New York-based model Sydney Brett is preventing bullying one workshop at a time. Through Sydney’s non-profit organization “Stronger Than You Think,” she implements anti-bullying and mental health education for youth. Sydney's mission is to stop hate at its core, especially as a victim of childhood bullying due to her struggle with dyslexia. Sydney’s curriculum is crucially needed in a world where social media can be the root of insecurities for many impressionable children coming to terms with their identities. If you are interested in Sydney’s work in the modeling industry, her amazing non-profit, or her hope for this generation, please continue reading the interview below!

Will Ropp - A Desire For Change

Los Angeles-based actor Will Ropp is a breath of fresh air in the acting industry. Most known for his role as “Nick” in “The Fallout”, Will embodies his character's desire for activism and change. As a University of Michigan graduate with a BFA in Theater, Will puts all he’s mastered into his craft and it shows! Additionally, his advocacy for Colon Cancer and dedication to educating those about the exponentially increasing cases in youth, makes it further crucial for his story to be heard. Be sure to keep an eye out for Will's upcoming projects, such as his period piece film called “The Greatest Beer Run Ever” with Zac Efron, Russell Crowe, and Bill Murray! Jejune is excited for “The Greatest Beer Run Ever” to hit the big screens! But until then, please enjoy this interview with Will Ropp. If you are interested in Will’s acting, hobbies, and cancer advocacy please continue reading the interview below!

Justiin Davis: Push Past The Uncomfortable

New York City-based actor Justiin Davis is everything we’ve been missing! You can spot Justiin on HBO’s Emmy-winning drama Boardwalk Empire or, as of most recently, the highly anticipated Amazon series “The Boys” which is already on season 3. Justiin has been acting and modeling since the impressive age of nine, and it is incredible to see what he can do now! Justiin’s talent goes beyond acting due to his pursuit of building an arts program that aids inner school systems through Mission Society. Justiin is impressive, but you have to see for yourself! If you are interested in his work with Boardwalk Empire, Justiin’s journey, and his advocacy for inner-city youth, please continue reading below!

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 44SAMANTHA COLÓNJuly 13, 2022young actor, actor, acting, traditional acting, New York, new york city, change, hope, childreninneed, arts, ArtComment

A Talk of Peace With Belle Scar

The war in Ukraine is far from over. We spoke with advocate for Ukraine, UK Based music artist, Belle Scar about her recent single “Kyiv in my heart”. This song and music video not only features Ukrainian Artists, but also depicts the horror and destruction the ongoing war in Ukraine causes. We highly suggest you stream “Kyiv in my heart” to gain insight into the importance of advocacy and staying connected with Ukrainians, even if they are an ocean away. The 16 Ukrainian artists featured in “Kyiv in my heart” tells a story, and each creation is compelling as the next. If that isn’t enough, Belle Scar’s vocals mixed with the work of a choir are sure to leave you with chills. Please continue reading below for more information about Belle Scar and her new single!

Art, Editor's Pick, zIssue 44SAMANTHA COLÓNJuly 11, 2022music artist, Musicians, Ukraine, Art, artist, Advocating, advocacy work, peace, end war, Kyiv, war, stopwar, change, hope, future, russia, AmericaComment

The Future Perfect Project: The New Generation of LGBTQ+ Storytelling

Meet the Future Perfect Project (FPP)! This New York-based Organization promotes LGBTQ+ Youth expression and their music! Founded by Celeste Lecesne and Ryan Amador, the Future Perfect Project amplifies the queer youth narrative through workshops and social media. If you wish to see their work in action, the Future Perfect Project is hosting a free immersive event at Lincoln Center's Hearst Plaza on June 4th at 12 pm EST, kicking off Pride Month nicely! Nine artists from all around the country will perform their collaborative album “Not What You Pictured” at the event. All performances are of course LIVE! Jejune is ecstatic to get to know this small collective of artists through their music, and can wait for the show! If you are interested in the Future Perfect Project’s story and want to support LGBTQ+ youth, please continue reading the interview below!

A Little Of Everything With Revell Carpenter

LA and NYC-based actress Revell Carpenter is more than a familiar face. Without a doubt, Revell’s training in LA, NYC, and London prove her to be an asset for all her industry endeavors which include directing and writing. Amazingly she has been at work since seven years old, and now you can see Revell starring in her short film “Goodnight”, an emotional and gritty film about ending a relationship. Other than “Goodnight”, you can see Revell in “All American: Homecoming” and “The Deadly Debutante”. With so much under Revell’s belt, you are sure to love her. We urge you to get to know Revell through our interview! If you would like to learn more about Revell’s short film, her work at the New York Public Library, and the overall fabulous human being she is, please continue reading!

