tag:www.funtimesmagazine.com,2005:/categories/influential-people?page=20Influential People | FunTimes Magazine Page 20Celebrating Africa And Its Diaspora2020-07-24T19:11:32-04:00urn:uuid:8b04476e-22fb-405c-b3f2-2c95b19631522020-07-24T19:11:32-04:002020-07-24T19:11:32-04:00“Self Love is a Beautiful Journey,” Chardelle Moore2020-02-06 02:27:39 -0500Eric Nzeribe<span style="font-weight: 400;">By Nana Ama Addo</span><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chardelle Moore is not merely a media maven. She is a woman on a mission to elevate the human consciousness. As a motivational entertainer and CEO of Motivational Moore LLC, Ms. Moore spreads empowerment and positivity through multimedia storytelling, speaking and entrepreneurship. She is killing the game with her go-getter mentality, messages of inspiration, keen sense of style and unapologetic realness. #IssaBoss</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">FunTimes Magazine is checking in with boundless, no limit, fast track Ms. Moore, for the second time in seven years, to capture her dazzling personality and learn about her journey to success as a TV host, motivational speaker, recording artist, business owner and more!</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Q: The last time we interviewed you was 2013, time really flies! What’s new since we last spoke with you?</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A: I have grown tremendously in the last years. Growth is a product of risk. Last year I launched my own multimedia and communications company, Motivational Moore! We create groundbreaking content to elevate the human consciousness that intersects my passion for music, performing arts, storytelling, personal development and spirituality. Prior to launching my own business, I spent five years as a TV anchor and host at the FOX affiliate in Baltimore, where I not only anchored but launched the daily lifestyle-entertainment talk show, BMORE Lifestyle. Working in local television was an incredible experience but ownership was always the end game.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Q: Can you tell us a little about your journey to success in the entertainment industry?</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A: Creativity has always been my passion. From the age of two, I knew I would be a performer. I was my elementary school’s morning news TV anchor and spent my youth on stages acting, modeling and speaking. I wrote my own content including poetry, songs and plays. I went on to obtain my bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism and Public Relations from Marymount University. It was also during that time I gained international prominence after my coronation as Miss Caribbean Metro USA! Since then, I worked with some of the world’s leading media companies including BET, CBS, FOX and The CW Network. I’ve had the privilege of representing top companies on television such as Chevrolet, Colgate, The Home Depot, Kaiser Permanente, Shoppers, and Macy's, including a social ad campaign. I interviewed countless global icons like Kobe Bryant, TI, Iyanla Vanzant, Ashley Graham, George Lopez, and Gordon Ramsay just to name a few. There’s no such thing as an overnight success. I freelanced for two years before getting a full-time on-air job. Outside of media, I am blessed to tour the country and internationally as a motivational speaker and performance artist. After years of working in the industry, I decided it was time to leverage my personal brand and forge my own lane.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Q: Last year, you left your position as a TV anchor to focus on your business, Motivational Moore. What message do you have for people who want to invest fully in their own businesses?</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A: Quitting my job to start my own company was one of the best things I did for myself. Entrepreneurship is a deep, spiritual journey. Skill alone is not enough; the mind must be focused. You must be courageous enough to work insanely hard for a vision that is not always seen in the physical world but presented perfectly in the spirit. Challenges are inevitable. If you can shift your focus on your goals, by the stability of your mind, you will achieve success.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Q: We are loving your new Afrofusion single “Self Love is a Beautiful Journey!” Why do you think it is important for people to have self-love?</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A: Belonging is an innate human desire. We often are seeking outside sources to validate us, but true joy, happiness and love can only be found within. Self-love is an inside process. If you are patient and commit to the inner work, everything will change. It’s a continuous expedition and the greatest revolution.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Q: Does your Dominican background impact your work? If so, how?</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A: My family and I immigrated to the United States with little money but immense courage. My culture is what has shaped me into who I am today, from my strong work ethic to my positive attitude.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Q: What advice would you give to young women who are struggling to find their place and power in this world?</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A: Life is an evolving metamorphosis, Goddess. Take the time to heal, discover who you truly are and explore what makes your soul come alive! Learn to love yourself wholeheartedly because you deserve the absolute best! God is with you, within you, and no one is you. Realize the impact of your own power and be bold enough to live a righteous, authentic path. I am learning every day!