Sista’s Keeper I AM my Sista’s Keeper
July 2014 Vol. 2, Issue 6
Class of 2014 Graduates Spotlight: BYOUtees
2014 Delta Debutantes
Plus: Being Independent Building Your Resume’
Fun Things To Do With Dad
A’Layeah Joisanne Actress/Director Making Her Mark Black Women In History: Tribute to Maya Angelou
The
Independence Issue
Curly
Coiled
Silky Straight
Available at neighborhood beauty supply stores and E-commerce sites.
In This Issue
16
Music Spotlight: Hi-Riz Red, White & Blue Fashion 18
34
9
Spotlight: Teen-Owned Custom Clothing Line bYOUtees
Sistas in the Class of 2014
In this feature, we celebrate our sistas who just graduated from high school and who are on their way to college
2014 Delta Debutantes
The young ladies in this feature participated in the debutante cotillion hosted by the Charlotte Alumnae chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
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College Prep Timeline
On The Cover Photos courtesy of: A’layeah Joisanne (left) A’layeah Joisanne is an 18-year-old award-winning actress and filmmaker who is starring in the new movie “Beautiful Destroyer”. July 2014
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Sista’s Keeper Vol. 2, Issue 4 Founding Editor/Publisher LaPorsha Lowry Managing Editor Erik Veal
Connect With Sista’s Keeper TODAY!!!!! “Like” our Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/SistasKeeperMagazine
PR/Marketing Yasmeen Parker Surya Swilley Advertising Briana Barner Paul Smith Social Media Stacie Bailey
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Contributing Writers Eman Al-Taher Alyssa Chanel Camile Daniels Idanis Donyale Taris Easterling Shaniqua Graves Markia Holt Facia Johnson Regina Johnson Yani Long Sha’Myua Miles Mariya Moseley Jasmine Rhinehart Noma Vilane Special Thanks A’layeah Joisanne Crystal Styles House of Cheatham, Inc. Brittany Salter Jesse Lowry Trumaine McCaskill Evan Summerville Greg E. Hill Brittany Hill Daniel Lee Lowry Dottie Benjamin Terri Long Darie Wilson Antionette Cody
I AM my Sista’s Keeper
In Every Issue
10 Pinned-Up Hair is PERFECT Beauty
13
24
Health Depression Tips Furaha
22 26
Beauty Red, White & Blue nails
Ways To Be Independent
Beauty
Jando
27
Maua
28
13
Don’t SWEAT It
16
Entertainment Music Spotlight: Hi-Riz
18
Relationships Fun Things To Do With Dad
Fashion Red, White & Blue Fashion
First Step To Independence: Saving Money
How To Be Independent
Ndege 29 How To Build Your Resume
Black Women In History Tribute to 42 Maya Angelou
July 2014
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Calendar May-June 2014
What’s going on and what to do this month
Contributors Eman Al-Taher Eman is a senior at UNCC majoring in Sociology. She grew up here in Charlotte and is Palestinian. “I have a very bubbly, outgoing personality; I live by my favorite quote “A bad attitude is like a flat tire. You can’t go anywhere until you change it.”. I like to write poetry and belly dance in my free time and am always up for reading a good book.”
Shamyua Miles Shamyua is a 22-year-old senior at North Carolina A&T State University majoring in English (technical writing). She has a 2 year old daughter. She loves writing and dreams of becoming a novelist and editor of a magazine. She also dreams of starting a program for young black girls to learn and obtain knowledge about self worth.
Jasmine Rhinehart Jasmine graduated from Lander University in April 2012 with her Bachelors of Science degree in Mass Communications. Her passions are: writing, reading, spending time with my family and friends, working with the youth at my church, traveling, and singing.
Alyssa Chanel
For more July & August events & updates, visit our website: www.sistaskeepermagazine.com
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If your black teen girl organization is having an event that you want to be featured in Sista’s Keeper Magazine, please email us the information so that it may be featured in the Calendar of an upcoming issue: info@sistaskeepermagazine.com Sista’s Keeper
July 2014
Alyssa is a young fashion-forward professional striving to become a top journalist/blogger/personality. She is a college student at Barry University majoring in Broadcast & Emerging Media Minor in Journalism.
Lauren Summers Lauren is a 19-year-old student at UNC Asheville majoring in International/Global Studies. She’s a writer, and enjoys writing poetry, fiction stories, and articles. Other hobbies of hers include art, music, and discussing race and social issues.
INDEPENDENCE DAY!!!
