Give Her Flowers

Bigger Picture Network
Le FlatLine
Published in
38 min readOct 23, 2020

Who Runs the world! This is a woman’s world and it would be nothing without…

By. Tavon Hamlet (BigPicture / MoBoomBox)

Yes, we know the lyrics but let’s not ignore the facts. Today we recognize the hidden rules of the industry that makes it a “Man’s world and holds back open minds. This also makes it hard for some to thrive and succeed. Art, music, sports, education, activism, life, and more have hidden restrictions and rules that limit a part of the creators and consumers we get to enjoy consistently. “Young women were not especially welcomed in male social spaces where technological knowledge was shared… Today’s studios are extremely male-dominant spaces where technological discourse merges with a culture of male bonding that inordinately problematizes women apprenticeship.” a quote from Tricia Rose, a professor at Brown University who spoke about this inequality in her analysis, Black Noise. She explains that these spaces limited the encouragement and mentors for women. This must change, no space of ours should have restrictions, limits, or hidden rules that hold back. The women of various industries have been running the show for a long time but we haven’t always seen their faces or heard their names. That is until now. Learn the stories, names, and faces of these talented people that don’t fall under their vision of male dominance. Some you may know, some you will know soon, and some you probably would never have learned about.

Moni Sade (RapRumi)- Barber/Creator, MD

Moni Sade is a Barber, a male-dominated industry that’s finally destroying its traditional code. She’s was inspired by her personal barber and brother to step into the barber world. When she started out she was surprised by the booth rent, she was charged $1000 monthly.

Moni Sade is a perfectionist that gets straight to the point, a confident spirit, and a freestyle. Moni is a creative at heart, she published a book recently adding author/writer to her belt. Sade doesn’t wait for the world to gift her the keys, she puts her foot first and teaches herself. She’s unpredictable when it comes to her creation, “I just react”. The creative plans to show the world more of her talents, navigating through COVID lockdown have brought challenges but Moni doesn’t seem to let that stop her. Moni Sade is just going with the flow.

Bri Leeezy: Producer, DMV

She’s finally sat down and transitioned into a producer, known as BriLeeezy, you may have seen her at an event chilling, in the studio with some of your favorites, or might have read words of advice from one of her many articles published throughout the net. Leeezy has finally become a full-time producer and her first placement has snagged over 200k streams after being featured in the hit Netflix show, she received her wake up call. Music is life for Bri, the love she has for it is unmatched, her knowledge of the industry and how it operates doesn’t match her age, and the willingness to share with those around her willing to listen. She’s ready to take the industry head-on, we spoke with BriLeeezy, she told us that this has always been something she thought about it. Bri is a true student of the game & music historian, she remembers events or songs off the slightest things, it’s worth witnessing. You can sense the hunger to be great. This isn’t a hobby this is her life. Bri told us that she spends countless hours learnings and perfecting her craft also mentions that time she spent in the studio growing up has made her comfortable with music to create her own and share with the world. BriLeeezy will be a name heard all over the industry in the future, go check her out here on Instagram.

Favorite musician? Did they inspire you?

- I can’t just narrow it down to one, that’s too hard. There’s a handful of “usuals” that are in my rotation. Some of my favorite artists would have to be Jay, Nip, and Cole. I’m a huge fan of Pac too. I’m currently real heavy on both Mozzy and Larry June. I think they all kind of inspire me in a way. I appreciate the storytelling, delivery, wordplay, feel, and overall art form each. However, from those I named, my current self would say Nip and Uncle Larry inspire me in a sense. Each put out music different from one another but they both speak life and manifestation in their music and put you on game if you listen — and that’s what I’m on right now.

What’s your creative process like, short version?

- First and foremost, I have to acknowledge the fact I sometimes struggle with inspiration. Also, anybody who knows me, creatively, knows how much I am capable of. I visualize a lot but I’m actually a hands-on person. With my producer hat on, I’ll usually just open my software and play with whatever sounds until I find what I’m looking for and build the beat from there. With my writer/media hat on, depending on the topic, I often just start writing. If I’m lucky, then it just flows. However, with both hats, none of that matters if I’m mentally in a space of no inspiration.

Favorite album of the year so far?

- There is a lot of great music that’s been put out. My favorite would have to be Larry June’s “Adjust To The Game.” The project is a vibe.

Open studio. You and your dream team(6) have to create a hit project. Who’s there? What kind of project are you doing?

- I’m not sure as far as artists, and I’m not ‘bout to cap as far as producers. But if I had to AR just the beats alone, I’d most certainly have to bring my niggas in on this so I would just call up some of the homies for real. I’d probably reach out to people like Mason Taylor, Savage Beats, 2Tall, 88Wess, DJ Grady & Coach Wave. These are all people I know and people I’ve seen and heard their work. Sonically, just the beats alone are fire already and I know with this group, we’d be able to put out something dope and versatile. I also choose these guys because as far as artists go, I know they all have a good ear and know what and who will sound good together. So from my “dream team” of producers, we’d easily create a dream team of artists — whether big or lesser-known.

