Level Up Issue

LEVEL UP ISSUE

LEVEL UP ISSUE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS CONTRIBUTORS

PHOTOGRAPHY

MALCOLM ANDERSON ARNYA T.M. DAVIS SHERRIELL DEDEAUX (BLACK LITERARY WEEKEND ESSAY WINNER) FRANCHESKA “FANCY” FELDER URSULA MERSEL TAHYIRA SAVANNA VINCE SMITH DELILAH WILLAMS

ARTWORK OBIE COLEMAN TONY C GREEN ARTWORK

DELILAH PEACH PHOTOGRAPHY KENO DAVIS BOBBY MAYO PHOTOGRAPHY T. CHICK MCCLURE ZACHARY STAINES

MARKETING JARMEL ROBERSON, VP OF MARKETING SHANICE ASHBY

COVER SHOOT LOCATION MCCOUGHTRY'S ICE CREAM SHOP

ANGEL'S EDITORIAL MAKEUP” MUA INDIA MORTON OF FACE2FACE

LAYOUT DESIGN

COVER SHOOT TRAVEL SPONSOR KIINGS WORLD TRAVELS AMBASSADOR MORTGAGE, LLC

SABRYIA REESE, IMAGE MATTERS, LLC

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LEVEL UP ISSUE

F R O M T H E ED I T O R Greetings y'all, When creating the last issue, I realized I no longer wanted to share sad stories with you all and that I wanted to write of happier experiences instead. That of course meant I had to experience them of course, so that is what I have personally been working on. Fortunately, in a twist of events, business has really picked up in the last few months, and I officially feel like a businesswoman who runs a business.

Photography by Delilah Peach Photography.

In almost nine years, I've never felt that before. It's an amazing but scary as hell feeling. I am constantly struggling to make the right decisions and battling myself, because with great power comes responsibilities. It requires more leadership, and leadership requires interaction.... with people, delivering on your word, and being responsible... for other people. I'm thrilled to have grown my core team from just Jarmel (our VP of marketing) and myself to now include two others (Arnya T.M. Davis, our admin and my personal brand manager

and Delilah Williams our creative director and photojournalist), but we've undergone and are undergoing many changes.

And at the same time, with the passing of Nipsey Hussle and truly learning of his legacy, when I look at the fact that I am now able to add paid additional team members, who are in fact Black women, I feel really proud. I can look at where SwagHer Magazine and I have been and better visualize where and how far we can go. I've gone from waking up at the crack of dawn to write and publish posts on free McDonald's wifi wherever I may be at the time, to writing in the homes and hotel rooms of strangers, to grow houses, to extended stays with my kids, to the houses of relatives, to my own house (rented, of course, but still just as treasured in my eyes, because it's home).

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LEVEL UP ISSUE

I've had to do so much leveling up, I could have interviewed my self, lol! We often see the post about taking a year off to live the life you deserve, but not many are willing to do it.

But I also must take the time to recognize someone else who has been such a motivating force for me, one of our features, Melony Hill of Stronger Than My Struggles. When Melony invited me to partner with her for the Crazy Like a Fox, Black Mental Health Matters Brunch Tour, she shared with me that while she knew I could do the work, she worried if I was confident enough to do the work. I admit at the time, I was still wondering about my own capabilities, though we had a few good months, I was uncertain how long they would run, but Melony's question, really made me get off my butt and get moving. While simultaneously, Melony has been showing how to practice a “get sh*t done, but still look out for others” mindset, by just working with her and seeing how she operates and is growing her brand and still giving back to her community. Melony's perseverance while battling her own mental disorders, definitely is inspiring me to do more on my own end.

Of course, when I met Angel McCoughtry at the Not Just a Getaway Retreat, I knew she would be a great cover story, because her career and career path were much different than what most of us are used to and obviously she plays to win. While on the hunt for a good story, I saw Terra Jackson closing Respect the Queen, her apparel brand. She then created and began growing The Sacred Space, and I was curious to know what inspired her actions. As I began to follow more closely, I realized we, her followers, were truly watching her healing journey. I knew we had to talk, and I had to pass along as much knowledge as possible from her.

And so, here we are... I hope you all enjoy this issue.

Until next time...

Peace and blessings Francheska “Fancy” Felder | SwagHer Magazine Founder & Editor-in-Chief Website: http://swagher.net Facebook: SwagHer | Francheska “Fancy” Felder Instagram: @swaghermagazine @fancyswagher

Francheska “Fancy” Felder founded SwagHer Magazine & Media in 2010 in Baton Rouge, LA, while attending Southern University A&M College and working as a server at a restaurant and an exotic dancer at a strip club. Inspired by the Black businesswomen and artists she encountered, the former teen mom of three created SwagHer Magazine to share their stories with hopes of inspiring other Black women and girls.

She also speaks and blogs about entrepreneurship and mental health.

Fancy was a Black Women in Publications honoree (It's My Hair! Magazine 2015) and Diva of Empowerment honoree (Sistars of Empowerment Social Organization and Black Excellence 2018), and will be honored at the “Inspire” Scholarship Gala in Atlanta, GA May 19, 2019 presented by My Sisters Keeper.

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TABLE OF

CONTENTS

FEATURES 06 08 11 14

P 29

FOR US, BY US:

MALCOLM ANDERSON

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT:

SPOTLIGHT

TANISHA MACKIN

NIPSEY HUSSLE

THE SKY'S THE LIMIT:

The Man, The Myth & The Legend

ERNESTINE JOHNSON-MORRISON

WOMANHOOD GOES ON AFTER A POSITIVE DIAGNOSIS

TIPS

THAMICHA ISAAC

17

6 WAYS TO MAKE A SOCIAL IMPACT

GOLD CONSULTANT: SHARES THE BENEFITS OF THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY

Check out the latest tips on making the most of your time/ p20

TERRIKA STARKS

23

13 QUESTIONS WITH AUTHOR EDNA TAYLOR

26

CLOUT CHASING VS IMPACT = $

34

GETTING TO KNOW ASHLEE AKINS OF OWN’S READY TO LOVE

39

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT:

COVER STORY

JEN COPPIN

52

3 QUICK WAYS TO SET BOUNDARIES

55

WEDNESDAY WONDER WOMAN

57

BLACK HISTORY MONTH WINNING ESSAY

59

P 42

ANGEL MCCOUGHTRY

Leveling Up & A Winning Mindset

LIFESTYLE

NIKKI RUCKER-WILLIAMS

50

DOPE BLACK GIRLS SPRING/SUMMER ESSENTIALS

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT:

GENERATIONAL SURVIVORS

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LEVEL UP ISSUE

For Us By Us By: Malcolm Anderson

T

he term “legacy” is technically defined as an amount of money or property left to someone in a

will. However, the term itself has been transformed and adapted by society into a significant message or historical importance one passes on to generations after them.

As an African-American man, (or someone who also didn’t win the geographical lottery of originating away from the equator), every move I make is watched under the microscope of the world around me. A naïve act during my youth could prevent me from becoming employed, an innocent act of frustration on the playing field results in being labeled as a “diva” or being spoiled, a gesture of any kind during a routine traffic stop could result in my death. Regardless of the circumstance, society seems to have to forgotten how to judge accordingly.

The ruling is either 0 or 100, especially for people of color. At this point in the game we already know what's up so now the question becomes do we as a people then continue to live under such restriction? Do we continue to raise families with our children having a slight advantage over their parents while their peers continue to have a head start? What are we teaching the children after us if we place them in a box from Day 1?

I remember a time when my mom told me, "I do this because I love you and not because I want to; I want you to have an easier and better life than I did." Of course this was immediately after she gave me an attitude adjustment with a switch, so I couldn't appreciate the message until after I woke up from my post-whooping nap BUT the message was important nonetheless.

As children we never truly understand why our parents and families did the things that they did, but the older I get the more I understand why I couldn't stay at that person's house, or why I couldn't hang out all times of the night with my friends, or even why I couldn't watch certain shows or play certain video games.

It was all a plan, a plan for me to grow into the best person I could be for my future and not just for their and my own present.

They were laying a foundation for me to create a legacy for myself without having made some of the mistakes they might have made. Part of our job as future parents or even current parents, is to make life better for those after us, whether it be as simple as setting a good example or grinding through life to liberate the future.

I know I can't be the only one that watched their mother or father work tirelessly to make ends meet and still have the energy to come home and help with homework while cooking dinner. These people work hard so that we can have every opportunity and advantage we can have to be successful in all aspects of life.

Personally, I think about that same legacy and apply it to those before me, even further than my parents. I think about how the legacy of my people has grown over time but has more room to grow.

Not saying where we are now isn't great, because compared to where we've come from ,we've made it a long way, but the key is to not become complacent. Imagine if the legacy of Rosa Parks ended at her giving up once the threats ensued, if Dr. King was cool with just preaching liking his father, if President Obama--

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wanted to chill as a senator, because being president was a stretch. Imagine if we as a society just gave up on elections, because we can't pick President Obama a third time and this past election didn't go as planned.

Complacency kills; there's no way around it. The second we become complacent in life, is the second we start going backwards. Just like any parent wanting the best for their children, we as a community should want the best for ours.

We can't rely on anyone; we can't just watch idly and hope for somebody else to get the job done. Now is the time to act, now is the time to become financially literate so we can teach those under us, now is the time to teach our kids how to protect themselves from a world that paints them as the target, now is the time to start our legacy.

Don't leave it up to "them", write your own legacy. Nobody else will look out for you and yours the way YOU will.

About Malcolm Malcolm Anderson is a Cum Laude graduate of Reinhardt University. From the beginning of his education the ideas of creativity and ever expanding curiosity were instilled in him. He loves working with children and helping them believe that they can do anything they put their mind to, a lesson he was taught from an early age.

Although his focus is on Sports Media, Malcolm has been writing for various mediums over the past few years and aims to expand his repertoire in efforts to reach as many people as possible.

LEVEL UP ISSUE

Photo by Zachary Staines

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LEVEL UP ISSUE

Author Spotlight: Tanisha Mackin Interview by Francheska "Fancy" Felder

A recipient of:

The embodiment of “survivor”, Tanisha Mackin is a woman tried by the fire and came out refined. Author Tanisha D. Mackin is an award-winning and 3x bestselling author and a award-winning publisher.

2013 Utopian Euphoria Making A Difference 2016 Metro Phenomenal Women 2016 Black Women Are Award for survivorship 2016 IALA award for Memoir of the Year for her book, My Testimony, I Don't Look Like What I've Been Through 2016 Rising Star Award and 2018 Best of McDonough award for her publishing company.

Tanisha has recently been nominated for 2019 Author of the Year and Women on the She has published five books of her own and has published several books Rise from ACHI Magazine. Her experiences under the Author Tanisha D. Mackin, LLC imprint including working with led Tanisha to write several books, write for 4x-Grammy Award-Winning producer and reality star Stevie J (LHHATL); several magazines, and appearing on several Genise Shelton (Married to Medicine); actress/comedienne Kim Coles; and radio and television shows. the legendary rapper Gangsta Boo (Three 6 Mafia).

Tanisha has been featured in several Tanisha became widowed at the tender age of 31 when her husband, magazines, including gracing the cover of Danyell Mackin Sr., was tragically killed in a mass shooting outside the City Writers Life Magazine and Glambitious Grill in Buffalo, NY on August 14, 2010. The first bump in the road came in Magazine.

March 2010, when she was diagnosed with colon cancer.