H
Editor’s ’ey sistas! This is another great issue that is all about INDEPENDENCE... Letter how to be independent and start doing things on your on and for yourself. Whether you are going off to college or still live with your parents, being independent does not mean that you don’t need supervision anymore but that you are responsible and can start making decisions for yourself. A’layeah Joisanne (pg. 30) has been working really hard to realize her dream of being a filmmaker and bringing her own stories to life. bYOUtees (pg. 9) is a teen-owned custom clothing company that also does a lot of fundraising and service in their community. Hi-Riz (pg. 16) is a new teen girl group who is looking to make their mark on the entertainment industry. Congraulations to the Class of 2014 for graduating and moving on the the next stage of life. The ladies featured in this issue are all going to college to study a wide variety of majors. I remember my graduation like it was yesterday (bottom left: Me at my HS graduation in June 2006). Another feature in this issue is the Delta Debutantes. This program is very close to my heart because I was a debutante in 2006. I was able to participate and learn valuable lessons. (Bottom right: Me during my debutante days in 2006). In this month’s sections, we will help you in being more independent by saving money, getting a job and building your resume’. As always, if you want to contact me of have any questions about the magazine, email me at: laporsha@sistaskeepermagazine.com sisters, cousins, friends, etc. or visit our website: I hope that you enjoy this issue and www.sistaskeepermagazine.com remember: Remember the purpose of Sista’s Keeper: to “I AM my Sista’s Keeper” build you up as young women so you can be comfortable enough in yourself to help your
Tell us what you think! Join the conversation... #SistasKeeper
Founding Editor/Publisher @SistasKeeperMag July 2014
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Spotlight
bYOUtees
Custom clothing line for teen girls uses community service to teach entreprenuership bYOUtees (pronounced “beauties”) was created in 2012 as a custom clothing line for teen girls. It was created by Becky Russell from BExclusives, but was given to her teenage daughter as a way to teach her about entrepreneurship. After about a year of creating custom jewelry and clothing, something didn’t seem right. Becky decided to combine her love of children and her love for community service and create a girls club. Keeping the name bYOUtees, Karina, Becky’s daughter, chose 4 of her friends and set out to make a difference in the community. For the first year in 2013, bYOUtees did monthly projects in the community. While not only setting a positive example for thier peers,
but for so many others they meet. They want to show young ladies how to be cute, give back and have fun doing it. The girls will do fundraisers periodically to raise funds to continue their community service projects. “We are hoping to finalize the nonprofit status very soon. In the meantime, we will continue to make a difference wherever we can,” Russell said. Check out the website http://www.byoutees. com/ for more information on their previous community service projects. You can also learn how to get involved and follow them on social media: @bYOUtees July 2014
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Beauty
Pinned Up Hair
The updo bun with side sweep bangscute on natural hairstyles.
A simple tuck and pin.
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is PERFECT
Beauty
By: Lauren Summers
A braided up bun looks tricky, but actually a quick and easy style for the summer.
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What’s On The Website?
Visit our website for photos, videos, events & MORE!!!!! Extra content available ONLY online... Coming in August • All Things BACK TO SCHOOL www.sistaskeepermagazine.com
Patriotic Nail Trends
Beauty
Stars, stripes and all things nice. Make your fingers and toes light up like sparklers & firecrackers this month!
By: Idanis Donyale
Patriotic Pixie Dust Trio
All American Trios by Zoya are your best bet for July... patriotic, festive and exciting!!!!!
Old Glory Trio
Festive Fireworks Trio
Star Spangled Trio
OPI has everything you need to make those nails fireworks ready! So Hot It Berns
Alpine Snow
Last Friday Night
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Don’t SWEAT It!!!!!
Beauty
As the summer continues and the weather gets warmer, we spend more time in the sun, which can cause sweating. Sweat is a natural way that our bodies regulates our internal By: Noma Vilane temperature and cools itself, but sweat is far from attractive. Sweating excessively is a common problem. But you don’t have to suffer or be embarrassed. There are ways that you can reduce and control sweating. Here are a few ways you can stop the extra sweat: Facial Scrubs Facial scrubs can be used on your back or on your face or on any area of your skin where you sweat. Facial scrubs help because they are an exfoliate that gets rid of the dead skin and unclog your pores. This will initially cause you to sweat more, but soon you will notice a decrease in the excess sweat.
Use An Antiperspirant Most people don’t realize that all deodorants are not antiperspirants. Deodorant is made to mask the odor caused from sweating while antiperspirant actually controls and reduces the amount of sweat. Make sure to check the label closely to see if the product you are using is in fact an antiperspirant. Doctors also advise putting a thin layer of antiperspirant on at night before going to bed and adding another thin layer in the morning for best results. Shave Your Underarms Everyone with underarm hair doesn’t experience excess sweating, but for people who do sweat easily, underarm hair can make the situation worse. Hair causes bacteria growth and bacteria is what causes the odor. Watch What You Eat (And Drink) Certain foods, such as caffeine can worsen sweating and should be avoided. Spicy foods can also lead to excess sweating and should be reduced or avoided. On the flip side, you should try to increase your water intake. Water can help rehydrate your body and it can also wash away the toxins that can clog pores and cause body odor. Practice Good Hygiene
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Make sure to take daily baths or showers and to wash your underarms. If you shave, avoid putting on deodorant (or antiperspirant) immediately. Wait until your underarm is completely dry. Moisture can help harbor bacteria growth on your deodorant so it’s important to dry your underarms before applying.