What are you visualizing when you’re starting a new project?

- I think that oftentimes, I just start. Once I get in my groove, then I get a feel for where I want the beat to go. I listen to a beat a thousand times before I release or send it out. As I’m listening, I start to hear different flows and such I could hear here on the track — and I think that’s kind of where the whole “type beat” thing came from.

Are you a perfectionist or mistakes are accepted?

- Both, honestly. I think I’m a perfectionist with most things I do, and I often will sit on work because of it. When I go back to pieces/projects, I’ll realize that it’s not bad. It’s never bad, honestly, but sometimes I think that I just want to always present a “wow” factor. I’m like this both in media and production. However, I’m still harder on myself with the beats I create and I think it’s because I’m still new to it. So it’s easier for me to put out an okay article than it is for me to put out an okay track. I wouldn’t refer to anything as a mistake, but yes I have put out stuff that I feel has room for improvement. Even when I do that, I still get such a good response. So in the end, it all just falls back onto what everybody says — you are always your own biggest critic.

Dream pieces? Shows?

- You know, I don’t know. I love shows and events, that’s really what I come from. But my mind isn’t there right now.

Describe your art and style?

- Me as a person, I always have to keep it two Virgils. You feel me? So I make sure that I keep it that way with any content I create as a writer. When cookin’ up, I love a good 808 so that’s something you’ll always catch from Lil Leeezy. I think I put out a lot of hip hop/trap beats. Haven’t gotten much into RnB beats nor samples yet, but I’m only a couple months in. Those are both next on my list.

Ebonie Smith: Producer, NY

Ebonie Smith is a producer and artist based out of New York, she’s the founder and president of Gender Amplified, Inc., an organization that celebrates and supports women in music. Ebonie is a grammy-winning producer with a resume including Dirty Computer by Janelle Monáe and Invasion to Privacy by Cardi B. She currently works for Atlantic Records as a producer and engineer. She is well respected in the industry, respected enough to be elected governor of the New York Chapter of The Recording Academy. No easy accomplishments, the hard work Ebonie has put in has been recognized but many still are unaware of her name and what she even looks like due to the lack of homage, recognition, and consistency from publications.

Smith is more than just a producer she is also a songwriter and used to perform while in Cameroon. Gender Amplified aims to celebrate women in music, raise their visibility, and nurture the next generation of women producers. She understands that representation matters and she’s using her platforms to create the proper celebration of women producers, Ebonie Smith is the representation needed, she’s also the voice of a cause that was lacking the attention it needs.

You most likely bumped an Ebonie track, screamed it at the top of your lungs, or most likely got lost vibing to her tracks. The producer has worked with many Wale, Santigold, Lauryn Hill, Panic at the Disco, Hamilton, and many more. Women in the music industry need their respects and we can no longer turn to look the other way as a society because these women are running shit.

Raven Alesia: Writer/Media Personality, DMV

Raven Alesia is the ultimate team player, go-getter, and “ultra music geek” she’s also a Paul Wall stan. The people needed that information. She was a hip-hop lover from a young age, heavily influenced by her father. Raven’s mother would soon develop the same love for the Gospel as her mother. She’s always been around music, now she’s the Web Coordinator for MoBoomBox and Founder of BLQ Vision, content creators that highlights the culture and creatives. Raven was surprised when she was going through the process of making a business official and the support she received. Some things are planned and some things she just goes with the flow, depending on her mood. If she’s not passionate about the project then she won’t do it, “you can’t do anything without passion.”

Favorite musician? Did they inspire you?

In no particular order,

● Bob Marley

● Kid Cudi

● Kanye West

● Sublime

● Outkast and the whole Dungeon Family

Duos and individuals that have had a tremendous impact on the music industry and as people around the world. Their quirks are what made them successful but also my favorite musicians.

What’s your creative process like, short version?

● Read, indulge, and lock-in. Once I am fixated on what I want to write about, my passion takes over and I lock in until it’s time to share it with the world.

Favorite album of the year so far?

● “Bebey” by Theophilus London

● I have enjoyed London’s music since high school and also followed his career. For a while, he went on a hiatus that ultimately put him on the back burner of the music industry but still shaking hands with Kanye, Jigga, and Karl Lagerfield. When he came, he came back strong. Teased a few songs with notable and relevant bands, which helped capture the attention of true Theo fans. That album he was teasing music from was “Bebey” and you could truly tell how much passion was put into this album.

Open studio. You and your dream team(6) have to create a hit project. Who’s there? What kind of project are you doing?

We will be making a mixtape. So that will consist of,

● Paul Wall

● Madvillain

● Schoolboy Q

● Olu — Earthgang

● Vince Staples or Billy James. That would be exciting to hear one or the other on a Madvillain and Paul Wall mixtape. We are going to produce this whole project in the Swedish Alps

How’s the process of creating and executing ideas?

● I go with how I feel, what’s relevant of the times, and scoping that out to gather a small fraction of data to figure out what people may want to listen to or read about. I enjoy research so I binge information about artists for weeks or months. That helps create multiple writing styles and ideas about the artist and the way I will go about featuring that artist.

