SwagHer Magazine
SUMFUN Issue
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Acknowledgments Contributors Kaitlan Darby Anika Ennett Francheska “Fancy” Felder Brittany Passion Doreen Lettsome Reid Patrice Rivers Tahyira Savanna Christina Woodard
Marketing Francheska “Fancy” Felder
Editor-in-Chief
Jarmel Roberson
VP of Marketing
Shanice Ashbey
Marketing
Treajour Abrams
Marketing
Christina Woodard
Online Editor/Magazine Manager
Porsche Gregory
Jr. Communications Manager
Andrew Horton
Copy Editor
Francheska “Fancy” Felder
Copy Editor
Christina Woodard
Copy Editor
Belle Kadiry
Layout Design
Briana Brown
Social Media Cousin
Kayla MaDonna
Crystal Hayslett Photography
Rolexx
Charm LaDonna Photography
Letter From the Editor Greetings, Gosh, where do I begin? I’m writing this as we celebrate our 11th anniversary. We finally got some operating funds, y’all, and it’s like a whole new world of business! I can laugh and smile and write captions about how good life is because, for once, life is finally good. Amid our many blessings, SwagHer Magazine has landed its biggest client to date and, I can say I make a living off what I do, and it’s the truth. I don’t think I’ve ever written you all without having any worries. It’s a strange feeling. It’s almost like I’ve waited so long I don’t know how to feel. Initially, I was scared. I was afraid things were too good to be true. I had grown accustomed to struggle. I didn’t know anything existed outside of it. Remember I started this magazine as a former teen mom and stripper, still slightly fresh out of community college with no corporate world experience. Remember I’ve written to you all from the many houses and shitholes I’ve lived in, the many McDonald’s I practically lived out of, and the many relationships I’d endured just to have time and a place to run this business. If we are indeed the sum of our experiences, I didn’t feel worthy. Not in the beginning. The thought that hard work had finally paid off didn’t enter my mind because I did not think that way- or at least I used to not think that way, because, at one point, I wondered how could I take you guys any further when we didn’t appear to be moving. We go hard behind the marginalized communities because we were a part of it! But who knew that from the concrete, a flower would grow? However, It’s going to be interesting to watch us grow. It’s like we are finally at the same starting point as everyone else and not so far behind that it looks like it will be impossible to catch up.
They leveled the playing field! And we are growing, we’ve hired a social media cousin and a junior communications manager, and we are working to shake things up! So in this issue, we simply intended to have fun and take it easy while still tackling some complex subjects. We hope you enjoy this issue. If you are here and you’ve been here, thank you for being on this journey with us. If you are new here, welcome. Now let’s go! Peace and blessings, From Fancy w/ Love
Table of Contents 08
Fun Nights -
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Black Media Honors Honoree: Brely Evans - Meet a BHM honoree.
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Pride is Not a Marketing Strategy -
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Black Media Honors Honoree: Kim Chapman - Meet a BHM honoree.
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Wonder Woman: Sandy Sanders - “Live with the enthusiasm and determination
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Black Media Honors Honoree: Dr. Jamal Bryant - Meet a BHM honoree.
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Confident Woman Incubator Builder - Doreen R. gives us the details on her
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Black Media Honors: Michelle Rice -
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Movies on Netflix That May or May Not Be Worth Watching -
Annika E. gives us some fun things to do during the night with friends and family.
Kaitlan D. tells us the history and importance of Pride Month
necessary to be the best version of yourself possible, even when the odds are against you”, says best-selling author and motivational speaker, Sandy Sanders. She shares her personal struggles and what led her to be such a beacon of light in her community.
organization, Divine Connection Network Association, LLC.
Meet a BHM honoree.
Kaitlan D. dishes on the latest Netflix films. Should you watch them?
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We Interrupt Your Programming - Meet SwagHer Magazine’s Media Correspondents.
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Super Bowl and Grammys Choreographer Makes Musical Debut -
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Black Media Honors Honoree: Ebony Oh -
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From Humble Beginnings to Red Carpet Appearances, Crystal Renee Hayslett - The BET Sistas star shares her growth in Hollywood.
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Chef D Party Recipes -
Patrice R. interviews, Charm LaDonna up and coming musical artist and The Weeknd’s choreographer.
Meet a BHM honoree.
Chef D introduces tasty recipes that are sure to make your stomach happy.
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Black Media Honors Honoree: Melissa Ingram -
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Meet Accountant and Entrepreneur, Stacy Sloane -
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Black Media Honors Honorees: Moms of the Movement -
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It’s a Vibe w/ Shatava Lindsey - Brittany P. sits down with fashionista,
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Meet the Founder of Black Media Honors: Stephanie Davis -
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Speak Up: Lost Voices - Anika E. explains the importance of speaking up and gives tips
Meet a BHM honoree.
Accountant and apothecary, Stacy Sloane shares what inspires her and the power of NYC. Meet a BHM honoree.
Shatava Lindsey and discusses her fashion line, OUR GLASS.
Meet the visionary behind Black Media Honors.
on how to help those who have lost their voice.
Contributors
Kaitlan Darby Kaitlan Darby is a graduate of UL Lafayette. She has a B.A. in Mass Communication with a concentration in Public Relations and a minor in promotional management. She is a publicist, writer, and aspiring actress. She is the founder of Black Mamba Creative, which is her creative arts/services outlet. Instagram: @blackmambacreative LinkedIn: Kaitlan Darby Website: https://www.blackmambacreative.com Anika Ennett Anika Ennett is the Owner/Editor of Writing Into The Blue, LLC. Anika is also a published author who focuses on helping women find their voices through their own writing. Email: Anika.Ennett@WritingIntoTheBlue.com
Kaitlan Darby
Doreen Lettsome Reid Doreen Lettsome Reid is an author, speaker, trainer, live show host, radio show host, and CEO/Founder of Divine Connection Network Association with 12 years of expertise in building confidence in Christian woman to rise as leaders; she is a catalyst for current/ future female business owners, ministries, and organizations.
Anika Ennett
Tahyira Savanna Tahyira is a lifestyle journalist and writer. Her interest includes human stories and introspection. She interviews everyday people doing their part to make our world a happier place. Follow her on Twitter @TAsterisk and Instagram @iletthegoodtimesroll
Doreen Lettsome Reid
Donald “Chef D” Smith Chef Donald J. Smith was born and raised in New Orleans, the heart and soul of Creole and Cajun culture.. His portfolio boasts preparing meals for various entities, including conventions, corporations, celebs like Barry Bonds, The O’ Jays, The Clark Sisters, and Miguel, and feeding the homeless and less fortunate culinary circles as “Chef D,” specializes in Creole, Cajun, and soul food. Instagram: @chefdzcafe
Tahyira Savanna
Brittany Passion Brittany Passion is a CEO, radio personality, talent scout, model and actress who believes in letting your purpose drive your passion. Her company, The Passion Xperience has teamed up with Swagher Magazine to bring you a fresh new series that allows creatives, industry moguls and more, to open up, explore and inspire. More Than A Pretty Face is a motivational series for beautifully complicated queens to share their stories and encourage others to be authentic and unapologetic. Instagram: @brittany_passion
Donald “Chef D” Smith
Patrice Rivers SwagHer Magazine
Patrice Rivers Patrice Rivers is a storyteller born with a vision to write and be creative. With nine books under her belt, she has taken being an author to the next level by creating the book series for children called “Come Learn With Patricia,” which talks about a little girl living with Sickle Cell Disease. An advocate and survivor herself, she is continuing to speak on SCD educating the community. Patrice is also the proud owner of That Riverz Gurl Brand that primarily focuses on her books, writing, and poetry. Website: www.thatriverzgurlbrandllc.com Instagram: @thatriverzgurlbrandllc.
Brittany Passion
Christina Woodard Christina Woodard was born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She attended Dillard University in New Orleans, Louisiana, and received a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication. She is passionate about all things related to writing, investigation, family, and crime and hopes in the future to put those passions to good use by becoming an author and paralegal. She is currently the Magazine Manager at SwagHer Magazine and Media. You can find her on Instagram @cstina.nicole.
Christina Woodard SUMFUN Issue
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SwagHer Magazine
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www.beverlykjohnson.com
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Have tiki torches, maybe white string lights, have the grill going, and fix some drinks. Pick a feel-good movie; this is important because the goal is relaxation. 2. Family Game Night – Depending on your families’ makeup, such as age and skill level, bring out the games. Prepare snacks, drinks and if you want to invite other families, make it a little competitive, just use wisdom because nothing is more important than your health! Refrain from large gatherings. 3. Weekend Getaway – People are over being stuck inside, feeling the weight of being away from their loved ones, and unfortunately, people have been suffering from depression. Plan a getaway with your family or you and your loved one. Do some research on the internet because there are some great deals for people who just need a break or those that can now travel to see their loved ones.
