zenaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many highlights was being featured on a digital billboard with 8 other curvy models and staff of TLD LLC. Zena is looking forward to more modeling and publishing opportunities to work with pioneers in the Fashion Industry. Besides strutting her stuff on the runway Zena also likes to dance and the highlight of her life is her grandson Josiah and daughter Brianna. Zena hopes to be an inspiration to never give up on your dreams!! Model | Zena Brooks-Vigo Photographer | Jay El- Sadiq (Intricate Photography) Designer | Sylvia Nah (Sylvia Sews 4 You) Hair | Myles Styles MUA | Ashanti Mendez

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT | ZENA BROOKS-VIGO

QSM: What inspired you to get into modeling and why? Zena: I was initially inspired by Jennifer Laws and Angela Perymon when I attended a fashion show in NY so when they had a casting call I attended. The rest as they say is history. However, I’ve always had a passion for modeling and fashion. QSM: Congrats on your crowns! Did doing pageantry inspire your modeling or was it the other way around? And if you had to choose one which would it be and why? Zena: Thank you!! My passion has always been modeling, although for me modeling and pageantry go hand and hand. They both represent positive role models, women who inspire other women to be confident, encourage, empower and uplift women of all ages and sizes. QSM: You recently loss your mom (my condolences again on that), did that make you want to hang up your heels or did it push you to go harder? (please elaborate) Zena: The loss of my mother gave me the drive to push harder. The reason is because my mother showed me strength, endurance, courage and inspired me to never give up. QSM: I don’t know your age and I don’t want you to disclose it either, but are you ever hindered by your age? Zena: To me there is no age limit when it comes to pursuing your dreams and living it.

currently work for a hospital in the Oncology Dept. as a Patient Access Specialist. While I love what I do if an opportunity were to arise that allowed me to have a successful and lucrative modeling career I would definitely jump at the chance. An opportunity like that would allow me to reach a larger audience. QSM: If you had to choose between pageantry and modeling which would it be? Zena: If I had to choose one it would be modeling. It’s a broader industry especially commercial modeling. QSM: Thank you for your time Zena. Good luck to you; we will be watching. Please provide your social media handles for anyone that would like to follow/contact you. Any final thoughts you would like to leave us with? Zena: Thank you QSM it has definitely been a pleasure and an honor to represent for the classy and mature lady. I am truly grateful for this opportunity it has been a lifelong dream to see myself published in a magazine. QSM provides so many new and aspiring models a platform. My social media information is: Facebook: Zena Vigo Plus Size Model Instagram:zenavigo

QSM: Being in the fashion industry what changes have you noticed in the plus industry and what do you think is missing in order for us to be more mainstream? Zena: One of the biggest recent breakthroughs was Ashley Graham on the cover of Sports Illustrated Magazine for their swimsuit edition and Dove’s campaign for women of all sizes. The change I would like to see is more major brands and designers to follow suit. QSM: What is your stance on dropping the plus size term? Zena: I don’t see the benefit of labels, but I’m not offended by it. Labels do not define who you are. QSM: What is your position in Top Line Divas LLC? Zena: I am a Model, Model Mentor, Marketing Representative, and Event Coordinator QSM: There are many aspiring models coming up in our industry; how do you help them get on the right track? Zena: I am still navigating that process myself. However I would suggest that they line themselves up with people that are in the industry who are knowledgeable to gain support, proper skills and a mentor. QSM: What do you do for a living? Are you looking to go into modeling full time or is this just a hobby for you? Zena: I’ve worked in the healthcare field for over 25 years. I

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT | ZENA BROOKS-VIGO

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