Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2024 - Emily Kinkead, Pennsylvania House of Representatives, District 20

This week we are highlighting Emily Kinkead (she/her), a millennial lawyer who is a founding member the Leadership Team of the Pennsylvania Progressive Caucus. Collectively, this Caucus works to push progressive priorities like criminal justice reform, affordable housing, access to healthcare, affordable childcare, expanding access to public transit, and more. She is the House Chair of the Legislative Hunger Caucus and Secretary of the House Agriculture Committee, working to address hunger-related issues as well as advocate for more investment in programs that would address food insecurity. She serves on the Advisory Board for the Capitol All-Stars Softball Game, which is a softball game where legislators raise money for their charitable food network. As a member of the House Judiciary Committee and Chair of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime & Corrections, she has been working hard to address criminal justice reform.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 54Andrew FApril 24, 2024millenial, woman, woman rights, election day, election, #electionComment

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2024 - Sabrina Bousbar, Florida's 13th Congressional District

Today we have the fourth installment in our profiles of our favorite Progressive candidates who are running to represent their communities at the state and federal levels, and move the country forward to ensure that all Americans are equally represented in government. Sabrina Bousbar (she/her) is a Gen Z Colombian Moroccan with a background in political organizing, as well as in emergency management and natural disaster response, which is a particularly useful background in her Florida district, which was devastated in 2022 by Hurricane Ian. Sabrina has a Bachelor’s degree from Florida State University and a Master’s degree from Georgetown University, and is passionate about women’s rights, the climate crisis, social security, and the affordability crisis.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 54Andrew FMarch 27, 2024gen-z, woman, brown, politician, election, politics, Politics, political, emergency, HurricaneComment

Ananya - Harmonizing Hearts

In a world where the spotlight often blinds us to the struggles beneath the surface, one artist stands out not just for her fascinating melodies, but for her unwavering dedication to mental health advocacy. In her debut EP, “I Woke Up One Night,” Ananya takes her dreams and creates lyrics that have listeners mesmerized. Her music and wellness app, The Nani Wellness Project, serves as a refuge for those grappling with their inner demons, offering solace and a reminder that they are not alone in their struggles. Continue reading to learn more about Ananya.

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2023 - Parisa Dehghani-Tafti, Commonwealth’s Attorney for Arlington County and the City of Falls Church

It’s 2023, and just in case you thought it was an “off year” for elections, there are off-year elections! This year, Virginia is having its state and local elections. Today we are kicking off our 2023 progressive candidate profiles with Parisa Dehghani-Tafti, who is the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Arlington County and the City of Falls Church in Virginia. Parisa is the first Iranian-American Chief Prosecutor in United States history. Elected in 2019, Parisa ran on a platform of making the criminal justice system fairer to marginalized communities by no longer asking for cash bail, ending prosecution of marijuana possession, addressing racial disparities, not charging minors as adults, creating an independent body to review use of force by police, restoring voting rights to the formerly convicted, and creating a restorative justice process. In her first term in office, she has done all of that.

Samantha Blaire Cutler - A Woman On The Rise!

Samantha Blaire Cutler is an up and coming star! Samantha has been performing for years — beginning at the age of seven! Since then, she’s starred in theater and television productions such as “Dear Evan Hansen” and “Power.” Since the overturn of Roe v. Wade, Samantha has been extremely vocal about abortion rights and women’s rights. Samantha is also involved with The Kentucky Health Justice Network — an organization that provides support and financial assistance to those seeking abortions. To learn more about Samantha, her roles, and her involvement with the KHJN, continue reading our exclusive interview below!

Joulie Fox - Art Pop’s Newest Sensation

Adding the “art” in Art Pop, Joulie Fox is a British musical sensation. Having a palette with a diverse range of songs, Joulie’s musical achievements are on the rise. Apart from being hot in the music scene, she also teaches music to under-privileged kids at the Unitas Youth Zone, which has recently partnered with Sony Music to expand their programs. Read Joulie’s interview with Jejune Magazine to know more about the Art Pop queen, her music, the fact that she hasn’t actually killed anyone, and her philanthropy.

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2022 - Christy Holstege, California State Assembly District 47

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 45Andrew FOctober 27, 2022queer, #queer, bisexual, millenial, woman, mothers, Mother, politician, politics, Politics, #politics, political, get politicalComment

Akelee Will Carry You To Hope

From Dallas, Tx, American Idol star, Akelee was born with the voice of a sultry angel! Inspired by the great Michael Jackson, Akelee aims to mix faith with pop culture to cultivate love and add positivity to our world. But she is doing this through more than just her music as she is very active with both the Peggy Beatrice Foundation and Dove Prosperity International to help restore communities. Please read further to learn more about her music and positive impact on the world in our exclusive interview with Akelee.

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2022 - Kristen Gonzalez, New York State Senate District 59

This week we are profiling Kristen Gonzalez (she/her/hers). Kristen is a tech worker, community organizer, and democratic socialist representing parts of Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens next year in the New York State Senate. On August 23, she won the Democratic primary for one of two new state Senate districts, capturing 58% of the vote against a well-funded opponent. Prior to running for office, she was involved as a leader in the Democratic Socialists of America and as a local community organizer, working on campaigns for community land trusts, climate action, and public internet. She was raised by a single mother from Puerto Rico in Elmhurst, Queens, where she first got involved in activism, eventually working her way to the Obama White House before returning to community organizing in Queens.