Fun Nights! By: Anika Ennett
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his year has been crazy, right? Definitely not discounting the seriousness of IT ALL! It’s because of this that we need to take some time for fun! For the single and those that are in relationships, there are many fun things that you can do while practicing social distancing yet creating a great date night that’s lighthearted and fun. I have a few suggestions to keep it relaxing, whether you’re dating, married, or just hanging out with your girls. 1. Movie Night – Set your backyard up with a couple of tables, with a good distance between them. There are places that you can rent movie screens and if you’re really creative, bring a large screen television outside.
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4. Singles Relaxation – Everyone is not in a relationship (me, lol), but that doesn’t mean that we don’t need to relax and have fun. Commit to making an entire day where you are just catering to yourself! Here are a few examples for the ladies as a part of self-care, and we need time to take care of ourselves because we love to take care of everybody else. a. Mani and Pedi (early in the day). b. Treat yourself to a new pair of shoes, an outfit, or both! – no judgment. c. Take yourself to lunch (you should enjoy your own company). d. Do something that you have never done before. (only you know) e. Be all kinds of EXTRA!
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Black Media Honors Honoree: Brély Evans B
rély Evans is a multi-talented native from Oakland, California. Evans is an actress, producer, vocalist, motivational speaker, comedienne, voice-over talent, and author. Brély became the spokesperson for Jenny Craig 201314. This opportunity allowed her the chance to inspire and impact people across the world through her health and fitness journey. Brély is known for her bubbly charisma and charm with several years of experience in film and television. She has graced the screen for hit films including Just Wright, Sparkle, He’s Mine Not Yours, Black Coffee, The Man in 3B, Let the Church Say Amen, Black and Privileged and the leading role in You Can’t Fight Christmas. Evans’s television appearances include BET’s Being Mary Jane, Mann and Wife and Last Call, and now the hit soap drama Ambitions as Rondell Lancaster on Oprah Winfrey’s OWN network. In March 2019, Evans received the NAACP Theater Award for Best Supporting Actress. Evans released her first book, The ABC’s of I Am’s and the audiobook is now streaming on the ON! Channel. Brély is an entrepreneur and leader, she utilizes her platform to edify, empower, and encourage others to live out their purpose through perseverance, ambition, and passion. Water Walkers Worldwide was founded on these key principles to inspire others to get out of the boat of fear and to walk on water towards their dreams.
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Pride is Not a Marketing Strategy By: Kaitlan Darby
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f you were unaware, June is Pride Month. If you don’t know what pride month is, it is a celebration of equality and increased visibility for members of the LGBT+ community. Pride Month is a time for the community to come together and celebrate the freedom to be who they want to be. Pride is rooted in the struggle of minority groups fighting against discrimination to be accepted for who they are. There are parties, festivals, parades, drag shows, and other events in place to celebrate the generations before us who fought for inclusion and representation. The origins of pride go back to June of 1969. Police invaded a gay club, which caused riots and protests. The riots caused a shift in activism for gay communities. Stonewall Inn, where the riots happened, is now hailed as a national monument. Pride is built on the backs of drag queens and men of color. People who risked their lives just because they dared to step out of their home and decided to be themselves. Pride is built on the backs of people like Marsha P. Johnson
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or “Black Martha.”Martha made money as a sex worker and used that money to help young transgender community members, as did Sylvia Rivera. Trans women turned to this work because of a lack of protection for them in the workplace. This is the core of pride. And I’ll tell you what pride isn’t. Pride is not a marketing tool used by big brands to try and capitalize on others fight for equality. LGBT+ community members don’t want to be sold mediocre clothing with rainbows on them; they want real, actionable equality. Transgender people want to be able to use their bathroom of choice without someone accusing them of being there for the wrong reasons. Pride isn’t a place for heterosexual people to go and judge what they see there. It’s not a place for you to go get Instagram photos. It’s not a place for you to harass actual community members despite you claiming to be an ally. Don’t treat pride events like your own personal Coachella; that’s not what it is. It’s for people to celebrate being their true, authentic selves. So if you’re going there to judge, don’t bother showing up.
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Black Media Honors Honoree: Kimberly M. Chapman
continues to grow. Her ambition, however, soon grew beyond that of solely running a successful business. With Chapman Products on the rise within the haircare industry, Mrs. Chapman felt it was important to expand into community outreach. In 1999 she cofound the Chapman Foundation, which provides scholarships to high school students and delivers school supplies and toys to the less fortunate. Chapman Foundation also gives a minimum of 250,000.00 per year to children in need, either within the Deep South or abroad. Then came SHEEN Magazine – The Ultimate Beauty Guide for the Modern Day Woman – which Kimberly created, combining her love of beauty, hair, and fashion with her desire to promote selflove and appreciation in all woman everywhere. Of the bi-monthly print publication and online media source, Kimberly explains, “We keep our readers on target with the latest trends, products, and celebrity news, while educating, encouraging, and empowering woman to achieve their highest potential.” Kimberly Chapman has been married to chemist William P. Chapman Jr. for over twenty-five years. They have two children, William “Tre” P. Chapman III and Antonia (Rafi-Diyn) ChapmanMerced, and three grandchildren, Rafi, Sofia, and Sasha.
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imberly M. Chapman is one of the great entrepreneurs and innovators in the Southeast, the perfect combination of beauty, ambition, and intellect.
A graduate of Southern Wesleyan University, Kimberly lives and breathes the word visionary. She co-founded Chapman Products Inc., the umbrella which houses Nairobi Professional, Congo Professional, Kerefena Natural Hair Smoothing System, and the Chapman Foundation. With an illuminating zeal for people and a knack for organization and infrastructure, Mrs. Chapman uses her potent business acumen to oversee every aspect of Chapman Products. She started her empire with a dream of Chapman Products becoming a household name around the world, providing all cultures and ethnicities with beauty products inclusive and indiscriminate. She saw the need for better and healthier haircare products and set out to fill the void. With prudence, Chapman Products was built into a regional, national, and then international brand. Through hard work and diligence, Mrs. Chapman turned her vision into the extraordinary company it is today, which now includes 200 distributors, 32 employees, and
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“Change your Mindset, Change your Life”
Micaela “Cae” Thomas Author/Motivational Speaker/Life Coach www.micaelalthomas.com Strippedtomytruth@yahoo.com (614) 845-9011 P.O. Box 27116 Columbus OH
Social Media Handles: SwagHer Magazine
@strippedtomytruth
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Wonder Woman: Sandy Sanders By: Christina Woodard
Having over 25 years as a Contact Center Specialist and ministry and life skills teacher to female inmates in a local Adult Detention Center, Sandy understands all too well the importance of addressing, covering, and challenging souls who need it most; through the power of conversation. Sandy’s mantra is simple: Live with the enthusiasm and determination necessary to be the best version of yourself possible, even when the odds are against you. Owning her personal story of overcoming a traumatic childhood, low self-esteem, alcoholism, and domestic violence, has given Sandy a great sense of relation with collective advocacy. Through her advocacy, she has reputed a trusted help in her local community. She has hosted community prayer walks and vigils in memory of youth who have lost their lives due to gun violence, along with an annual communal procession, Love Doesn’t Hurt: Anti-Domestic Violence Walk. In hopes to heal, prevent, and bring awareness to the painful epidemic of domestic violence.
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n a trend-driven society, there is a genuine need for the wisdom, clarity, and benevolence that can only come from those seasoned with the grace of life’s experience. Leading the way, as an exemplary example to many, is the compassionate professional Sandy Sanders. Sandy Sanders is a 3x International bestselling author, motivational speaker, advocate against Gun Violence within the Black Community, and CEO and Founder of social media talk syndication, Coffee Conversations with Sandy and Friends and Book Talks with Sandy; a culture-savvy segment highlighting life-changing issues, catalysts, and conversationalists, making outstanding impressions in their realms of influence.
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Adding to her undying devotion to the community, Sandy serves as an active Board member of Transition Inc., a nonprofit organization that provides housing for women inmates recently released. Her charisma lends a hand; to her selection, as a recipient of the Chief Ambassador Best of Mississippi Award, in 2020, and Sandy was also chosen as a Brand Ambassador with Success Women’s Conference 2020. Sandy also sits on the Board of Governors of Business Empowered Mississippi Chamber of Commerce and Chamber Partner, a Christ-centered chamber, helping businesses advance the Kingdom of God in their sphere of influence. Sandy is also a Licensed Evangelist and serves in various capacities in her local church. Sandy Sanders is not out changing the world through a simple conversation. Sandy is a loving wife, devoted mother of three adult children, and a grandmother. Christina: What is your SwagHer? What makes Sandy, Sandy? Sandy: I am a people person by nature - God created me that way. However, I’ve had some things in my life that would or should prevent me from connecting to people. But I just trust God and walk in my truth. My confidence relies on how God sees me. Helping others now is what I love doing.
