Otoja Abit is best known for his award-winning debut short, Jitters, in which he wrote, directed, produced, and starred. Otoja expands on his short Jitters’ theme with his first-of-its-kind urban-leaning holiday film A New York Christmas Wedding now available on Netflix. The film touches on some of the themes involving the LGBTQIA Community and religion. Check out our exclusive interview with Otoja Abit here.
Read MoreWhat in the world is better than holiday shopping? Buying gifts for your loved ones is a quintessential holiday experience. Especially in this day and age, holiday shopping brings joy and a sense of comfort. But this season is your turn to give back not only to your families, but also to the environment. It is imperative to shop sustainably to reduce waste, make a positive impact on people, and a positive impact on the planet. We have compiled a list of vegan, cruelty-free, ethical, and sustainable brands for you to check out! Each brand mentioned below contains an all exclusive Jejune holiday promotional code. Enjoy and Happy Holidays!
Please read further, and add these brands to your shopping list this holiday season.
Read MoreMove 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.
Read MoreI maybe a little ways off from having a child, but I’m 100% woman, and I know the struggles and pain of having a period. So, I was very curious to learn more when I found out about the women owned and run postpartum comfort underwear business Nyssa, who also helps with period pain. Like many women, I experience pretty severe pain for a few days a month. I have learned a few ways to manage it: work out more and wear period underwear, but the pain still comes. So, this month I got the pleasure to experiment with Nyssa’s underwear. I tried their Nyssa VieWear Underwear, which comes with an ice/heat pack and a pocket built into the underwear for it! While you still have to find a way to deal with the period itself, I have to say walking around with a heat pack on my back, certainly made me a lot happier this month. Also, as an added bonus, these are great for athletes who are prone to hurting themselves.. I may or may not know a little something about that. To learn more about this super empowering company, please read our exclusive interview below.
Read MoreChrissie Fit is a star on the horizon of change. Chrissie is known for her work in the Pitch Perfect franchise as “Flo” and she has returned to the big screen in All My Life with Harry Shum Jr. and Jessica Rothe which premiered in theatres on December 4th, When we asked if she was involved in any humanitarian work, Chrissie responded: “I feel like I have my hands in everything!”. After speaking with the Cuban actress, it was easy to see that Chrissie brings a critical and inspirational lens to her work behind the camera and in her everyday life to promote a better and more diverse future. In our interview with Chrissie, she dives deep into what it means to have representation for Latinx communities in Hollywood and beyond. Chrissie talks about the intersectional nature of representation in film and television as well as representation at the polls for Latinx voters in the 2020 election. For more on Chrissie Fit, please read our interview below.
Read MoreIn these unprecedented times when so many people are facing hardships, Brooke Lewis Bellas would love to give 3 lucky winners a personalized Holiday greeting in hopes of raising their spirits and giving them something to smile about! I have included entry instructions below.
Read MoreAs an individual who lived through the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic in New York City, I have been waiting for the music and art that would come from it, and Diana Sophia did not disappoint. If you did not have the experience or if you did, please take a moment to listen to her new song “Sirens.” This song will transport you to those months of 24/7 ambulance sirens and the anxiety we all felt, but she also laces in hope that came with them. This song is heavy, and not something I will listen to every day, but it is true historic art and should be respected as such. Diana might be from Mexico, but in many ways, she is nothing but a New Yorker. She is all about grit and passion. In addition to being an incredible singer-songwriter, she is a survivor and helps support an amazing organization for sexual abuse victims called Hidden Water. Please read our exclusive interview below to learn more about Diana Sophia.
Read MoreThe glitz and glamor of a glowing neon sign can draw one’s eye from miles away. Artist Beau Dunn is an expert in the neon medium and her tongue-in-cheek approach to art provides commentary on society in glowing and irresistible tubes of color. A well-known portion of Dunn’s repertoire is comprised of sculptures made out of intricately thin neon letters, with phrases like “NEED MORE MONEY FOR BIRKIN” or “NEED MORE MONEY FOR REAL ESTATE.” The series is the epitome of advertising, capitalism, indulgence, and luxury. Dunn’s newest series, “Next Generation” continues her work in neon sculptures. With updated phrases like “NEED MORE MONEY FOR TOILET PAPER” and “NEED MORE MONEY FOR FACE MASKS,” Dunn truly shows the irony and truth of the shift we all experienced this year when essentials turned into commodities. On top of on-point social commentary, “Next Generation” is also in collaboration with eBay for Charity, with a portion of all proceeds benefiting UNICEF USA’s COVID-relief efforts and help provide front-line responders and families in need with resources to keep children healthy and safe during the pandemic. Beau Dunn’s art shows us that art not only inspires, art heals.
