Getting Raw With Nikki Gal About Mental Health

Model Nikki Gal wants the world to see women for more than their looks. While she might be a pretty face, there is a lot more behind those eyes, and she is working hard to make a difference. As a passionate women’s mental health advocate, Nikki has started two different podcasts addressing the issue — Raw Talk and The Model Memo (both with Nikki Gal). In addition to her speaking out about mental health she has also recently become an ambassador for The Big Yellow Force, an organization that helps help raise awareness for women suffering from endometriosis. To learn more about Nikki, her modeling, art, and activism, please read on!

Kicking Down Barriers with Kix'ies - A Great Thigh-High Idea!

Kix’ies is the thigh-high brand for all. Breaking down size barriers and tight stereotypes, Kix’ies made their own lane for legwear. Kix'ies thigh Highs are the fun and flexible solution to looking sexy and feeling comfortable on a night out. Their collections range from funky thigh highs to cozy socks to sexy tights. All of their collections embody their motto of remaining fun and free. Freedom to be comfortably yourself and freedom to have fun without worry. Their thigh-highs include an elastic band that keeps them snug all day without slipping. Each piece is made with durable fabrics that will last without wear and tear.

Cover - Natasha Kalimada - Dancing Into The Stars

A rising star in Hollywood, Natasha Kalimada is an actress, professional dancer, model, and influencer with a bright future ahead of her. Her new film roles in A-list productions such as “Babylon” and “Don’t Worry Darling” will shine a spotlight on Natasha’s talents while also showcasing her commitment to causes beyond her thriving career. Natasha has not only strutted down the catwalk and dazzled in front of studio cameras but she’s also dedicated her time to inspiring and mentoring young girls, as evident in her involvement with the non-profit organization Inspiring Girls USA. Please continue reading to explore how Natasha’s dedication to her craft and philanthropy have led to her success, and how her journey can be an example for other aspiring entertainers and socially conscious citizens today.

Crys Matthews Is The Fire

I have had the pleasure to see a few artists a Joe’s Pub now, but none were so intimate as coming to see Crys Matthews sit down and sing with her audience. The way she spoke and sang to her crowd you felt like you were sitting in a living room with her taking a break from drawing up the latest set of signs for your next protest together.

Jackie Hoffman Is Far From PC

I had never seen Jackie Hoffman perform live before, but I have enjoyed her characters on TV and films, most recently Uma Heller in Only Murders in the Building. She is often tight casted to play a mouthy older jewish woman, which is basically her personality — so it is a perfect match! What I wasn’t as familiar with is her Broadway background and her solo shows! This evening I learned that Jackie Hoffman can sing!!

Art, zIssue 48Kira BuccaMarch 29, 2023comedian, comedy, empowering women, ageless, broadway, singer, actressComment

Being A Hero Over The Generations

In celebration of Women’s History Month Joe’s Pub has an amazing cast of women coming to their stage! I had the pleasure to watch one of their monthly shows, Generation Women. This heartwarming show of female empowerment will have the audience laughing and crying in their seats in no time!

Isadora Ortega - Is Fighting Against Domestic Violence

We would like to introduce Isadora Ortega a multi-skilled actress, writer, and producer based in Los Angeles. Ortega is truly one to watch, from appearing in the Off-Broadway production "Eating Out” to writing the recently released graphic novel "The Curse of the Flower," and now executive producing and starring in "Another Love Story". "Another Love Story" is an award-winning film that follows an abusive relationship. Its release is well timed as October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. Continue reading to find out more about Ortega’s career, future projects, and how we can be more aware of what goes on behind closed doors.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 45Jessica MoraOctober 21, 2022actress, domestic violence, empowering women, writer, producer, women of color, blackgirlmagicComment

Stripe & Stare - Adorably Saving The Planet In Comfort

Being a woman is hard, first we are expected to be a boss and a mom and anything else the world needs, but then we have to be stunning while we do it. Fashion, especially lingerie, has been notoriously designed by men to make women sexy and very uncomfortable. But what if I could tell you that we actually can have the best of both worlds (plus help the environment at the same time), and, spoiler, women made it happen! Meet Stripe & Stare! Stripe & Stare focuses on sustainable lounge and underwear that is not only comfortable, but it is super cute. They celebrate their knicker/bikini design, which personally is my go to cut (very flattering!), but also use an array of fun fabric designs like tie-dye and colorful patterns. If the knicker isn’t your jam, they offer all the rest of the typical cuts in many of the same patterns. If this hasn’t convinced you, let me tell you about how soft and sustainable these fabrics are..

First, Stripe & Stare was kind enough to send me some samples to try out, so I personally know the level of softness. Now, I am typically a cotton girl, but I can honestly tell you that the TENCEL (which is 100% sustainable and made from trees) is one of the softest fabrics I have ever touched. Not only are the colorful panties silky smooth and very cute, but I now officially live in their Lightweight Jogger. These pants are comfortable enough to sleep in, but can be dressed up if you want to take them out to the beach or a park. They also come with pockets, just saying.