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Christina: What inspired you to start Coffee Conversations with Sandy and Friends and Book Talks with Sandy? Sandy: Well, that brings me smiles when asked that question because I love coffee. So about three years ago, I started with a simple FB daily post of scriptures, inspirations for the day by referencing a picture of a cup of coffee. I started like everyone else got bold with FB Lives and my coffee cup, lol. My story is that I also love thrifting, so I would buy cups, so I had tons of cups. Anyway, my spiritual daughter is a Chiropractor, and I shared with her how I want to have this FB Live show called Coffee Conversations with Sandy, so I added the “Friends” part. We start our roundtable discussions with her, my dear friend, at her office every Saturday morning. Perfect or not, we did it as if I was going to a job every week. Book Talks with Sandy was born out of that time doing FB lives, but it did not manifest until two years later, and that’s what you see now. I knew that I was an author, but no one else knew, so I committed to God that CCWS would always have space for authors to share their books. So it’s my first fruit offering to God, and now BTWS is a platform for Authors and Anthology Projects worldwide. Christina: You’ve been through a lot in your life. What advice would you give to someone who has gone through or who is going through domestic violence? Sandy: Christina, I would say this is don’t lose hope, that to me was my light. There have been different levels of domestic violence with me. I believe it started as a child. Those responsible for me were verbally abusive and also physically abusive, so I truly had to learn what “love” looked like because I didn’t know. I could go more about that, but maybe in another conversation. What I truly believe is that the key is don’t lose hope of having peace, never accept that “it’s always going to be this way” or “maybe he/she will change” worse is “I am embarrassed to tell someone” share with someone a dear person of trust, don’t go it alone. When you have no other option and your life depends upon it, seek help immediately, have a plan, and seek services provided for domestic violence victims. Remember, the person causing the harm most times will not change their habits or pursue their healing for their hurt, so they hurt others, and that has often resulted in deaths. Christina: Tell us about your life motto, “Live with the enthusiasm and determination necessary, to be the best version of yourself possible, even when the odds are against you.” Please explain to us what this means to you. Sandy: Wow! Remember, I stated that God created SwagHer Magazine
me to be this enthusiastic person. Even when I was at the lowest point in my life, I had to find determination somehow because it was my key that would unlock me to walk in who I am today truly. I continue to evolve at the age of 60 years old I feel I am just starting to live. Christina: You are an author. Tell us a bit about one of your books. Where can it be purchased? Sandy: Yes, the book “Make it Happen: - made me a #1 International Bestseller. I share that you should never despise small beginnings because you never know who is watching. I credit Kearn Crockett Cherry for her faith in me and for helping me become who I am today. She saw my FB Lives and saw the value and wanted to have the authors on the show, which catapulted my confidence, and from there is history. We host talking segments reaching thousands of viewers all over the world now. “Make it Happen” can be found on my website. Christina: Who or what motivates you to keep doing the work that you do? Sandy: Well, not to be funny or boastful, but I have to motivate myself because others are just like I was but no longer a beginner, but still I am growing. So I am here to help my sister and brother keep their crown straight. Christina: Do you have any upcoming events or projects that you would like to share with our readers? Sandy: Yes, it has nothing to do with books or interviewing people (smiles). I am hosting a Gulf Coastwide Prayer Gathering on July 31st in Gulfport, MS, against gun violence and domestic violence. We have seen an increase in gun violence among youth and increased deaths due to domestic violence. This is a Godly assignment that I am led hosting. Christina: Is there anything else you would like to share? Sandy: Yes, my gratitude to this magazine SwagHer! Thank you so much for finding value in what I do. It is humbling, and I honor to be a part of this amazing brand. To the reader, thank you for taking the time to learn just a portion of who I am. You, too, have a story and a dream, so dust it off and run with it! Connect with Sandy below: Website: www.coffeeconversationswithsandy.com Instagram: @sandersevangelistl LinkedIn: Sandy Sanders Facebook: CoffeeConversationwithSandy
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14 Ways to Find Your Way Back From Burnout By: Francheska “Fancy” Felder
Fighting Burnout Outside of Work Hours: 1. Address root causes. While there are many things you can do to cope with burnout temporarily, lasting change depends on resolving the source of your troubles. Maybe it’s an event at work, or maybe it has more to do with your disposition or personal life. 2. Set boundaries. Remote work blurs the line between business and leisure activities. Try to keep office items out of your bedroom. Let your job know the hours when you’re unavailable. 3. Sleep well. Go to bed on time, so you can wake up feeling refreshed. Stick to a consistent schedule, even on weekends and holidays.
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4. Work out. Physical activity relieves stress and gives you more energy. Design a balanced program of cardio exercise, strength training, and stretches. reventing burnout protects your overall health and your career. However, if the way you work changed radically over the past year, your old defenses may not be enough.
How do you know if you’re burned out? Some of the most common signs include depression, irritability, and lack of motivation. You feel tired and unable to control your circumstances. Your physical health can be affected too, putting you at increased risk for heart conditions and diabetes. If you’re feeling down and your productivity has dropped, you can recover. Try these 14 strategies for bouncing back from burnout. Fighting Burnout During Work Hours:
5. Learn to relax. Manage daily tensions with stress-relieving activities. Listen to instrumental music or work on your hobbies. 6. Consider counseling. If your burnout symptoms persist, you may benefit from working with a professional therapist. Some employers have extended mental health benefits as a result of COVID-19. If you’re on a limited budget, contact a community hotline to explore low-cost services. Burnout can seem overwhelming, but you probably have more options than you think. Change your daily habits and ask others for help if you’re struggling. Taking constructive action will help you to regain your balance and increase your job satisfaction.
1. Evaluate your expectations. Burnout is often caused by pushing yourself too hard for too long. Look at your to do list and see what you can eliminate or delegate. Focus on your top priorities. 2. Set goals. Working towards something you want to achieve provides instant inspiration. Break long term objectives down into daily and weekly targets, so you’ll keep building momentum. 3. Limit distractions. Burnout makes it difficult to concentrate. Create quiet spaces where you can work at the office or at home. Turn off your phone and stay away from websites and apps where you tend to lose track of time. 4. Find allies. Do you feel isolated or have more conflicts with your coworkers? Burnout can take a toll on your relationships. Participate in social activities at work. If you feel safe, talk with your boss or a trusted colleague about what you’re going through. 5. Have fun. Brighten up your workday. Join the party planning committee. Pass along a funny joke or an intriguing news story. 6. Pace yourself. How many hours are you working a week? Research shows that excess overtime lowers your performance. You’re more likely to succeed with a 35-to-40-hour week. 7. Take time off. It may help to get away from your routines for a while. If possible, use your vacation days to visit family and friends in another city. If you’re short on leave, you could try a spa day at home or check into a local hotel for the weekend. 8. Be patient. Burnout often builds up gradually and it may take a while to turn things around. Give yourself credit for making an effort. Appreciate signs of gradual progress. SwagHer Magazine
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Black Media Honors Honoree: Dr. Jamal Bryant V
isionary. Civil rights activist. Community organizer. Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant combines sound Biblical teaching, business acumen, and political insight to propel the Body of Christ to action and greater levels of faith.
Since his youth, Dr. Bryant has prevailed against the odds – rising from G.E.D to Ph.D. Prior to pastoring, he served as the national youth and college director of the NAACP for six years, where he helped to mobilize over 70,000 youth worldwide in non-violent campaigns. Dr. Bryant, a thirdgeneration minister, was the founding pastor of Empowerment Temple AME Church in Baltimore, Maryland, acclaimed as the fastest-growing African Methodist Episcopal church in the denomination’s 200-year history. With an undeniable gift to bridge generations from the Civil Rights movement to the Black Lives Matter era, Dr. Bryant incites change in the faith community. His ability to reach across social, economic, and political barriers has helped people to not only experience the life-changing gospel of Jesus Christ but to activate success in their everyday lives. His ministry has become an incubator for entrepreneurs, homeowners, and the like. Additionally, programs under his guidance have aimed to spread the Gospel, develop strong leaders, empower the economically disadvantaged, and challenge social injustices. In December 2018, Dr. Bryant was appointed the Senior Pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, Georgia. His leadership efforts have already begun to strengthen the multi-generational bond among members, expand community outreach, cultivate families and expand the church’s cultural significance.
