Natasha Behnam - Flipping the Script in American Pie: Girls' Rules

As a young actress, writer, and director, Natasha Behnam enjoys balancing human connection and empathy with a generous dose of awareness and fun in her creative pursuits. Natasha stars in Netflix’s new movie American Pie: Girls’ Rules, a gender-flipped new reimagining of the 1999 cult classic, American Pie. Playing the role of Michelle, an empowered young feminist, Natasha gives us all the details about this new woman-led sex comedy and her future within the genre. Alongside her Hollywood career, Natasha is passionate about supporting a variety of causes close to her heart, including body positivity, the Black Lives Matter movement, and immigrant and refugee rights, and frequently volunteers with South LA Cafe to help her local community. Please read our interview with Natasha to get a full slice of her thoughts on American Pie: Girls’ Rules and how she is spreading positivity on and off-screen.

Black LGBTQ+ Political Analyst Drexel Heard Gives Us A Sane Look On Politics On Election Day

Drexel Heard provides a unique voice as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and the youngest Black Executive Director of the Los Angeles County Democratic Party. Drexel formerly worked on President Obama’s Presidential campaign, and throughout the 2020 Presidential Election, he has been sharing commentary as a Political Analyst for NPR, BBC and BBC Radio. His knowledge of the government system, keen sense of domestic and international policy, and love of Washington News naturally created his strong political voice, which he happily utilizes through social media and many other outlets to lead the generation through any political climate. We spoke with Drexel about the current state of United States politics — from Black Lives Matter, to COVID-19, to the 2020 election. Please read our interview with Drexel Heard below. And then, if you haven’t already, please go vote!

Archer's Amber Nash - Playing a Blonde Bisexual Bombshell

“Holy Shit Snacks!” is the catchphrase of Archer’s Pam Poovey, a blonde bisexual bombshell who is making waves in pop-culture. When we got the chance to sit down with Amber Nash, the voice-over artist responsible for bringing the beloved character to life, we couldn’t help but think “Holy Shit Snacks” ourselves. In our interview with Amber, she tells us about her experience playing Pam throughout Archer’s 11 seasons and her new venture of acting on screen. We also got to speak to her about her role as a board member with Project Chimps, an organization that gives retired lab chimps a forever home on a secluded sanctuary. Bringing her passion to her work and philanthropic efforts, Amber Nash is a voice of wit and passion. Read our exclusive interview with Amber below.

Mermaid, Beach Babe, Musician, AND Surfer- Gedina

Gedina is making waves for MermaidPop, a genre that is the essence of bubbly, feel good music. As the CEO of 4th Door Records, Inc., Gedina has big dreams for creating new and transformational spaces in music, starting with MermaidPop, of course. In August, Gedina released her new single, “Messy,” which celebrates the beauty found in the no-make-up, messy-bun days that are all the more frequent during shelter in place. Alongside her love for music, she has a passion for surfing. She frequently volunteers with organizations like Best Day Foundation and Ride-A-Wave, which give children with special needs the opportunity to learn to surf. We spoke with Gedina about writing “Messy”, the connection between music and surfing, and the impactful memories of her volunteer work. Dive into our exclusive interview with Gedina below.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 26Forrest JohnsonOctober 26, 2020mermaid, surfer, musician, music, oceans, water, kids, singer song writer, feminist, down syndrome, special needs, surf, fitness, #fitComment

Who Runs the World? Shannon K

Jejune recently sat down with singer/songwriter Shannon K to talk about her latest single, “RUN,” which was released in September. The catchy song and beautiful music video epitomize her personality, passion, and raw talent. Shannon’s music is known throughout the world and she has an extremely loyal fan base. She has collaborated with numerous high-profile songwriters and producers such as Poo Bear (Justin Bieber, Ed Sheeran, etc.), and Infinity (Rita Ora, Mary J.Blige, Ludacris). What sets the singer apart is her versatility. She has strong musical and acting talents, well-educated and traveled, and has a unique style. When Shannon isn’t recording or performing, she spends her time working with charities such as Love is Louder (supporting mental health), Animal Equality (go vegan), and Boo To Bully (Anti-bullying). She hopes to use her music as a platform to express herself as well as support the causes she cares about most.