Outside of the studio and gallery, Dunn tends to spend most of her time with animals. She was recently named Global Ambassador of Road Dogs & Rescue a non-profit that rescues bulldog breeds, medical dogs, seniors, and special needs puppies. She has always had such a big heart for animals and now gets to help dogs who need a little extra love and attention. Beau is also on the board of The Sanctuary At Soledad, where she is pictured in our cover photos! To read more about Beau’s life as an artist and learn more about her work in animal advocacy in our exclusive interview below.
Read MoreLondon-born British singer and songwriter, Brooke Law, is an electrifying artist with a heart. She has written with leading producers who have worked with Ellie Goulding, Dua Lipa, and Lana Del Ray. In 2019, she was selected by BBC Asian Network and BBC Music Introducing Essex as one of their ‘Artist to Watch’. Her new single for Christmas 2020, “Home,” is a highly emotive song that poignantly conveys the sadness of finding yourself apart from a loved one at Christmas. It also sheds light on the homeless predicament impacted by 320,000 people in the UK. 100% of the proceeds of her new single will go to the UK Charity, Crisis. Brooke hopes that her song will not only reach out emotionally to those in need but also provide practical help through donations. It is from this bedrock of family ‘unity-through-diversity’, strength, and positive action that motivates Brooke to express her values and beliefs through her music. Please read our interview with Brooke Law to learn more about her and her new single, “Home.”
Read MoreWe are at a time when art and entertainment manipulate society and the next generations systematically but, also, we believe that these days, art has moved away from the manipulative purpose to involve social engagement and political motives. Doomsday Entertainment is a production company founded by Danielle Hinde in 2010 and this is why we are hopeful about today's art. Danielle Hinde has overseen groundbreaking and award-winning videos for Marvin Gaye, David Guetta, Katy Perry, Justin Bieber, Childish Gambino, One Republic, J. Lo, and hundreds more. She produced many culture-reset music videos like This Is America and according to Danielle Hinde, the success of these videos is a direct result of combining the right director with an artist — together they can tell a powerful story through the music. Being outspoken through art is her priority because she is passionate about speaking about social issues. We see the reflection of this with the projects and the people she worked with. Recently, she produced a music video premiere by FKA Twigs, "Sad Day," and Nike’s ‘You Can’t Stop Our Voice’ campaign, which was directed by Hiro Murai. We talked Danielle Hinde about Doomsday’s latest projects and the role of politics in music videos. Please read our exclusive interview below to learn more about her and Doomsday Entertainment.
Read MoreGina Naomi Baez is on our radar because she has a knack for putting a spin on holiday music. You may have seen her Youtube music video “Lizzo’s Truth Hurts x Hocus Pocus” that went viral, Lizzo and Bette Midler both sharing and reacting to the comedic parody, as well as another popular (and timely) music video inspired by Hocus Pocus called “I’ll Put a Mask on You”. Now, Gina is sharing her new single, “Christmas Candlelight” just in time for the winter holiday season. Outside of her music career, Gina gives back through a non-profit (which she started) called Kids Performing Who Kare. We’re big fans of Gina and we think you will be too — please keep reading for a dose of holiday cheer and to learn more about Gina below.
Read MoreWomen in the music industry have been standing up, whether it’s via their music or their notions in society. Stockholm-based artist Felin is one of them. Her music, which she describes as “good pop melody with an edge and lyrics that makes a statement’,” represents a progressive shift in gendered power dynamics. She is aware that “Society keeps telling us we don’t have a choice but we can’t make too much noise” and her recently released latest single "Heroes and Villains" is making some feminist noises. The song is about women’s rights, gun violence, and social injustices. She also wrote a song called "C19" during the pandemic to deal with all certain feelings of loneliness and uncertainty. She is a vocal feminist and activist and has previously campaigned for women’s abortion rights and promotes women’s rights with The Kvinna till Kvinna Foundation in over 20 conflict-affected countries. We talked with Felin about her career and the representation of women in the music industry. Please read our exclusive interview below to learn more about her.
Read MoreArt has always been a beacon of hope, support, and inspiration. And even more so during times of great tribulation. Throughout history we have used music, novels, films, photos, fabrics, and inanimate objects as tools to comprehend life and our place in the world. A world where anything is possible. A world we are currently unable to grapple with. Art has played a pivotal part in bringing us together despite social distancing. It can keep us grounded during times of panic, and motivates us during hardship.