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Confident Woman Incubator Builder By: Doreen Lettsome Reid
daily access to group coaching sessions and keys to unlock self-care, spiritual development, professional development, and business development from a biblical perspective. The program helps Shatter the Misconception of Christian Business Owners, and implements 5-minute daily challenges to empower and increase confidence while training on how leaders can rise up to turn pain into power. Tell us about Confident Women Rise: Confident Women Rise is a book collaboration of 20 Co-Authors that are ready to “Arise [from the depression and prostration
Who is Doreen Lettsome Reid? Doreen Lettsome Reid is a Kingdompreneur Coach, sent to Unlock What’s Inside You, the Confident Woman, clarifying your Mission, Message, Mandate to BOLDLY proclaim your FAITH in the worldwide marketplace. Doreen Lettsome Reid is an author, speaker, trainer, live show host, radio show host, and CEO/Founder of Divine Connection Network Association with 12 years of expertise in building confidence in Christian woman to rise as leaders; she is a catalyst for current/future female business owners, ministries, and organizations. Tell us about your organization. Divine Connection Network Association, LLC features Confident Woman Incubator program which provides SwagHer Magazine
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Win the Financial Game, and much more! Please tell us the time and location of the event and where tickets are available: Leaders Rising: The Confident Woman World Tour starts with the Worship Experience at 8:00am-9:00am EST; VIP Masterclass: All Things Business @9:00-10:00pm EST; Confident Woman Powerhouse Presentation, Keynote Speaker Presentation, Panel Discussion from 11:00pm EST-5:00pm EST will be LIVE streaming on Facebook in the Leaders Rising: The Confident Woman Facebook Group. Registration & Tickets: https://form.jotform.com/211475461495157 in which circumstances have kept them; they are ready to rise to a new life!” And are ready to tell their story because they know it’s time to “shine (be radiant with the glory of the Lord), for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen” Isaiah 60:1. Therefore, they are boldly proclaiming no more hinderance, no more delays! For, confident women, that are ready to rise to this Mission, Message, and Mandate: Confident Women Rise Co-Author calls are open every Tuesday night @ 6:30-7:30pm EST. Register@ https://bit.ly/3g2OhyZ
JOIN Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2811885849023378 Confident Woman Incubator: https://form.jotformcom/211475461495157 https://www.facebook.com/unlockwhatsinsideyou https://www.instagram.com/doreenlettsomereid/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/doreenlettsomereid/
Who are some of the speakers? Leaders Rising: The Confident Woman Speakers are Jean Turner, Judy Ambrose James, Jo’Hanna Samuel. Influencers: Dr. Nichole Peters, Laquita Monley, Tonia Blackwood, Telishia Berry, Shirley Luu, Ambassadors: Kimberly Fallis, Gloria Walton, and Tracy Fagan. Confident Woman World Tour Chat! Guest: Dr. LaQuisha Williams from Jamaica, Tamara Rajah from Panama, Orena Charles from Antigua, Michelle (Lady Behind the Wig) from England, Serwah Armah-Koranteng from Ghana, and Crystal S. Daye from Kingston, Jamaica. Who should attend this event: Women from around the world who are ready to ARISE and BOLDLY proclaim their FAITH in the worldwide marketplace as Confident Woman should attend this life changing event. What should attendants expect? Expect to be empowered and changed by the presence of the Lord in the Worship Experience with Tierra Destiny Reid, Errica W. Bishop, Tanysha Carroll, and Doreen Lettsome Reid. Expect the VIP Masterclass: All Things Business to unlock your business with topics such as: Start Where You Are, Now is the Time to Snatch Back Your Power, How to SwagHer Magazine
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Black Media Honors Honoree: Michelle Rice M
ichelle Rice, a 15-year veteran of TV One, was named General Manager in July 2017. In this role, she is responsible for overseeing and leading all business, operational and creative aspects of the network. Since becoming General Manager, Rice has been responsible for the launch of two hit series UNCENSORED and ATL HOMICIDE. Most recently, Rice shepherded the development of TV One’s new sister network, CLEO TV, an aspirational lifestyle and entertainment TV network serving Millennial and Gen X women of color that launched in January 2019. Prior to her promotion, Rice served as the Executive Vice President of Content Distribution and Marketing. As head of the department, Rice led the development of distribution strategy and handled national accounts negotiations with all the major multichannel video programming distributors (MPVDs) to increase and maximize TV One’s content distribution opportunities on mobile, linear and non-linear distribution platform. She also handled domestic and international program sales and distribution for the network. Rice joined TV One in January 2004 as vice president of distribution strategy and operations. In March 2005 she was named a seniorexecutive vice president. Before joining TV One, Rice also had stints at iNDemand, NBC Cable Network, and Black Entertainment Television (BET), where she started her career through the Walter Kaitz Fellowship program in 1993.
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A graduate of Temple University with a degree in journalism, Rice also holds an M.A. degree in communication management from the University of Southern California. Rice was named as a CableFAX Top 100 Executives of 2018 by the venerable industry trade magazine. Previously she has been recognized as one of CableFAX’s Top Minorities in Cable and Top Women in Cable. She has also been honored as a NAMIC Emerging Leader, one of the “Next Wave of Leaders” by Broadcasting & Cable, “40 under 40” by Multichannel News, and a 2016 Multichannel News Wonder Women. Rice was also a finalist in CableFAX’s Sales Executive of the Year Awards in 2012 and led the team, which was awarded CableFAX’s Sales Team of the Year for mid-sized cable networks. Rice has been featured in publications such as “Black Enterprise,” “Variety,” “Deadline,” “TV Week” and “The Root.” She was highlighted as a 2019 trailblazer in “CableFAX’s” Black History Month Special Report.
Directors in various roles, including a previous term on the executive committee as Governance Chair, as well as her current post as Chair of Fund Development. She has served on NAMIC’s National Board of Directors since 2008, having served as Board Chair from 2014 - 2017. Rice is also actively involved on the Boards of several local civic, community and charitable organizations, including Jack and Jill of America, Girls Inc. D.C, and United Way of the Nation’s Capital. She currently resides in Maryland with her family.
Rice is a Class 8 alumnus of Women in Cable and Telecommunications’ (WICT) prestigious Betsy Magness Leadership Institute, graduate of WICT’s Senior Executive Summit program at Stanford University, and a proud Class 11 alumnus of the National Association for Multi-ethnicity in Communications’ Executive Leadership Develop Program.
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Movies on Netflix That May or May Not be Worth Your Time By: Kaitlan Darby
you. The moral of the story is, always believe your crazy neighbor and kids are demonic. 5/10
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etflix has some pretty great originals and some pretty good non-originals. Here are some recommendations for whenever you have time to Netflix and Chill.
Things Heard and Seen – If you’re looking for a movie that will thrill you, chill you, and fulfill you…this isn’t it. A woman gives up her amazing job (sigh) to follow her bummy husband to his new teaching position. Out in the middle of nowhere, of course. Throughout the film, you start to see that things aren’t so great between husband and wife. To top it off, things start getting weird in the house. A radio explodes, some more hocus pocus occurs. But the weirdest thing isn’t the haunted house. It’s the husband who turns out to be the world’s biggest liar. He claimed artwork that wasn’t his; he lied about his degree and ended up committing some heinous crimes. This ended up being one of those movies with a weird ending that you can’t really piece together and end up having to Google it. 3/10 and only because the wife has an affair, and the quirky sidekick exposes the evil husband.