The biggest surprise of the industry?

● Women writers have it the hardest. I wish there were more safe spaces for women who write in the industry. It will be a space were pull each other up and will have the results to prove it.

Dream interview/contract?

● Dream interview would be with Kid Cudi just for my fandom purposes but on a serious note, I would love to interview would be Pharrell, Lil Wayne, Abra, or Childish Gambino

Creative writing or Technical/Standard writing?

● Creative writing of course but I can do both. But creative writing all the way.

Reading recommendations?

● What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Blacker” by Damon Young

● “The Vixen Diaries” — Karrine Steffans. I started understanding this book in my early 20’s once I realized that the industry slut-shamed and weaponized this woman so viciously but did not hold any of the men accountable. Neither did the wives of the men.

● The Rolling Stones Interviews

What/Who inspired your journey?

● Nicki Minaj. I know it sounds cliche but hears me out. We watched Nicki from ages 14 or 15 up until now. We grew up with her even when we weren’t listening or watching her. Where she is now in life compared to where she was when we first saw her on Worldstar is a beautiful phenomenon.

What surprised you about your industry?

● The lack of resources for writers that do not work for big companies but would like to get there.

What do you think of financial literacy and business skills being taught in grade school?

● I think those are and should be key components to a successful and thriving future. Unfortunately, you have these gatekeepers that shut out the access to those resources from specific, marginalized communities and that is shameful. Diversity awareness and financial literacy programs and classes in schools should be mandatory and the BOE should have that as a priority in their budgets.

Saran Toure: Artist, VA

The pieces Saran creates jumps off the canvases and grabs your attention. I admit I was late to the party but everything I’ve witnessed Saran produce has been nothing short of amazing. This industry isn’t easy to navigate and being a woman probably doesn’t make it easier but the young artist is headed to the top. We may be late or she is just getting started whatever the case maybe check out her art and guaranteed you’ll remember the pieces, the art she is creating will have you joining the fan club…

What are you passionate about? What do you love most/ least about your career?

Being creative in any form is a passion of mine. A creative expression is a form of therapy, as it helps keep me relaxed/sane. The thing I love most about art would be that it is a form of expression without words. As someone who struggles to find the right words at the time, art can be a great form of release to try to sort through the chaos. Although, a lot of my work is “joyful”, I strive to make more work with deeper meanings.

The thing I like least about the art world would have been the negative stigma that some people have towards studying

Fine art and the lifestyle of artists in general. Art takes a lot of skill/ practice and shouldn’t be viewed as an “easy” career choice. Art and design impact all the things around us in life.

What’s the most challenging thing you’ve faced in life?

I would have to say the most challenging thing is something I am currently facing. My mom has breast cancer and that in itself has done a lot to my mind. But just like anything difficult in life, you have to keep pushing through and remain as positive as possible.

Who/What inspired you to shape you into the person you are today?

I wouldn’t say anyone/thing inspired me but more so that it is a collection of people and experiences. Sometimes I get

inspiration from strangers, people I am close to (such as family and friends), or things I watch. Inspiration is everywhere.

As for artistic inspiration, I would say Frida Kahlo. She was so bad-ass and used art as a form of expression personally and

politically, which is something I strive to do as an artist. Bob Ross is also great; I believe he was my earliest memory of

watching someone paint. It enthralled and relaxed me. The godfather of ASMR!

If I could spend time with someone (dead or alive) who would they (3) be and what would you do together?

Frida Kahlo,

Rihanna,

Gary Vee.

I feel like spending a day with all three of them would be an enlightening experience. We would drink whisky while

having oysters at a restaurant with a great view.

What are your thoughts on the current state our society is in?

The current state has been very chaotic, it’s hard for me to wrap my head around the plethora of events that are

occurring at one time. Sometimes I get lost in my world and forget but then I quickly snap back into reality.

I feel like we as a society are in a time period of growth/reflection. Starting with COVID19 which is scary and unfortunate

but has connected the world in a weird way. I try to find the silver lining in things, so I’ve used this time as a reset button.

Some of us get the chance to take a breather which is well needed & beneficial for contemplating our perspectives. But

on the contrary for many, people have lost a lot during this crisis which is eye-opening and exposes a lot of the

shortcomings in our government.

The current BLM movement is an awakening. It’s giving those that have felt silent and oppressed the chance to speak

their peace on the injustices repeatedly occurring. It’s a paradox, on one hand, it is distressing that this is an issue we still

have to speak on in 2020 but beautiful that so many of us are taking a stand for what has been occurring and we’ve had

enough. Systemic racism is gross and outdated, we can’t run on that as a society any longer. I believe our generation will

bring great change, we have empathy and we just care. That is so important.

What social issues are important to you?

SO many issues honestly.

Immigration is one. As a daughter of two immigrants, I find it disgusting that a land inhabited by people that have

migrated here from other countries/stole land has the right to tell or make people feel like they are unwelcome. A

solution would be for the government to stop making it so hard for immigrants

Systemic Racism, Global warming, Healthcare availability are amongst others.