Gabriella Uhl Is Performing Her Way Through Life

“A young acting sensation” are words too few that can truly describe Gabriella Uhl. A star in the making, Gabriella has been performing her whole life. One could even say it is in her blood, as she tells us that everyone in her family loves to perform. From her first appearance in The School of Rock to her latest appearance in Netflix’s 13: The Musical singing, acting, and dancing are a way of life. However, she also dabbles in philanthropic work in the form of women’s empowerment through the Maestro organization. Please read on as we delve deeper into the life of Gabrielle Uhl in this exclusive interview with Jejune Magazine.

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2022 - Nikki Merritt, Georgia State Senate District 9

Today we are continuing our profiles of our favorite Progressive candidates who are running to represent their communities at the state and federal levels, and move the country forward, to continue to ensure that all Americans are equally represented in government.

This week we are profiling Nikki Merritt (she/her/hers). Nikki is a Georgia State Senator representing Gwinnett County. She is a Black progressive Democrat and CWA Local 3204 labor union member. In the Georgia State Senate, she prioritizes healthcare, worker protections, voting rights, and education. She is married with two children.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 44Andrew FAugust 25, 2022Black, woman, georgia black, Georgia, Mother, progressive, union, 2022 election, politicsComment

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!

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.

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

Into the Hidden Dangerous World with George Gittoes

You definitely don’t want to miss out on George Gittoes! No one is more daring and adventurous than him. The Australian native is not only an artist and photographer, he’s also a filmmaker. Gittoes has spent over 25 years witnessing life-changing moments in some of the most notorious places in the world. Despite the uncountable encountered dangers, he continues to strap on filming equipment and goes into battlefields to fight for justice and equality. The talented director and his lovely wife, Hellen Rose, have brought positive social change and shun light on the local community through a non-profit they founded, The Yellow House. Come with Jejune to understand more about his experience in the hidden dangerous world and the impact his artwork has brought to the world with our exclusive interview below.

nordeen Design with Love to Welcome A New Chapter

Are you starting to plan your wedding again after the many postponements caused by Covid? Are you planning to have an outdoor wedding and are searching for a bridal gown with a subtle, creative twist? nordeen has you covered! They develop a range of effortlessly luxurious pieces, distinguished by natural environment-friendly materials and subtle yet unexpected details. Their most recent collection, Collection I, embodies ease for the outdoors and is inspired by the peacefulness of a Redwood forest. What’s more interesting is that nordeen prioritizes sustainability and all gowns are ethically sewn and knitted by skilled hands. Check out our interview with the founder of nordeen, Brenna Simmons, to learn more about their elegant wedding attire and the thought process behind making them.

COVER - Victoria Konefal Dreams Of A Green Future

Victoria Konefal brings passion to this world by dreaming of a green future. You may know Victoria from her work on Day of our Lives, where she plays the fierce and independent Ciara Brady, and Victoria’s legacy is continuing to grow off-screen with her tremendous conservation efforts with organizations like Heal the Bay and Thirst Project. Conservation has taken a backseat during the turmoil of the pandemic and it is people like Victoria who are helping to put the spotlight back onto what we can do in our everyday lives to make a real contribution to conservation. In honor of Women’s History Month, we were very excited to talk to Victoria about the impact of a woman’s voice — we discuss her experience in Hollywood as an actress, working with women directors, and being an advocate for a better and brighter future. For more on Victoria Konefal, please read our exclusive editorial interview below.

Ain't I A Woman? Cheri Moon's Anthem of Empowerment For All Women

It is International Women’s Month and Cheri Moon is here to kick it up a notch. Cheri’s new single harkens back to a staple in women’s rights history: Sojourner Truth’s “Ain’t I A Woman” speech. Sharing the same name with the famous speech, Moon’s “Ain’t I A Woman” is a powerful anthem for 2021. The message of her music resonates with soulful celebration with the punchiness of a pop-ballad. Outside of Cheri’s music career, you can also catch her working along side Good + Foundation. In our interview with Cheri, we talk about Sojourner’s influence today for women everywhere and what hopeful emergences we have seen in the past year for feminism. For more on Cheri Moon, please read our exclusive interview below.

EDITORIAL - Jarry Lee Is A Voice In The Silence

Jarry is a NYC-based model/actress, musician, and influencer who did something courageously out of the ordinary — she came out as bisexual on the hit Netflix show, Dating Around. With a social media following rising at astronomical rates, Jarry never chooses silence. Jarry is a bold voice with an extra aesthetic, and she is committed to lending her voice to strengthen the visibility of the LGBTQ+ and Asian community. In our interview with Jarry, we talk about her life in NYC during the pandemic, her coming out moment, and the current wave of violence against Asian Americans. You don’t want to miss this moment with Jarry! Please read our full and exclusive editorial and interview below.

"Enlighten Me" and the Power of Sarcasm - Kipani

Move over mansplainers! Kipani is about to enlighten you. Bringing a sound of her own, singer-songwriter Kipani is a visionary for equality in the music industry. Kipani’s new single “Enlighten Me” is a unique blend of genres and has a very specific goal: to empower women. In our interview with Kipani, we dive into the struggles and obstacles that women creators face in the male-dominated music industry and discuss how Kipani as an artist has used music to push-back against stereotypes of women that negatively impact their artistic endeavors. Kipani’s art is not only self-expression but a demonstrative outlet of the dynamic force of feminine creativity. For more on Kipani please read our exclusive interview below.