</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Q: You work in various industries. Do you think code switching is an important skill for black women to have? If so, how would you describe its impact?</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A: The system was never designed for Black women. Instead of code switching, we must place a greater emphasis on personal growth and building wealth. We must be bold enough to unleash our God given talents and create our own opportunities for financial freedom. This comes from creating our own businesses and companies that offer the opportunities for those women, who have felt left out and abandoned for so long.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Q: What were your top 2 songs of 2019?</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A: “Self-Love Is a Beautiful Journey” by me! “You Da Plug” by me! Both available on all streaming platforms with videos on YouTube.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Q: What’s your go-to self-care regimen?</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A: I love to dance and do it every single day! Music makes me feel unstoppable, powerful, free, unique and connected to God. I dedicate a large portion of my time in nature meditating and connecting with Mother Nature. I am also a voracious reader as I love learning.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Q: What is the dating life like for a beautiful, successful young woman such as yourself?</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A: Love is the most powerful emotion and I can’t wait to get married and start a family. For now, I am working on becoming the best person I can be to attract my ideal partner.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Q: What can your fans look forward to from you this year?</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A: As I embark on the next decade, I am committed to serving my divine calling by creating pioneering works of art to impact the world! I am spiritually gifted and the world needs my energy. Music, film, television, documentaries get ready, we are taking things to a different dimension here at Motivational Moore!</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ms. Moore is definitely a rare gem. With the presence and business acumen of Oprah Winfrey, the graceful tone of Maya Angelou and the wit of Audre Lorde, Chardelle is upending this woke generation as she continues to inspire and motivate with her groundbreaking contributions. FunTimes salutes her and come out on February 6, 2020 at the African American museum in Philadelphia to show her some love! Connect with her business at </span><a href="http://www.motivationalmoore.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">www.motivationalmoore.com</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and on Instagram at @ChardelleMoore. </span></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:3dfe8b46-dd57-4bb3-97e3-b610f1122ac52020-07-24T19:11:36-04:002020-07-24T19:11:36-04:00Seraiah Nicole2020-02-03 14:36:53 -0500Eric NzeribeSeraiah Nicole is a national performer and activist. This Philadelphia native expresses herself by singing, songwriting, spoken word poetry, acting, rapping, photography and curating events. She has been featured on PBS’ <em>Articulate</em>, The Philadelphia Inquirer to name a few. Her music has been played on FM and AM radio stations like WURD. Nicole has shared a bill with artist like Sheila E, Quest Love, PNB Rock and Morris Day and The Time! Opening up for artist such as The Lost Poets, Keke Wyatt, Free Way, Monica, Kindred The Family Soul and more. She states "art brings positive changes to the world. Art has made a huge impact on my life and many more. The creator of all things, God’s, has given gifts to us all. It is my duty to use my gift to acknowledge God, enlighten, and uplift myself and others. "<strong>
</strong><p><strong>How did you figure out what your passion is?</strong></p><p>I figured out my passion when I was a toddler watching my parents perform musical theater. At the age of five I told my father I wanted to be a star. <strong></strong></p><p><strong>What has been the most rewarding part of your journey so far?</strong></p><p>The most rewarding part of my journey has been teaching kids. </p><p><strong>What else would you like to accomplish?</strong></p><p>I plan to release children's books, release more music projects as well as focus on showcasing my video graphic and photographic talent. </p><p><strong>Has there been any Black role model or mentor who has inspired your vision or accomplishments thus far?</strong></p><p>My parents, Dwayne and Lori Frazier. Suzann Christine, Lex Dime and J.R. Morris. <strong> </strong></p><p><strong>Do you have any cultural activities or experiences that youfeel have enriched your life’s journey thus far?</strong></p><p>Growing up in church always inspired me to express my creativity to inspire those around me. It has also helped me stay in touch with my source of inspiration – God. As long as I pray and stay devoted in the word, I can tap into a place that'll not only help me but aid others. </p><p><strong>What advice would you give to other young people beginning their careers?</strong></p><p>You've been fearless since you came here on this earth. You weren't created to fear anyone. Not even yourself. Enjoy life. Don't give up on yourself. Treat yourself and others the way you want to be treated. Take your own advice, even when it's bittersweet. You'll thank yourself later. Trust your maker, God.</p><p><strong>What does being a part of the African Diaspora mean to you?</strong></p><p>Being a part of the African Diasporameans I am family to a bountiful ever-evolving cultured innovative community.</p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:1ef870c7-95ce-4700-a774-3b1d0f89ec5c2020-07-24T19:11:37-04:002020-07-24T19:11:38-04:00Nicole Keys2020-02-03 14:33:45 -0500Eric NzeribeNicole Keys was born and raised in North Philadelphia and defines herself as an ever-growing human being, curious to explore life.