Cosmetics
Clothes
Shoes
Nails
E S I T ! R ! ! E ! ! V E D A ER H
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Hair
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Entertainment
Music Spotlight: Hi-Riz This talented and uniquely original group is ready to make their mark Marvelous Enterprises/Artist Development Center located in Atlanta, Georgia has formed what could soon become the new toast of the music industry, Hi-RiZ. The group consists of members Lakilah Thomas a.k.a. Bobi of Atlanta, GA, Victorya Langford a.k.a. Hip-Hop of Birmingham, AL, Monique Colson a.k.a. Ivana of The Philippines and Sedne Lacy of Cypress, TX. They form one of the most talented and uniquely original groups to hit the industry in over two decades. Daring to be different, Hi-RiZ is made up of four extremely gifted artists who all have previous experience as either a solo
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artist or lead of a group which only adds to their already off the charts list of fire power attributes. Blending pop, rock, hip-hop, and soul music like never before along with an unmatched stage show are the chief selling points for the new “it” girl group of Generation Next. In Hip-Hop, you have a one-of-a-kind MC and dancer with classic storytelling rhymes, while Sedne is the ultimate young sassy soul singer with pop appeal and powerful voice. Then there’s Bobi, whose love for modeling and designing fashion shines through in her vivid singing of the finer things in life. Last but certainly not least is Ivana, whose
love for ballads and timeless music adds the perfect dose of soul to the talented foursome. Although merged into a super group by their discoverer and mentor, Hi-RiZ dispels any notion that a group “put together” can’t be as successful as those that have been together for years by possessing a level of maturity, teamwork, and unselfishness seldom found in groups that have been together three times as long. Inspired by Beyoncé, Janet Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, Alicia Keyes, MC Lyte, Queen Latifah, TLC, Destiny’s Child and Mariah Carey represents the level of success sought by HiRiZ. With the group consisting of one 17-yearold, two 18-year-olds & one 19-year-old, Hi-RiZ is able to connect with teens their age, girls much younger and even grown women using song concepts relatable to females of all ages but also relatable to males. All of them are honor students and that is what makes Hi-RiZ the ideal role models for
young girls worldwide who are in search of positive guidance. Their first single “Stix Entertainment and Stones” is tearing up the streets, clubs, and internet. Hi-RiZ appeared on The Mo’Nique Show with a sit down interview. Mo’Nique refers to Hi-RiZ as “the definition of girl power”. They had the honor of being the only female group in the world to perform both on the “BET’s Closer to My Dream Tour” which featured Mindless Behavior and Diggy Simmons & on “The Scream Tour – Next Generation” with Diggy Simmons, Jacob Latimore & Mindless Behavior. It won’t be long before Bobi, Hip-Hop, Ivana and Sedne move up high on the charts and “riz” straight to the top of the entertainment industry.
Independence Playlist Desti ny’s “Inde Childpend Wom ent en” e g i l .B J y r Ma t Fine” “Jus
’e c n Beyo he T n u R “ )” s l r i d (G l r o W
Cha ka K Whi han/ tney Hou “I’m stonEver y Wom an”
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Declare Your Fashion
Fashion
By: Alyssa Chanel
What You Need To Pull Off This Look: A) Blue jean shorts B) Embellished shorts C) Tank Top D) Stars & stripes dress E) Earrings 20
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F) Headband/headpiece G) Bracelet H) Comfy tennis shoes I) Sunglasses
Independence
Fashion
What You Need To Pull Off This Look:
A) Striped t-shirt B) Blue shorts C) Sunglasses D) Red sandals E) Blue purse F) Red skirt G) Silver bracelet
H) Earrings I) Blue nail polish (see pg. 13) J) Earrings K) Blue sandals L) Red nail polish M) Red purse N)Red necklace July 2014
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By: Lauren Summers Health
Dealing With
Depression, like any other mental illness, is an illness. It is not something that is just “in your head” and it’s 100% okay to ask for help. So let’s say you have identified from the last article, or you have figured out on your own, that you might be struggling with depression. How do you overcome something so deep? First off, know that it is not something to feel ashamed about. In today’s society, and especially in the Black community, we often sweep mental illnesses under the rug, or we think of them as peculiar, something that is dark and wicked, and it’s not. Who do I ask for help? It is always important to have someone to talk to when you are suffering with depression. Try starting with your close family members, sitting down and talking to them about how you’re feeling, or writing them a letter if it’s something you have trouble expressing. While having your family and friends is important during this tough time, it's also important to think about speaking to someone specialized in depression such as a therapist or counselor. They are professioned in the struggles of mental illness, and can often help you a lot if you are open to it? What can I do to help myself cope? Before beginning to explain ways to medically help yourself cope, some people like to go a more natural self-medicated route, and there are many ways you can do that. 22
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Exercise... ...not for physical benefit (although that comes), but for mental benefit. When you exercise, your brain releases endorphins, which trigger a positive feeling in your body. Such as when runners experience a “runners high” or a type of euphoric feeling. Exercising helps depression and feelings of anxiety, lowers stress, boosts your self-esteem, and helps you sleep better at night. Meditation and music Take time out of your day to reflect on things you love in life, do yoga, reflect in religious scripture if you’re religious. Try to take time to reach a zen place. Listen to music you find beautiful. Research has proven that good music can cause your brain to release dopamine, and ironically sad music can evoke positive emotions- “sadness experienced through art is more pleasant than the sadness you experience from a bad day.” Find an art/hobby Creating is a way to express yourself, and put energy into something beyond being sad. Working on a craft will give you an escape, or a sense of belonging, because it is something you are meant to do in life.
Depression Eat healthy Eating healthy will rid your body of toxins, and make you feel better physically, which will make you feel better mentally. High amounts of artificial trans fats (such as processed foods or in fast foods) can decrease your mental performance and hurt your mood. Eating better truly makes you feel better. What if none of the above still isn’t enough?