Having to cope with a cancer diagnosis, the tragic killing of her husband and the daunting task of putting the pieces of her young family back together again, she uses her story of “Still Standing” to inspire and motivate various audiences and assist her clients in turning their personal stories into powerful best selling memoirs.

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Tanisha will be releasing her last solo book, Living My Best Life on My Own Terms, April 24th on her 40th birthday. Learn more about this author spotlight and her upcoming project below.

LEVEL UP ISSUE

Fancy: How would you describe your swagher? What makes Tanisha, Tanisha?

Tanisha: My swagher is my hustle and grind. Tanisha is a big-hearted, hardworking mother. I love hard, and I fight for what I want. I believe in loyalty and anything other than that I can’t deal with.

Fancy: Who would you say this book is for?

Tanisha: I think my new book is for people who have gone through a lot, going through something or just looking for inspiration. We all go through things in our lives, but it is how we overcome them that matters.

Fancy: What inspired your latest book, Living My Best Life on My Own Terms?

Tanisha: I wanted to show people that you can get up and rebuild your life after anything.

I feel like I’ve been through hell and back after I lost my husband.

From broken relationships, broken businesses, and broken self-esteem. I wanted to encourage others to get up and rebuild their life no matter what the situation.

I shared my story and the lessons I learned from each scenario. I wanted to show my transition from broken to better; I wanted to show how I checked myself as well as learned what I allowed others to do to me.

Fancy: Without giving away too much of the book, what does your best life look like to you?

Tanisha: Living my best life consists of living for me and my children, while making myself happy and living on my own terms. Living my best life is my business and doing what God sent me here to do.

Fancy: How do you know this will be your last solo book?

Tanisha: I decided that this would be my last book, because I wanted to focus more on my clients and other business ventures. It took me two years to write this book, because I was on a personal journey in my life that I wanted to share with the world. Although writing books is my passion, I want to elevate in my craft and help others.

Fancy: You’ve endured several tragedies and hardships in life; do you now feel at peace?

Tanisha: I have my moments, but through the years I learned to forgive those who’ve hurt me, stop worrying about how others feel about me and continue to work on me.

I can truly say that at this point in my life, I am at peace.

Connect with Tanisha below Website: www.tanishamackin.com IG: @TanishaMackin & @TanishaMackinPublishing Twitter: @TanishaMackin Facebook: Tanisha D. Mackin

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Fancy: Do you have any other upcoming events or projects that you care to share?

Tanisha: April 24th, I will be having my 40th Birthday Celebration/Book Signing for my last book, Living My Best Life on My Own Terms at Smoketacular located in McDonough, GA. I have also partnered with V103’s Jae Nash on a book that consists of 22 women who shared their stories on how they overcame certain situations and found self-love again. That book will be out spring of 2019.

LEVEL UP ISSUE

The Sky's The Limit For Actress & Spoken Word Artist

Ernestine Johnson-Morrison By: Ursula Mersel

What started as a goal to win a Lisa Frank Pencil Kit turned into a lifelong love for creating and performing. Actress and spoken- word artist Ernestine JohnsonMorrison has been pursuing her goals of acting and performing ever since 1998. At 10 years old, she never thought about creative writing or performing, until her teacher encouraged her to use a gift that she didn’t even know she had, and she won a class contest. From then, the wheels started turning and her passion for the arts began to grow.

The LA native’s first acting job was on the 90’s hit show 7th Heaven. After graduating from Performing Arts High School in Los Angeles, Johnson-Morrison attended the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, where she majored in Theatre. In 2011, the actress moved to Atlanta to further pursue her acting career. The trained actress says she doesn’t look for particular roles, but instead takes pride in making a role her own and bringing her own touch of integrity to it.

She’s acted in various theatrical productions such as Grease and A Raisin in the Sun. She’s also played roles in FOX Network’s Shots Fired, the box office hit Think Like a Man Too, and has a leading role opposite Comedian DC YoungFly in the movie #DigitalLivesMatter.

In 2014, the determined artist got an opportunity that would change everything.

After doing a segment on The Arsenio Hall Show, rapper/activist David Banner was asked for suggestions on spoken word artists, and he suggested an up- andcoming artist[O1] out of Atlanta named Ernestine Johnson. After captivating Hall, the unapologetic poet was booked to perform on an upcoming episode where she performed her truthful piece Average Black Girl. Though it took some time before Average Black Girl took the world by storm, it was worth the wait.

[O1]Remember to stick with either italicizing titles OR using quotation marks consistently. Don’t go back and forth.

Johnson-Morrison described that one year wait as God’s preparation for her. The enlightened entrepreneur has to come to the realization that the purpose of her gift was so much bigger than her. Since its debut, “Average Black Girl” has received over 60 million views and opened a door for her to become an internationally recognized spoken word artist.

After Average Black Girl, the now internationally recognized spoken word artist had the opportunity to perform elsewhere including the OWN Network’s It’s Not You, It’s Men hosted by Tyrese and Rev Run.

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The UNLV alumnus, who looks to Teri J. Vaughn and Michelle Obama as examples of model women, said that she not only models her poetry, but her life after Susan Batson’s Truth. She only writes vulnerable and truthful messages that “hit you in the gut”. Though she only writes poems a few times a year, she aims to make every word count.

Aside from being a gripping actress and fascinating spoken word artist, Ernestine Johnson-Morrison is also a happily newlywed wife. She and husband, Jay Morrison, are committed to each other as well as the community around them. They are involved in the uplifting and transformation of their local communities and the black community as a whole. The Tulsa Real Estate Fund, their project named for the great Black Wall Street, allows anyone to invest as little as $500 to become a shared property owner. The Tulsa Real Estate Fund recently closed on their first property, a 30,000 square foot commercial building that will be used as an entrepreneurial incubator, workspace, and film studio. After the closing, all 12,103 investors became property owners. The couple stressed the importance of involving the community because it brings a sense of pride to our communities and the families within the community.

LEVEL UP ISSUE

The Morrison’s are also teaching financial literacy and real estate at the Jay Morrison Academy as well as through something that they call Corner Class during their #BuyBacktheBlock tour. With the Corner Class program, they set up a white board on a street corner in the hood and teach real estate and financial literacy through poetry. Though she believes that the black community has become more socially aware and involved and she loves how we now have social media to bring awareness about our struggles, she knows we, as black people, still have some work to do. Ernestine strongly believes that the more blacks we have at political tables, the better chance we have at getting our voices heard and our needs met.

When asked what advice she would give to those chasing their dreams, the hard working woman said, “Ask God to lead you to your purpose and expose your gift. And then ask him to remove all guilt and shame so you can walk into your purpose.” As far as business goes, she’s most proud of the importance and legacy of the Tulsa Real Estate Fund, but when it comes to life in general she’s most proud of the integrity and humility she’s displayed in order to get to where she is today. Ernestine Johnson-Morrison is currently working on a show on Comedy Central called Broad City. She isn’t just becoming a household name, but a driving force in changing things within our community.

About Ursula Mersel - Ursula Brantley is a freelance writer, single mother, and native of Shreveport, LA. She has been writing professionally since 2012 and has written for CoLab Radio, blog site for M.I.T.'s Community Innovations Lab, as well as the SBC's own blog site 20x49. She also attended the NATJA (North American Travel Journalists' Association) Conference in 2013. Ursula is currently a librarian for Bossier Parish Libraries and is actively pursuing her goal of making writing/journalism a career.

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LEVEL UP ISSUE

WOM AN HOOD GOES ON AFTER A POSI

IVE

DIAGNOSIS with Thamicha Isaac PHOTOGRAPHY BY DELILAH PEACH PHOTOGRAPHY

Being HIV positive doesn’t have a look!

In 2019, you can be on retroviral medication, eat healthy, show no signs or symptoms and look as radiant as the sun.

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LEVEL UP ISSUE

Having HIV challenged me to find my inner strength, to live out loud, bold, brave and fearless.

I am blessed and able to conceive and birth children and they are HIV negative, because of my undetectable status.

I can date and have a normal love life just like everybody else, with honesty and educating my partner.

Having HIV and getting your sexy back is all a mental state of mind; I had to change my mind set in order for me to feel attractive again.

Learn more about her:

Website: www.OpenlyPositive.com

Instagram: @Openlypositive

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ MiizMishasworld

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LEVEL UP ISSUE

Gold Consultant Terikka Starks

Shares the benefits of the Travel Industry

By Francheska “Fancy” Felder

T

errika Starks is the owner of Kiings World Travels, a home based travel business, and a single mother of one.

The 33-year-old native of Columbus, Ohio, is the first gold consultant ever from the state.

However, while she has 14 years of travel experience, she has only been a travel agent for 16 months.

Terrika is an agent with a 65 –yearold host agency called Archer Travel, which is based out of California. Archer is partnered with Evolution Travel of Las Vegas, NV, and Terrika believes the founder, David McCovy, has created the best business opportunity ever for those like her who enjoy travel and desire to work for themselves.

The gold consultant says was inspired to become a travel agent after she literally watched her sponsor and Platinum Consultant, Latisha Chambers of Virginia, traveling and making money for a whole year!

After the eighth trip she booked for me, she said, ‘enough is enough. I need you to start earning commission on your own trips,’ Terrika recalls.

So on November 22, 2017, Terrika stepped out on faith and a small investment of $30 and started Kiings World Travels!

The gold consultant says was inspired to become a travel agent after she literally watched her sponsor and Platinum Consultant, Latisha Chambers of Virginia, traveling and making money for a whole year!

“I currently have the highest rank in my state along with having the pleasure of training all 57 of the agents on my team, which I’ve named Team LIT (Living Individual Testimonies).

Photography by Delilah Peach Photography

I have trained them on how they too can not only earn 80% commission on each booking, but how they can claim 477 different tax deductions on their tax return reducing their taxable income!”

Take a trip with me and get to know Terrika better below.

Fancy: How would you describe your swagher? What makes Terrika, Terrika?

Terrika: My swagher can be described as unique and outgoing.

I’m a compassionate go-getter with a giving heart.

Fancy: What did you do prior to being a travel agent?

Terrika: I was previously an EKG Monitor at an ICU hospital.

Fancy: Cool, so you have a large team. Are you still seeking more members? If so, can you describe your ideal teammate?

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Terrika: Yes, 67 agents is a lot. Yet, I am still seeking individuals who are currently traveling or looking to travel more and that are coachable and goal driven.

Fancy: I noticed you mentioned that before you booked quite often with another agent, if you don’t mind my asking, where were you going?

Terrika: Everywhere-in 2017, I traveled to Kentucky to see the Arch Encounter and Creation Museum, Virginia Beach twice. I also visited Cincinnati, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Oakland and Sacramento Fancy: I know many agents suggest joining the business, if you already travel a great deal, but would you say there is a certain percentage of travel that your work or brand should require before seriously considering the idea?

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Terrika: I would say no, and you really don’t have to have a percentage of knowledge of the travel industry due to all the training and resources that are provided, but there is a ton to be learned. Heck I’m still learning new things about the industry. A lot of the products we offer, are things people already do. We are able to provide more than travel accommodations. We have deals on restaurants, amusement parks, and even sports and concert tickets.

Fancy: With summer approaching, are there any destinations you would suggest or recommend?

Terrika: For a summer trip, I would have to say any beach is my go-to destination. I love the ocean, sand, and sun! I even had the pleasure, in 2017, to touch both the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean in the same year!!

Fancy: Do you have any travel tips for those preparing to travel during this busy season?

Terrika was our travel sponsor for our Angel McCoughtry cover shoot in Atlanta, Georgia, and we’re appreciative of her.