<p>After deciding to leave undergrad in 2013, she pursued a trade in Cosmetology. Soon after Keys worked for a few salons in the Philadelphia area and grew a liking for natural hair and the business behind it. In 2016 she had the opportunity to intern for a local Black women-owned business and began her self-training in social media managing. There was a need within the small Black owned business scene in Philadelphia that she noticed, which lead to Keys starting a social media marketing business with her then partner in 2017, formerly known as The Biz, LLC.</p><p>Today, while Keys has since moved on from her former partnership, she still works with local businesses to provide social media managing services. Keys recently created a platform called, The Quiet Black Girl, out of a want to share the stories of Black girls whom may not be the loudest in the room but who still make an impact and whose stories should be heard.</p><p><strong>How did you figure out what your passion is? </strong></p><p>Well, to start, my curiosity is what leads me. I found it hard to hone in on a passion of mine, because I enjoy doing a lot of things. Growing up, I enjoyed dance class in elementary school. I also enjoyed running track; I did that up until freshman year of high school. One of my other likes was piano; I took lessons at the age of 11 or 12. So, growing up, there were many things I had a passion for but could never choose one. Today, I would like to believe it's my curiosity that inspires me to expand my knowledge in different areas of life.</p><p><strong>What else would you like to accomplish? </strong></p><p>Well, here's a list: - I want a farm - I want to live on an Island, possibly Grenade and own my own fruit stand - I want to explore one of my curiosities in real estate and find use in vacant land in the inner city and use it for fruitful good. Like growing herbs, food gardens, all things that will nourish and give back to our community. I would like to build a family and mother children with the same curiosity and desire to contribute and share their gifts with the universe. Also, I want to understand and be in tuned with my environment and with nature, I believe it's ever knowing and id one of the things in life that just is!</p><p><strong>Has there been any Black role model or mentor who has inspired your vision or accomplishments thus far? </strong></p><p>Yes, there was a point in time when I thought back on the opportunities that came my way and who was there to help me get there. I found a theme of being surrounded by women, Black women who saw something in me and gave me a chance to shine and grow. I have worked with and supported a lot of mothers, those with children of their own or individuals they may have adopted and mentored such as myself. This I appreciate and don't take for granted; I honor them and take their strength, wisdom and courage with me.</p><p><strong>Do you have any cultural activities or experiences that you feel have enriched your life’s journey thus far? </strong></p><p>One thing I thought of was my upbringing, was that I am a north Philly native, from a pretty big family. My cousins were my first friends and helped shape how I move and choose who to be around and how I approach relationships. Growing up, these were the people I laughed, smiled, played, argued and made up with all while knowing that through it all love was at the center of our relationship. Having this type of experience early on in life has grounded me in ways I hadn't realized until today.</p><p><strong>What advice would you give to other young people beginning their careers? </strong></p><p>Something I learned was to focus on my performance and keep doing the work. It was and is still a challenge for me to define what I do or at one point what it was that I wanted to do. My advice to others is to listen to that voice inside you, and that it's okay to not be sure. One of my favorite quotes from the amazing, Carrie Mae Weems is, 'if you can figure out what you are committed to, then you can figure out how to move forward with your life'</p><p><strong>What does being a part of the African Diaspora mean to you? </strong></p><p>One thing I have come to realize is that we are not a monolith, from the shades to the shapes, to the environment, the upbringing, practices, and access to education. I find beauty in being exposed to different cultures within Black culture itself because I am reminded of how the world can feel small and yet at the same time be so vast!</p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:2f6a08e8-ff4e-4807-bfcf-7db669c42db92020-07-24T19:11:41-04:002020-07-24T19:11:41-04:00Melissa Young2020-02-03 14:31:49 -0500Eric Nzeribe<strong>How did you figure out what your passion is?</strong><p>I always enjoyed reading and writing. As a child, my mom would take me to the library weekly—my favorite time of the week. I love to write and create stories and share the message in the most captivating way. I appreciate good books with a strong plot, and enjoy writing pieces that convey the main message in the best possible way. Of course, I'm realizing, in retrospect, that I was always interested in the message. I knew I wanted to do communication and manage messaging, so my first stop was public relations. When I realized that PR was just a spoke of a wheel, I wanted to get my hands on all aspects of communications: advertising, social media, branding, government relations...I wanted in on the whole wheel!</p><p><strong>What has been the most rewarding part of your journey sofar?