Hallmark Movie Star Jessy Schram Is Helping The Homeless Crisis In L.A.

Jessy Schram lives a busy life. You may know her from her starring lead roles in Hallmark films such as A Royal New Year’s Eve, The Birthday Wish, Road to Christmas, and Harvest Moon; or perhaps you have seen her in Season Five of NBC’s Chicago Med, where Jessy plays a complex OB-GYN surgeon, Dr. Hannah Asher. The star has a passion for music that she was able to share with viewers in her most recent Hallmark Channel Movie, Country at Heart. Jessy loves entertaining and storytelling, and we were also able to discuss another thing that is close to her heart: helping those in need. Jessy has a demonstrated history of working with philanthropies like Corazon De Vida and Red Eye to help people of all ages secure basic human needs. Her work with the homeless population in L.A. with Dineoneonone is her most recent way of helping her community, as her team works together to distribute plant-based meals during COVID-19. How does one balance a career with philanthropic work, as well as stay positive during COVID-19? Read our interview below for Jessy’s insights.

Bianca Bosch Might Be An OMG Girl In The Kissing Booth, But She Is A Sweet Heart In Real Life

At a time when many young people in the film industry don't want to be aware of what they are doing, it is refreshing to seeing some talented and conscious actresses. The 24-years old Netflix star Bianca Bosch, known for her role in The Kissing Booth Trilogy, isn’t just another OMG girl or teen movie star. When she isn't acting she can be found locally feeding the homeless in South Africa, starting her own lighting business, and learning Reiki. Please read our exclusive interview below to learn more about Bianca.

Lance Alexander's Start As A Young Comedian

Meet Lance Alexander, a fourteen-year-old comedian who is living his dream by bringing smiles to others as an actor and volunteer. The rising star got his start in comedy when discovered at the age of 12. Moving from West Chester Ohio to Los Angeles as a young teen, Lance’s humorous personality and dedication to his craft helped in land roles on Raven’s Home and Teachers. Now, Lance plays Elvis Maybury, a lovable teen with a big heart on Netflix’s award-winning comedy, Family Reunion — his biggest role yet. When he isn’t preparing for behind-the-camera work, Lance spends time at Best Buddies, the world’s largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical, and economic isolation of the 200 million people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). We speak to Lance about his role on Family Reunion, his work at Best Buddies, and comedy’s place in our current social reality. Read our interview with Lance to learn just how fluent in comedy this teen-wonder really is and where he’s going next.

LYRE Producer Alina Smith Talks Sexism in the Industry and Going Digital

With 1 in every 47 music producers being female, how did Alina Smith go against the odds to become a premier producer in today’s pop scene? Like many artists and creatives, Smith had the vision to make a “room of her own” in the music industry. She and her best friend, Elli Moore, founded an independent digital production business, LYRE, with the goal to carve out a safe-space for women in a male-dominated field. Now, LYRE is an unstoppable force and working with names you may recognize from Top 40 pop music: Gabbie Hanna, Kenzie Ziegler, Nikita Dragun, and Niki and Gabi (to name a few). Alongside her role as a producer, Alina also is a musician, artist, novelist, and podcast host. Her new single, “Girl That Was Perfect,” is the first track she has released of her own voice in the past 10 years and served as an important moment of self-reflection for Alina. In our interview with Alina, she gives us her insights to navigating the barriers of the industry, her return to singing-songwriting, and where her multi-hyphenate creative pursuits will take her next.