This boss chick says she’s grateful for the opportunity and the blessings that have come with the journey, and she’s excited to see what the future holds.

Connect with Terrika below FB Personal Page Terrika Starks FB Business Page https://www.facebook.com/Kiings-World-Travels-2105387446356418 Instagram @mikiingsmom Website www.kiingsworldtravels.com

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Terrika: Plan ahead and hire me!!! I take the pressure and stress off my clients, from researching the packages, booking, checking them into their flight or cruise and even checking in on them during and after the trip.

Fancy: Do you have any upcoming events or projects that you care to share?

Terrika: I currently have four group cruises going out this year, with one being an 80- passenger Ohio Authors Kickback in October going to Bahamas.

I also have a 65-party destination wedding to Florida that I am coordinating, and I will be accepting my Gold Promotion plaque at nationals in Vegas in June!!!!

LEVEL UP ISSUE

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LEVEL UP ISSUE

6 Ways To Make A Social Impact All 2019

By Tahyira Savanna

PHOTOGRAPHY BY T. CHICK MCCLURE

Register to Vote. 1a. Inspire a non-voter to vote. 1b. Create a community space that discusses issues relative to you.

The U.S. is a democracy, and as our civil rights leadership of the past has taught us, we have to take these issues into our own hands, because they directly affect our neighborhoods. The death of Michael Brown and the nonimpeachment of Officer Darren Wilson due to mixed accounts of what happened, launched the new age Black Lives Matter movement. This movement is responsible for putting video recording equipment in patrol cars and placed on patrolling officers.

Power Your Social - If there is no movement for let’s say, cleaner water in Flint or better access to mental health care in Atlanta, then start a hashtag and create content.

Instagram and Facebook are free platforms built by user support. Paid social is becoming more and more aggressively pushed towards the masses. For example, I spent a whole $9.57 to share my book deal at Barnes and Nobles during Black Friday weekend. It received 25,000 impressions, and I got an email from BN saying a payment is being processed to my bank account based on revenue. That was simple enough. Big media houses and corporations are using the same platforms at a much higher stake, so why not invest into your content dreams as well. If you’re going to scroll to find all of Cardi’s latest outfits. the least you can do is launch an important issue, right?

Keep It In the Family.

A lot of us have a lot to offer, but what we haven’t checked is our historical references. Black buying power versus Black spending power is extremely unbalanced right now. We should totally invest into our own families. If your cousin bakes cake, then promote their cake instead of a Instagram account that has tons of followers and might get you more likes if you post said cake. Get it? The same goes for clothing brands, small businesses, and local events. We surely have to give support to get support.

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LEVEL UP ISSUE

Mental Health Is Your Wealth Need a friend? Be a friend. Don’t get too caught up with “THE GRIND” in 2019 so much so, that you cannot stop and smile at your beautiful self in the mirror. Community makes the difference, so find an alternative group to escape into. Always around the gang? Then do solo-adventures and snap all about it. When we take our mental health and wellness into account personally, we become better people and happier souls long term.

I find that when we are going through hard times, we are routinely harder on our mental state of being. Don’t.

Be a friend to yourself first. Life is hard. We all get that.

Black Entertainment Presents Stay Tuned Because We Out Here, Circa 2019 A lot of amazing storytelling is coming down on the film side of things in the culture post Black Panther. It’s about damn time. We return to the African savannah with Simba et al as Disney releases the live action version of The Lion King 25 years later. It’s the blackest Disney movie ever created, and we are really excited for the next generation to understand WHY. A Romeo and Juliet story set to the Black Lives Matter theme - Queen & Slim coming from Golden Globes presenter Lena Waithe is set to be released on November 27th. Don’t forget that in March, Get Out creator Jordan Peele followed up with US starring some Wakandaians, Lupita Nyongo and Winston Duke. The film is a horror story set in Oakland, California. What bad things happen in the hood?

Hand Ups, No Handouts Many times when I’m just mentally fried and scrolling the internet aka Instagram and Facebook, I find a lot of ‘I wish I wasn’t Black’ based posts masked as Black Excellence posts. If you’re looking to build a new community in an old neighborhood, then you shouldn’t let the old people distract you. So many times when we are thinking about bettering ourselves in business, we assume asking for help is asking for a “hand out”. Guess what? That’s how businesses grow, by taking on new ventures and partnerships. You can be stumping your own growth because of a worker mentality. Successful people understand the levels of mastery which means you learn a given craft or perfect a certain role to the level where you can teach or train other people to become successful too. Are you a master or a student?

Follow my tweets for more writing @TAsterisk

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LEVEL UP ISSUE

QUESTIONS

INTERVIE

W AND PH OTOGR

13 APHY BY DELILAH P EACH PHO TOGR

WITH AUTHOR

EDNA TAYLOR

APHY

Delilah: What is your first written piece you were proud of?

Delilah: Are you an avid reader?

Ms. Edna: The first piece of writing that I was proud of is my first yet unpublished novel, For the Love of Jenny.

Ms. Edna: I am not an avid reader, although I have enjoyed other authors, there’s no particular genre. I have heard one has to read a lot in order to be a writer. In order to utilize the extraordinary gift within me and write as Edna should, I do not wish to be overly influenced by others. I write from the heart, and it is felt deep down in my soul. I wish to copy no one!

Delilah: At what age did you fall in love with writing?

Ms. Edna: Perhaps it began in my pre-teen years; I was always a storyteller. Writing came sometime in my early 30’s.

Delilah: What inspired you to write books?

Ms. Edna: I was inspired to write once I had no one to tell stories to. I was haunted; there was so much bottled up inside me that I needed to express. Once I finally recognized and accepted my gift of writing, I began penning my thoughts. Only then, I could finally breathe again. It was never about writing books, but a means of expressing the endless, beautiful thoughts that inundated my soul. I think of it as a purging of my not-at-ease [dis-eased] mind.

Delilah: Which one of your books would be a good movie?

Ms. Edna: I’ve been told the Love Has No Color Trilogy would make a good movie/TV series.

Delilah: What other talents do you have besides writing?

Delilah: Do you have a tip for aspiring writers?

Ms. Edna: Write, if you want to live!

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Ms. Edna: The ability to appreciate from whence comes my gift and to laugh at self are rare talents. It takes such talent just to survive in our world, is my opinion.

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Delilah: Do you have a favorite character from one of your books, and why?

Ms. Edna: In "Love Has No Color," Basil BardenLove is the perfect man! Independent women say he is controlling, yet they wish they had a helpful man. To the appreciating woman who never expected such a caring man, he is a rare treasure.

To him, she is a vital part of himself! He would do anything for her.

Delilah: Your newest book is based on a true story or fiction?

Ms. Edna: My newest book, The Passerby, as well as the other four, is solely fiction!

Delilah: Do you journal? If so, what’s your process..pen, pencil, journals or loose pages?

Ms. Edna: I have journaled in notebooks, on notepads, scribbled on calendars, loose-leaf paper and Post-Its, but hardly anything written that way gets into my manuscripts. My process is sitting and writing my thoughts and watching my creation grow.

Delilah: So tell us a little about The Passerby.

Ms. Edna: Fawn, the main character, doesn’t quite resemble her immediate family, and with good reason. Six months after her birth, she became a Christmas gift to the people chosen by her mother to raise her. She brought little with her but immediately inherited the Wicken’s hearts. As she grew in her parents’ love and care, Fawn did not always feel she belonged – thanks to the constant reminders by her siblings. In her late teens, used as an object of revenge against her father by a former business partner, Fawn becomes depressed. Eventually, she strikes out on her own and takes a job at Delta Airlines. Here is where she begins to realize and accept her special gift. She soon senses that someone was waiting for her to turn around.

Delilah: Where are your books purchased?

Ms. Edna: There are print-on-demand books available through: www.ednataylorbooks.com, www.bookstandpublishing.com, www.amazon.com and www.barnesandnoble.com, as well as numerous other online booksellers.

Ebooks: Amazon Kindle, Barnes and Noble Nook and Apple iTunes (for Apple iPad).

Delilah: Do you have any other upcoming events or projects that you care to share?

Ms. Edna: I am presently working to re-publish my first three books: "Love Has No Color Trilogy"; I am also sprucing up a story from my slush pile called Someone of My Own. The title of my next production is September’s Story.

Learn more about Ms. Edna at www.ednataylorbooks.com

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Clout Chasing VS Impact with Melony Hill

By Francheska “Fancy” Felder

Everyone wants to be a boss or CEO now, and everyone is about securing the bag, but very few are serious about sustainability, scaling for growth, and the giving back to their community. Melony Hill is different is different. She refuses to be a ‘one-hit wonder’ or clout chase and believes in overcoming all adversities and obstacles placed before so that she can continue to elevate, while also uplifting those around her. She is stronger than her struggles.

The Baltimore is the CEO and founder of Stronger Than My Struggles, published six books and assisted 10 others with becoming published authors in 2017.

The transformation coach describes her swagher as her transparency and authenticity. “In a world of clones and trends, Melony is fresh air. Melony is a woman who admits she is flawed, that she has a less than desirable past, and that she is not one dimensional,” the sex worker turned transformation coach and author shares. “My transparency holds a mirror up for others to analyze themselves and find peace in who they are.”

Before her wins today, Melony survived long-term molestation, physical, mental and emotional abuse growing up at the hands of her mother and stepfather. Her stepfather was murdered in front of her when she was seven years old, and then her mother passed of HIV when Melony was 17.

The teen found herself on the streets prostituting and that soon led her to the adult entertainment industry. After discovering that she was passing out and losing track of time, Melony decided to seek help. In 2009, she was diagnosed with a multitude of emotional dysfunctions, such as PTSD, depression, anxiety disorder and dissociative identity disorder (multiple personalities). The author says, “While I’m intelligent, my mind occasionally plays mean tricks on me.” However with therapy, she turned her pains into her purpose and now advocates for other sex workers and those battling with their mental health.

Melony says her income went from $20,000 per year in 2017 to $100,000 in 2018, and expects to make a quarter of a million dollars or more this year. For this reason she decided to hire coaches to make certain she grows her brand properly and strategically.

“It’s weird, because when I started Stronger Than My Struggles, it kinda started with just me trying to build a community and support around myself”, the entrepreneur says when asked how did she come about the decision to hire a business and personal coach.

She went on to say, “I really had no clue of what I was doing or how to run that kind of business, and I started doing things because people would be like, ‘oh, you would be good at this, so you should do this’ and I would like be ‘oh, well let me do this.’

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The realm Melony is referring to is the realm of helping people. “…because anybody can jump out and say ‘oh, I help people’, but I want to make a real impact, and I also want to make money. So to try to make a real impact and make money, it’s bigger than me launching a program; it’s bigger than me helping a person. How do I reach people? How do I become comfortable as I grow?”

She describes her transition as a lifestyle and mindset shift. The sex worker advocate, who was featured on TIME’s website homepage says, “It’s not something you just jump into. If you are someone who knows what you are trying to do as far as helping people on a bigger scale, make a plan and stick to it. I don’t want to be somebody who is hot for a year or two. I want to make an impact.”

Being that Melony battles with her mental health, she understands that burn out and not planning for long-term success are two very real and serious situations. She is now working with coaches Lisa Nichols and Jennifer Kem. Kem is the one who helped Lisa build her brand to the said net worth of $3 million dollars (as documented in 2017).