Remaining Constant with Tabay Atkins

Tabay Atkins, California’s very own Yoga, and Reiki prodigy is on a mission! Tabay wishes to share the significance of a healthy and positivity-filled lifestyle. Yoga has changed his life in more ways than one, and those around him prove as a success story of his fundamental values. This amazing young adult has instructed Yoga to countless individuals and has accumulated almost 1000 hours of teacher training experience. Tabay serves as a role model and mentor to adults and children alike, and Jejune is here for it! If you are interested in Tabay’s humanitarian work, his journey to becoming a NIKE athlete, or his tips for healthy living, please continue reading below!

The Moon Bears Need Your Help!

Wildlife is precious! Based in Hong Kong, Animals Asia provides sanctuary for bears and protects those loving creatures from farming in Vietnam and China. The demand for bear bile as a medical substance has put the Moon Bear species significantly at risk. This organization is adamant about preservation of the Moon Bears, especially when there are herbal alternatives to bear bile. Many celebrities including the ones featured in this article have pledged to take a stand against Moon Bear extinction. You can follow in their footsteps with the details in this very article! For more information about Moon Bears, the demand for Bear Bile, and the amazing celebrities who advocate for the Animals Asia cause, please continue reading below.

Temple Lester: The STEM Prodigy

Temple Lester is an Atlanta-based STEM prodigy. 14-year-old Temple is devoted to introducing those who lack representation to the STEM field. She was all too familiar with being one of the only minorities and women in STEM, now her mission is to change that. Not only did she create STEM Girl Swag and STEM Swag Box, both ways to get the youth engaged, but she has successfully exposed more than 100,000 youth through science workshops and social media. Temple takes action! Temple also interacts with seasoned masters of the STEM field such as Dr. Siam Proctor, the first Black woman to pilot a spacecraft. She wishes to pass on that knowledge to the youth through fun and engaging activities curated by no other than Temple. The excellence does not stop there! Temple was nominated for the 2nd annual “Kid of The Year” Nickelodeon Awards. As an entrepreneur and leader Temple is sure to make a change! If you would like to know how, please continue reading this interview starring Temple Lester!

Doing It All With Amanda Jaros

Los Angeles based actress and writer Amanda Jaros knows how to stay busy. Whether she’s showcasing her talents while starring in ABC’s “Women of the Movement '' or putting pen to paper and crafting screenplays, Amanda has much to offer to the entertainment industry. Amazingly, Amanda was introduced to acting and writing as a mere child, and proves to be a natural at honing in on her creativity. Currently, Amanda is developing three indie features written and starring herself! When not putting her all into the industry, she is nurturing another passion: humanitarian and advocacy work. Amanda serves as a team leader for “After Hours Ministry”, a non profit organization which supports outreach for sex trafficking and exploitation victims on the streets of L.A. If you are interested in Amanda’s story or future endearers, please continue reading below.

Meet Zentap with Sormeh Attarzadeh

California-based entrepreneur Sormeh Attarzadeh has much to offer with her tech company Zentap. The amazing Sormeh created Zentap to be an all-in-one real estate marketing company. With Sormeh's initial interest in real estate and background in tech, Zentap is the embodiment of her passions as an entrepreneur. As Zentap continues to prove its efficiency, we have the pleasure to interview the founder and dig deep into Sormeh's fascinating digital life! Zentap achievements have reached the likes of Forbes and is recognized as a valuable tool to seasoned real estate professionals. But don't be fooled; Sormeh's accomplishments don't stop there! She volunteers at a children's shelter as a mentor and passes on her expertise to the next generation. If you would like to get acquainted with Zentap, hear Sormeh's first-hand experience as a woman in tech, or indulge in digital entrepreneurship, please continue reading below!

COVER - Double Dose Of Dopeness - Aint Afraid

Get a double dose of dopeness with Aint Afraid! Detroit-based Twin sisters Sakinah (Straingth) & Zakiyyah (Wizdumb) Rahman make their presence known through positive and honest messages from their music. Singing since the age of two, both sisters collaborate to share their gift with the world while also showing off some much-needed melanated Muslim representation. Influenced by the likes of Beyoncé and Lauren Hill, you can, without a doubt, admire the R&B and grace in their music and demeanor alike. Although they pull music influences, their fashion is 100% Aint Afraid; Sakinah and Zakiyyah pride themselves on their brilliant and authentic fashion taste, proven by Aint Afraid's sewing skills, one of their many talents picked up during lockdown.