Health
people are depressed by a situation that arises in their life, but often times depression is caused by a deficiency of serotonin in the brain, a chemical that helps with feelings of happiness. If that is the case with you, it is not your fault, and nothing is wrong with you or weird with you. It is important to talk to a doctor and therapist about your depression so they can give you the right medications. It can always be beat, through proper care, healing, love, and support.
Depression is a mental illness. Sometimes
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Relationships
By: Ariel Boyd
A Girl Always Fun Things To Do With Dad
To some daddy is the number one man in their life. Whether you have a wonderful relationship with your dad or you would like to create one, here are some great activities to indulge in. Hands on! Taking a pottery class might just be that hands on approach you need to bond with your Dad. Even if neither of you are the 'artsy' type, a pottery class is a great way to get your Dad's attention. Work together to create clay masterpieces and afterwards, trade your sculptures and shelve them as keepsakes. Chill out Take advantage of the outrageous summer temperatures and chill out with your dad on the ice. There are ice rinks which are open year round and you and your Dad are going to throw on some sweaters and brave the cold while ice skating. The less experience the better! You two will never stop laughing at each other fumbling around on the ice! Pamper your Pops? Who says dads can't be pampered? Next time you make a reservation to get that mani/ pedi, be sure to make reservations for two. That's right, you are taking your dad for a much-needed pampering. Not saying he has to go the whole nine yards and get a polish, but your dad (and mom) will be thanking you for this when he leaves the salon with a relaxing foot rub and clean up! Game Time Grab a cold soda and get up close and personal, that is, with your dads favorite sport. Take your dad out to see a local sports game and don't hold out on the salty snacks. Make it an experience you and your dad will never forget. Dinner Date with Dad Skipping a night out with friends every once in a while and staying in with Dad won't kill your social life. Learn some of his favorite recipes and let him know how much you appreciate him by preparing him a nice dinner. Who says you have to do it by yourself? Grab aprons for two and chef it up in the kitchen together! There will be no lack of laughs in this cooking endeavour. 24
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Get Moving! Is your Dad the outdoorsy type? Trade in those flip flops and swimsuits for sneakers and active wear. Get outside and enjoy the weather! Take your Dad for a hike or even a bike ride. Pack a delicious lunch, loads of water, and hit the trails around your city. You won't regret taking your Dad into the great outdoors. You might learn some valuable skills in the wilderness with an outdoorsman. Short and Sweet An ice-cream date could be the perfect way for you and your dad to spend time together, especially if you both have busy schedules. Take out time once a week to grab a cold treat with your Dad and watch your relationship blossom. Nothing compares to spending quality time with your dad over mint chocolate chip ice-cream or a dish of frozen yogurt . It's the sweetest way to pass the time. Pull out the Stops! Trying to get that permit/ license? Of course your dad will be skeptical about it. Talk him into to giving you driving lessons and get some experience in behind the wheel. Don't forget to take it nice and slow, Dad might find this quite nerve- racking but in the long run he'll appreciate your blossoming independence. Not to mention he'll have a break from driving you to and from the mall once in a while.
Loves Her Daddy Grilling Out Who says Dads aren't keen on the party scene? Send out invites, plan yard games and throw a cookout. Invite your friends and their parents over and let your dad show off his sweet barbecuing skills. He won't say no to firing up his grill. If you can't beat em, join em....right? Filling the Gaps Distance between you and your Dad? There's no distance that a good Skype session can't fill. If your dad is a traveler
Relationships
or even just lives somewhere else, schedule a date and see your Dad face to face on Skype! No internet access? Don't forget that Dads love old fashioned things. Pick up a pen and paper and write him a letter. Talk about school, your favorite subjects, or even your friends. Let him know that you appreciate him or just that you are thinking of him. Remember, if it wasn't for him there would be no you!
The reason why daughters love their dad the most is that
there is at least one man in the world
who will never hurt her.
Signs of an Unhealthy Relationships By: Alyssa Chanel Many teens cannot handle the pressures of a relationship. Trying to balance dating, school, family, getting prepared for college among many other challenges can be difficult. Unhealthy relationships can have ever lasting effects on individuals, especially young teen girls. Learn the signs of an unhealthy relationship so you can save a friend and or yourself from the damage it may cause. • Controlling Partner • Making Excuses For Partners Negative Behavior • Marks, Cuts And Or Bruises • Fear Of Partner • Extreme Personality Change Affect Relationship Commenced July 2014
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Furaha By: Lauren Summers & Alyssa Chanel
Ways To Be More Independent
Get A Summer Job Whether it's washing cars, bagging groceries, serving fast food, or babysitting, having your own job creates a sense of independence as you learn to manage your own money.
ve i r D n to
Lear
Do Your Chores Before Your Parents Ask You What's one thing that makes you feel young? Your parents constantly telling you to do this and that, but if you get to your chores before your parents get home from work, you're getting it out of the way before being told. You're in a sense, controlling your own time.
Wear what you want to wear During the summer often times girls are critiqued on what type of bathing suit they should wear for their body type, or they're told what type of dresses look good, or what type of sunglasses fit their oval heads. Sometimes it's in the spirit of fashion– but at the end of the day wear what makes you comfortable! You don't have to be a size 4 or smaller to wear a bikini and you should wear all the funky sun hats and big shades that you want. Do you!