</strong></p><p>Getting the courage and confidence to take all of the gems I've learned at this age and work for myself. I've been a part of monumental experiences, sat at tables and strategized with some of the best of the best. I've learned so much at this point that I want to branch out and work with more brands to help them be the best they can. I'm ready to use my multifaceted experience to do more.</p><p><strong>What else would you like to accomplish?</strong></p><p>I'm just getting started! Being successful in my own way that will positively impact me and my family. Maintaining financial responsibility and healthy spending habits, owning more assets and eliminating liabilities, creating a legacy, growing and nourishing my business and mind the business that pays me.</p><p><strong>Has there been any Black role model or mentor who has inspired your vision or accomplishments thus far?</strong></p><p>Yes. My mother first and foremost. She taught me strength, resilience and determination. I watched her work a full-time job, go to college and raise my sister and me with the best education, healthy living habits and always immersed us in cultural activities. Her spirit glows with gratitude and positivity, and she's my sounding board in life.</p><p>My first boss, the late William R. Miller III, owner of Ross Associates, a strategic communications firm. I feel like working with him gave me a decade of experience in a few short years. But beyond the practical work, he taught me a few gems that I carry in my heart to this day. The first is to enunciate and be clear in your message. I used to go to his office, excited with an idea that I had and talk way too fast. He would tell me to stop, go back to my desk and figure out what my message is and come back and enunciate. At first, I would be so annoyed! But, it taught me that my thoughts deserve the best messaging if I wanted the audience to be as excited as I was</p><p><strong>Do you have any cultural activities or experiences that youfeel have enriched your life’s journey thus far?</strong></p><p>I don't know about cultural, but I sustained a concussion a year ago and it changed my life and way of thinking significantly. In April 2018, I was driving to work and was rear ended by a car so hard that my head hit the steering wheel, thus resulting in a concussion that healed earlier this year. I focused on things that produced positive thoughts only and it changed my life outlook. I started to live by only letting positive thoughts exist and before a negative becomes a thought, I turn it into a positive or remove it. Plain and simple.</p><p><strong>
What advice would you give to other young people beginning their careers?</strong></p><p>To be humble and confident, be clear in your message and manage expectations. Work hard and say yes to opportunities that will positively impact you and your career... even if you have to wake up two hours earlier or skip happy hours to stay an hour or two later in the office. Once you've helped yourself, help others.</p><p><strong>What does being a part of the African Diaspora mean to you?</strong></p><p>It carries an historical implication to be resilient and responsible. My ancestry sets the foundation to do great things and the opportunity to live free and happy while creating my own version of success. And more immediate, all of my grand and great-grandmothers are and were pretty sassy, so that's where the sassy brown girl comes from in me.</p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:6e890f0e-aeef-47f0-a018-8370c9848dec2020-07-24T19:11:44-04:002020-07-24T19:11:44-04:00Melany Bustillos2020-02-03 14:30:33 -0500Eric NzeribeBustillos graduated from Temple University’s Fox School of Business in 2016 with a BBA in Human Resource Management and was in the top 5% of her class. After graduating, she accepted a job with Cigna as part of their Underwriting Leadership Training and Risk Assessment (ULTRA) program. From the moment Bustillos entered Cigna, she was determined to find a way to promote diversity. After a year, she advanced to being a part of the Core team for Cigna's Hispanic Colleague Resource Group (CRG). Through this internal volunteer role, she is involved with launching initiatives that increase the understanding of particular needs within Cigna's customer segments. Melany is also a mentor and is involved with recruiting efforts to increase diversity.<p><strong>How did you figure out what your passion is?</strong></p><p>By simply defining what success means to me. I truly believe that we rise by lifting others and success to me means that I have been able to make a difference in someone else’s life.</p><p><strong>What has been the most rewarding part of your journey so far?</strong></p><p>Witnessing how my proud parents are.I learned my most important values from them. They have shown resilience my entire life. As many immigrant parents, they sacrificed their life in Bolivia in hopes to give me a future full of opportunities. Everything they have given me is because of their work ethic that they have passed on to me along with gratitude and giving back. They taught me to never take anything for granted.</p><p><strong>What else would you like to accomplish?</strong></p><p>I see myself continuing to progressin my career and break the glass ceilings of corporate America. I also aspire to continueto give back to my community in every opportunity I can.</p><p><strong>Has there been any role model or mentor who has inspired your vision or accomplishments thus far?</strong></p><p>There is a quote that says “You are the people you surround yourself with” and it is completely true. I have tried to surround myself around strong independent women doing great things in their career and I have found myself following in their footsteps. A big role model to me is Natily Santos, AVP Specialty Supply Chain at Aramark. She has been a great cheerleader and has challenged me during my time with Prospanica (a non-profit for Hispanic professionals)</p><p><strong>Do you have any cultural activities or experiences that you feel have enriched your life’s journey thus far?