Actor Jacob Hopkins on His Career and Involvement with the Jonathan Foundation

Jejune recently spoke with actor and ambassador Jacob Hopkins about his role as Chad Kremp on the hilariously funny ABC sitcom, The Goldbergs. Jacob has been acting his entire life, appearing in shows like How I Met Your Mother and True Blood. In addition to traditional acting, Jacob has been the voice actor in many fun animated shows. The Dragons: Rescue Riders and The Amazing World of Gumball star talked about his new feature film, Carolina’s Calling, his ongoing involvement in the Jonathan Foundation, and his passion to help kids, with learning disabilities and special needs. Please continue reading to learn more about this extremely talented young actor!

Katie Sands Is Giving Back In Style

Katie Sands, aspiring Broadway actor turned successful digital content creator, is a contemporary powerhouse. Katie gave us an inside look at her life as a content creator and the responsibility it holds in times of social injustice. Alongside sharing beauty and fashion tips on her blog, Katie also dedicates her time to supporting causes and organizations that she cares about. She is currently the youngest board member at “Make A Wish Foundation” and is using her platform to raise awareness for mental health, which is close to her since being on her own mental health journey. We talk to Katie about her collaboration with Phat Buddha, an activewear brand, and how she is dedicating all proceeds to support the JED Foundation, a foundation dedicated to mental health awareness. Inspired? We are too. Read our interview here to get the details of Katie’s creative and philanthropic outlook.

Twins Carly and Martina Use Songwriting to Give Back & Inspire

Carly and Martina are 18-year-old twins and up-and-coming pop sensations. Known for taking a stance on teen bullying in their TEDxTalk and giving back to their Chicago community, Carly and Martina continually aim to use their platform for good. Their new pop album, “Are You Listening”, is no exception. We spoke with Carly and Martina about their inspiration and mission as singer-songwriters and what messages they think listeners will be able to take away from the new album “Are You Listening”.

Carlton Jordan Is A Stigma-Breaker

In a time where it feels most shows and films are about superheroes, it is refreshing to watch content that just feels real. Writer and producer Carlton Jordan is a self proclaimed, and justifiably so, stigma-breaker. He writes stories that are not only relatable, but are on issues that no one is talking about. This can especially be seen on his YouTube show “POZ ROZ”, which is about a young black woman who contracts HIV. The viewer finds themselves loving Roz through her growth and struggles as she adjusts to her new reality. Warning, there are a few spoilers here, but Carlton made sure not to give away anything for Season 2 (even though I wanted him to)! Please read further to learn more about Carlton Jordan and his creations.

Broken Bones Matilda In Quarantine

Broken Bones Matilda is an alternative group comprising of childhood friends turned husband-and-wife-duo Sam Gotley and Sarah McGrigor. While many artists have been at home trying to figure out their next moves, Broken Bones Matilda never stopped performing live. They just do it over the internet now.

The economy has been hit hard by COVID-19, but no group has been hit as hard as artists, and especially live venues. In response to this, Broken Bones Matilda put together a virtual tour, #saveourvenues, where they performed over Instagram Live to raise money for all their favorite venues. To learn more about this amazing group and their tour, please read our exclusive interview here.

Madison Shamoun Has Hope In The Entertainment Industry

Madison Shamoun is a well known face in the entertainment industry, most known for her roles on Black-ish and #BlackAF. With the recent rise in the Black Lives Matter movement, Shamoun has made sure her face is a familiar one in the movement as well. We were lucky enough to catch an interview with this up and coming star. Please read below for our exclusive chat.

Brad Lambert Is The Giving Spirit Of Hollywood

A producer, talent manager, and international speaker, there’s not much Brad R Lambert can’t do. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, he started his career in the sports industry working with the Pittsburgh Steelers. After about a decade of interactions with various celebrities and franchises, he decided to pursue his dreams of working in the film industry. Not only is Lambert now a well known name in Hollywood, but he is also a man of giving. Despite his chaotic schedule, Lambert has made time for humanitarian work, specifically with the All In Challenge initiative. Please read our exclusive interview below to learn more about the wonderful Brad R Lambert.