Read MoreSavannah Lathem is giving the holidays a new tune with her singing and songwriting talent and new Christmas single, “Why I Love Christmas Time.” Savannah’s joy is present in all of her music, and her gratitude for all of life’s opportunities (even amidst the current chaos) is certainly inspiring. We speak to Savannah about her journey as an artist and her most recent music, as well as her past Lyme Disease diagnosis. To learn more about Savannah’s delightful and honest outlook, please read our interview below.
Read MoreA healthy diet means a healthy body, and a healthy body means a happy life. We've talked extensively about the benefits of eating well, as you'll find in our 'The Ultimate Guide to Your Best Diet' series. In the most recent installment, we discussed the different types of diets and how you can find the diet that best fits your body and your lifestyle.
Read MoreCombining her pre-law degree with her love for acting and social activism, Jennifer Sears is a voice of passion and authenticity. Ever since her big break in Tyler Perry’s Madea Family Reunion (2006), Jennifer has continued to work with worked alongside some of the industry’s most astounding talent and production teams, with roles in the award-winning and Golden Globe-nominated film “Bessie” alongside Queen Latifah and Mo’Nique, The Best of Enemies starring Taraji P. Henson, VH1’s Daytime Divas alongside Tichina Arnold, Bounce’s Saints and Sinners and FOX’s Star, to name a few. We speak to Jennifer about her most recent role on OWN’s Greenleaf as it enters its fifth and final season. We also discuss how Jennifer is using her platform to raise awareness for causes that are close to her heart. She frequently works with the Atlanta Chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) and consistently works to share resources about Black Mental Health. Please read our interview with Jennifer Sears below.
Read MoreBelle Scar is a music project of multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, artist and producer Geeta . A Canadian now living in the UK, Belle Scar is creating art that can’t be confined to conventions of genre or fit into categorical expectations. For Belle Scar, music is not only a passion, it’s her way to survive in a strange and chaotic world, she works hard at creating something real, beautiful, sad, intense…an emotional journey, especially during our contemporary moment. We get a peek into the mind of the artist’s music, discussing the new EP’s “Mementos” and “The Eeriness” (both of which have a sound that is truly unique to Belle Scar) and her perspective on how to best support artists and musicians at this time. Please read below for our interview with Belle Scar.
Read MoreSinger/songwriter Jemima’s new EP, Things I Never Said, is an intimate look into personal experiences she had while living in London. Her new EP is filled with songs that touch on experiences in love and living life. Besides music, Jemima had spent 8 months living in an animal sanctuary in Byron Bay Australia. We talked to Jemima about her new EP, experience living in an animal sanctuary, and much more. Check out our exclusive interview with Jemima.
Read More“Nowhere to call home, cause it’s burnt to the ground." This is how being an immigrant feels like these days, but this needs to change. We are more exposed than ever to different accents, people, and cultures. But when we hear an accent, this doesn’t have to bring up prejudices and stereotypes, instead, it should awaken a celebration of another group of people who can only widen our worlds. One inspiringly diverse group, between Romanian-American artist Drei Ros, African American artist RobYoung and Dominican artist Sharlene, have wanted to change the current response to an accent and immigrants by teaming up to create the “Excuse My Accent” Movement. This movement is about bringing people together to make a change for the better. They are using the platform for sharing cultural stories of inclusivity and showing their pride over their backgrounds by realizing that all people are in this together. The "Excuse My Accent" song is produced by The Donuts and MP808 (808 Mafia) with creative assistance by Grammy-nominated songwriter Kief Brown. It became an anthem for all the immigrants and minorities with its music video and delivers a message of truth, struggle, and hope. We talked with Drei Ros and RobYoung about the story behind Excuse My Accent, their experiences, and migration issues. Please read our exclusive interview below to learn more about celebrating our uniqueness and how to support the movement.
Read MoreWe are at a time when interior design trends constantly renew themselves. Many design fads come and go; however, there is one trend that never goes out of style: Timelessness. This is what African American interior designer Juaneice Munoz is doing. She brought comfort, function, and casual luxury together and created La Casa Azul Design in 2011. She also recently launched an online store and a percentage of her store's proceeds will be benefiting the Salvation Army, which aided Juaneice through some tough times. We talked with Juaneice Munoz about the latest trends in interior design, her career, how to overcome struggles, and La Casa Azul Design. Please read our exclusive interview below to learn more about Juaneice Munoz and her company.
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