</strong></p><p>I served on the board of Prospanica (Association of Hispanic Professionals) for three years now. As the Education Officer, I have been able to execute highly regarded professional development programs including the Annual Employee Resource Group (ERG) Leadership & Diversity Summit. The purpose of this program is to support the growth and impact of ERGs among corporate environments, as well as foster professional development and career advancement among diverse professionals.</p><p><strong>What advice would you give to other young people beginning their careers?</strong></p><p>Don’t forget your worth when you are applying to jobs. It's also necessary to decide if the organization is a right fit for you. </p><p><strong>What does being Diversity mean to you?</strong></p><p>What it means to me is being able to understanding that we are all unique individuals, and recognizing our individual differences. Therefore it is important to be open minded in the world we live in today.</p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:b347560a-9050-45fa-9698-6b519ec721512020-07-24T19:11:47-04:002020-12-30T12:58:53-05:00Malary Edward Woods Jr.2020-02-03 14:28:52 -0500Eric NzeribeMalary Edward Woods works with the school district of Philadelphia as a six-grade teacher. A graduate of Gwynedd Mercy University with a Bachelor ‘s in History and Secondary Education, and a Master’s in Education from La Salle University, Wood first worked with the School District in the Human Resource Department leading several project and compliance training.<p>Wood said his favorite Bible scripture is Romans 8:28 “And we know that all things work together for the good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose.”</p><p><strong>How did you figure out what your passion is?</strong></p><p>I always wondered why I could never go to my neighborhood school and why I always had to go to private schools. My mother would say “Public Schools are terrible and I want my child to have a better education”. Then I would talk to my friends that did go to public school and the things they were learning I either learned it a grade before or months before. I always said that I wanted to be a public school teacher to actually see what it’s like and how I can make a difference to allow students to have the same privileges as I did.</p><p><strong>What has been the most rewarding part of your journey so far?</strong></p><p>I just reached a part of my journey where I am seeing and benefiting from the rewards of hard labor. I truly enjoy brightening up my student’s day. I have students that will say “I am having a rough day, but when I come to your class, your positive energy helps me get through the rest of the day”. I also love the challenges that each day bring, because when you are doing your best to not only teach the standards of the lesson, but anytime you are able to become transparent with students and actually listen to them, you will better understand who they are and will help you be that positive role model they need in their life. Black male educators and mentors are a need in this society and it is very rewarding to be both because you could be instrumental in mentoring the next doctor or even the next Black president. I am excited for the future for my students.</p><p><strong>What else would you like to accomplish?</strong></p><p>I would also like to one day become an administrator and eventually move into the politics of education. I believe that all students regardless of race, economic, and social status should receive the same education.</p><p><strong>Has there been any Black role model or mentor who has inspired your vision or accomplishments thus far?</strong></p><p>Yes, I actually have three. My current boss, Eric Langston and my mentor, Frank Smart. Both of these men have been involved in my life for quite some time and I am forever grateful and indebted to them for their hard work. I know I was annoying at times especially when they told me to do what was right and I did my own thing. These two made it their business to make sure I was on task and did not lose focus. They are not only my role models and mentors, but they have become close friends of mine. I truly appreciate them.</p><p>My pastor and step-father Ricky A Rivera Sr, is a phenomenal pastor! Yes, he is hard on me, but it is for a purpose! He sees something in me and he continues to plant seeds and nurture them. When he feels that I have too much free time on my hand, he will stop me and ask me “What are you doing with school? What are your goals? What are you working towards?” This is basically like grounding me to actually think and complete a self-evaluation of my life and make sure that I am on the right path.</p><p><strong>Do you have any cultural activities or experiences that you feel have enriched your life’s journey thus far?</strong></p><p>Growing up in the Black church has enriched my journey completely. I attended Harold O Davis Memorial Baptist church as a child. Everyone was like a big family, and everyone knew each other and pushed each other to go further in life. There were plenty of people that spent time investing into my life. My current church Mt. Sinai Tabernacle Baptist Church is presently investing in my education. These people really push me to reach my fullest potential. My church takes education so seriously that if you are not excelling in school, you will be removed from your duties until you obtain better grades.</p><p><strong>What advice would you give to other young people beginning their careers?</strong></p><p>Stay focused, do not give up. Anything that is easy to obtain is not worth having. Be careful of your social surroundings, if your circle is filled with people doing the same thing as you then you should seek friends that are on a higher level than you are.