Lisa’s success powered by the coaching of Kim is why the Stronger Than My Struggles founder decided to go with those two. “I was thinking to myself, ‘I’ve been through adversity. Now I want to turn it into a business.’ For example, I have this program that I am launching this year called Pain to Platform, because that is what we did. We took our pain and built our platform off of it, and I see other people who are trying to do this. They are trying to figure out how to get into this realm. So now I want to create that path for them,” she says.

Melony believes it is important to see someone who has been there. For example, you can see Lisa, who was a homeless, teen mom with nothing, who had been coaching and inspiring for years before she even got discovered.

Two years into her work with Stronger Than My Struggles, Melony has taken her brands to great heights coaching and assisting others, while also giving back to the Baltimore community. Her Writing for My Sanity Therapeutic Writing Workshops are doing well and growing so that the participants are now bringing their children to the weekly event and others are inquiring about starting the activity in other cities and states.

Melony and Stronger Than My Struggles are currently preparing for the Crazy Like a Fox 4-City Tour Brunch.

About Fancy Francheska “Fancy” Felder is the founder/publisher/EIC of SwagHer Magazine. She’s a: Mother of 3 -Libra - Trapping scribe -Lover -Mental health advocate - Country girl -Proud, liberated Black goddess

Connect with Melony below:

Website: http://www.strongerthanmystruggles.com Instagram: @strongerthanmystruggles Twitter: @STMSBmore Facebook: http//www.facebook.com/strongerthanmystruggles

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THE MAN THE MYTH & THE LEGEND NIPSEY HUSSLE

By Vince Smith 29 | SWAGHER MAGAZINE

LEVEL UP ISSUE

With his longtime girlfriend Lauren London to his immediate left, Nipsey Hussle looked poised and confident. Wearing a black tuxedo, Hussle was dressed to impress on the red carpet at the 61st Annual Grammy Awards. As a correspondent from the show "Extra" approached him, it seemed like she could feel the special connection between Nipsey Hussle and Lauren London.

"Nipsey, I love the two of you together. You guys look like you're on top of a wedding cake," the female correspondent stated. "Okay, we'll take that," Nipsey said with a smile in response to the statement.

Hussle was humbled and inspired by the Grammy nomination for his debut album "Victory Lap".

Though it was an honor in reference to the academy nominating his body of work, Hussle felt he didn’t need awards to validate him, but it was nice to be acknowledged.

He was initially made aware of the nomination while in the gym working out with his music engineer.

While on Twitter, the music engineer noticed the confirmation of the Grammy nod as he began to jump up and down. It was at that moment Nipsey realized he’d transformed from a mixtape artist to a Grammy nominated artist.

In the end, the award for Best Rap Album went to Cardi B. Win or lose Hussle had already planned on continuing his grind by shooting a music video the very next day. Nipsey took pleasure in the fact his hard work and dedication brought him to the point of being nominated for a Grammy. However he wasn't satisfied as his goal was to continue to grow as an artist and entrepreneur.

Born Ermias Asghedom on August 15, 1985, he was raised in the Crenshaw neighborhood of South Los Angeles. His mother, Angelique Smith, is a native of Los Angeles, and his father Dawit Ashgedom is of Eritrean descent. Eritrea is a country in East Africa.

Nipsey Hussle popped up on the music scene in 2005 with his first mixtape titled Slauson Boy Volume 1. In his first on-camera interview, Hussle made it clear that he was dedicated to making an impact in the music industry, but he was also seeking business opportunities. Hussle often talked about re-investing his earnings from music and expanding his brand. "I want to invest in real estate. Acquire some assets to take care of my family," Hussle stated.

Nipsey Hussle released two mixtapes in 2008 and a third mixtape in 2009.

He went on to do collaborations with Drake and Snoop Dogg. In 2010, Hussle was rewarded for his constant grind by earning a spot on the XXL Magazine cover. He was ranked as one of its annual "Freshman Top Ten." Other notables for the 2010 class include Wiz Khalifa, Big Sean, and J. Cole.

Motivated from the recognition, Hussle released mixtapes in 2011 and 2012. Then in 2013, Hussle used his entrepreneurial mind. In October of 2013, Nipsey Hussle released his mixtape titled Crenshaw. This mixtape release wasn't a normal release. Only 1,000 copies of Crenshaw were manufactured.

In addition to the limited number of copies being printed, hard copies of Crenshaw were priced at $100 apiece.

The bulky price tag included a few incentives. The purchaser received the music, signed photograph, a personal phone call from Hussle, and an invite to his studio. Jay-Z purchased 100 copies of the hundred dollar mixtape.

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After purchasing the limited edition mixtapes, Lauren London began to follow Nipsey Hussle on Instagram.

He started sending messages to her DM, and a relationship blossomed. Three years later the couple welcomed their son Kross Asghedom. Hussle also has a daughter from a previous relationship, Emani Asghedom.

Nipsey continued to invest in his music and business aspirations. Following up on the idea his brother originated, Hussle opened Marathon Clothing Store on Slauson Avenue in 2017. The store is located in the plaza where Hussle initially started selling mixtapes out the trunk of his car. The store started its product launch with a blue and yellow t-shirt inspired by Darryl Strawberry's Crenshaw High baseball jersey. Another anchor to the clothing line is the all black 1991 Crenshaw t-shirt, which Cuba Gooding Jr. wore in the movie Boyz n the Hood.

Hussle became an ambassador for the Puma clothing line and shoe company, as he carried the exclusive brand in his Marathon Clothing Store. Nipsey also opened a workspace Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics or STEM center known as Vector 90. It was designed to serve as a conduit between underrepresented groups and corporate partners in Silicon Valley. "In our culture it's always a narrative that says ‘follow the athlete’ and ‘follow the entertainer’. That's cool, but we should have something that says ‘follow Elon Musk, follow Mark Zuckerberg’," Hussle stated in an interview at the grand opening.

ARTWORK BY OBIE COLEMAN | IG: @SUPERLATIVESBRAND

Nipsey Hussle was surging as his business portfolio expanded and his music career was on the rise. Hussle was a person who didn't mind paying homage. On multiple occasions he spoke about his admiration for how Jay Z and Master P, both found success on the music and business level. He was also working on a documentary about nontraditional healer and herbalist, Alfredo Bowman, also known as Dr.Sebi. The doctor was known for claiming he had cured aids, a claim he continued to back even in the Supreme Court. Dr. Sebi died in 2016 at the age of 82.

Nipsey Hussle had such a bright future ahead of him until he was gunned down in a senseless violent act.

According to reports that have surfaced, it appears the rapper talked back to his killer. Sources who were close to the scene said alleged killer Eric Holder shot Hussle, and as he was walking away he heard Hussle say, "you shot me, you got me, I'm good." After hearing this Holder walked back to finish the job. Hussle was rushed to the hospital and was pronounced dead thirty minutes later. Eric Holder was arrested two days later. He's being represented by Chris Darden, the former prosecutor in the O.J. Simpson murder trial. Eric Holder is being held on $7 million dollar bond. He's due back in court May 10, and remains in solitary confinement.

Family, friends, members of the hip hop community, and fans feel the sudden death of the rapper and entrepreneur. Margaret Boutte, the grandmother of Nipsey Hussle who was in his music video Racks In The Middle had a special message for Eric Holder. "I'm praying for him. I hope he doesn't get killed in custody…Have enough time to ask God for forgiveness, I'm hoping he's sorry for what he did," the 88-year old Boutte stated.

Nipsey Hussle was an inspiration to his family, the industry, and his community. Thousands gathered for his memorial service which was held at the Staples Center, and it was said the event was sold out in 20 minutes. A 25mile procession followed the service, touching each neighborhood Nipsey had uplifted through his work.

Nipsey was a polarizing figure who was taken from us too soon. His music and entrepreneurial talent assisted him in achieving the category of legendary.

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Ermias Asghedom gone but never forgotten.

August 15, 1985- March 31, 2019

About Vince | IG: @veedwriter Screenwriter, author, celebrity journalist, and SwagHer Magazine contributor born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Obie Coleman IG: @superlativesbrand I’m a visual artist and designer based out of Virginia. My inspiration when I began the piece was to pay homage to an artist that inspired me through their entrepreneurship and music. I've been a long time fan of Nipsey. The day he was killed the artwork took a different meaning, and I completed it with more purpose in mind. His posturing, his tattoo saying "God will rise", and the significance of his age all coincidentally made the image appear Christ-like in retrospect. I feel like now it’s a reminder that man is made in God's image, and we can all, like Nipsey, serve as a vessel to help uplift and be a source of positivity for our people.

Tony C Green IG: @Gods__Artist

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Getting to know Ashlee Akins of OWN’s "Ready to Love" Interview by Arnya T.M. Davis

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KENO DAVIS

Ashlee Akins was one of the contestants in OWN’s Ready to Love a dating show where singles meet other eligible singles in hopes to find a mate suitable to spend the rest of their lives with. The show showcased women and men of different ages, different backgrounds, and different personalities. Weekly, either the guys decided who left the pool of ladies, or the ladies decided who to let go from the pool of men. The show is much like life in that way. In the end, three couples were actually left standing.

Of one of the couples was Ashlee Akins.

We first interviewed Ashlee on our IG live, just before the airing of the season finale and the reunion. We then caught up with the Ready to Love fan favorite after the show went off for the season. Here’s a nice mash up for you all to get better acquainted with her.

Arnya: What is your definition of love?

Ashlee: A never ending vacation with your best friend and lover –a forever…

Arnya: Ready to Love, What were you thinking?

Ashlee: I am an extrovert, so jump, just do it! You are dating, and it’s not working.

Arnya: What was the interview process like?

Ashlee: Answering the casting call, which was something I discovered online, a phone interview, submission of videos, friends completing interviews, Skype interviews, 8-hour interviews, tests, having to meet with a psychologist, IQ tests- lots of things.

Arnya: When did you become serious about the process on Ready to Love?

Ashlee: I was serious from the beginning. Firstly, I was single, and I knew it was time to seek additional help. I had finally come to the conclusion that I was the problem. I noticed that the issues and hurdles in my life were a result of Ashlee and no one else.

So I began to search and began pray more to get the toxic people and things out of my life. This took time, but people were dropping like flies. Then, there it was.

I was alone, but this time I was full of Ashlee, engulfed in my fabulousness and ready for love, because now I am together.

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Arnya: It doesn’t seem like they were showing your personality much in the beginning. Do you agree?

Ashlee: Well, yeah I was sitting back and feeling the room out to see what I was working with. I wanted to take it easy, before turning up. I wanted to get a feel.

Arnya: What was your experience with the women? Were they competitive? Being the youngest of the bunch, how did you feel? Was it genuine?

Ashlee: From the first day, everyone was nice, but we all were trying to figure one another out. We all found something nice to say about one another though it was agreed that we didn’t think we all would get alone as well as we did.

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Ashlee: contd....

When they had the roundtable discussions, it was more so opinions, what they been through came out and they were like, ‘oh, he did that with me. I heard he did that with her,’ and etc, but every girl was on top of their A- game. I was making friends with the guys, because whoever, I was going to spend the rest of my life with I would first need to be a friend to. I wasn't concerned about what he did the night before on another date, because that would worry me to death. I can’t control if a person touches his arm or if you want to kiss that person. At that time, that may be what you wanted to do but not forever. I am going to let you have that moment, and keep worrying about Ashlee and building friendships.

Anybody can have a connection or have a two-week romance and then wake up and be over it. I don’t fuss or argue. I knew what I came into. I knew the other person was going to be dating someone else.