Educate yourself...outside of school 26
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Open A Savings Account Whether you have a job or not, it slowly gets your funds up, and is another way to manage money. Your paycheck? Allowance? Money for McDonalds you get from your parents? Each week you can put a portion of this into your savings account (even if it's only 2$ at a time) and you'll notice the difference. Save this money for something special! Like college or a big trip. See the next page (27) for more information on saving money -------->
Be AW A what/ RE of influe who is ncing you
First Step To Independence: Saving Money
Jando By: Jasmine Rhinehart
Being a teenager is very hard work, especially being a teen girl in our society today. Dealing with peer pressure, school, boys; a young girl can get pretty worn out. Then, there’s one of the biggest issues a teen girl has to think about which is: how to be “money smart” and how to be independent with her money.
Learning how to save your money is very important especially during your teenaged years. I remember when I first attended sessions on how to save my money in high school and in college, and I learned of the appropriate time to use my money. One example is when you start working on a job. In your early teen years, this is when you need to start having guidance about employment. If you are going to start thinking about working in the job field, then you must think of your priorities. One of the most important things to consider when starting off in the work field is the concept of “pay yourself first”, which means if you set some of your money aside from every paycheck you earn, then your savings will grow. Now who wouldn’t want this? “More importantly, you will establish a lifelong habit that can result in financial security in the long run”, which comes from workingmother.com. In today’s society, another important factor for teens is that their parents teach them how to use their money wisely and to be smart about where their money goes. Denise Witmer stated, “I see this as a wonderful opportunity to help our teens learn the importance of financial planning long before they are out on their own where a mistake could lead them into money troubles or bankruptcy”. This is where problems may arise when parents do not talk to their young teenage girls and boys about being “money smart”. According to this year’s Junior Achievement USA’s Teen and Personal Finance Poll, more than a third of the teens surveyed “think their parents do not talk with them enough about money and budgeting”. Forty-two percent said they are expressly NOT interested in learning how to budget, while 25
percent feel budgets are only for adults. So as we can see from this information, saving and knowing how to budget your money is very important, especially during your teen years and up. Once you enter into college, which is known to many as the “real world”, you should be able to get that experience of learning the ins and outs of being independent and “money smart”. When it comes down to budget basics, this helps you to keep track of what is coming in as well as what expenses are going out. Not only this, but setting a specific savings goal can also help teens maintain their spending habits. It is also very important to know the costs of essentials, if in college or living on your own such as: food, energy, transportation, and housing. This is important so they will know what to expect when it comes down to living without their parents. So, being “money smart” is not a hard thing to do. You just have to learn the basics and know how to handle and save your money in order to make smart decisions that could impact your future.
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Maua By: Shamyua Miles
Give Me Peace, Happiness & INDEPENDENCE!!!
As you get older, you want to be more independent. Gaining your independence can be hard because there’s so much you have to do, but have no fear! Everyone goes through a time where they want independence. Adults even go through it. With time and patience you’ll eventually gain the independence you’ve longed for and deserve. Starting at home, here are multiple ways to gain your independence and even trust from your parents. These include: • Washing your own clothes • Learning to cook • Keeping your room clean • Helping your parents around the house Once your parents see you doing more around the house, they no longer feel the need to treat you as a child, and they see maturity. As a teen, school should be your main focus. Education is important, so it is vital that you take it seriously. Some ways to gain independence at school would be to: • Do all of your schoolwork • Turn in all your assignments in time • Ask for help when help is needed • Set high academic goals • Participate in extracurricular activities • Push yourself to do the best you can • Gain respect from your teachers and peers • Learn to drive (fun!) • Manage time wisely • Take responsibility for your actions • STUDY!!! Not only can these help you to gain independence at school, but applying these to your life can help you in the future. It can take you a long way! Being healthy is also important;from personal hygiene to what you eat and how much you exercise. Here are a few tips to gaining independence in the health department: • Shower daily • Brush your teeth 3 times a day 28
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• Wear deodorant • Keep your hair clean • Clean your private areas • Eat healthy foods • Exercise for at least 1 hour everyday First impressions are lasting impressions, so being healthy shows people that you care about yourself and your appearance! Money makes the world go ‘round, and if you have it don’t waste it! How a person is with money says a lot about them. As you get older, you get more responsibilities, and in order to take care of these responsibilities, you sometimes need money. How can you gain independence monetarily? • Get a job! • Balance a checking and savings account • Learn how to pay bills • BUDGET!! • Make money, save money, spend money, and be wise with your money! Watching adults, learning from them, and trying to help them out is a great way to gain overall independence. They understand that you are getting older, but you also have to realize that you have to earn your independence and it can’t be handed to you on a silver platter. So put your big girl pants on and gain that independence you deserve!