Do you see a change that allows more spaces for equal opportunities? Or at least more that favor women?

Totally. I have already noticed that there has been more inclusivity amongst artistic spaces. Most events make it known

that they are an open space for everyone, which is great. In small local art events, women are properly included in the

art environment but women for sure can be represented more throughout brands and included in the same category as

some of these major “top” artists. Women have started to occupy their own space but still aren’t represented well in

museums and art galleries. Women of color lack representation as well, and that is important to acknowledge.

What advice would you give your teenage self?

I would tell my teenage self to not put art on the back burner, because it’ll always be an important part of my life. As a teen,

you listen to the people around you a lot so your authentic self can get clouded. I would also tell teen me, to just be

myself and not worry about what anyone else thinks.

Dream Collaboration?

Nike would be my top dream collab and then a tea brand like “Yogi” would be amazing. Being a part of a brand’s team to

help with limited edition product packaging would be so ideal. If I could one day work with Kehinde Wiley, that would be

incredible.

Are you a perfectionist or mistakes are excepted?

I struggle with trying to be a perfectionist in everything I do. Trying to make everything “perfect” is a fault of

mine since it is essential to make mistakes, especially in art. When working on an art piece, it never looks great at the

start so you have to push through that feeling of wanting it to look “perfect” right away.

One time I was completing this painting and as soon as I was finished with it, I propped it up to dry. Shortly after, it fell

flat onto my wet palette full of paint. I was crushed! When I lifted it off the palette, it actually looked pretty cool and

instead of trying to fix it to make it “perfect” again…, I rolled with it.

So, I’m a perfectionist that accepts mistakes.

Dream Art Pieces? Shows?

If this is referring to my dream art pieces…then I am working on bringing that to life. Slowly but surely. I want to

work larger, bring very large works of art to life.

As for shows, Art Basel would be incredible to be a part of!! I’m sure over time my dream art shows will change but for

now that is the top tier to me.

Describe your art and style?

This is a tough question as I feel my art style is still in development. It’s under construction. I like creating art that is

considered “of our time”. I like to showcase our current era in some way so that if you were to travel to the future and

look at my art, you’d know it represents the 21st century. I do this by incorporating popular modern-day brands, musical figures, artists, etc.

Kendra Mayweather: Media Personality, VA

Kendra Mayweather is the HBIC, she just has that thing about her. She draws you in and blows you away. Kendra is more than a writer, host, and entrepreneur, she’s a true creative. Her personality wins you over and when she speaks you listen. You’re bound to laugh, learn, or probably mold a new idea around her, the creative Kendra recently started a traveling podcast called KenBeTrippin but Corona. She’s 1/3 of the NightlyDose Show, Contributor for MoBoomBox, and you may have seen her hosting events. Multidimensional are words best to describe Kendra Mayweather, not allowing limits to be placed on her or to be pushed to the back the world will soon learn the name. Kendra will headline the revamp of MoTV and soon will take over your timelines.

What are you passionate about? What do you love most/ least about your career?

I’m passionate about creating! Creating things and material for people to enjoy and benefit off of! From entertainment to community service events. I like that it pays me, that’s always a plus. But least would be that I’m not meant to work a 9–5 especially not one there I can’t use every inch of my creativity

What’s the most challenging thing you’ve faced in life?

It honestly was this pandemic but recently my friend/ brother/ castmate Austin has recently passed away so dealing with this is going to challenge a challenge I never really thought I would face at least not this early in life.

Who/What inspired you to shape you into the person you are today?

I would say, my mom, Austin, and just me living in Norfolk. My mom because she’s always been a good example of what a strong, independent woman should look like. Austin because he’s the one who offered me the position to be on his first platform “The Mix” and ever since then he’s pushed me to be at my creative best that I never really knew I had. And then me living in Norfolk help me connect with people that have helped me gain such an entrepreneur type mindset. I’ve been put in positions to help me succeed in the field I wish to prosper in. Norfolk help mold me into the “BadGuyKenn”

If you could spend time with someone (dead or alive) who would they(3) be and what would you do together?

-Karen civil: I love who she is as a person how she got to the point she’s at! So during our time, I would say I would interview her and pick her brain on how I can get to her level.

-Austin: I don’t feel like while he was on this earth I expressed to him enough my appreciation for him, so during our time I would say we would just laugh at our memories, create new content, and have a dance battle

-Rhianna: I admire her as a woman and all that she has created and done for her very own community and also ours and she’s my favorite Pisces lol! So during our time I would interview her as well and pick her creative brain

What are your thoughts on the current state our society is in?

Broken …. that’s the best way to put it! The system, people’s way of thinking, society … it’s all broken! And it’s been that way for a very long time, but we are finally recognizing it and taking a bigger stand about things because we are sick and tired of things not being fair for the US, And I mean is like black people and people of color.

Which social issues are important to you and what are possible solutions? Real or fantasy.

A social issue that over the last three years I’ve taken I guess an interest in is the high rates of homeless people on the streets! And a goal of mine is to have a job fair for the homeless!