It was interesting being on the other side of things. I was not getting loud, not vying for attention; I was cool. If someone likes you, they will want to be around you. People want to be around positive energy, and I am magnetic. I don’t need a thousand compliments; my mama always told me I was pretty, so I am pretty. I wasn’t looking for anything like that. I was looking for friends. There is always something you can pull from people.

Arnya: What would you tell a young lady that is in a “cycle” (referring to on again, off again relationships that are going nowhere)?

Ashlee: The main thing is everyone has their own time. There is no set rule or set time, your day is yours. You have to take your partner totally out of the situation and ask yourself, ‘what is wrong with me, that I need you so much? What’s wrong with me that I just can’t walk away? What is it that I am missing?’

Then you figure out how to get that.

It’s cool for her to ask herself ‘is this forever? Do I wanna wake up and do this forever? Rain, sleet or snow, is this where I wanna be? I had to speak that out loud. Say your affirmations out loud, get a piece of paper and write down the good and bad qualities. If the bad out way the good, run until you find your peace. You don’t need a significant other to find peace. I don’t understand why people feel they need someone to have peace. I believe in love, but I believe in self love first!

Instead of being in something unhealthy, we (women) need to start being real with ourselves. There is something we need to find within ourselves before we get into situations like that.

Arnya: On the show you mentioned your “get’em girl jeans”; do you have multiple pair?

Ashlee: I have four pairs of get’em girl jeans. I brought every color. Get’em girl jeans make me feel sexy. They are all purpose jeans; you can dress them up or dress them down. You can wear them to pay basketball, go to the mall or out to the club. They hide your pouch too.

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Arnya: How did your job feel about you doing the show?

Ashlee: My job was very understanding and excited for me.

They let me go and come as I please. I didn’t have any issues. I have great bosses and really nice colleagues. I got my work completed and still had time for the show. It was a lot of work, but through prayer and planning, it got done.

Arnya: What were your family and friends thoughts about you going on the show?

Ashlee: They were tickled pink, but they couldn’t believe I was being myself on the show. It was funny, because I am funny in real life, so it felt good that people knew that I was being myself on the show. A lot of people were proud of me back home. My family was on cloud nine. They had watch parties and t-shirts.

Arnya: Do you have any regrets about going on the show?

Ashlee: No regrets, the only thing I regret is that they didn’t make it longer; I would have loved to still be on there.

Arnya: Would you do Ready to Love again? If so, would you change anything you did?

Ashlee: No, I am completely happy with how I handled myself and others on Ready to Love.

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Arnya: So what’s next?

Ashlee: Women empowerment campaign, speed makeup, feel pretty on the inside, putting a tour together to work with panels, a clothing line, lashes, jewelry, apparel, a lot of things going on.www.aadimension.com, I can be found on IG and FB under Ashlee Akins and aadimensions. I’m making major moves in 2019, including acting classes and to continue being my bubbly self. Stay tuned.

Talking to Ashlee was great! She was exactly the same person that we saw on The show Ready to Love.

Note: Ready to Love is now casting for Season 2 of the series. Who knows, you may be like Ashlee and launched into stardom, from just wanting to find love.

About Arnya T.M. Davis Arnya T.M. Davis has been in the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex area for 20 years, but she originally hails from New Orleans. She describes herself as creative mixed with geek, but she loves pushing people to achieve their goals. Not only is she one of SwagHer’s entertainment and celeb journalists, she is also the magazine and Fancy’s Thoughts, LLC’s manager.

Follow Arnya online at @ladi_ceo.

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Author Spotlight: Jen Coppin Interview by Francheska "Fancy" Felder

Jen Coppin is from South East England.

Her parents are Caribbean natives who migrated to the United States. She is the cousin of Teofilo Stevenson, the 3x Olympic gold medalist and boxing champion from Cuba, who was offered one million dollars to fight Muhammad Ali. She grew up within a strong family of women whose experiences and struggle showed her what was possible and inspired her to dare to dream.

The England native embraces and knows what it means to struggle. From the streets of New York working in factories with and cleaning houses with her mother, she never lost sight of her dreams.

She is the founder of the Kora Beauty Skincare line, which is designed to help women with skin care issues, and she is the publisher at New Vision Media Publications. Jen is also now a published author of the book titled, What is Your Sister Code?, which provides a candid provocative look at the plight of women and the role society plays in the proliferation of gender inequality and marginalization.

The craftswoman enjoys empowering women and provides opportunities to help women gain their independence and realize their dreams. She champions women's rights as basic human rights, and she believes that women can become catalysts for change in a climate that still fosters gender inequality.

Jen has an MBA Degree in Business Management with a course of study in Business finance and accounting. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and was featured in Swagher Magazine as a Wednesday Wonder Woman!

Now meet Jen from the author aspect and learn what inspired her new book.

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Fancy: How would you describe your swagher? What makes Jen, Jen? Jen: My swagher is self-determination, self-motivation, perseverance, kindness, a strong sense of community, love and a dash of humor.

Fancy: What sparked your interest in the marginalization of women?

Jen: Although we live in the 21st century, history has taught us that society has come a long way in changing its perspective about the role of women. However, there is still a lot that needs to be done in order to change systems and a culture that maintains remnants of old traditions that influence how women are treated.

For example, in the 1700’s the Law of Coverture was established to cover married women. This law gave husbands the right to assume ownership of all fiduciary responsibilities, including the ownership of bank accounts, property, and business.

The Law of Coverture also extended into the workplace and made it permissible for women to be excluded in the workplace from job promotions.

This took place in the 1700’s.

However, today, we live in the 21st century, and corporate positions still remain a “good old boys club.”

In 2017, CNN Money highlighted that only 5% of women held CEO positions.

Could this be the law of Coverture secretly at play in our society?

These statistics certainly are not a reflection of women refusing to apply for corporate positions, or not being qualified, but are rather a reflection of how women are still being marginalized in society today.

Jen: contd... Therefore, I must say that the stubborn persistence of gender inequality and racism in society are the underlying reasons for my interest in the topic of marginalization Fancy: How did you further educate yourself on the subject?

Jen: I have an MBA degree in Business with a course of study that includes statistics. So I utilized my business background in statistics, and I conducted extensive research on the topic by analyzing statistics, history, current events, and psychology which was my major in my undergraduate studies.

Fancy: So for readers who are not familiar with the marginalization of women can you explain in your own words in layman’s terms?

Jen: In layman’s terms, marginalization is simply the exclusion of a person or group from an activity that could possibly yield to one’s progress as a person, or as a group. For example, look at slavery, people of African descent were taken from their homeland and forced to work as slaves, which enabled one race to gain economic stability over other races.

However, after all that Afro-Americans have endured due to slavery, there are no reparations for African-Americans to help them to regain economic stability on a level playing field. This event in history captures the true meaning of marginalization..

Fancy: While researching I noticed that marginalization is taught more commonly in Europe and being that you are from South East England, I wondered what your thoughts were on how America is addressing the matter.

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Jen: According to history, the first election in United States took place in approximately 1789, but women weren’t given the right to vote until approximately 1920. Therefore, women were “excluded” from the voting process, and that was certainly a very long time for women to be excluded from the voting process in America. Therefore, I would have to say that in America the issue of marginalization is not being addressed adequately, because women still do not have equal pay in the 21st century. The wheels are turning, but it is certainly a very slow process, almost mirroring the long time and process for women to gain the right to vote.

Fancy: At what point were you inspired to write “What Is Your Sister Code?”

Jen: Being from a family of strong women who encouraged self-efficacy, education, creativity, love and humility, I was disturbed by news events, the ongoing issue of bullying, and the ongoing themes of female rivalry.

I wrote this book to remind women that they are queens who deserve the best from themselves and others. I wrote this book to raise awareness about how women have been bamboozled and to show women how they can triumph over the tools of marginalization that are used against them every day.

Fancy: Do you consider yourself a feminist?

Jen: Yes, I am an intersectional feminist who believes in woman’s rights, racial equality, and the eradication of marginalization.

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Fancy: What type of readers will appreciate this book?

Jen: This book is for women who do not want to be bamboozled and want to play to win.

Fancy: Do you have any upcoming events or projects that you care to share?

Jen: There will be an upcoming “What is your Sister Code?” book tour.

Connect with Jen below For bookings contact: Newvisionmediapublications.com Follow Author_Jen_Coppin on Instagram.

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What is Your Sister Code?

Available at Amazon.com https://www.amazon.com/What-Your-Sister-CodeCoppin/dp/1797745778/ref=sr_1_1

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COVER STORY Angel McCoughtry

LEVELING

& A WINNING MINDSET

Interview by Francheska "Fancy" Felder

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FIRST OF ALL, WE ARE NOT COMPARING

OURSELVES TO MEN. I WOULD NEVER GO TO

YOUR BOSS AT YOUR JOB AND SAY,

‘HEY, DON’T GIVE TIM A RAISE.’ I WOULD NEVER DO THAT TO YOU. SO I FEEL

LIKE RESPECT THE WOMEN. IF WE ARE

ASKING FOR A RAISE, RESPECT THAT,

BECAUSE I WOULD WANT THE SAME THING

FOR YOU AND YOUR JOB.

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While the WNBA players do just about the same things as NBA players, the women are not publicized and promoted like the men of the NBA, allowing them the reach and accessibility to a wider fan base, including those who may not be so much into sports but other causes and campaigns, like myself.

So upon learning that I would be speaking on a platform with WNBA Atlanta Dreams team member, Angel McCoughtry, I was very intrigued.

It’s not often that I meet women athletes, and it hit me that while their careers and lives are much like other women, their paths are not as similar.

Aside from playing in the WNBA and oversees basketball, Angel McCoughtry is a two-time Olympic Gold Medalist (London 2012, Rio 2016), the owner of McCoughtry’s Ice Cream Shop, as well as a singer, content creator, and she is stepping into film.

Due to social media and gossip and entertainment outlets, we can gather and (unsafely) assume much about the male athletes, but as I mentioned above it’s not as common for the women.

Therefore, I was excited about learning more about the business of sports from the perspective of a woman, as well as a little about what their lives are like. And of course, being that athletes possess a winning mentality, I wanted to tap into the brain of Angel McCoughtry and see what nuggets I could find there to pass on to others who are looking to level up and maintain their winning mindset in this season.

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LEVEL UP ISSUE

Get the scoop Fancy: How would you describe your swagher? What makes Angel, Angel?

Angel: Just that I am myself. I love what I do. I am grateful for the things God has blessed me with. I think my swagher comes from inspiring the youth. When I see the kids and how they look up to me, I’m like ‘ok, I have a little swag. They like what I do!’ So, you know that is a blessing that people appreciate what I do.

Fancy: I love the aspect of the youth, and you mentioning them so soon, makes me wonder, were the youth a part of your inspiration for McCoughtry’s Ice Cream Shop?

Angel: Absolutely, the ice cream shop helps me give jobs to kids in the community. The kids come in, and they learn how to make ice cream and do business. We also give a lot of ice cream to foundations, so definitely. The ice cream shop has been a blessing in that aspect.

Fancy: Cool, I saw the announcement about the new ice cream shop location in Louisville, Kentucky and figured it was because you went to school there.

Is that correct?

Angel: Yes, so not too long back, the school reached out about opening an ice cream shop, and it was like ‘that’s a nobrainer’.

Fancy: Oh, so it’s going to be on the campus?

Angel: It’s going to be close by the campus. I’m really excited about it. You know the town loves what we’ve done there, the history we created with the women’s team. So I mean it’s a nobrainer. I didn’t even think about it until they reached out, and I was like, ‘OMG, of course!’ So now people are like, ‘are you going to come back home to Baltimore?’