</p><p><strong>What does being a part of the African Diaspora mean to you?</strong></p><p>People of African descent were forcefully taken from their native lands and dispersed to different areas. I believe that people should leave their native land and live freely in another country to pursue better opportunities, not to be treated as slaves.</p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:7ce098ee-34c8-4eac-8f44-83cd1692ecb62020-07-24T19:11:50-04:002020-07-24T19:11:51-04:00Eli Capella2020-02-03 14:26:44 -0500Eric NzeribeEli Capella is a creative and performing artist from Philadelphia. Primarily specializing in being an MC, Capella uses Hip-Hop to spread messages of social awareness and self-transparency through amazing production followed by dynamic audio and captivating live performances. Opening for artists such as Yazz the Greatest, Slick Rick, Freeway, Monica and more, his network and fan base have grown widely over the years. His goal is to use his music as well as his additional talents of entrepreneurship, event curating and community advocacy to uplift his community by providing knowledge of independence, unity and love.<p>I figured out what my passion was at 16 when I realized it was too late to pursue a career in basketball. I never thought I'd take being an artist seriously, but one thing I couldn't deny was how much I absolutely loved expressing myself and what I see through the art form. It was the first time I felt free to be transparent and gain respect while doing so. These epiphanies are what would lead me to stay up all night writing, visiting open mics every day, no matter how many were in attendance, and becoming a scholar of Hip-Hop Culture.</p><p>So far, the most rewarding part of my journey is being used by GOD to awaken the souls of those suffering from toxic isolation, depression and brokenness. When I get stopped by people of many races, social classes and cultures to be complimented as an artist, it fills my heart to know that the openness and levity Jesus instills into my pen provides the strength to help others go on.</p><p>Many Black role models have come and go, but one who's had a major impact on my life as a Black mentor is Kyle Morris aka J.R. Morris. Through hiring me to be an educator within schools, summer camps and afterschool programs, educating me on entrepreneurship and the purest form of support, made me a better man, and an artist as a whole. I'm truly grateful for him as a Big Brother figure.</p><p>Being a part of Church Culture has enriched my life to the fullest. There's many misconceptions about Christianity and most are valid. There are churches that shackle people to ministry, tell people to attend but won't build meaningful relationships and won't nurture their true calling from GOD if it doesn't involved being glued to a pulpit or choir. In my church body one of the things I've been inspired to do is to be strong within the community and fellowship like Jesus did. If you notice, Jesus was never alone, he had community with him everywhere he went. And each time fame tried to be spread about his miraculous works in a town he left to continue his mission.</p><p>And that's something that's lost in Black/Brown communities which is why many Black artists get swindled or fall short of integrity and humility because they enter into an industry alone without any genuine people and fall for praise and egoism. Although the industry can be considered dangerous, I'm very confident in prevailing because I have a circle of people who keep me grounded as a Black man who's centered in Christ.</p><p>I'd advise them to learn the importance of support in the most genuine sense. Giving out the energy you'd like to receive, regardless if the person you're supporting is reciprocating or not, is highly important for the soul of an artist. We're in the age of technology where people with real life experiences are seen as likes, comments, views, shares and mentions. And Artists see fellow Artists as a "follow for follow" or "shout out for shout out." When you truly support an artist you receive education, inspiration and a business/personal relationship that connects you to many great opportunities. When you support a listener of your music by greeting them with open arms, asking how their day has been instead of spamming your latest single, you'll gain an understanding of how your music impacts them in a way that'll encourage you in your darkest days.</p><p>6 What The African Diaspora means to me is clarity. Clarity on things that are taken out of context, false and perverted within pop culture. I feel empowered when I show my students a dark skin child with naturally blonde hair and blue eyes in Africa as they're educated that their appearance is limited to a few features. Learning why I love drums so much. Learning why I'm so empowered when engaging in communal activities. Even learning that the first Christian church was founded in Ethiopia is part of the African Diaspora.</p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:ec92aa1a-8f3d-462f-812c-750d10d561be2020-07-24T19:11:54-04:002020-07-24T19:11:54-04:00Carine Dorlus2020-02-03 14:23:58 -0500Eric NzeribeCarine Dorlus is a 28 year old Haitian-American women born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She is passionate about helping children in her own community and from her parents' homeland. Dorlus is an author of her first published book called,<strong><em>The Road To Purpose. </em></strong><em>He is a </em>motivational speaker and a global human-philanthropist. In 2018 she founded the Philadelphia For Haiti but her most cherished attribute is impacting people's lives, each and every day! She is the true definition of a leader.<p><strong>How did you figure out what your passion is?</strong></p><p>I figured out my passion when I completed my sixth month internship in Haiti in 2017. It changed my life and made me start my nonprofit global initiative outreach called Philadelphia For Haiti.