In their latest album, which happens to be their debut, they provide 11 impressive tracks, some titled "Smile Today," "Somebody Loves You," and "Grow,"; All songs showcase their ability to spread harmony with a soulful and fun twist. All music from the album is streamable on Spotify, so Jejune urges you to check it out!

You think Aint Afraid can't get any cooler? Think Again! Sakinah and Zakiyyah are heavy advocates for education in the Gambia and even helped raise funds to build an all-girls school for students. Ain't Afraid uplifts the audience through their music and in their community alike. This is why Jejune is so excited for the sisters to be this month's cover! If you wish to learn more about Aint Afraid's music, their unique stage names, and all the fantastic humanitarian work they have done so far, please continue reading below.

Working Through The Tough Times With Miranda Frigon

Many know Miranda Frigon from her fantastic portrayal of Paula Bowman on Syfy's Day Of the Dead, but incredible woman has more to offer. As a seasoned actress and dancer, she is a familiar face in Hollywood. Miranda currently provides insight into a recurring issue in women's reproductive health. After Miranda's encounter with failed IVF treatments, she stresses the need for patience and self-appreciation for one's body. Miranda's positivity is inspiring, and her eagerness to share her story only proves how amazing she is. Especially in times as problematic as today, Miranda reminds us that everything happens for a reason, and a strong mindset is an ultimate guide through hardships. Jejune is excited to talk to the force that is Miranda Frigon. Please continue reading below to learn more about Miranda, her experience with infertility, and her humanitarian work that is quite literally changing the world.

zIssue 40, SWAC: InfluencerSAMANTHA COLÓNFebruary 9, 2022actress, dancer, fertiility, hope, change, Mom Sense, perseverance, #bodypositivity, positivityComment

Michael & Matthew: The International Power Couple

Meet Michael and Matthew! This Portland-based travel power couple has been taking the world by storm, literally. With their remarkable and insightful blog, not only are we obsessed with this incredible relationship, but also in awe of the travel destinations they visit. As a couple that met over the internet and shared their powerful LGBTQIA+ coming out experiences, they have found empowerment by traveling and documenting trips to Juneau, Alaska, Bermuda, and more! With 2020 putting a real damper on their endeavors, their abroad life came to a halt. However, now, they are back and better than ever, eager to hit the road again. Amazingly, Michael and Matthew are also advocates for LGBTQIA+ equity through their partnership with GLAAD, an organization that aims to open dialogue surrounding LGBTQIA+ issues. Jejune is excited to interview this couple! Whether you're sitting in a beach chair in the Bahamas or on the couch like the rest of us, you're not going to want to miss this insightful and positively proud interview with Matthew and Michael! Please continue reading below!

Deep: The Art of Self-surrender

If someone hasn't told you already, meditation and yoga are cheat codes for life. Accruing internal balance and calmness from yoga will make your day-to-day peaceful and whole. Don't know where to start? Start with Deep! Based in Virginia and Washington D.C, Deep, AKA DeepElevation LLC, will take you to new heights. Deep is a Yogi, life coach, and author ready to guide the masses to tranquility. His Punjabi ancestry further helps him achieve spirituality on a deeper level, and he is prepared to share his gifts with the world. Deep is well versed in Ashtanga Vinyasa and Yoga Nidra, and his talents have opened him up to teaching in prisons and war zones. Not only is he the go-to guy for learning self harmony, but he is also a published author! His recently released book innocence, which is a collection of stories and poems that delves into vulnerability and embraces the concept of shedding social norms and influence. 50% of this book's profits go to the Khalsa Aid & Islamic Relief, which is providing necessities for those affected by poverty. Jejune is delighted to talk to the wise Deep about his insights on the world. This interview covers his incredible pro-Bono work, his book innocence, and how to self-surrender at will. Please continue reading below!