Lesa Wilson Has Gone Green!

Lesa Wilson is the definition of a triple threat. A trained pageant queen, literally, American Idol contestant, and a now reoccurring face on the new CW show Starrgirl, Wilson can be defined as more than accomplished. Having spent decades of her life focused on her work, she decided to turn her focus on working to save the planet. She uses her platform to bring awareness to climate change and educating others on the importance of keeping Mother Nature happy. Please read our exclusive interview here to learn more about how Lesa Wilson encourages going green!

Siaki Sii And Fancy Nancy Fifita: A lineage Of Entertainment And Magnanimity

With an extended family history in entertainment, cousins Siaki Sii and Nancy Fifita, aka Fancy Nancy Fifita, are the newest emerging talent on a path to stardom. The Tonga born teens are accomplished actors, musicians, and dancers, Siaki best known for his role as Owens on ABC's “Blackish” and Nancy as Lacy in the film GILLYMUCK.

Beyond acting, Siaki and Nancy are performers at heart. Nancy co-wrote and recorded her first single "You So Fancy" at age nine, while Siaki gained his highest recognition as a Tahitian dancer, at the age of nine where he won Best Lead-Role Dancer at Tahiti Fete 2012.

In addition to entertainment, volunteering and hospitality is a long running familial value. The teen duo hosted the East Coast Prom and were celebrity guests at the West Coast Prom through Virtual Prom Live. They have assisted with over 300 events to raise money by using her talents to sing, perform or give service hours to scout service projects. Nancy was selected as the United States Ambassador for the Tongan Red Cross. Siaki performs annually for local senior centers since he was five, between Los Angeles and Utah. He also joins his Boys Scouts of America troop annually to place flags at the cemetery for all the fallen heroes. In addition to this, they joined forces to start their own organization, S & N (Siaki and Nancy Serving Those in Need), to give back! To learn more about this incredible family, please read our exclusive interview here.

Christi Lukasiak: Love And The Business of Motherhood

Christi Lukasiak of “Dance Moms” promptly garnered attention due to her sharp, comedic sensibilities on the hit series. Over the span of seven seasons, her intriguing familial interactions have garnered over two million followers on Instagram alone. Having progressed beyond reality television, Christi now shares glimpses of her daily life to her fans. Whether it be business, favorites, or the everyday aspects of motherhood, her posts accumulate a massive amount of views.

In addition, Christi is a member of YourMomCares – an initiative of celebrity and influencer moms banding together with other moms across America to focus on ensuring all children have access to the resources needed to be mentally well, including receiving diagnoses, treatments, services and activities which serve their needs. Please read our exclusive interview below to learn more about Christi Lukasiak.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 25Jejune ContributorAugust 19, 2020#influencer, mental health, motherhood, health, #healh, #health, dance, Dance, celebrity, childrenComment

SC. Undercover: The Beautiful Balance Of Harmony And Chaos

SC. Undercover skirts the balance between the states of harmony and chaos. It’s his firm grip on the duality between the two internal states that reveals humaneness in failures, bad decisions, and achievements. The UK based artist explores the stark and grittier elements commonly disassociated with pop music. SC. blends elements of R&B, pop, and indie to deliver his drug, sex, and trauma tinged melodies. His new single, "Morals”, tells the story of a man tortured by his past. It is an introspective story of repentance and acceptance of individual flaws. SC.'s exploration of mental health is not limited to music. He performed a one man show based on PTSD and clinical depression for the Birmingham Repertory Theatre. He has also delivered talks at the Feltham Young Offenders prison, the Headway centre, and the HSBC university, on mental health. Please read our exclusive interview to learn more about SC. Undercover.

zIssue 25, SWAC: InfluencerJejune ContributorAugust 18, 2020mental health, singer, singer song writer, #singer, music, musician, healthComment