How To Build Your Resume Getting a job is easy. You walk into any store or restaurant, apply and someone is bound to hire you right? Sure but if you are looking for a part time job, you should look for one that will benefit you and not just your bank account. Look for a job that interests you that inspires you, something that can help you potentially follow your dreams. If you like animals go to your local pet store or animal shelter or veterinarian office and ask about work opportunities. Or if you enjoy spending time with children (maybe you want to be an elementary school teacher) look into nanny-ing. Or if you are interested in working as a living assistant nurse, a great start would be to look for retirement and nursing homes in your area and see what positions are available. The opportunities are truly endless. In need of a resume? It is not as hard as you think! First look up templates to find one that is easy to read and edit. On the template there will be sections labeled ‘objective’ ‘work experience’ ‘education’ and ‘special skills’. Every resume template will have similar titles, you do not have to use the ones provided, you can use the ones you think suit you best. Before beginning to fill these sections be sure to have your name at the top centered, followed by your address phone number and email address, you need to be sure this employer is able to properly contact you. Now let’s start with the objective. An objective statement should be concise (one sentence) and highlight what skills you bring to the table. Objective statements will vary depending on the job you are applying for. Work experience can be replaced with community involvement if you have yet to enter the work world. Regardless which you chose, you should arrange them from most recent and work your way back. List the name of the company, your title and the dates you were employed there. Then have 2-4 bullet points stating what your responsibilities included. You are like to have more than four things you would like to list so remember to choose the qualities your future employer would like you to have for the position you are applying for.
Ndege
By: Eman Al-Taher
Education, like work experience, is to be listed from most recent to furthest back. You list the name of the institute, the dates you attended, your cumulative GPA and any awards or special recognitions you received while you were there. As for ‘special skills’ state if you are fluent in any foreign languages, if you are knowledgeable in certain computer applications. Or even list personality traits like organizational skills, being able to effectively manage priorities anything you think is relevant can go here. Before you finish have a classmate or coworker look over your resume, you don’t want to have any misspelled words or formatting errors. Employers who have hundreds of applications to look over will weed out those that have careless mistakes. Last but not least save your resume under an appropriate file name because if you are emailing it your future employer they will see the file name. Keep it simple like Jones.Resume2014.
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She’s A
Beautiful
Destroyer
Actress & flimmaker A’layeah Joisanne is moving and shaking to break into the entertainment industry with hard work and persistence.
A
t 18 years old, A’layeah Joisanne Thompson is already an award-winning actress, writer and director. Her first name comes from the Swahili origin meaning “to ascend” and she is surely on the rise. July 2014
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She tells about an experience when she randomly opened the Bible up to Psalm 45:17. “I turned to it and it said ‘I will make your name known’ and that really stuck with me as a sign,” Thompson says.
Listen To Her
She won the 2013 Cell Phone Cinema Contest, which was sponsored by the organization Women in Media in Newark, NJ for her original film, “Listen to Me” She got 2nd place in the same competition this year in March. “The Battle Isn’t Over Until God Say’s It’s Over” is a powerful story about a mother who was recently diagnosed with lung cancer. The film shows the loving relationship between a mother and daughter trying to deal with the lung cancer by making a book in hopes to inspire others. “My grandmother died from lung cancer so I made this film in dedication to her”
Beautiful Destroyer
“I play the role of Zee in the film. My character is talking to a killer named Leigh, who is played by Numa Perrier. She comes to Zee’s house to kill her and her father. Zee tries to convince Leigh, in a very deep and stimulated conversation, not to kill her and father making Leigh’s character vulnerable for the first time.” “This is my first dramatic role in an independent film . I loved the experience of flying out to Los Angeles and being on set!” “I got the part by networking and making connections through social media with the director of the film Christopher Dorrah. I kept him updated on what I was doing wether it was through films I directed or acting. After constant communication I got offered to play the role of Zee in Interludes II: Beautiful Destroyer.”
Kira’s Diary
Another project that she is working on is a short film called “Kira’s Diary”. “I’ve been working on it for a long time. I keep trying to go into production with the film, but there is always a set back. I feel like God is allowing these set backs to happen for a reason. “Originally, I wrote the script when I was 13 years old. This story came from different aspects of life 32
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around me. Wether it was through films I watched or people that I knew. The film is telling a story that everyone needs to be aware of, especially having a strong relationship between a mother and a daughter. The story deals with abuse in the house hold and how its so important to pay attention to your kids no matter how busy you may get. Things happen when you least expect it!
Empowerment Network
In May, A’layeah was interviewed in studio on News 12 by Della Crews after doing a phone interview last year for winning a filmmaking contest called “The Cell Phone Cinema Contest.” She will be participating in the WEEN Academy (Women Entertainment Empowerment Network), a 4-week crash course in the entertainment business taught by leading celebrities and entertainment industry executives. “Industry professionals will come in to talk to us. It’s from July 1st-August1st in New York City. There was a three- step audition process.” “I didn’t see my name on the list after the second round. I was about to go home until after I called my mom. She told me to go back inside and ask some advice from the judges on anything that I can work on to better myself for the near future. I listened and watched the final round. It was NO joke. I talked to one of the judges that judged me and she said surprised “You didn’t get in?! We gave you the most points!” So I did get in, but through the grace of God I
A’layeah stars as “Zee” in the upcoming film, Beautiful Destroyer. was able to audition for the final round and got in!”
Plans For The Future
A’layeah knows exactly what she wants to do: be a triple-threat with acting, filmmaking, writing. She is currently attending Bloomfield College in New Jersey and majoring in digital video. Her concentration is Creative Arts in Technology. Thompson has a dream of starting her own production company. “It kind of fell into place when I started writing scripts and creating films after attending Harambee Music and Video Production
Academy when I was younger.” Thompson says “I want to have a team working with me and I want to take some classes in business so I can learn that aspect with owning my own production company”
Being Her Sista’s Keeper
A’layeah says that being her sista’s keeper means being close to them and have a great connection. “It means being able to talk personally and express feeling; talk freely and not worry about feelings. It also means loyalty between each other and keeping that bond & friendship.