</p><p><strong>What has been the most rewarding part of your journey so far? </strong></p><p>Being able to put smiles on the families and children faces in Haiti. Also publishing my first book,<strong><em>The Road To Purpose</em></strong>. Last but not least, bringing volunteers to Haiti to give and experience the culture and hearing their testimony saying how much the outreach trip has changed their lives, it has made them humbling individual; they are going to do more for their community, facing fear and much more.</p><p><strong>What else would you like to accomplish?</strong></p><p>I'm looking to go back to school to complete my masters in global development and social justice or nonprofit leadership. I also would like to build a school in Haiti.</p><p><strong>Has there been any Black role model or mentor who has inspired your vision or accomplishments thus far?</strong></p><p>Not at the moment.</p><p><strong>Do you have any cultural activities or experiences that you feel have enriched your life’s journey thus far?</strong></p><p>Some cultural activities to name a few are: Carnival is marked by colorful parades, lively music, traditional art and dances throughout Haiti. Independence Day is celebrated on New Year's Day, which is when Haiti gained independence from France on January 1,1804. Also on that day we eat a soup called Soup Joumou or pumpkin soup which signifies thatHaitian slaves were forbidden from drinkingsoup joumou. It was a delicacy reserved for their white masters. To celebrate Haiti's liberation, the soup became a symbol for freedom!!</p><p>I endeared moments I faced during my exploration of Haiti's culturally rich, yet impoverished land. While completing my undergraduate internship, my outreach surpassed my initial expectations. I have vast experiences from rehabilitating children and adults with special needs to mentoring at-risk youth in the poor village of Carries and more. My personal mission is to teach the world to not fear what God has put in your heart. I challenge everyone to lead with their heart; it will pay off in the long run.</p><p><strong>What advice would you give to other young people beginning their careers?</strong></p><p>It is okay not to have it all figured out and you can change your career how many times you want until you are comfortable and HAPPY!</p><p><strong>What does being a part of the African Diaspora mean to you?</strong></p><p>African Diaspora means Africa United or "African family" and as family we have to look out for our family member. In this case I'm speaking of Haiti. Although Haiti is not connected to the continent; the people of Haiti still endured the struggle that many African countries faced. Being exploited and being robbed by the White man. As the first Black country to gain independence, Haiti encouraged other countries to follow their lead in fighting for their dependence.</p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:5f9425f8-792d-4d6a-9e64-8f15ee7ddfd02020-07-24T19:11:57-04:002020-07-24T19:11:57-04:00Bianca Portillo-Maldonado2020-02-03 14:22:14 -0500Eric NzeribeBianca is a Philadelphia native who grew up in Northeast section of Philadelphia. She is also a proud Nittany lion who graduated from the<a href="https://www.psu.edu/">Pennsylvania State University</a> in 2018 and studied Mass Media Communications. Her passion for connecting and building relationships with people stems from her Guatemalan parents who immigrated in the late 80’s to North Philadelphia. They instilled the importance of community service to Bianca, which allowed her to start her very own scholarship with Esperanza Academy in 2017.This scholarship is meant to help an incoming college student with any expenses that would help support their first year. Bianca now works as the Partnerships Coordinator for Campus Philly. This organization helps college students in the Philadelphia region, learn, grow and explore the city of Philadelphia.<p><strong>How did you figure out what your passion is?</strong></p><p>I realized what my passion was when I caught myself feeling joy after helping others and joining different extracurricular activities that were social. I love talking and connecting with people which is how I landed the partnerships coordinator role at Campus Philly.</p><p><strong>What has been the most rewarding part of your journey so far?</strong><strong></strong></p><p>The most rewarding part of my journey is having the freedom to give back through my scholarship at Esperanza Academy. I was a first-generation college student myself and I understand the struggle of navigating college finances along with getting good grades and preparing for a career. I’m also grateful for the professional experiences I’ve had in previous internships. Those experiences is what helped learn more about myself and the career I want. It also taught me that’s okay to have one dream and switch over to another.</p><p><strong>What else would you like to accomplish?</strong></p><p>I would like to continue helping others with limited resources, along with increasing the amount of my scholarship. The past two years it’s been a small amount of $150.00 and this year I will increase it to $500.00. By the end of this decade I hope to raise a lot more!</p><p><strong>Has there been any Black role model or mentor who has inspired your vision or accomplishments thus far?</strong></p><p>My parents. My father didn’t go to university, but he is the smartest man I know. His reads every day, always up to date with the news and taught me history and geography before I learned it in school. When I was one years old, my mother worked full-time while she was pregnant with my younger sister and she attended night classes to get her master’s degree. At the time, my mom didn’t know English, so she had to translate all her work for her to understand and complete her assignments. My mother graduated with honors.