The Clovehitch Killer – This movie starts out slow. You don’t think it will be as interesting as it turns out to be. An awkward teenage boy scout and his creepy scoutmaster father are living their awkward Caucasian life; until the son stumbles on something weird. You see, there’s been a bunch of unsolved murders in the area, and there are zero leads as to where the killer could be. Kiddo finds some weird polaroids in his dad’s stuff. They have a talk about it, and good ole dad blames everything on his brother, who is essentially in a vegetative state in a nursing home. He says he kept his brother’s dirty secret since he was already getting his karma. One day kiddo follows dad to see what he’s really up to when he isn’t playing scoutmaster, and boy was he in for a surprise. 8/10 because I don’t think there was one black person in this film, but it was still really good. Welcome Home – This movie is about a couple who has been having issues ever since the girlfriend cheated. They go off on a beautiful vacation in Italy; they stay in a gorgeous villa with amazing, rich food. Then the neighbor shows up to lend a hand when miss girl sprains her ankle. Of course, her boyfriend is immediately suspicious. She cheated once. Will she do it again? With this handsome Italian man? The neighbor boy starts showing up A LOT. A whole lot. So much to the point that he’s basically inviting and forcing himself into the villa. Eventually, we start to see that he’s spying on them from inside the villa. He’s basically living in the walls like a rat. They find out, and violence ensues, then the random ending that no one saw coming that still does nothing to make the movie any better. 2/10
The Woman in the Window – This film had so much potential. The book was incredible. The book shocked me and took me on twists and turns that I didn’t even know I could go on. Then when the big reveal came, I felt my heart drop into my stomach. The movie made me feel no such thing. I really wanted to like it. It had an all-star cast! It should have been amazing. But instead, it was rushed and haphazardly thrown together. And the big reveal was lackluster and lukewarm. It’s still a decent watch, and if you haven’t already gone through the emotional roller coaster of the book, then there’s still a chance that it will shock SwagHer Magazine
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We Interrupt Your Programming: Meet the SwagHer Correspondents Natalie Louis The Queen’s Corner highlights women in business doing remarkable things. Hostess Natalie Louis has created a space where people can get to know the women behind the brand/movement. Natalie is an author, speaker, and breakthrough coach. @natalie.louis Watch Live on Facebook: @swaghermagazine
Natalie Louis
Beverly Johnson Are you ready to live a healthier lifestyle, but you aren’t sure where to start? Coach Beverly, The Fitness Deva can guide you! Every weekend, Coach Bev discusses various health and fitness topics and answers questions. Beverly K. Johnson is the CEO of Genesys Fitness and a life and wellness coach. @bevkjohnson Watch live on Facebook every Sunday: @swaghermagazine
Beverly K Johnson
Delayna Jasper Sit Down w/ Delayna Downs is hosted by Delayna Downs-Jasper, a corporate flight attendant, who tends to interview professionals with a belief in giving back through mentorship or other good deeds. @d.e.l.a.y.n.a.j.a.s.p.e.r Delayna’s segments are usually via Facebook: @swaghermagazine Terra Fontentot Terra Fontenot-Beard hosts SwagHer What’s Going On (WGO) segment live on Facebook, interviewing unique guests and sharing accounting and operations tips for small businesses. Terra is the founder and CEO of Fontenot & Associates Solutions LLC, which provides accounting, operational, and outsourcing solutions to businesses. @terra_font96 Watch on Facebook: @swaghermagazine
Delayna Downs-Jasper
Terra Fontentot
Brittany Passion In the More Than a Pretty Face collaboration with The Passion Xperience and its CEO Brittany Passion, Brittany sits down with celebs, influencers, and creatives to discuss their gifts, lives and stories all in a motivational and unapologetic way. Brittany is an actress, model, radio personality and talent scout. @brittany_passion @thepassionxperience Jessica Canty Jessica Canty hosts SwagHer What’s Going On (WGO) segment live on Instagram, interviewing special guests and sharing career advancement tips. Jessica Canty is the founder of Proverbs 15:22 Personal Growth Coaching LLC, a company focused on coaching melanin millennial moms who want high achieving careers. @jessicacanty
Brittany Passion
Chrisnatha Derosier SwagHer Magazine
Chrisnatha Derosier The Masterpiece Lounge w/ Chrisnatha Derosier is an hour of inspiration being poured into you by Certified Life-coach Chrisnatha. Chrisnatha guides us through self-work with thoughtprovoking questions, routines and tips to help viewers become the best version of themselves. Watch live every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 11 AM CST on Facebook: @swaghermagazine @chrisnatha
Jessica Canty
Claricia Lange Sweet-N-Reel is a live conversational segment hosted by Claricia Newberry- Lange, aka Mrs. Louisiana Universal 2019. Whether it’s Claricia’s frequent co-host Tyra or a guest co-host, Claricia takes the sweet side of a chosen subject while the guest gives their real take on things. @mrslouisianauniversal2019. Watch live every Thursday at 7 PM CST on Facebook: @swaghermagazine
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Super Bowl and Grammys Choreographer Makes Musical Debut
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By: Patrice Rivers
ward-winning choreographer and creative director Charm LaDonna was born and raised in Compton, CA. Besides the likes of dancing and tapping into what she does best, LaDonna is also a music artist that is currently signed to Epic Records. Her EP ‘LaDonna,’ a self-titled EP, is available now on all streaming platforms. This superstar has worked with today’s top celebrities such as Meghan Trainor, Kendrick Lamar, Selena Gomez, The Weeknd, Dua Lipa, and many more! LaDonna who recently choreographed the Superbowl halftime show for The Weeknd and the Grammys for Dua Lipa. Patrice: What is your SwagHer? What makes Charm LaDonna, Charm LaDonna? LaDonna: I am true to myself and do not focus on what people think. I am creative, and I float at a higher vibration; that is my superpower. Patrice: Tell us more about being a choreographer. How did you get started with that? Was that a passion you always had? LaDonna: I have been dancing since I was noticeably young, like three years old. I was always focused. It is my
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passion. It is who I am. I went to an art school, and by my senior year, I was on tour with Madonna. From there, I worked with my mentor Fatima Robinson, and I have not slowed down since (laughs). Patrice: As an award-winning choreographer, what are your expectations or the goal you are trying to reach? LaDonna: The goal is always to create something that is reflective of the artist or the story they are trying to tell. My focus is to use dance to interpret and enhance what they are trying to say. I do the same thing when I am creating for myself. Patrice: You worked with high-profile people such as Meghan Trainor, Selena Gomez, The Weeknd, Dua Lipa, etc. That is very impressive! Have you planned, or do you plan to work with other clients like that? What is the relationship like when you are choreographing each client? LaDonna: The opportunities I have had and continue to have are blessings, and they have helped me forge relationships that go past the business. Every relationship and creative process is unique to them. Patrice: Besides being a choreographer, you are also a music artist. Tell us more about your music career. LaDonna: Music and being an artist have always been a part of who I am. Growing up, I wrote, and my brother let me hang in the studio with him, which allowed me to learn and grow my passion. I have always had something to say, and in 2019, I really started to develop it and home in crafting my sound. Patrice: Let us talk for a minute about your EP ‘LaDonna.’ I listened to it, and I am feeling your vibe on each track. Why have you named it after yourself? LaDonna: Honestly, it was the title that made the most sense. La’Donna is my middle name and part of my persona. Every track on my project is reflective of me, and that was the intent. I am inspired daily by my experiences and my friend’s experiences, my moods, you name it, and I took all of that and used it to create these songs. Patrice: What message do you want people to get by listening to your music? LaDonna: It sounds cliche, but just to be yourself. Stay true to yourself. It does not matter if everyone rocks with you or supports you. The most important thing is to be yourself. Patrice: You choreographed The Weeknd’s super bowl halftime performance which was awesome, SwagHer Magazine
by the way! What theme were you aiming for with his performance? LaDonna: Thank you! That experience was crazy, not just because it was the Super Bowl, but because we did all of this during a pandemic! Rehearsals, brainstorms, meetings, all of it until about a week before the performance. It was a huge undertaking. My job was to bring to life the vision that Abel and his team had in mind, and it was a massive vision. I am proud of the way we executed it, and I am grateful for the opportunity. Patrice: What is next for you for the remainder of the year? Any new projects? LaDonna: I am gearing up for my Lollapalooza performance in July, and I am going to keep creating, co-directing, choreographing, and, of course, finish the full-length album.
Connect with LaDonna:
Instagram: @charmladonna Facebook: facebook.com/charmladonna Twitter: @charmladonna Website: charmladonna.com YouTube: youtube.com/charmladonna TikTok: @charmladonna
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Black Media Honors Special Guest: Ebony Oh A
North Carolina native, a graduate of WinstonSalem State University, Wife, Mother, business magnet, avant-garde fashionista, and a woman of great influence, Ebony OH is undoubtedly your modernday businesswoman. Born January 29, 1982, in Kinston, NC, the eldest of five, the only girl, and being educated in the Durham County Public School system helped to spark a sense of selfsufficiency and strength necessary to defeat the odds.
Ebony OH is the CEO of multiple million-dollar businesses under the umbrella of the Ebony OH, Inc., including Eye Listen Empowerment Center, LLC, a Medicare/ Medicaid accredited Community Mental Health Center with three physical locations throughout the Metro Atlanta area; Sneakerhead Youth Empowerment CenterSneaker Design Academy for at-risk, special, needs, and
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academically accelerated youth, the C. Alexander Learning Academy; an accredited child care center, and the colossally powerful vision of an elite club for executive women, The Garden’s Executive Club, Inc. Ebony has become nationally recognized as the face of women empowerment as she inspires women to break glass ceilings through her story of poverty, faith, and wealth. She has worked alongside some of the world’s most renowned influencers, including Dr. Juanita Bynum, Motivational Speaker Dr. Cindy Trimm, Celebrity Wealth Management Specialist James Hunt, gospel recording artist Kierra Sheard, The Walls Group, and Universal Records/Mytrell Records Recording Executive, Capprecio Scates to name a few. Recognized by the Fulton County Police Department as the youngest African American female to own an accredited community mental health center in Georgia, she has become one of the most impactful female leaders of her time.