Christian Vit: Multilingual, Multitalented, And Everything In-between

Christian Vit is a London-based actor who is not afraid to go hunting for new opportunities. He shoots for the stars with all endeavors and proves to be an industry chameleon while taking on each role. You may know him from the accredited and highly praised series "Game of Thrones." Best known as "GOT" for die-hard fans. Not only is Christian exceedingly talented in the acting department, but he is also a master of 4 languages, which demonstrates his proficiency on and off-screen. As a mere child growing up in Italy, Christian knew that acting was for him. As he got older, his path to stardom became clearer during one of his first official acting gigs in the Italian show named "Sotto Casa." Christian continues to be moving in the right direction today and hopes to become a more established actor soon. We do not doubt that! Christian is a well-versed man and has many hobbies such as food, wine, and exercise. Unquestionably, Christian is a beacon of motivation and hard work, especially with his heavy engagement in domestic abuse campaigns and assuming his role as ambassador for "Children with Cancer UK." Jejune had the honor of speaking with this articulate and passionate actor. In this interview, we discuss Christians' latest project “I’m Not In Love”, his numerous ways of giving back, and his journey as an actor. If you love Christian as much as we do, please continue reading below!

Recognizing Your Magick With Emma G

Emma G is no stranger to stepping into her power. This DC-based singer/songwriter is not scared to make an impact. Emma uses her experiences as a muse and is not shy to get into the nitty-gritty of her life, especially when it can greatly benefit another. Her latest album “Born in Crisis” explores trauma, but also newfound healing. Her genre-bending sounds are best described as “Goddess-Pop/Rock”. Specifically, Emma’s lead single “Faith In You” encourages an important conversation centered around breaking out of toxic and unhealthy relationship habits. This song is without a doubt a catalyst for change, but most importantly proof that it is possible to let go of things that no longer serve you. Not only is Emma a talented singer, but she is also an activist. This harmonizes perfectly with her active position as a Youth Empowerment Coach. She dedicates her time to aiding teens with tools to turn misunderstood behavior into strength. Jejune is thrilled to talk with such a talented and compassionate human like Emma G. In this feature we discuss her raw authentic musical concepts, her venture as an author, and her participation with The Capital Groove Collective. Emma G will make a change in this world, and if you’d like to know how, continue reading below.

zIssue 36, SWAC: InfluencerSAMANTHA COLÓNSeptember 13, 2021activism, change, hope, singer song writer, songwriter, mentor, woman, women, trauma, writer, writingComment

COVER - Welcome Tahj Mowry

Anyone looking for an actor to completely obsess over? Well ding ding ding, Tahj Mowry is your guy! Yes, you heard that right, the Tahj Mowry. Based in Los Angeles, this triple threat prodigy is nothing short of an icon. You may know him as the adorable kid from Seventeen again or TJ Henderson from Smartguy. Well not anymore. Tahj is all grown up and bringing bigger and better projects to the acting industry. One of Tahj’s recent flicks, “Welcome Matt”, further enforces this idea. “Welcome Matt” is a movie that represents how all of us have been feeling during the pandemic. He brings the important message of anxiety and mental health to the big screen and serves it with stomach crunching comedy suitable for the perfect movie night. Popcorn is a must!

Besides being a well-rounded actor making waves in the comedy and drama scene, Tahj also spends his time heavily invested in charitable organizations. You can find him sponsoring a child in the Dominican Republic through “Project Mañana”, by supplying necessities and education to those in need. Tahj often forgets he is refereed to as an influential seasoned actor, but we can’t see why. Jejune is excited to speak with Tahj about his upcoming projects, all of his awesome ways of giving back to those less fortunate, and his continued approach to exuding black excellence. Sit down, take a load off, and enjoy this powerful cover feature with Tahj Mowry.

What does the future look like for Afghan women?

Under the new Taliban rule, Afghan women now face a harsh new reality which may erase two decades of hard work seemingly overnight. To truly understand the extent of this issue, we need to be educated on their progress and the people who are threatening it.

Sam Louis And Coping From The Confines Of Isolation

Sam Louis is the name to know in 2021! This Canadian artist gets real about navigating his emotions during isolation. His previous hit, “Driftin,” is meant to be an emotional escape from the confines of isolation. We recommend blasting this song at max volume in your car speakers to get the full effect. This powerful yet somewhat dark song (the good kind of dark… don’t worry) is a metaphor for lonely nights where it feels as if we are actually driftin. Not only is Sam Louis a talented musician, but he is also an advocate and music teacher who specializes in music therapy. This coincided perfectly with his desire to teach the importance of using music to heal the soul, just as it continues to heal him. Jejune is thrilled to speak with Sam about his emotionally uncensored song “Driftin,” his life as a music teacher, and his newest single “Die Tonight,” which dropped August 6th! So tune in and continue reading this interview for all things Sam Louis.