</p><p>Moments when I feel overwhelmed, I think about the hustle my parents have and it always brings me back to focus.</p><p><strong>Do you have any cultural activities or experiences that you feel have enriched your life’s journey thus far?</strong></p><p>The summer of 2006, my mom enrolled my sister and I in a school in Guatemala. We thought we were going for vacation and when we landed, my mom gave us uniforms and told us to go to bed early because class started at 7am. I was upset in the beginning because I was nervous, and I didn’t want to go to school in Guatemala. By the end of summer, I made many friends and learned a lot about my family and culture. That experience was very eye-opening for me because it made me more grateful for the blessings I have and made me realize how much I had taken for granted.</p><p><strong>What advice would you give to other young people beginning their careers?</strong><strong></strong></p><p>If you are one of those people who do not know what you want to pursue as a career yet, pay attention to what you do on your spare time. Those are the activities that don’t feel like work and as they say, if you do what you love, you won’t have to work a day in your life. For those who know what career path they want to take, my advice is to always meet new people and network. Don’t stop networking once you get a job offer. Often, it’s about who you know than what you know.</p><p><strong>What does being a part of the African Diaspora mean to you?</strong><strong></strong></p><p>Being a part of the African Diaspora means many things. There is not one term that defines it. Our culture is special because we work very hard to break barriers that involve a lot of sacrifices, long hours, patience and unity. I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish any of my goals if I didn’t have someone to look up to from the African Diaspora.</p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:5572e37c-e102-401f-8471-33e2ca1acb972020-07-24T19:12:00-04:002020-07-24T19:12:01-04:00Kim Parker has a track record of - Fighting Hunger & Feeding Americans2020-02-03 14:19:54 -0500Eric NzeribeWith over 20-years of extensive experience in the food and beverage and event planning industry, Preferred Meals Senior District Manager – Kim Parker has dedicated her life to answering the call to FIGHT HUNGER; she has served as Senior District Manager of Preferred Meals since April 2016.<p>Preferred Meals <em>specializes in</em>: Simplified, efficient food and service solutions. Preferred Meals believes that every child deserves a great meal. Kim Parker is committed to the cause of ensuring that Preferred Meals retains its goal: to find as many students as possible and to assist them with getting a good meal (i.e. any school that is at use of its services).</p><p>Preferred Meals is exemplary because it targets the needs of School age children via exceptional food service programs i.e. School Nutrition, K-12 Meal Programs: Breakfast, Lunch, Snack & Dinner (includes special diet e.g. Allergen options and Vegetarian).</p><p>Kim Parker works closely with the School District of Philadelphia to appease food insecurities for homeless children and families in the City of Philadelphia. The change she advocates is: healthy and nutritious meals served daily, weekly, monthly, yearly- to the homeless and low-income or poverty stricken. For example, Preferred Meals did Co-sponsor Councilwoman Blackwell’s “Holiday Dinner for the Homeless” on Wednesday December 13, 2017 at the PA Convention Center. Overall, Kim Parker succeeded in fulfilling the mission of Preferred Meals, providing the K-12 Meal Program to students of the School District of Philadelphia and Summer - breakfast, lunch, snacks and supper meals for the city’s Park and Recreation Department programs.</p><p>Kim Parker insists on giving back to the community per working closely with Philabundance and City Year. She partners with these organizations to facilitate: A FREE backpack program – monthly backpack giveaways are supplied to a select school that qualifies and is a recipient of the Preferred Meals program (K-12); the backpacks are provided to one elementary school per school year, essentially every child that attends the school is qualified.</p><p>Kim Parker and Preferred Meals have partnered with City Year and are responsible for the MLK In-service Day at Welsh Elementary School on Monday January 20, 2020. As a Gold Sponsor for MLK In-service Day, Preferred Meals will provide a nutritious lunch to all MLK in-service day volunteers. In addition, City Year has elected to do beautification work at Welsh Elementary School. The beautification work will enhance the aesthetic of the school. The beautification project entails both interior and exterior enhancements; the possibilities are endless. The intended outcome of the beautification project is to get school children energized and enthused about where they come to learn every day.</p><p>Kim Parker did pass the ServSafe Manager Certification Exam with a score of 75% or higher and met the local regulatory requirements to be recognized by the state or local health department. In result, Kim Parker isServSafeManager Certified and currently a ServSafe Instructor and Registered ServSafe Examination Proctor since April 2010 – Present.</p><p>Kim Parker’s career is exceptional. Kim Parker was the Catering Manager/Assistant Food Service Director of Aramark at Cordis Corporation from Dec. 2006 – Jan 2008; her outstanding performance resulted with her receiving a distinguished honor as one of the Districts Catering Champions of 2007 and 2008.</p><p>* All Schools, Daycares, Summer Park & Recreation Centers in need of Preferred Meals food services, send correspondences to Kim Parker, E-mail: Kimparker@preferredmeals.com</p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>