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Ebony OH has been called “The Midwife of the Mindset” because of her years of experience, expertise, and her Women’s Empowerment Network that created a global impact. Her strong desire to empower and lead other aspiring entrepreneurs led Ebony to launch her new movement, Millionaire Mindset Coaching, which has become an accredited coaching business with entrepreneurial clientele from all over the world. This has led her to devote her entire venture to help other entrepreneurs take their businesses to scale. Ebony hosts entrepreneurial and empowerment retreats and events for individuals seeking to change lives, combining her innovative business success strategies with advice for personal growth for a successful millionaire mindset. She is a new voice being heard across the globe of transparency, faith, power, prestige, and class while living her life daily to empower women, men, and youth across the globe to destroy generational curses of poverty and lack. May 2018, Ebony OH presented The First Annual I Conceive Women’s Empowerment Weekend. “I Conceive” a two-day empowerment event encouraging women that have suffered child loss and childbirth trauma to believe again in MIRACLES after sharing her story of PROMISE after 12 miscarriages and 14 losses. Ebony OH used this impactful platform to ignite healing, hope, and faith with the launch of her first book entitled Three Times A Lady, “THE WOMAN, HER BUSINESS, HER GOD.” The recent sale of her multi-million dollar mental health facility to Eastside Medical Center’s top supervising physician has catapulted her life’s goal as a 7-figure earner. Forevermore, Ebony OH is a trendsetter and someone who will continue to make a tremendous impact in the lives of others. She is a giver, a leader, an inspiration, and she is Three Times A Lady; a woman who believes in sowing upward in the direction that she’s trying to grow. She’s a “SEED STRATEGIST” and she believes wholeheartedly that IT CAN’T RUN OUT.
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From Humble Beginnings to Red Carpet Appearances, Crystal Renee Hayslett By: Tahyira Savanna
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Tahyira: Is it fun or endearing to move from background to front stage? Crystal: Probably a little bit of both. It’s maybe more endearing than fun at times, but it’s important to keep perspective. Working behind the scenes is a lot of hard work, but when I made the transition to an actress, I realized studying lines, preparing for on-set work and doing press and promotion carries its own unique challenges. Then, it’s also the attention you receive when you’re a star on a show and not just working behind the scenes as a costume designer. I always try to find the fun aspects in it all. Tahyira: Being a Black woman in Hollywood requires a lot of code-switching to a degree. Just yesterday another outlet, Voices of Color, shared a story about how Black professionals across industry spectrums are feeling more burned out, their mental health diminished. What’s your experience been thus far? Crystal: I’ve been lucky enough to work with a lot of talented Black creatives, so I haven’t had to make a habit out of code-switching. I’ve always believed there’s a time and a place for everything, so when it’s time to work, let’s be serious– especially [considering the fact that] I used to work on Capitol Hill. Even as an actress now, I value being professional and [exhibiting] respect…these two go hand in hand when I’m on set. Tahyira: What roles do you see yourself playing? If you could craft your perfect team who would be your director and supporting costar?
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wagHer got the opportunity to interview the courageous and beautiful star of Tyler Perry’s Sistas airing on BET. Crystal Reneé Hayslett portrays paralegal Fatima, a no-nonsense, smart diva who isn’t afraid to, quite literally, fight for her stance. Tyler Perry’s Sistas follows the lives of four Black female friends as they navigate life and love. BET renewed the show for its third season, which premiered on the network and its affiliates on June 9, 2021. Check out our interview below. Tahyira for SwagHer: What’s the biggest lesson you learned working closely with an icon like Tyler Perry? Crystal: To never forget how it feels to be on “the other side.” He reminds me to be humble, always. Tyler is very real about how he works and he’s always encouraging folks in his circle. I’ve been working with him since 2012 and it’s really a blessing to have made it this far. I feel like I’m really living out my dreams as we speak. We had a lot of fun at the BET Awards this year, so I’m really just living life to the fullest and continuing to manifest amazing things for my life. SwagHer Magazine
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solidified their union. Growing up in grade school, I don’t recall that many lessons about slavery. Although, we acknowledged Black History Month, and we watched Roots when I got to high school, but there wasn’t much outside of that. I love now how the conversations are increasing. It makes more space for the work I do, so I can create more characters that are reflective of my friends, my family, and Black history. Tahyira: Your favorite artist that you’re listening to? Crystal: Everyone at the BET awards this year asked me who I wanted to see the most and I said H.E.R. One reporter was like, “Oh, she’s standing right behind you,” and that was a cool moment. I love her style and her music gets me in a good mood. Tahyira: A favorite quote that keeps you inspired on bad days? Crystal: My mother used to tell me, “Whenever you’re having a bad day, just remember someone is worse off than you are, so be grateful and smile.” And it’s true, humility and gratitude are my everyday “go-to”s. It’s important to be thankful for what you have right now, while you’re still building the life you desire. New episodes of Tyler Perry’s Sistas airs every Wednesday on BET. Check your local listings for more information. Crystal: I see myself playing someone in law enforcement on a legal drama like Law & Order. I’m already living that life--haha--but I would love to be directed by Regina King. Tahyira: You’re from Tennessee! Were you able to celebrate Juneteenth at all? How do you feel about portraying a Black character on screen at a time where our overall consciousness about the history of slavery is rising? Crystal: Yes, my baby sister got married that weekend. In the ceremony, she “jumped the broom” with her husband as a tribute to a long-time tradition in Black culture as they SwagHer Magazine
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Chef D’s Party Recipes By: Donald “Chef D” Smith
Method: 1 - Combine olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, and chopped jalapeño pepper in a bowl mix well, and set aside. Add Balsamic vinegar, cover, and shake vigorously to emulsify. 2 - Place remaining ingredients in a non-reactive bowl and pour oil and vinegar mixture over the top; stir gently to combine. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight. 3 - Serve with lemon wedges and crunchy French bread.
Red Potato Bites Ingredients 48 Small Red Potato ½ cup olive oil Salt and pepper Marinated NOLA Crab Finger
Marinated NOLA Crab Finger Ingredients 1 cup olive oil 1 Tablespoon red pepper flakes 1 small Jalapeno pepper, seeds discarded, finely chopped ½ cup Balsamic vinegar 1 pound crab fingers, cooked ½ cup Parsley, rough chopped ¾ teaspoon black pepper Salt to taste Lemon wedges Good Ole French Bread SwagHer Magazine
Toppings Butter, melted Creole seasoning Shredded cheese Crumble blue cheese
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Crawfish tails
Method:
Small shrimp
1- Preheat the oven to 350˚F.
Sour cream
2- In a medium mixing bowl combine spinach, mayonnaise, 1 cup cheese, crab meat, shrimp, and Cayenne pepper. Spoon into a 1-quart oven-proof baking dish, top with bread crumbs and remaining Parmesan cheese. Bake, 25 30 minutes, until heated through and lightly browned. .
Minced green onions Crumble bacon Sausage, cute in into small bits
Method: 1- Preheat the oven to 350˚F. 2- Toss potatoes with oil; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Spread on rimmed baking sheets, leaving room for air to circulate, and bake for 45 - 50 minutes or until potatoes are soft.
3- Remove from the oven, serve at once with crackers or thinly sliced baguettes.
3- To serve, cut an X in the top of each potato; gently pinch sides to open up and break up the potato. Top with whatever suits your fancy.
Note: Potatoes can be kept warm in a crockpot or heated chafing dish; the skin will not stay crispy.
Spinach and Seafood Dip 1 pound of frozen Spinach, squeeze out the water 1 cup mayonnaise 1 cup freshly parmesan ½ pound of lump crab meat ½ pound crawfish ½ small shrimp ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper ¼ cup dry breadcrumbs SwagHer Magazine
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Black Media Honors Honoree: Melissa Ingram M elissa M. Ingram, recently promoted to Senior Vice President of Multicultural Networks & Strategy for UP Entertainment, is responsible for driving the growth and success of AspireTV, Cine Romantico, and other multicultural brands from parent company UP Entertainment across all distribution platforms. In her new role and as a member of the Executive Team, Ingram provides guidance and strategy on how to best serve multi-cultural audiences for all UP Entertainment brands and champion a winning work environment for its diverse employee base. In her previous role as Vice President, General Manager, Ingram oversaw the content, brand, and operations for AspireTV, the television network, founded by Earvin “Magic” Johnson, that reflects contemporary black culture and urban lifestyle in programming that is inspiring, authentic,
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and entertaining. Ingram oversaw the network’s content, brand, and operations, and was responsible for long-term strategy, planning, and personnel. Under Ingram’s leadership, AspireTV emerged as a premium lifestyle content brand that serves a fast-growing, dynamic audience of black xennials with the promise #SeeYourselfHere. That promise is supported by hit shows like the cooking series Butter + Brown, executive produced by Issa Rae and celebrity chef, G. Garvin, the interview special Idols, Icons + Influencers, hosted by comedian Chris Spencer, design series Unboxed with Nikki Chu, and the network’s expanding web and social footprint. Ingram joined AspireTV in August 2012 as Senior Counsel,
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industry executives and was also honored in 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019 as one of She was also named to the “Who’s Who in Black Atlanta” list in 2017 and was selected to the Cablefax “Most Influential Minorities in Cable.” She was also named to the “Who’s Who in Black Atlanta” list in 2017 and was selected to the Cablefax “Most Powerful Women” list in 2018. In addition, Ingram was honored with the WICT SE 2018 Horizon Award for Woman to Watch as well as being the first female recipient of the 2018 SYNERGY Award by the African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA). Ingram joined AspireTV from its sister-network UPtv, where she was Senior Counsel of Business and Legal Affairs, serving as lead counsel and negotiator for programming acquisition agreements. While at UPtv in 2011, Ingram was awarded a scholarship from the Walter Kaitz Foundation and was selected to attend the Women in Cable Telecommunications (WICT) Rising Leaders Program in San Diego, California. Before joining UPtv in 2008, Ingram was an associate lawyer with an Atlanta-based boutique entertainment firm, The Carter Law Firm, PC where she handled various entertainment contracts. She began her career in 2004 as an associate lawyer in the Labor and Employment group at Alston & Bird, LLP in Atlanta, Georgia.