What do you think of the industry you’re in or aim to thrive in? Do you see a change that allows more spaces for equal opportunities? Or at least more that favor women?

I see change but not that much it’s minor stuff because at the end of the day when we talk about change the last people and gender to get some change for them are black women! We always get the short end of the stick but I will say even with that I’m glad to see more women in “male-dominated” positions because the only way there will be change is if we do it ourselves and if the number of women in these positions increases

What advice would you give your teenage self?

A) I would tell my younger self to tap into her creative side earlier in life and don’t hold back

B) I would tell her to express my love and appreciation for the ones close to me a lot more often

Dream collaborations? Or three folks currently that you wish/aim to work with?

Omg, so I would say that my dream collaboration would be 1 with Rhianna and her savage x lingerie line to create a line and be a model on the site and the second would be with Issa Rae to be an actress and help director on one of the insecure episodes!

How’s the process of creating and executing ideas?

I’ll be honest it can be hard for me because I’m so creative and I get bombarded with so many creative ideas and I never know which one to start first and it’s happened so much during this dang pandemic lol so my process is to think the ideas write them all down and try to prioritize them and work on a little something on the top three every week

The biggest surprise of the industry?

All these famous and insta famous people getting canceled through our this civil rights movement we are in lol, like where is their PR team

Dream interview/contract?

Issa Rae/ Savagé x by rihanna

Creative writing or Technical/Standard writing?

Creative writing I work better when I can create freely

Reading recommendations?

Amanda Seales: Small doses especially for my ladies

Aziza Simmons: Creative Director, Videographer, Media Connoisseur, Baltimore, MD

Aziza Simmons describes herself as an artist that was blessed with the gift of creation. She is the owner of Seven Five Studios, a media production company. Aziza believes there is a need for a space for us, Seven Five Studios will provide said space. Unlike most of us she enjoys post production, it shows in her work. Aziza is a true definition of a hustler, she wears many hats within the media industry and she enjoys everyone. I asked what she prefers to be the end goal, Production she says, being able to have complete control, creative control is the gift all creatives strive for but not all are ready for it, Aziza isn’t one of them. The ODU graduate is now in Baltimore running her Studios, Head Media Coordinator for MoBoomBox, and production manager for the “Officially Adulting” series. Her picture is next to the words “hardwork and dedication” in the dictionary. Ava DuVernay, and Kandi Burruss, and her friends are her inspirations and blueprints she models her life after or I should say take points from. The Media guru is a true blessing those who know her well describe her as a “Ball of fire, of pure energy.” a wise choice of words to choose but on point. Aziza Simmons is well on her way to be one of the next big names you see flash across your credit screen, check out her work her and stay tuned to what she has to announce next.

How’s the process of creating and executing ideas?

1. My process of creating starts at the altar. I’m very in tune with my spiritual side and I always ask for guidance from my ancestors. I then grab a blank sheet of paper and let my ideas flow.

The biggest surprise of the industry?

2. My biggest surprise was that people are willing to help you if you just ask. It is cut-throat but networking with the right people is possible if you just put yourself out there.

Dream interview/contract?

3. My dream contract would be with Fentyyyy and local small businesses in my community.

Creative writing or Technical/Standard writing?

4. Creative writing

Reading recommendations?

5. Opening to Spirit

What/Who inspired your journey?

6. Idk how to answer this. lol, my love for my craft and the man from the green mile. I always wanted to take the ugly out of the world and make the world better. Now I do that through video

What do you think of financial literacy and business skills being taught in grade school?

7. These are vital skills that need to be taught at a young age.

Jessica Coleman: Writer, VA

Jessica Coleman is a writer and storyteller that you have yet to learn about. You may have seen her featured on many local shows, read one of her articles, or you may not have met the name yet. Jessica will be flooding our screens in the future with amazing stories and production. She’s passionate about helping others be heard and aims to work in the entertainment industry so that she can help bring change and make it more accessible. She’s published articles and interned for a major company recently where she was able to polish her skills. She’s also been featured on the BluCloudRadio, and other podcasts showing the world a little bit of the genius. Jessica is more than a writer, she is a storyteller in the making, she writes, directs, and she even acts, check out her work via her youtube channel. You will soon be raging about one of her shows and live-tweeting your thoughts until then learn more about Jessica below.

Passionate:

I am passionate about people being heard. I believe that so often people aren’t heard and are purposely silenced. I want to help give the mic back to people that deserve it.

I want to work in entertainment and I love the freedom it offers and the ability to spread a message far and wide. What I love the least is how hard it is to get into this industry. There shouldn’t be gatekeepers to storytelling

Challenging:

The most challenging thing I faced was when I went to VCU and moved away from home for the first time. I felt lonely, out of place, and stressed. But I found my place and purpose and grew more in those 9 months than any period before.

Inspired:

I am inspired by the women in my family. All have stories of strength and independence. They have moved states away, left abusive husbands, and forged their paths despite numerous obstacles. This has encouraged me to never give up and to fight for the things I want in life and not wait for others to do it for me.