Anyway, enough from me, Jejune was lucky enough to dive deeper with Co-Founder Katie Lopes. Please check out our exclusive interview below.

Coming Together to Say the Word: A Night of Art and Action for Abortion

Devastating news breaks on June 24, 2022. The Supreme Court has officially reversed Roe v. Wade declaring that the federal constitutional right to abortion in the United States has ended. This ruling erases nearly 50 years of precedent but this fight is far from over! On July 31st (next event on September 21st at 9:30pm!), The Meteor, a group of journalists, artists, filmmakers, and media leaders who embrace the value and importance of stories through the power of words, hosted Say the Word: A Night of Art and Action for Abortion at Joe’s Pub. This event consisted of various talented artists performing a personalized piece addressing this crucial moment in time. You will want to continue reading below to learn more about the event and performances along with further information about The Meteor.

Art, zIssue 44, Editor's PickSophie LaSalaSeptember 2, 2022Abortion Rights, abortion, feminism, feminist, female power, empowering women, women supporting womenComment

SafeUp with Harry and The Chicks

Say hello to Harry and The Chicks! This UK-based music group is dropping music with a moving and all too familiar message behind it. Harry and The Chicks’s new single “Snakes in The Streets” depicts their experiences with street harassment from stalkers and cat-callers alike. Her outspoken and informative tone when addressing these topics is refreshing and reminds women everywhere that they are not alone in their experiences. But most importantly, that men should do better and steer clear of predatory behavior. You will love Harry and The Chicks just as much as we do! If you are interested in their newest single, “Snakes in The Streets,” their work with SafeUp, an app that keeps women safe, or their upcoming projects — “Miss Oblivious”, please continue reading the interview below!

HAQ-NI- Paving the Way for Reinvention

On this Juneteenth long weekend we celebrate, Haqikah and Naima Abdullah — trendsetters, sisters, and entrepreneurs. These sisters are paving the way for reinvention. HAQ-NI, based in New York City, is transforming the traditional and simpler options for hijabs into something luxurious, high-quality, and fashionable. These hijabs are reimagining traditional scarves and empowering Muslim women by providing them with unique and stylish hijabs that allows them to feel both beautiful and confident. Their impact does not end there, as sustainability is an important aspect of their business, and making long-lasting scarves is a top priority. They are changing the game in fashion, and we can't wait to see what they do next. Please read our exclusive interview below with co-founders Haqikah and Naima Abdullah to learn more about HAQ-NI.

Ali Fumiko Whitney- Learning To Love Her Heritage

Ali Fumiko Whitney is an inspirational American actress of Japanese, English, and Scottish ancestry who has appeared in films such as "The Road Dance," "Snow Valley," and, most recently, "The Islander." Ali currently resides in New York City but previously lived in Los Angeles, where she attended UCLA and studied theater. Ali may be busy working on projects, but that doesn't stop her from volunteering for Harlem Village Academies and supporting environmentally friendly brands. She also works with non-profit organizations such as CAPE to give Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders a voice and empower them in entertainment and media. Her dedication to embracing her culture does not end there; she also enjoys Asian cuisine and, despite being gluten free, is able to find a variety of delicious meals and healthier alternatives. Read on to learn more about Ali Fumiko Whitney, her roles in "The Road Dance," "Snow Valley," and "The Islander," as well as to learn more about the nonprofit and volunteer organizations she has worked with.

Let's Embrace Our Flaws with vanillacooldance

Amsterdam-based American cartoonist Jessica Stahl, vanillacooldance, is empowering women to to live a shame-free, unapologetic, and confident life, embrace your vanillacooldance! In a world where dating is hard and women are underappreciated vanillacooldance has our backs with humor and truth. Stahl is helping to change the way women see themselves in relationships, breaking taboos about sexuality, body appearance, romantic and even awkward situations on dates, and much more. When Stahl isn’t giving women a voice through vanillacooldance, she is the Creative Director at Dopper and is responsible for making ocean-saving campaigns. Keep reading to learn more about this incredible artist!

Samora Smallwood: Standing Up for Representation and Equity

The multi-talented Samora Smallwood is a Toronto based actress. Samora has taken on various roles including the lead in Lifetime’s thriller “Death She Wrote”, Star Trek Discovery, and Good Witch. Currently, she is starring as Maddi Brewer in the new drama series The Kings of Napa, airing now on the OWN Network. Her dedication extends beyond her roles on screen. Addressing the importance of representation is no simple task, but that does not deter Samora from creating real systematic changes in the film and TV industry. As an advocate for actors and the importance of equity and inclusion, she has taken on the position of co-Chair of ACTRA's Diversity & Inclusion Committee and Elected Councilor for ACTRA Toronto. Continue reading below to learn more about Samora Smallwood and how she takes action to stand up for representation and equity.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 43Sophie LaSalaApril 22, 2022actress, people of color, poc, representation, empowering women, blackgirlmagic, acting, activistComment

Women's History Month and the Top 10 Women Of Our Time

In celebration of Women’s History Month, Jejune is honoring ten women of our generation that are making a difference both inside and outside of their respective industries. The list includes musicians, athletes, activists, politicians, humanitarians, and designers that are going above and beyond their field of work. Although we have come a long way for female equality here in the U.S., women across the world are still struggling to achieve the same equality. As the month of March comes to a close, our hope is that the strong women of this generation and that of the next follow in the footsteps of the strong women listed below in order to promote a better world.