Fancy: That’s what I was about to ask.

Laughs. What about Baltimore?

Angel: I’m like ‘aye, we gotta do them one at a time but eventually…’ I don’t see why not to go back home to Baltimore.

Fancy: So I learned that you first heard of the WNBA when suggested by some of your childhood friends who you played basketball with, because they knew how much you loved the sport when you were just nine years old. Upon some further research, I learned that only 144 young women (12 recruits for each of the 12 teams) are chosen each year for the WNBA. Did it ever cross your mind that you wouldn’t be accepted?

Angel: Um, I think back during the time when the WNBA first started, those numbers didn’t exist. I think through the bad years of the economy that we had, those bad years caused them to cut back. So they only accepted 12 players per team during the economy. But prior to that, personally, I never thought about it, because those numbers didn’t exist.

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Angel contd....

Of course now, you know, it is a blessing to be a part of the WNBA, but I tell the girls who don’t make the WNBA, there are a lot of other options. They can play oversees in Russia, China, Turkey, or Spain, and it’s a blessing that they can still play in other countries, learn different languages, try other foods, there’s many opportunities. So that’s a lot of fun Fancy: Now I’ve heard you mention that as a woman athlete, your lives aren’t normal, and I don’t think we, the fans, think much on that, but you recently took a year off and you were sharing how good it felt to do so. Can you elaborate more on that?

Angel: Well I’ve been playing for the last ten years, since college, since 2009. I did take a year off in 2017, because I was a little burnt out. I had played for the WNBA and overseas for all those years straight for nine consecutive years! So imagine playing, playing, playing, never having a break, just playing all year round. You know, it’s kinda not normal.

Even NBA players get the summer off.

So I said you know what? My body was telling me it was time to take a break. I did that, I got to travel and do some neat things, but then it was unfortunate that I came back this year to play and tore my acl (anterior cruciate ligament). I’d never been hurt or injured- ever, and it was coming off fresh from taking a year off, so it was definitely a devastation. I was like dang, ‘what is this? Why am I having this setback?’ ..

LEVEL UP ISSUE

Angel contd....But the blessing of this minor setback, is that it’s become a great setup, you know. I’m happy to come back from the injury this year. I think I have a lot more focus since the injury. I won’t take anything for granted, so the injury has been a blessing in disguise.

Fancy: Yea, I often think that God will make us sit down when we don’t want to and keep refusing, you know, but that time allows us to think and realize things. In my mind when I planned to ask you about that, I was like I hope she’s not too sad, or too down mentally, but I like that you are positive about things and that you see the light in them.

Angel: Now don’t get me wrong; at first I wasn’t as positive. I was a little depressed about the knee, and I was like ‘what am I going to do with myself? I’m bored, I’m this and that’, but it really helped me to sit down and refocus and clear my head, figure out things I want to do after basketball. You know, sometimes you do have to just sit down and reevaluate life.

Fancy: While we are on the subject of your state of mind, you mentioned therapy and not being afraid to go and speak with someone at the Not Just a Getaway retreat. Can you share more about that?

Angel: Yes, I do have a sports psychologist who I talk to. Like you said, an athlete’s life is not normal. We live out of a suitcase. We’re always traveling. We have to maintain our relationships and balance all those things. So it’s not easy. We don’t just have a 9 to 5 and come home every day.

We’re gone a lot of the time. Then you have things you deal with in the workplace. We have issues. I think every team probably has an issue of some sort.

Then there are things you are going through off the court, so you’re talking to someone who- you know when it was first presented to me I was like, ‘I’m not crazy. I don’t need to talk to anybody’, but that’s a stereotype.

No, you’re not crazy, but it’s okay to talk to someone and get professional advice on anything you are going through and after that I started to manage my life better. I play better on the court, because now I’m like, ‘this triggers me.

This doesn’t’- I don’t have to yell at the rep and get a tech (technical foul). Now when he makes a bad call, I just keep it moving. I move on to the next play. So that’s something I had to learn and talking to someone definitely helps.

Fancy: As more women are starting to speak out about the pay gap and demand equal pay, and we know the WNBA players have spoken out, would you say there have been any improvements?

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Angel: I do see where there’s hope and things are improving. For example, in women’s tennis, they didn’t always make millions nor have all the things that they have now. It took people like Billie Jean King and those type of women, to speak up. Now they are at a status where people notice; people are watching. They can make that kind of revenue. They deserve it. They work hard for it. We feel the same way, like we want to be appreciated a little more, and we hope that it can cause change.

Maybe the desired changes are not for when I play, but maybe for the younger generations.

That’s what we are doing; we are not saying we want to make millions like the guys. We’re just saying we are worth more, and there’s nothing wrong with asking for what you are worth.

We get a lot of backlash on social media, and people are talking about we will never be like the men.

First of all, we are not comparing ourselves to men. I would never go to your boss at your job and say, ‘hey, don’t give Tim a raise.’ I would never do that to you. So I feel like respect the women.

If we are asking for a raise, respect that, because I would want the same thing for you and your job.

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Fancy: Right, I recall you saying how a lot of the times, people try to compare the women’s games to the men’s games.

Angel: Well, we all know what the difference is between men and women when it comes to sports and athleticism.

We all know God didn’t make our bodies the same as men, so we are not going to do exactly the same things. We can do just about- but no,I can’t jump and dunk like a man, because my body is not built that way. So I always ask people, ‘why are you holding that against us?’ Our bodies just aren’t made to do it.

Fancy: So you think that is what people are attracted to when they attend the games?

Angel: Absolutely- I’m attracted to it!

Laughs. I’m like, ‘ooh’ and ‘ah’. ‘They can do 360’s!’ They can jump in the air really high. It’s attractive. The game is entertaining. The game is about entertainment, but I keep telling people we entertain in our own way.

So yea, you may not see a lot of dunks in the game, but we are still going to entertain you, and we are women.

Appreciate the art of sport number one.

You got women out there busting our butts, sweaty, weave all over the place, and we are scratching and clawing. So just appreciate the art of what we do, and we give it our all. We can do most of the same things as the men can, but we don’t have that same flex.

Angel contd...However, now a lot of women are dunking more than ever before. A lot of women are doing more, so I would say women’s basketball is like evolution. I always say men’s basketball is set, but women’s basketball- to see it grow to the aspect of women dunking, it’s amazing!

Fancy: When we were at the Not Just a Getaway retreat, you mentioned getting the most help in your career from men, but was there an actual instance where you didn’t get help from women when you needed it or sought it?

Angel: Men are more helpful in terms of business dealings in my experiences. As women, we have to stop comparing and be confident in helping each other out.

Angel: A winning mindset is not being famous. A winning mindset is not a having million followers on Instagram.

It’s not winning championships all the time. A winning mindset is how you create reality, basically how you believe in yourself and having confidence.

That’s a winning mindset. We are so quick to think negatively in our heads. A million things can go right, and one thing can go wrong, and we become stuck on that one thing. That’s not a winning mindset. You know we are all guilty of that. So I think a winning mindset is when one truly believes in themself.

Even if we lost a game, I tried my best that night and I gave it my all, but we still didn’t win. That’s still a winning mindset.

Fancy: What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken in business and how did it go?

Angel: Starting a business and using all my funding for it.

Angel: Starting a business and using all my funding for it.

Fancy: Being that you excel in all you do, have you ever had a point in your life where you had to level up and if so, how did you do so?

Angel: In every aspect of life, I have had to level up. That is where the success comes from.

Fancy: Well I know that a winning mindset has to be important to you in your line of work. What does it looks like for you?

Angel is expected to be back on the court this season.

The first preseason game for the Atlanta Dream is May 13, 2019 against the Dallas Wings. She also just inked an endorsement with Lasso, the first company to utilize biomedical engineering in the design of sportswear. Plus according to her Twitter, she also has a collaboration in the works with LinkedIn.

Stay abreast of Angel’s moves below.

Website: http://officialize.com/@angelmccoughtry Instagram: @mccoughtry Twitter: @angel_35

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LEVEL UP ISSUE

DOPE BLACK GIRLS' SPRING/SUMMER ESSENTIALS

BY FRANCHESKA “FANCY” FELDER

BLACK GIRL SUNSCREEN

FOUND AT: WWW.BLACKGIRLSUNSCREEN.COM OWNER/ FOUNDER: SHONTAY LUNDY, OWNER AND CREATOR

WHAT INSPIRED YOUR BRAND? I CREATED BLACK GIRL SUNSCREEN BECAUSE I WAS UNDERWHELMED BY THE OPTIONS FOR SKIN PROTECTION FOR WOMEN OF COLOR. AS A WOMAN OF THE SUN WITH A DARKER COMPLEXION, HEALTHY SKIN HAS ALWAYS BEEN A PRIORITY FOR ME, AND I KNEW THAT THERE HAD TO BE A SOLUTION TO THE LACK OF OPTIONS. WITH THIS MOTIVATION, THE JOURNEY BEGAN TO FIND A SOLUTION ELIMINATING WHITE RESIDUE AND MAKING WOMEN OF COLOR FEEL AND LOOK GOOD IN THE SUN. WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND DOPE? BLACK GIRL SUNSCREEN WAS CREATED FOR US, BY US. I AM MY OWN CUSTOMER, AND I WANTED WOMEN OF COLOR TO KNOW THAT I WAS SPEAKING DIRECTLY TO THEM. WE HAVE ELIMINATED THE TELL-TALE WHITE RESIDUE, BECAUSE WE WANT WOMEN OF COLOR TO LOOK LIKE THEMSELVES WITH OR WITHOUT MAKEUP. OUR FRAGRANCE-FREE PRODUCT CAN BE USED AS AN EVERYDAY FACE AND BODY MOISTURIZER. WE HAVE ALSO ELIMINATED HARMFUL CHEMICALS SUCH AS OXYBENZONE AND OCTINOXATE, WHICH MEANS YOU DON’T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT TOXINS DISRUPTING YOUR HORMONES. BEING PARABEN-FREE MEANS THAT OUR SUNSCREEN IS ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY. IG: @BLACKGIRLSUNSCREEN AVERAGE PRICE: BLACK GIRL SUNSCREEN CAN BE PURCHASED ON OUR WEBSITE FOR $18.99 BUT AS A COURTESY, YOUR READERS CAN USE THE CODE BGS20 TO GET 20% OFF 😉

DOBSON FOOT HYDRATION FOUND AT: WWW.DODSONFOOTHYDRATION.COM

OWNER/ FOUNDER: SHANEISHA DODSON WHAT INSPIRED YOUR BRAND? I HAD A DREAM ABOUT GOD. I WAS LED TO READ THE BIBLE JOHN 13:1-17. I THOUGHT ABOUT GOD WASHING THE DISCIPLES FEET. IT INSPIRED ME TO CREATE HEALTHY PRODUCTS THAT PEOPLE CAN USE ON THEIR FEET AND OTHER AREAS OF THEIR BODY..

WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND DOPE? MY BRAND IS SO DOPE BECAUSE IT’S ALL-NATURAL AND AFFORDABLE..

IG: @DODSON_FOOT_HYDRATION AVERAGE PRICE: $15 49 | SWAGHER MAGAZINE

LEVEL UP ISSUE

HAIRBRELLA

FOUND AT: WWW.HAIRBRELLA.COM OWNER/ FOUNDER NAME: TRACEY PICKETT, ESQ.