Dead or Alive:

Queen Elizabeth I

I would pick her brain about leadership and sacrifice and go hunting.

Saweetie

I would talk with her about how she leverages all aspects of herself, such as her looks and personality, and avoids being objectified and instead uses these things to her advantage and I would ask her beauty secrets and eat crab legs.

Mark Cuban

I would talk about business decisions and mistakes he’s made and lessons he’s learned and how he manages to balance being a businessman and not losing his humanity.

Current Society:

I think it’s an awakening. People of all groups are seeing the jig for what it is and calling out bullshit. Once people are awake, it’s hard for them to go back to sleep. Change is coming soon.

Social Issues:

Free and equal access to necessities is the most pressing issue. People cannot create art, philosophize, or do much of anything if their basic needs aren’t met. Any government that asks for taxes from its citizens should take care of them. This can happen by making basic food and all water-free in addition to free healthcare and free basic housing for all. Next is rethinking how we engage in labor. We work too much and aren’t paid properly. That must change in addition to employees having a direct say in the decision-making process at a job. All employees should have a stake in the company rather than outsiders and all decisions should be democratically voted on by each employee.

Industry:

I think it needs to change radically.

Change:

It’s happening, both by time causing changes and through the current social climate encouraging the changes.

Advice:

Stay at one college and don’t transfer so much. Save more money. Save, save, save so you can move and take that plunge!

Dream Collaborations:

I don’t have a specific person I want to work with. I want to network across and bring up other people as I come up.

Artesha Johnson: Writer, VA

Artesha Johnson is stepping into a Male-dominated industry and she’s headed to a seat at the table. Sports is a male ruled world but not for long until we finally see equality and respect for our women. Artesha Johnson is a sports analyst breaking barriers. The recent rise of women that love sports and work in sports is necessary. The representation Artesha provides is important to young girls who may love sports but are told it’s for boys. The writer loves football and felt angered when she heard Cam Newton’s comment to a women reporter about her authenticity, she stated that those seats can be filled by men or women, who know the same information if not more in some cases. I look forward to seeing Artesha’s growth and journey to being our next great analyst. We had a chance to speak with Artesha you can read the answers below.

1. I am passionate about football and content creation. I currently work in sales so dread the fact that I’m not working in the field I went to school. What I love the most is that it pushes me to work with others and develop strong communication skills.

2. The most challenging thing I’ve faced in life was my transition from college to moving back home. I have such high goals and leaving college I just knew I would be working my dream job but reality hit me HARD.

3. My father inspires me. He came from the hood and a single-family home and is the strongest person I know. He is so gifted and has such a strong work ethic. He’s so successfully only 51 and I aspire to get things done and reach the goals she has

4. I would want to spend time with my grandfather. He’s no longer alive but any story I hear about him, he sounds so fun and loving. I would want to go fishing with him and we just talk and laugh all-day

5. Our society is devastating. I fear to even bring children into this world sometimes. There’s so much hate in the world that it just breaks my hurt. especially how black people face constant tragedies day today, I part that we are heard and the world truly starts to change. As a society, there is no reason a human should be fearing for their lives every day

6. BLM is very important to me. As a black woman that wants to marry a black man and have black children, the system needs to change. We need laws to protect all people and hold others accountable for the wrong they do to us.

The solution is to continue to protest and fight for our lives. The more they see and hear us, the more things will begin to change. More than just street paintings and tv shows, voting needs to shift the leaders so that we can get laws into place to protect the endless black lives lost.

7. There are changes I see for women, more head roles in society but want I would like to see is when a woman does have that leading role. She is treated as just any other man that she can do the same job as. I remember a woman interviewer speaking with Cam Newton and instead of answering her question he made a remake to how she knew so much. Although it was probably harmless to him. A woman can sit in the same room as a man and know just as much as him if not more.

8. I would tell my teenage self to not stress and worry about things I cannot change. God has you and knows your steps before you do

Marissa Strang: Blogger/Content Creator, DMV

A bright beam of light or ray of sunshine my folks used to say, that’s how I would describe Marissa Strang. An educator, blogger, content creator, and marketing specialist. she’s the curly fro and smile you see helping you with travel tips or date ideas. Marissa shares her secrets and information freely without complaints, I’m one of the many who thank her for it.

She also participates and shares DIY tips that are helpful during this COVID lockdown. The educator has also dominated photoshoots and took to the streets to join BLM protests. Marissa Strang’s content creates ease, weight lifter, from your shoulders during a crisis. We spoke with Marissa and she answers our questions below.

What are you passionate about?

I’m passionate about traveling the world — and making it possible for others to do the same! Experiencing and immersing myself in other cultures has taught me so much, and enhanced my perspective on life. I think everyone deserves to have these opportunities.

What do you love most/ least about your career?

In addition to travel blogging, I’m a Destination Marketing Specialist as well. I love getting to work in a creative space where I practice storytelling through social media, videography, and writing. However, it’s easy to feel that creativity burnout when you’re constantly creating in both your personal hustle and career.