Business and Legal Affairs, and was promoted to Senior Director of Business Affairs and Development in December 2014. In her role as Senior Director, Ingram was successful in executing partnerships with the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (WHI-HBCUs) and launching an unprecedented partnership with the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) and its member schools to produce original programming, highlighting the rich legacy and history of HBCUs and their students. In 2013, Ingram was selected as one of Multichannel News’ 40 under 40 SwagHer Magazine
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Ingram earned a Juris Doctorate (J.D) from the University of California, Berkeley (Boalt Hall) School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English, magna cum laude, from Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia. Ingram is a former board member of the Southeast Board of Directors for WICT and is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and The Links, Incorporated. Page 39
Meet Accountant and Entrepreneur, Stacy Sloane By: Christina Woodard
Christina: What is your SwagHer? What makes Stacy, Stacy? Stacy: It’s definitely my style. I was a brand before I even started one. I have a knack for putting pieces together; whether it’s fashion or home décor, I know how to make affordable items look expensive. Christina: Have you always wanted to be an accountant? If not, what else did you want to be? Stacy: Omg, no. I had dreams of being a corporate lawyer and wearing designer two-piece pencil skirt suits. I left college early to take care of my grandmother, and when she passed, I decided not to go back to school. I landed a job at a private investment management firm and acquired a mentor. She taught me how to read financials and kickstarted my career path.
S City.
tacy Sloane is a daytime accountant and full-time wanderlust. She is originally from Boston but birthed her company, where she currently resides in New York
She derives her creativity and passions from inexplicably beautiful life events and memorable experiences. She takes with her the knowledge from her travels and pours them into her work. She has always been a maker, a true creative, a nurturer, and a caretaker. Now, she is a giver of light. In 2020, Stacy presented Solstvce, an apothecary of sorts that was seven years in the making. You will find deityinspired candles in ornate vessels, conversation starters, soaps, scrubs, and gold jewelry on her website. She understands adornment and the act of making yourself and your home more attractive. Stacy’s goal was to instill happiness, filled with gifts, aromatics, light, and warmth. In her words, it’s what we all deserve. SwagHer Magazine
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Christina: What inspired you to start Solstvce? What products do you offer, and where can readers go to purchase them? Stacy: I started making jewelry about 7 or 8 years ago, mostly for myself, family, and friends. I struggled with the idea of competing with Etsy brands and kept pushing off my dream of owning an apothecary. Basically, a onestop-shop of goods curated by me. At the height of the pandemic, I moved back to Brooklyn and started making soaps, candles, bath salts, and scrubs as a means to de-stress. I sent out care packages to loved ones, and everyone was so excited. My brother and my best friend encouraged me to push forward, to keep going, and that’s how Solstvce began. I offer a range of products from soaps, bath accessories, scrubs, balms, jewelry, and everyone’s favorite, candles. Items can be found and purchased on www.solstvce. com. Christina: What is a typical day in your life as an accountant and entrepreneur? Stacy: I’m typically knee-deep in excel spreadsheets and implementation meetings. Once I get out of work, I am creating, making, and packaging orders. On the weekends, I go into overdrive mode and make up to 120 candles, attend pop-up shops and spend some quality time with my niece. Christina: What do you love about living and working in New York City? Stacy: I love the energy in New York. There’s nothing like it. When you go for a walk, you never know what you will stumble upon. It could be an outdoor play, a step show, a farmer’s market, or a silent party. It’s all within reach. Plus, my family is here. They make me whole. Christina: How do you practice self-care? Stacy: At home, it’s a face mask, my favorite show, and coffee ice cream. When I’m out, it’s meeting with my nail tech, massage therapist, and float tank therapy. Christina: What advice would you give someone who wants to be an entrepreneur? Stacy: My advice would be just to start. Start creating, start building, and confide in those you trust.
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Christina: Do you have any upcoming events or projects you would like our readers to know about? Stacy: Yes, I am in the midst of a few new projects for Solstvce. I would recommend that readers visit the website and subscribe to receive updates. Christina: Is there anything else you would like to share? Stacy: No, but I would like to say that this has been an amazing opportunity to speak with you and your magazine.
Connect with Stacy below: Website: www.solstvce.com Instagram: @solstvce
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Black Media Honors Honoree: The Mothers of the Movement Sybrina Fulton (Trayvon Martin) Congresswoman Lucia McBath (Jordan Davis) Gwen Carr (Eric Garner) Geneva Reed-Veal (Sandra Bland) Maria Hamilton (Dontre Hamilton) Cleopatra Cowley Pendleton (Hadiya Pendleton) Mothers of the Movement is a group of women whose African American children have been killed by police officers or by gun violence.[1] Members of the group have appeared on various television shows, at award ceremonies, and political
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events to share their experiences of losing a son or daughter to police violence and advocate for political change. The Mothers of the Movement started as a result of the 2013 acquittal of George Zimmerman after he fatally shot and killed teenager Trayvon Martin. The women have attended many conventions to spread awareness of the crisis that is police brutality in the United States. They use their grief to rally involvement in communities and highlight the injustice they’ve endured with the loss of their children’s lives. They also talk about life after loss, the five stages of grief (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance), and how to move forward after a traumatic event.
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It’s a Vibe w/ Shatava Lindsey By: Brittany Passion
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ot Girl Summer is officially here, and we are ready to turn up the heat with some sexy/ fashionable swimsuits and lovely jumpsuits/ matching sets with bright colors. Whether you’re going on vacation, chilling by the pool, hitting up the next day party, or just having a fun girls’ day out, swimsuits and bright colors are a must this summer.
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So we hope you’ve been getting that summer body ready because it is time to Pop A Vibe. Today, our lovely media correspondent, Brittany Passion, sat down with fashionista, Tv personality, fashion designer, and real estate investor to discuss her multiple business ventures and her new collections.
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Brittany: So before we get started, can you let everyone know your name, where you are from, and what it is you do?
Brittany: Can you describe what your journey on Ready To Love was like and what is one thing you learned about yourself?
Shatava: My name is Shatava Lindsey, and I am the owner of OUR GLASS, a clothing brand aimed at celebrating the sexy and unique makeup of a woman. I also own Quality View Properties, a property investment and renovation company.
Shatava: Ready to Love taught me a lot about loving myself and being confident in who I am. Being on TV is not easy; there›s a lot that comes with it, but I enjoyed the experience. I met some amazing women that I am still friends with to this day.
Brittany: Yes, ma’am. I see you, queen! So let’s jump right into it. Your boutique “Our Glass” embodies women of all shapes and sizes. Can you talk to us about how you got started, what “Our Glass” means and how important it is for you to represent curvy women?
Brittany: I’ve had the luxury of being able to follow some of your journey. I see you going back and forth rehabbing homes in Detroit, working out, enjoying life as well as creating your designs. How important is creating generational wealth, and how do you manage to do it all and still find time for Shatava?