WHAT INSPIRED YOUR BRAND? WOMEN WORLDWIDE SPEND OVER $80 BILLION DOLLARS ON THEIR HAIR EVERY YEAR, BUT HAVE LACKED SUITABLE OPTIONS TO PROTECT THAT INVESTMENT AGAINST EVERY WOMAN’S ARCH-NEMESIS: RAIN. I PERSONALLY STRUGGLED WITH THIS WHEN I WOULD SPEND HOURS OF MY TIME AND LOTS OF MONEY ON GETTING MY HAIR DONE, ONLY TO HAVE IT RUINED AS I WALKED ACROSS SPELMAN’S CAMPUS ON ANY GIVEN DAY. I SAW MY CLASSMATES AND WOMEN EVERYWHERE RUNNING OUT OF STORES AND SALONS WITH DISTRESSED FACES AND GROCERY BAGS ON THEIR HEADS. I DECIDED TO CREATE A SOLUTION THAT WOULD HELP WOMEN KEEP THEIR HAIR DRY AND THEIR STYLE INTACT NO MATTER THE FORECAST, AND DO SO WITH A SOLUTION THAT DID NOT COMPROMISE THEIR DIGNITY IN THE PROCESS. WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND DOPE? WE REINVENTED THE RAIN HAT TO HELP WOMEN EVERYWHERE CONQUER THE WORLD WITHOUT WORRYING ABOUT THE WEATHER!

POTTLE

FOUND AT: POTTLE.CO

IG: @HAIRBRELLA AVERAGE PRICE: $39.99

OWNER/ FOUNDER: NETTIE DAVIS WHAT INSPIRED YOUR BRAND? A PROBLEM I HAD. WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND DOPE? THE FIRST OF ITS KIND, REFILLABLE AND REUSABLE, APPLICATOR INTERCHANGEABLE USE TO MIX/CUSTOMIZE POLISH TO GEL CONVERSIONS, BUILDER GELS, NAIL POLISH, GEL POLISH, LIQUID LATEX OR MAKEUP.

ZAHNENDEN

IG: @THEPOTTLE AVERAGE PRICE: $25

FOUND AT: WWW.ZAHNENDEN.COM

OWNER/ FOUNDER: LACHANDA “CHANDA” CASTEAL

WHAT INSPIRED YOUR BRAND? MY BRAND WAS INSPIRED BY MY LOVE FOR BUSINESS AND HANDBAGS. MY SON WAS IN THE HOSPITAL AT THE TIME AWAITING A LIVER TRANSPLANT. THAT WAS BACK IN 2014. THE NAME IS INSPIRED FROM MY THREE KIDS AT THE TIME. WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND DOPE? MY BRAND IS DOPE BECAUSE I CREATE BAGS THAT I FEEL ARE NOT IN STORES THAT WOMEN ARE LOOKING FOR. THE STYLES THAT ARE MISSING. I’M FILLING IN THE GAPS.

IG: ZAHNENDEN AVERAGE PRICE: $100, AND I ALSO HAVE A FEW OTHER STYLES.

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LEVEL UP ISSUE

3

WAYS TO SET BOUNDARIES

AUTHOR ANIKA

L E V 2 0 E 1 9 L U P

INSTAGRAM: @AUTHORANIKAENNETT TWITTER: @AENNETT_HERR

PHOTO BY: IAM KIRAGU

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LEVEL UP ISSUE

Boundaries are the way to go in any relationship. Boundaries set a clear line, identifying the things that you are and are not willing to deal with. Everyone has their own unique set of boundaries, and where some have yet to set them, the result is that person deals with resentment, passive-aggressive anger, and a host of other negative emotions. The boundaries that you set will set the tone for your relationship, whether personal, romantic or business. If you don’t determine them at the beginning, how is a person to know what is deemed okay in your sight? Below are three ways to quickly establish your boundaries.

Determine what your boundaries are. Have you outlined the things that you are willing to allow in your life? So often, we expect people to be able to read our minds, and when they don’t interact in our lives the way we expect them to, we get frustrated with them. It may take a little thought, but think on the things that you consider being acceptable when someone is dealing with you. Make sure that this is what you want, because you have the control at this moment to determine what you are willing to deal with, and the other person will have a clear understanding. Ensure that it’s something that you truly want, because changing back and forth is not a good look. Plus, it will cause confusion, and who wants to deal with that?

Be honest and clear. At the beginning of the relationship, tell the other person your expectations and the boundaries that you have set to govern your life. This step is so important, because it will give the other individual the opportunity to cooperate or decide that they can’t deal with the boundaries that you have in place. We always want to be honest, because this cuts down on the pain and disappointment of unreal expectations that lead to things ending on a bad note.

This process is going to require that you are assertive when talking to others, and it may be a little challenging for those who tend to be shy or a person that hasn’t gotten the hang of speaking up for themselves. However, this is a good leap towards becoming assertive to all of those who have yet to find their voice. What I’ve learned is that many people appreciate honesty and boundaries, because they don’t have to spend so much time trying to figure out what you want, what they can do, and what offends you. So, go for it, set those boundaries!

Be consistent. There is nothing worse than an indecisive person. Once you have set those boundaries, remain consistent because you will complicate the relationship. As the relationship evolves, there may be some boundaries that you are willing to adjust, but be upfront with the person. Since these are your boundaries, you can’t expect a person to be able to read your mind and know that you have decided to change.

I recommend that once you adjust these boundaries, don’t try to change them back because you may have had a disagreement with a person. It will show that you are unstable, and no one likes instability. Consistency is required in all things, not just setting proper boundaries. The results for the boundaries that you have set are that you can honestly live with what you have set and are realistic in your expectations of others.

One important thing to remember is that people have the right to decline entering any type of relationship with you because of the clear boundaries that you have set, but it’s okay, because it is your choice as to the way you govern your life.

About Anika: – Anika Ennett

Published Author and Founder of HERR – Healed Empowered Resiliently Restored HERR is a platform used to empower women and help them get to a place of healing.

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LEVEL UP ISSUE

WEDNESDAY WONDER

WOMAN INTERVIEW CONDUCTED BY FRANCHESKA “FANCY” FELDER

Nikki Williams-Rucker is a native of Chicago, Illinois, now living in the suburbs of Georgia. She is a wife and mother of two with 16 years of experience as an English teacher. Throughout her career, she has witnessed the struggles and trauma African- American girls face and wanted to help them create a new narrative. In an effort to do so, My Sister’s Keeper (MSK) was born.

This program focuses on making positive informed life choices and dedicating time and concentration to academic success through college and beyond for the betterment of communities.

In her spare time Nikki loves to write, and she published a book of poetry, Spoken Word, in 2017. These writings are an expression of her experiences related to love, life, and faith. The betterment of communities and writing has always been her passion and sharing it with others is her dream. Get better acquainted with Nikki and her work below.

Fancy: Please share a little about My Sister’s Keeper and how it was started.

Nikki: MSK started in 2008 in Chicago, Illinois in response to a need for girls in underserved communities to have a sense of mentorship. We wanted to create a community of sisterhood among these young ladies that helped them deal with some of the things that were holding them back from excelling in school. When I moved to Georgia, we closed the program after seeing almost 2,500 girls in and around Chicago, restructured it, and opened it again here in Georgia.

We are one company with two distinct populations. The MSK Experience is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to empowering, motivating and educating girls and women in ways that encourage them to live their best lives regardless of their socio economic status or background.

Nikki contd....Our goal is to dismantle the misguided notions created by society that tears down, divides, and discourages and to challenge girls and women to change the narrative by being a community that is truly stronger together.

Fancy: What inspired the “Inspire” Scholarship Gala?

Nikki: This is our sixth scholarship fundraiser. It started out as a way to provide our senior girls with small book scholarships and grew into a way of honoring unsung community heroes, who are doing amazing things on behalf of girls and women. In addition to the social and emotional support we offer our girls, we wanted to offer monetary support as they transition into the next phase of their academic lives as well.

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Fancy: Please share a little about the honorees and what we can expect at the gala.

Nikki: This is our first gala here in Atlanta, Georgia, and in sticking with our theme of honoring those who are doing amazing things in our core focus areas, we chose women who represent those tenants. Also for the first time, we are honoring a young visionary who is changing her community as well.

Our honorees are: Cassi SimmonsEntrepreneurship, LaShanda PittsService, Dr. Monica Hill- Health, Francheska Felder-Media Awareness and our Young Visionary- Kemery Oparah. We also have an amazing keynote speaker from Every Woman Works, Inc., Mrs. Stacey Howell.

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Nikki contd....The Gala is taking place at Twelve Downtown Autograph Collection, and we are very excited about the opportunity to bring this event to Atlanta for the first time.

Fancy: How many events have you hosted in the past and how many scholarships have you given away?

Nikki: We host an event for our Women’s Suite every month in different women run businesses around Atlanta, and we have hosted several events for our program girls such as conferences and even a free prom dress give away at Tri Cities HS, which is another one of our signature events. In the past we have given away over $2,000 in book awards.

Fancy: Who are the candidates or ideal recipients of these scholarships?

Nikki: Any senior girl in our program is eligible for these awards.

Fancy: When will they be awarded?

Nikki: They find out at the gala if they are the recipients of an award.

Fancy: After being in the classroom 16 years, does that make it any easier to witness or accept the things your students face every day?

Nikki: Yes. I think being an educator and a mom makes it easier for me to see past the surface of attitudes or seemingly lack of motivation in class and want to get to the root cause of the students’ social and emotional behaviors.

Nikki contd...I worked on one of the toughest sides of town in Chicago, but due to the relationships I took the time to form with my students, I never felt unsafe. Kids just want someone to take the time to listen to them and actually care about them.

Fancy: What’s one fun thing about Nikki that most do not know?

Nikki: Most people don’t know that I love playing practical jokes. Seeing people’s reaction to things and making them laugh and get silly gives me joy.

Fancy: Do you ever consider moving back to Chicago?

Fancy: Do you have any other events or projects that you would like to share?

Nikki: There are days I miss Chicago but mainly for the food, lol!

We were recently hired to facilitate a summer program in Chicago, so our program might be expanded back there very soon.

Nikki: We were one of the organizations chosen by The United Way Fayette as one of the 2018 grant recipients, and with that winning, we are going to create more opportunities for teens in Fayetteville, Georgia, starting with a summer program that bridges the gap between teens and the community.

On July 20th, we are hosting a day of self care for women called “Protect Your Magic” a day of self care in Atlanta Ga. It will be a day to have women come together and experience a day of relaxation, self love and fun

Fancy: As a wife, mother, educator, and director, how do you balance it all or do you even seek balance?

Nikki: I balance it all by making sure I take time for myself. Whether it is going to get my hair done, or my nails done, or just taking some time with my friends in Chicago, I try to do something just for me every week. I also pray every morning and spend some quality time alone which grounds my day.

Connect with Nikki and MSK below, and grab tickets to the gala. We’ll be there!

Fancy: What advice would you give to those wanting to make an impact in their communities?

Nikki: Do it! The only way things change is for us to change them. I have always operated under the idea that I should always leave things better than I found them. If we want things to change, we have to be bold enough and passionate enough to do the changing. I would tell people to simply do it. Care enough to truly be the change.

Gala Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/6thannual-lifting-as-we-climb-scholarship-fundraiserinspire-tickets-51593799443

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Website: www.themskexperience.com IG: @mskexperience Twitter:@ msk_experience FB: http://www.facebook.com/THEMSKE XPERIENCE

LEVEL UP ISSUE

HISTORY MONTH WINNING ESSAY

There are unlimited reasons why Black History Month will always be relevant to this generation and generations to come.