Which social issues are important to you and what are possible solutions?

Real or fantasy. The number one social issue on my mind right now is defunding the police. We need to be reallocating money toward other things such as mental health professionals, trauma centers, social workers, and other community resources — especially in inner cities.

What do you think of the industry you’re in or aim to thrive in?

The travel and tourism industry is much more important than many people realize. Travel can be what fuels an entire local economy — from the waitress working to pay off college costs, to the taxi driver who needs to feed his family. I love being able to work in an industry that I’m passionate about, but also that helps people at both an individual and community level.

Do you see a change that allows more spaces for equal opportunities? Or at least more that favor women?

I largely attribute the changes I see to social media. A lot of people have negative things to say about how social media has affected us, but you can’t deny we’re more connected than we’ve ever been before. We can mobilize like we never have before. Communicate as we’ve never been able to before. And now, you can see the pressure that these social media movements are applying on businesses and corporations. We’re quite literally forcing them to hear us and make space. So that’s pretty powerful.

What advice would you give your teenage self?

I’d tell her that she’s enough. Not to worry so much about what other people think about her. Oh — and to stop spending so much money on makeup! Geez.

Dream collaborations? Or three folks currently that you wish/aim to work with?

My DREAM collaborations would be with the Away luggage company, with Travel and Leisure, and with Travel Noire. I’m not sure in what capacity quite yet, but these are goals.

How’s the process of creating and executing ideas?

For me, it always starts with: what value can I provide to my audience? The goal is always to help others or be valuable in some way, shape, or form with what I create. From there, everything just comes naturally.

Meliah Green: Writer, 804, VA

The sports world is a man ruled the world but lately, the women have been coming to takeover, move over. Meliah Green is one of those women changing the landscape, her knowledge on basketball and its history is amazing, she spreads her attention to various sports, not just one, and she’s able to stand ten toes in the ring with you. Meliah spent some time traveling with Team Loaded and covering High School ball with PrepHoops, she’s respected by some of the top athletes in the country. The love she has for the young players shows in her attempts to educate them when she has the chance to speak to them. That’s a need when coming from an area that doesn’t have many educated on the paths you’re attempting to make it in. Meliah is a need for the industry and the next generation of athletes. I spoke with her about HBCU options for top picks, “50/50… it can change the culture but HBCU’s don’t recruit the top players.” She also mentioned the level of play and the draft stock might not be affected. March Madness selection system should be fixed as well, that could be a possibility to help HBCUs get more recognition or TV time. She was inspired by someone close to her to witness, Frank Mason’s story was inspiring to witness and made Meliah believe that she could make it as well. She shocked people but she was shocked by the fact of how many athletes were uneducated on the business, she has to be more professional than other adults, and “coaches laugh a lot”. This sounds like a motivating factor for Meliah to be around the younger athletes, she would be able to educate them on the game and the business. Being a woman in the industry she does face way more restrictions but still granted plenty of access to players. Must have tough skin to be around all the various personalities. To close it out she tells me one of her favorite things to do is finding gems, the ones that no one talking about yet. It’s safe to say Meliah will be one of the next names and faces you’ll see on your television with your favorite athletes, young and old. There will be nothing to hold her back.

Tenbeete Solomon(TrapBob): Artist/Creative Designer, DC

Tenbeete Solomon aka TrapBob is a true creative who brings the joy out of people with colors. The vibrant visuals you see throughout the City cause traffic, well we might have created the traffic that day, and everyone to pull their phones and flick it up. She started her own company Trap Bob World, LLC, and has worked with Giphy, Blue Ribbon, Elizabeth Warren Campaign, Missy Elliot, BET, and more. You can find her work with Girls Who Code and Solomon say that her art is inspired by activism and her community, she wants everyone to hear her through the art.

Tenbeete also is the creative director of GIRLAAA, a creative collective of women that display various skill sets and services. Checking off all the points “TrapBob” is destined to be displayed all over the world, if the world ever takes America off the block list. She’s been featured in Paper Magazines, District Fray, and the Washington Post she also caught the attention of Beyoncé and was one of the brands featured on her website.

Tenbeete Solomon aka TrapBob is a superstar in every way, her art is second to none, and make sure you’re following her because she may have the pieces you’ve been missing or maybe the missing piece.

Domo: DJ, DMV

Domo is one of the best DJ’s in the city, if you have ever found yourself in the room as she spins then you can attest that she without a doubt turns everyone up. She’s a magician with the turntables and she is so much more than just a DJ, she is a true creative with skills of illustration and project management. She is influenced by what she witnessed growing up in the DMV.

She has illustrations featured in the Hirshhorn Museum. She once was the DJ for President Barack Obama, she’s toured with Wiz Khalifa, and performed at multiple festivals. Domo has even collaborated with brands such as Nike, Adidas, Apple, LiveNation, and many more. She is also the founder of GIRLAAA, a team of diverse creatives and business savvy women. Domo is the voice of the DMV, it was missing someone like Domo to take charge and lead this scene to the great land.