About A’layeah Name: A’layeah Joisanne Thompson Age: 18 Birthday: September 21st Hometown: Montclair, NJ Favorite Actress: Taraji P. Henson (A’layeah made a birthday video for her & she SAW it!!!!!) Favorite Artist: Rihanna & Fantasia Favorite Food: Pasta Favorite color: Blue
Connect w/ A’layeah @alayeahjoisanne July 2014
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Sistas from Paige Binninger (left) Nation Ford High School Fort Mill, SC Paige will attend York Techincal College then plans to transfer to Winthrop University to study early childhood education & maybe work in a daycare. Janet Goldsboro (right) Caesar Rodney High School Dover, DE
Joy Brown Phillip O. Berry Charlotte, NC Joy will be attending NC Central in Durham to study accounting.
Janet will be attending Deleware Technical Community College in the fall to study journalism. Jordan, Nyah, Kayla, and Brittany North Mecklenburg High School Charlotte, NC These best friends will be attending UNCG (Brittany), ECU (Jordan) & NCCU (Kayla & Nyah).
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Class of 2014 Courtney Warren (left) GlenOak High School Canton, Ohio Courtney will be attending Fisk University in Nashville, TN. Lauren Williams (below) West Charlotte High School Charlotte, NC
Jetta Smith (above) Classen School of Advanced Studies Oklahoma City, OK
Lauren will be attending North Carolina A&T State University in Greensboro, NC in the fall.
Jetta will be attending Colby Community College on a full athletic basketball scholarship to major in physical education to eventually become a basketball coach.
Jordan Williams (right) West Charlotte High School Charlotte, NC Jordan will be attending North Carolina A&T State University in Greensboro, NC in the fall. July 2014
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2014 Delta Thirty-nine young ladies participated in the 2014 Debutante Cotillion presented by the Charlotte Alumnae chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the Deltas of Charlotte Foundation. This year was the 50th anniversary of the chapter’s cotillion. Tesarah Boyd
Dominique Bynoe-
Plaskett
Alexis Davis
Jonna
Hicklin
Asha
Jessup 36
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Andria
Jasmine Brown
Burgess
Niomi
Aaliyah
Chynna
Gabrielle
Caitlin
Brown
Crowder
Mydeah Evans
Linda
Howard
Justice
Johnson
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Cupil
Gibson
Jordan
Hughes
Trinity
Johnson
Beja
Danne
Harris
Ashley Hurst
Charity
JohnsonAnthony
Debutantes Kamron Kenan
Maya
Miller
Rachel Porter
Gabrielle
Zaria
Livingston
Assata
Parkins
Gwendolyn Smith
Jordan
Mayfield
Tyler Pass
Mekai
Sperling
Stewart
Shadai
Walker
Candra
Erica
Jasmine
Alexandria
Williams
Woods
Walls
Chanel
McCray
Brianna Phifer
Jacquelyn Steele
Tarian West
Worthy
For more information on the Charlotte Alumnae Debutante cotillion program, visit: http://www.charlottealumdebs.com/ July 2014
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Getting Ready
Education Feature
This college prep timeline provided by http://www.getreadyforcollege.org/
In 9th & 10th Grade
7th & 8th Grade • Begin thinking about the high school classes that will prepare you for college. Take the most difficult classes you can handle. • Ask your parents or teachers to help you develop good study habits. • Practice setting and reaching goals. • Volunteer in your community. • Take interest and skills assessments to help you think about possible career options. • Talk with your school counselor and parents about careers that interest you want to explore.
• Take interest and skills assessments to help you explore careers options.
• Review your high school class plan. Take the most difficult classes you can • Talk with your school handle. Stay focused on counselor about career your schoolwork. options and the education required for those careers. • Sign up for classes that will earn college credit • Talk with your parents during your junior year about saving and paying through Advanced for college. Placement, International Baccalaureate, • Talk with friends, Postsecondary teachers, counselors Enrollment Options or and your parents about College in the Schools. college. • Check if your school requires 10th graders to take the PLAN to prepare for the ACT. • Participate in
• Create a tentative high school class plan. • Enroll in a summer enrichment program. 38
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extracurricular activities.
July 2014
• Explore internships and apprenticeships. • Enroll in a summer enrichment program.
Want to go to college? It’s never too late to prepare... For more information, visit: http://www.getreadyforcollege.org/
For College
Education Feature
will show you what you need to do to get ready for college.
In 11th Grade • Attend college and financial aid events. • Mentor others and have a mentor for yourself. • Take the PSAT in the fall to prepare for the SAT, and to identify areas where you need improvement. • Consider possible career options and investigate the type of education that is needed. • Request materials from schools that interest you and visit their websites. • Arrange campus visits to those schools that interest you. • Participate in extracurricular activities. • Request admissions and financial aid forms. • Sign up for classes that will earn college credit during your senior year through Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Postsecondary Enrollment Options or College in the Schools. • Register for and take the ACT and/or SAT in the spring. • Review your high school class plan. Take the most difficult classes you can handle. Stay focused on your schoolwork. Make sure you are meeting your high school graduation requirements. • Enroll in a summer enrichment program. • Get a job to earn and save money for college, or explore your skills through an internship or apprenticeship. • Research private scholarship options.