African Americans played an enormous role in the history of the United States even until this very day. The African American culture is both complex and puzzling that our generation has expanded the culture in a variety of ways. Black History Month teaches young individuals about how we evolved to where we are today. Carter G. Woodson knew the extensive role African Americans played in history and created an entire month dedicated to the important contributions of the African Americans.

In 2019, a numerous amount of people use the automatic gear shift. Without Richard Spikes, an African American, we might be without this remarkable invention. This month genuinely shows how powerful a group of people can be. African Americans not only wanted equal rights for themselves, but for all races and genders. African Americans fought with violence and with words, if it wasn't for African Americans we might still be segregated. Black History Month is not only about war and violence it also gives intel about accomplishments African Americans made. Madam C.J. Walker, an African American, was America’s first woman to become a self-made millionaire.

The term “African American” generally means a black American, but African Americans wanted to be equal amongst everyone, not just blacks. In 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous “I Have A Dream” speech; he spoke for equal rights among all colors not just “blacks”.

Rosa Parks also fought not just for African Americans, but for all colors. During the Civil Rights Movements, you had to pass the Literacy Test in order to vote, and without an ducation the odds to pass were slim. Although this practice was unfair, it was created to prevent blacks from registering to vote.

We have a very distinct history and bring plenty of our ncestors' customs with it. Music is in our roots and enjoyed by us all. In 1917, the first jazz record was made by an African American by the name of Nick LaRocca and his band.

New Orleans is known for amazing festivals with their music nd food jazz was born here. This music is still played and loved to this very day. You can hear this music everywhere in parades, jamborees, or even on a good day.

Without Black History Month nobody would ever know the cruel things that happened to African Americans and all the pain nd suffering they went through to get us the equal rights we deserve. They also gave us a numerous amount of entertainment that everyone still cherishes. Everyone loves going to parades, and when you go, you can listen to music and enjoy wonderful cultures all thanks to African Americans. They have given us many opportunities to explore, and everyday we discover something new.

If it was not for African Americans, we wouldn't be where we are today and have experienced what we see in our everyday life.

Sherriell Dedeaux is the winner of the Black Literary Weekend Black History Month Contest presented by Meet the World Image Solutions, LLC. She attends L.B Landry- O.P. Walker College and Career Preparatory High School in New Orleans, LA.

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LEVEL UP ISSUE

Author Spotlight:

Generational Survivors Interview by Francheska “Fancy” Felder

The soon to be released anthology, “Generational Survivor” compiled by Brooklyn-native Saadia White, tells the stories of a group Black women's generational curses and how they each, in their own ways, are breaking them, not only for themselves but future generations to come.

Saadia currently resides in the state of Virginia. After her tenacious career as a law enforcement officer ended early, and she was forced to take on medical retirement, Saadia pursued a new career as a small business owner. With numerous law related certifications under her belt, she knew furthering her education would be key in being a successful entrepreneur. Obtaining one degree in applied sciences and graduating magna cum laude, she is still embarking upon her journey to continue furthering her education.

However throughout this journey, Saadia came to realize she wanted to continue servicing her community as a positive role model, and therefore became a “serial volunteer”. She has been known to volunteer her time assisting with food, coat, and clothing drives throughout the community. The loving wife, mother, and grandmother has hosted numerous fundraisers for feeding the hungry on behalf of The Virginia Peninsula Food Bank, raising on her own efforts hundreds of dollars, as well as supplying the food bank with multiple boxes of can goods and other necessary resources .

In addition to volunteering for the food bank, she went on to create and become the founder of a campaign known as “Eyes Wide Open Empowering People Globally”. The campaign is an educational referral resource aid for victims of domestic and sexual abuse, which Saadia White knows all too well.

Being a victim of domestic and sexual abuse as a child and as an adult, Saadia wanted to create a campaign for these victims as a way to empower and take back what their abusers stole from them. She started off by hosting a free community event for women which featured educational topics such as domestic abuse and human trafficking. Her campaign “Eye Wide Open” went on to host their first charity masquerade for a nonprofit organization raising hundreds of dollars. Saadia White would continue to pursue her efforts in educating and being a referral resource for victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault by sharing her compelling story of how she is a “Generational Survivor”.

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Meet Saadia and the other survivors below.

Saadia White

COMPILER

Fancy: How would you describe your swagher? What makes Saadia, Saadia?

Saadia: My swagher is bold and fearless; I am a Generational Survivor standing strong with a purpose and a voice. ‘What makes me, me?’ I am laughing on the inside, because all my life I fought to "fit in", but I finally realized GOD made me to "Stand Out". So my freedom of self makes me who I am today.

Fancy: Everyone goes about healing in their own way. Did you seek therapy for the trauma you endured growing up?

Saadia: Yes, I have seen a therapist, and it was necessary, but my true healing did not begin until I gained a real relationship with Jesus Christ!

Fancy: At what point did you become aware of generational curses?

Saadia: I would say when I was 23. I remember looking in the mirror, but the reflection staring back at me wasn't recognizable, that individual was broken and reckless like my mother had been at that very same age. I realized then that I was following in the footsteps of my mother.

Website: www.amazineamazon.com Facebook Pages: Saadia White | Generational Survivors | Amazine Amazon Instagram: @AmazineAmazon| @gensurvivors Twitter: @AmazineAmazon | @gensurvivors

Dr. Charlene Rainy-Bell

Connect with Dr. Charlene: Website: www.herpaddedtruth.org Be Bold, Be Courageous, Be YOU! Facebook Pages: Charlene Rainey-Bell, charlene.dbell, Herpaddedtruth Instagram Profiles: @charlenebell81, @charlenedbell, @herpaddedtruth

Dr. Charlene Rainy-Bell is a licensed nurse practitioner and navy veteran, with a nonprofit “Her Padded Truth LLC” which offers free menstrual hygiene products to the homeless and those who are in need.

CO-AUTHOR

Fancy: How would you describe your swagher? What makes Dr. Charlene, Dr, Charlene?

Charlene: God makes me, me. He created me in his image, he guides me, comforts me, and I go before him in all I do.

Fancy: Everyone goes about healing in their own way. Did you seek therapy for the trauma you endured growing up?

Charlene: I sought the Lord; there was nothing a therapist could do for me until I was able to truly heal spiritually first. Then the natural work could begin and be easy. There are times when I thought therapy was the first option, but I easily learned that without God in my life, if I didn’t get spiritually healed from the hurt and pain, I wouldn’t be able to sit with someone and talk about my trauma.

Fancy: At what point did you become aware of generational curses?

Charlene: It wasn’t until I was in my twenties that I found out that sexual abuse and violence not only happened to myself, but my grandmother and great, great-grandmother also. Through the love of God, I’m breaking that curse from going forward in the lives of my children!

Fancy: Why did you decide to take part in the “Generational Survivors” anthology?

Dr. Charlene: Truth inspired me to be a part of the anthology. Remaining silent only gives power to the pain. As a child of God, I have a duty to tell my story and let people know how God brought me out of depression, anxiety, and pain and into grace.

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Gloria Henderson

CO-AUTHOR

Gloria Henderson is the owner of Soulful Journey, a massage therapy business, as well as she hosts I Am Enough retreats, which offers several different healing workshops and brings about empowerment and inspiration.

Fancy: How would you describe your swagher? What makes Gloria, Gloria?

Gloria: My swagher is spiritual, peace, and understanding with a sheer determination to be the best version of myself. My unfortunate history of abuse makes me me. The pain, tears, the self questioning and new found strength has made who I AM today.

Fancy: Why did you decide to take part in the “Generational Survivors” anthology?

Gloria: I decided to be a part of the Generational Survivor’s anthology with the intent of no longer being silent, and with the hopes that as I continue my healing journey, sharing my story will encourage other abused survivors to heal their scars.

Connect with Gloria: Websites: www.soulfuljourneyllc.com | www.iamenoughretreat.net Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/iamenoughretreat Instagram Profiles: @iamenoughretreat | @soulfuljourneyllc

Sandra Sakponou Adenka

CO-AUTHOR

Connect with Sandra: Websites: www.speakupforachange.com| www.sandrasmotivation.com Facebook Pages: Sandra's Motivational Coaching | Speak Up for a Change | Sandras Motivation Warrior Mindset Fitness | Sandra Adjo Sakponou Instagram Profiles: @sandrasmotivation| @sandra.adjo_emefa | @sandras_motivational_coaching

Sandra Sakponou Adenka is the group’s African warrior, author, and inspirational fitness coach, who also founded a nonprofit, “Speak up for a Change”. Her organization has turned up the volume on the unheard international voices that have been impacted by domestic abuse, sexual assault, and more.

Fancy: How would you describe your swagher? What makes Sandra, Sandra?

Sandra: I'm a very interesting, intelligent, gifted, resilient, beautiful, flawless, and outgoing woman, full of smiles and determination with a golden heart but strict, and no time for rubbish. I am powerful, strong, and built to be vigilant.

‘What makes me, me? ‘Awww I love this question, and I think it's a question everyone should be asking sometimes! Sandra, Sandra- crazy, crazy but always knows and accepts who she is without doubt. When she looks in the mirror, she sees herself not anyone else. She believes she's unique in her own way and accepts her default without regret. My God is so awesome that he didn't make mistakes by giving me to me, and for me to accept who I am and continue moving in a direction of everyday glory. I don't fake my personality to please anyone. What Sandra puts out there, that's who Sandra is.

Fancy: Why did you decide to take part in the “Generational Survivors” anthology?

Sandra: I desire to be free and want to free someone else, because everyone is not capable to see the difficulties in what they're going through, but instead they accept it and believe that it was meant to be that way in their life. They deal with it until someone stands up and makes them see the reality, and I want to be that person in the life of the voiceless to make them raise and smile again. Remember there is a possibility in anything that we think is impossible. I wanted to take part in the “Generational Survivors” anthology, because before making an impact around the world, it has to begin with me, and I can't stay in the shadow of pain and fear forever. Every story narrated by someone changes the world, heals hearts, and changes minds. I will never stop believing in stepping up for change, and I know my voice will leads generations. I believe everyone has a painful story but most are afraid to share it. I want to have a listening ear in the lives of those people.

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Brandy Broward- White:

CO-AUTHOR

Brandy owns a catering business and has done great missionary works in the community. Her catering service has sponsored many impactful community events such as the NAACP Act-So luncheon, and the Heartbeat Gala. Her genuine love for the community is a show of compassion that many do not possess.

Fancy: How would you describe your swagher?

Brandy: I'm outgoing, and I'm very strong and caring. I'm observant to any and all things. What makes me, me is that I'm me, and no one can be me better than me.

Fancy: Why did you decide to take part in the "Generational Survivors" anthology?

Brandy: I wanted to share my story to inspire someone who may be going through or have experienced some similar things. I shared, because me sharing helps me, and I can close that wound, and it can never be opened again.

Connect with Gloria: Websites: www.soulfuljourneyllc.com | www.iamenoughretreat.net Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/iamenoughretreat Instagram Profiles: @iamenoughretreat | @soulfuljourneyllc

Connect with Brandy: Facebook Page: Brandy Broward-White Instagram Profile: @browardwhite

L TO R: SANDRA ADJO SAKPONOU, SAADIA WHITE, GLORIA HENDERSON, BRANDY BROWARD-WHITE, AND DR. CHARLENE RAINY BELL 62 | SWAGHER MAGAZINE