Shatava: OUR GLASS is a custom clothing brand geared towards women of all sizes. It is so important to celebrate women of all sizes, which I aim to do with OUR GLASS. Growing up, I used to get so frustrated at trying to find quality clothes to fit me, so out of this frustration, OUR GLASS was created. I wanted women of all sizes to be confident about their fashion choices while also making a bold statement when they wore the designs. When you look good, you feel good, so my goal is to create custom collections that will have women feeling so confident. Brittany: Yes, inclusivity is very important, and with your bold designs, women of all sizes can feel included and look good while doing it. How do you handle the stigma of body shame that comes with being a curvy queen, and what advice would you give to other curvy queens out there? Shatava: Self-Love is so important. You have to love yourself before you can love anyone else. I think it’s so important to understand that we are all different as women, and that is what makes us unique. No woman is the same, so that’s greatness in itself. With OUR GLASS, I thrive to make women feel confident no matter what size they are. It’s about celebrating your curves, highlighting your beauty, and being confident in who you are. Brittany: Speaking of confidence, you also just released your new collection «Pop A Vibe» and your collaborative swimsuit collection «Candy Shop.» What inspired these collections and walk us through the process of how you get inspired to select certain collections, themes, etc., and which fabrics to use when? Shatava: The OUR GLASS Pop A Vibe Collection was inspired by positive energy and captivating vibes. Being full of life, happy, and «A Complete Vibe» all at the same time. I’m so big on energy, and this line was created for women who exude contagious energy. As for Candy Box, I love swimsuits. I always wanted to work on a swimsuit line, so I jumped on this when I was approached for a collaboration! So excited to partner with my Sisters Stormy and Arry to bring this swim collection to life. This breakout collection is a colorful fun swim line full of amazing fabric that will fit like no other. Brittany: What do you think is the biggest misconception about successful black women? Shatava: That we don›t need anyone to be successful. There›s nothing wrong with partnerships and the need for a good team. We all want to be wonder women, but it›s so nice when you have a team that has your back. It›s so hard to do everything yourself so bringing in partners and/or a good team is so important. SwagHer Magazine
Shatava: I 100% believe in having multiple streams of income to bring in wealth for my next generation. I want to create businesses that my kids can take over when they are of age then pass it onto the next generation. I love fashion, and I also love rehabbing and flipping properties. The most important thing that I want to teach my kids is to do what you love. The money will follow. Brittany: What’s next for Shatava over the next six months, and what can the people expect? Shatava: More! Increase! More collections to come for OUR GLASS. I have a men’s line I’m dropping soon, OG Men. More investment properties with Quality View. Just MORE overall. I want to break barriers. I want to accomplish so much, so I’m going for it! Thank you so much, Shatava, for sitting down to chat with us. We are definitely looking forward to your new collections this summer and beyond. SwagHer Magazine would like to say thank you, and we wish you much prosperity. Please make sure you follow Shatava Lindsey: @iamshatava @shopourglass or www.shopourglass.com . You can follow us @swaghermagazine and follow our media correspondent Brittany Passion @brittany_passion. 21 Other blacked-owned swimsuit companies to follow in 2021: @missesbrie, @clemswimwear, @andreaaiyamah, @koko_d_swimwear, @nakimulinc, @bikini.honey, @mintswimusa, @iconswim, @Mattecollection, @Bfyne, @asherahswimwear, @1001swim, @Riotswim, @rue107, @_coconutswim, @shopdirtyego, @ashantiswimwear, @avidswim, @swimbeachbae, @brownlabelswim, @aliesharenea Models: @thesimonejohns,@brittany_passion, @iamshatava @msbrownsugardelights_mua, @iammoniquecartwright, Photographer: Fabian @fbstudios Videographer: Roxe @newmagicprod Stylist: @spacialstyles Makeup: Randi @beautyredefined_llc Publicist: MNS Media Group
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Meet the Founder of Black Media Honors: Stephanie Davis “Behind the Wall of Grace” in 2013. She continued on her quest to empower others in a second book, “No Pressure, No Diamond” released in 2015. Davis was called back to Dismas Charities Atlanta to serve on the community relations board for a co-ed federal transition agency for individuals returning to society. The same place she once resided along with Atlanta rapper Clifford T.I. Harris in 2010. Amazed by her personal and professional development, Dismas Charities allowed Davis to mentor the women once per week in addition to providing resume development for other residents as well. Stephanie received her start in media as a writer for a national comedy publication. It was then she realized how much she loved to write compelling content that empowered others. That opportunity led her to start her own publication Empower Magazine in 2015. In 2018, she later added to her publishing portfolio with an additional digital publication, Hustle and Soul Magazine. Today, she advocates and gives a voice to women who find themselves struggling to pursue something greater than themselves. As a publicist, branding expert, and
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hoever said you couldn’t come back from a bad situation, wasn’t being honest. Stephanie Davis has the tenacity of a diamond, the heart of a true leader, and the favor of a Higher Power that allowed her to escape a life of prison and led her to a successful life as an author, entrepreneur, philanthropist, award-winning publicist, and now producer of one of the most anticipated awards weekend, 2021 Black Media Honors™️. A Virginia native, Stephanie has overcome many obstacles such as mental health struggles, which she discussed in her first memoir “Behind the Wall of Grace”, a book written during her incarceration. She originally began her journey as a federal government employee with the EEOC. After her release from a federal penitentiary in 2009, Davis returned to college pursuing a degree in business and marketing eventually working her way to an executive corporate position at Verizon before walking away to fulfill her dreams of full-time entrepreneurship in 2017. Davis released her first book,
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journalist, Stephanie works with many brands, business owners, and celebrities by helping them strategize, plan, and execute PR campaigns. Both Stephanie’s personal and professional experiences have positioned her to be experienced in and share knowledge in the areas of business, marketing, social empowerment, pursuing purpose, and more! Stephanie has been featured in Rolling Out Magazine, TV One’s Sister Circle, Voyage Atlanta, ACHI Magazine, Formidable Women Magazine, Medium, Pretty Women Hustle Magazine, and more! Davis enjoys delivering her motivational messages by using humor, genuine passion, and inspiration. That passion birthed her book “No Pressure, No Diamond”. An empowerment practitioner, Stephanie Davis strives to encourage others to fully embrace their authentic selves, honor their potential, and showcase excellence. As an overcomer of child abuse, mental health, and other struggles she spares nothing to make silent voices create the highest volume. Her “let go of the things that no longer serve a purpose; maintain a mindset of growth, purpose, and opportunity” attitude is the collective that has positioned her to be a selfless, prosperous, dynamic giver, strategist, and all-around amazing woman. Stephanie now supports legislation efforts for prison reform and mass incarceration, especially for women. She is the CEO & Principal Publicist of Empower Media Group. Davis is the Owner and Publisher of WE Magazine and Hustle and Soul Magazine, and Founder of Black Media Honors, Black Influencers Guild, and the Our Sole Purpose 501c3 nonprofit organization, owner of The Elle Elle Collection luxury lifestyle brand, and SCORE. org business mentor. Tenacity, perseverance, hard work, and a relentless desire to rise above her past have allowed great success as an executive and entrepreneur.
Believing that if she can, others can too, Davis now seeks to empower the masses; To help break those cycles and ceilings, to banish those “labels” and to pursue their divine purpose through God-centered leadership. Davis partnered with TV One to bring to life the first editorial cover for the national, all-African American women talk show, Sister Circle. This project inspired the development of other concepts including custom-created dolls; branding the Sister Circle editorial as a historical publicity move. Since then Davis has worked with the likes of Wendy Racquel Robinson, Dr. Cindy Trimm, Tami Roman, Q Parker, Brely Evans, Common, David Banner, and more. She is coming from behind the scenes as she debuts her newest projects “The Right Step” Branding Masterclass and “WE Talks Podcast”. This project will be an empirical journey that will help people embrace the process of pursuing their purpose. Davis is authoring a new book “I’m Still a Butterfly” due to be released this year. Davis unequivocally created a blueprint on how to embrace authenticity and accept the call to a greater purpose. Through attractive energy, speaking platforms, and workshops, Davis will leave you with a wealth of practical empowerment essentials. Thus creating the Empowered Version of You!
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Speak Up: Lost Voices
By: Anika Ennett
in on some of the signs of a person who is losing their voice. 1- Trauma – Everyone deals with trauma differently, whether it’s their own trauma or the trauma of someone that they care about. Trauma will cause a person to go within themselves while quietly losing a small part of themselves. The thing about trauma is, what may be a traumatic experience for one person, maybe a challenging moment for another person, and they have a support system in place to process the trauma while taking time to heal. 2- Rejection – When a person doesn’t process the unacceptance of other individuals, they tend to feel the pressure and begin to believe that what they have to say is not important. Dismissal from people that you care about and have a high opinion of can be crushing. At some point in our lives, many people just want to be heard. Unfortunately, when you seek people for validation, they gain power over your emotions, behavior, and voice. 3- Abandonment – Imagine fighting for a cause that is dear to you, and the people that once stood with you have now walked away. Abandonment can leave a person feeling empty and unimportant. Again, just a little more of that voice has left.
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met someone not too long ago who had lost her voice. It saddened me because this woman was a champion for those that had a hard time finding their voice. I spoke to this woman, and she said that she had always spoken up for herself and others as far back as she could remember. This woman would encourage not just other women but men as well. I became curious and wanted to know more about her lost voice, so I asked her if it was okay to ask her a few questions. At first, she was hesitant, but then she said sure. I asked one question, how did you lose your voice? She paused, then looked at me and said, “It happened over time.” I am now intrigued, and I needed more information because people don’t just lose their voices, right? I know that things happen, and we choose to bite our tongues at some point, but this woman clearly said that she lost her voice over time. I prepared myself to hear the innerdeepest secrets of this woman; she was about to explain to me exactly how this happened. As I tried to keep the look of confusion off of my face, she said, let me clue you SwagHer Magazine
It’s time to start reminding people that their voice matters! I’m sure that each one of us knows someone who used to be vibrant, full of life, spoke up for themselves, and now, they just seem deflated. Encourage that friend that no longer speaks up, let them know that what they have to say is important and that someone needs to hear it. Often, we need to talk to ourselves and work on being delivered from people and their opinions. So I said self, “Dust off your voice and get it together!”
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