In 12th Grade • Stay focused on your schoolwork and take the most difficult classes you can handle. • Take career interest assessments and determine the education needed for careers that interest you. • Participate in extracurricular activities. • Volunteer in the community. Summer • Get a job to earn money for college. • Review orientation materials from the college you selected. • If living on campus, check with the college for a list of what’s provided by the school and what the school expects the student to provide. • Contact your roommate. July 2014
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I’m Not Perfect
I am not\ perfect and I don’t try to be You ask how I’m always happy But what you don’t see Is the pain I’ve felt I’ve kept it under wraps Swept it under the rug No need to relapse I’m not going to hang on Or let it drag me down Not going to let it get to me Or even make me frown Today is a new day And tomorrow will be even better Because I’ve sent away all my pain I locked it into a letter I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have bad days What gets me through them Is the God that I praise I’m not too different from you I’ve cried for no reason Lonely days and nights I felt like I committed treason And I ask myself why cry? When it’s beyond my control Why let it effect me And change my soul See I appreciate the small things Because everyday is a blessing I’m happy to be alive And while I’m confessing Let me tell you I’m not as strong as I look I have my weaknesses Like I cannot cook That’s beside the point What I’m saying is this I’m only human Just trying to coexist My goal is simple I want everyone to see That my happiness Is up to no one but me.
Being Independent
\ yourself You may ask What it is to be independent Know that it is all about Being self sufficient Knowing who you are And who you want to become Not easily influenced To do something dumb Having a mind of your own Being able to make decisions Take charge of your life Without need for supervision Knowing how to weigh your options Not choosing the easy way out Standing by your choices Without having a single doubt Admitting when you are wrong And being able to confess Because we are all humans Just works in progress Having clear boundaries To never lose sight of who you are No one can influence you Because you are a star Chase your dreams Develop yourself to be confident Whatever path you purse Always know you are intelligent Keep your eyes open Glistening with confidence Because on this journey You are filled with brilliance Depend only on yourself Because in the end Know that you are Your most valuable friend
Sista’s Keeper
•
A’layeah Joisanne
http://www.facebook.com/The.TalentedAJ •
The Girls Are Talking Conference http://www.campdiva.org/ •
bYOUtees
http://www.byoutees.com/ •
Hi-Riz
http://hiriz.com/ •
Charlotte Alumnae Debutante Cotillion
http://www.charlottealumdebs.com/ •
College Prep Timeline
http://www.getreadyforcollege.org/
Sista’s Keeper Crossword Puzzle
Poems by Eman Al-Taher
40
Resources
July 2014
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“A sister is one who reaches for your hand and touches your heart.� -Maya Angelou
Tribute to
Maya Angelou
Author, poet, dancer, actress and singer who published seven autobiographies, three books of essays, and several books of poetry, and was credited with a list of plays, movies, and television shows spanning more than 50 years
Maya Angelou was a very inspiring and well spoken individual of our time. She was an author, a poet, dancer, actress and singer. One of the things that I most admired about her was that she was such a vivid and truly PHENOMENAL writer. In her poem Still I Rise, she states in her opening, “You may write me down in history with your bitter, twisted lies, you may trod me in the very dirt but still like dust, I’ll rise”. This particular line really inspires me because I can relate to some of my peers trying to put me down and make me feel bad about myself just because I wasn’t like them and wasn’t trying to be like them. But just like Maya said in the poem, “you may trod me in the very dirt but still like dust, I’ll rise”. I rose from where I was and I am still rising today, so I thank you Dr. Maya Angelou for your empowering words of encouragement in my life and the lives of other young women like myself today and years to come. -Jasmine Rhinehart
Black Women In History
April 4, 1928-
May 28, 2014
To me, Ms. Angelou, or Auntie Angelou as she told us to call her at a seminar last fall at UNCG, was the epitome of the human experience. She was a Black woman. A mother, a writer, a poet, a teacher, a dancer, actress, singer, teenage mother, and even a streetcar worker. Everything I love in life, she embodied and mastered. She was a role model to say the least. Maya Angelou reminds me that nothing in life is permanent, and no matter what, I always have room to grow throughout life. During her seminar at UNCG, where she cleverly and humorously spoke to us, I couldn’t begin to hold back tears. With performances and readings of Still I Rise and Phenomenal Woman painting the night, I felt the power radiate throughout the room. I will forever be in awe of Maya Angelou. To me, she means a dream. -Lauren Summers
Although I had never met Ms. Angelou, I always thought of her as my “great aunt in my head.” Whenever she spoke, I listened and whenever I saw her, I was captivated and had to pay attention to what she was doing. One of my favorite moments was during Oprah’s Legends Ball special in 2006. There is a moment in the event where she speaks about the occasion and after hearing poems and words of gratitude to her and the other legends, she said: “In 20 years, there will be young black women saying thank you to you. There’s nothing greater than thank you. That’s what you say to God is thank you.” THANK YOU MAYA ANGELOU...THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!! -LaPorsha Lowry July 2014
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By eighth grade, only half as many girls as boys are interested in math, science, and engineering careers. If each of us gives a girl our time and support today, she can find the courage, confidence, and character she’ll need to build a better tomorrow.