Adi Yacobi Reminds Women How Special They Are!

Songwriter, singer, and an advocate for body positivity and women empowerment, Adi Yacobi shares her trajectory and how music changed her life. She uses her psychology and sociology background to understand not just her own feelings, but also to understand and help her listeners create a better reality. Everyone has a story or something related to their bodies and appearance that they want to change. Still, Adi comes with a message, "I'm Special", which reminds all women that they are “special, unique, beautiful, and gorgeous naturally — just the way they are”. Please, continue reading to learn more about Adi, her music, her projects, and how she has contributed to the world and community with the #WEMproject, Plastic Free Israel, and 4Ocean.

COVER: Constance Marie - Empowering The Latinx Community

Constance Marie is a Los Angeles-based Latinx force. While she has had a prolific career from the beginning, she has always prioritized working on projects that highlight the Latinx community and social causes. You may recognize her from her powerful performance of Regina Vasquez in the revolutionary show “Switched At Birth”. But this month, she will be seen as 'Beatriz Diaz' on "With Love" — the new Latinx romantic comedy series for Amazon Prime Video, created and written by Gloria Calderon Kellett. Constance will be playing a character that many women in America will be able to relate to, answering questions like: "What happens after the happily ever after?" Constance Marie is more than a powerful actress. She is a mother, a humanitarian, and a fighter for a better world and planet for future generations. Please continue reading below to learn more!

The Super Power of Underclub

You know what they say, what really matters is on the inside, and boy does that ring true with underwear. I would wager a bet that all woman, and many men, have a special pair of underwear that they will wear on a day of an interview, big meeting, or performance. It is a boosting confidence super power! With this in mind, Katie Fritts founded Underclub — the monthly subscription service to receive adorable all female owned sustainable underwear brands. How awesome is that? There are selected stylists who choose surprise looks for each client according to their preferences; so, it is like Christmas comes every month. They even shared one of their designs with Jejune, which fits perfectly and is currently empowering me as I write this introduction. To learn more about the beautiful options available and how the whole process works, please read on.

Empowering Women With Bigger Chest Sizes and Body Positivity

Alice Kim, founder and CEO of PerfectDD, wants all women to feel empowered in her clothing. The brand’s story started with her. As a 32DD bra size, Alice could not find comfortable and chic clothes that fit her properly. Through research she learned that the average bra size in the U.S. is a 34DD and that over 20 million women in the U.S. fall into this demographic of D+. With this in mind she set out to create her brand, PerfectDD, to empower herself and others. The brand is also socially and environmentally responsible, garments utilize natural fibers, are made in in local, family-owned factories that pay fair wages, and are produced in small batches to reduce excess inventory. Additionally, the styles are timeless and can be a staple in your closet for years to come. Read more about Alice Kim, her sustainable fashion brand, and body positive fashion below!

COVER: Susie Abromeit - A Force To Be Reckoned With!

A bombshell beauty with brains! Enter: Susie Abromeit. This Los Angeles-based queen is everything we've been looking for! As an accomplished actress, model, and singer, she has much to offer, and we're in love. You will be too! Before her success in the entertainment industry, she was a ranking NCAA professional tennis player. Talk about a woman who can do it all!

Without a doubt, Susie is a familiar face to many. She is the incredible Pamela (us fans call her Pammy) on the Netflix Original Hit series Marvel's Jessica Jones and Mrs. Hardin on The Forever Purge, a recently released action movie. Susie's range is unbelievable! She managed to do a total 180 in her professional world and still come out on top, as victorious as ever. In this interview. We're so glad she is open to writing a book about her experiences (fingers -crossed) because we can't get enough!

But no chance the inspiration stops there. While off-screen, Susie is hard at work to build a better world. She is heavily involved in philanthropic projects such as Represent.us and other world-altering organizations. With Represent.us, Susie and other beautiful people infiltrate the political system and educate others to reshape a corrupt institution. "We the People" will have a place at the table! Jejune is so excited to sit down with Susie and chop it up with this absolute star! In this interview, we cover Susie's love for tennis, her upcoming projects, and her selfless work as an ambassador with Not For Sale: an operation that counters modern-day slavery. Susie is truly a force to be reckoned! Please continue reading below for Susie’s cover feature.