If you check out her socials and the work she does you can see she loves and represents her area to the fullest, working with DC United and local brands to bring the city together. Domo has found herself a part of the lucky few that was able to test Rihanna’s Fenty Skin latest collection. DJ Domo is a force to be aware of or wrecking with whatever they say, just make sure to find yourself at the first show after the world heals. You will regret not being able to experience the DJ Domo experience. Ask Mannie Fresh is she’s legit.

Renell Medrano: Director, NY

Renell Medrano is the true IT girl of today, she checks off all the big points and all of the small points. She is a voice or a visual speaker with her creations representing her heritage and community. The director is alumni of the NY School of design and Lens Blog Award, where she learned and polished her skills of photography and maximizing her creativity.

She has touched studios such as the MILK studios in New York and Gallery Rosenfeld in London with her work. Renell is no doubt one to keep an eye out for, now you see more of the world trying to imitate and jack the steez. Medrano has been on fire this year and the quarantine disaster that has stopped the world’s creative market doesn’t seem to be slowing her down.

Magazine covers with Vogue, 10Magazine, Culture Magazine, album rollouts, and fashion lookbooks you name it and you can find a Renell Medrano blessing. Renell has nabbed names like Chanel Beauty, Dior, FENTY, Louis Vuitton, Netflix, Nike, Tiffany&Co, and many many more have been added to the resume. The legend of Renell Medranocontinues to grow as we figure that she is far from stopping the blessings.

She spoke with Dazed Magazines and they stated “Her recent solo exhibition in London, PAMPARA, a “visual love letter” to the Dominican Republic, explored her roots. Her photos… tell a story with cinematic warmth.” Make sure you’re one to follow and support as she takes over the world and introduces us to a new one.

Anifa Mvuemba: Designer, MD/Congo

Anifa Mvuemba, designer and founder of Hanifa, has the IT factor and more. If you didn’t know her before, I’m sure you know of her now. Maryland native Anifa Mvuemba has put the world on notice and we will respect that she’s innovative, creative, and powerful. Anifa started designing in 2011 and became the go-to for those who wanted to stand out; names such as Lizzo, Lupita Nyongo, DJ Domo, Kylie Jenner, and more all became the center of attention at first glance when seen wearing one of Anifa’s pieces. Technically she would be classified as a veteran but her recent virtual fashion show brought another wave of supporters. During the virtual fashion show, she displayed her recent Pink Label Congo collection that left everyone in frenzy. The timelines begin to fill with screen captures of the show, everyone wanted to get their hands on any available piece, the curve-maxi dress put everyone on notice. This would also serve a purpose to show others that there is more than one way to showcase designs, Haute Couture can be evolved, and black creatives must be taken seriously in the fashion industry.

Anifa spoke with Teen Vogue about what inspired her, “When I started, I would spend hours looking at fabric, and from there I let the fabric inspire me. I like the color and all those things. So it started with fabric and then it turned into me getting into looking at art…. studying shape… studying color theory… Black women. When I started I was a size 2 and now I’m a size 12… I want to make sure that girls like me and girls like you can put on pants and say, ‘Oh, my gosh, this fits me perfectly.’ My designs accommodate all of our assets and it’s made to fit well for Black women. That inspires me.” Anifa adds on to a strong class of faces that will take over the fashion world, black faces at that. In an industry that limits black creatives but it doesn’t seem like Anifa will let that stop her, Hanifa is a brand without limits. She also adds, “an apparel line for Women Without Limits… that cater to the natural curves of a woman’s physique. We design for everyday extraordinary women like you who embody class while setting their own rules.” She’s creating a world that caters to black women and all the people who the fashion designers never catered to before.

The Congo born designer has established a sturdy list of clients around the Washington, DC/DMV area and is no stranger to seeing her work being copied already, she spoke about ASOS stealing designs from Hanifa after fans filled her notifications calling out the brand. She spoke with Insider on the situation and said, “I mean you see it on social media, you see it every day… But when it happens to you, it hits home.” Also stating that she was shocked.

Anifa is exactly what the fashion world needs right now, change. She doesn’t seem to be following any rules and she creates without fear. The virtual fashion show was not great only because of the innovation, but the designs featured in the Pink Label Congo collection were breathtaking. Maxi dresses, Miniskirts, Blouses, and more pieces filled the timelines of everyone, even those who don’t keep up with fashion were speaking on the event and the designs. Anifa Mvuemba isn’t next, she’s now.

Thank you to all the amazing women dominating in their respective industries. We will be watching and supporting. Thank you to all of the women who shared their statements and time. You’re appreciated!

“There will be times when you will face insurmountable obstacles, but that’s when you dig deep down within your soul for the courage and fortitude to keep going — and never forget that despite life’s detours, you are destined for greatness.”- Angela Bassett

“The only thing that separates women of color from anyone else is opportunity.”- Viola Davis

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Le FlatLine
Le FlatLine

Published in Le FlatLine

FlatLine will feature BigPicture Network segments and articles as well as other peer content.

Bigger Picture Network
Bigger Picture Network

Written by Bigger Picture Network

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