Songwriting Saves the World is a podcast started by Sasha Bellentine and Annick Blaize in April of 2020. Their inspiration behind the podcast was to create a community of writers and musicians that was both largely female and queer. You can listen to Songwriting Saves the World on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud and more. They also promote a diverse range of artists on their podcast and social media accounts to support female and queer artists in the music industry. This past holiday season the podcast featured representatives from I Support the Girls and Affirmations. I Support the Girls is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting and collecting resources for homeless and impoverished women. Affirmations is an LGBTQ nonprofit centered in Michigan that provides resources for the LGBTQ+ community in Michigan and beyond. With this collaboration, the co-hosts wished to show ways to help women and LGBTQ outside of the music industry as well. Read on to learn more about the co-hosts, their philanthropy, and how songwriting truly does save the world.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 41Kaylyn WenzelMarch 15, 2022songwriting, save the world, podcast, community, musicians, female, queer, LGBTQ+, nonprofitComment

The Effects of TV on the Health of the Next Generation

No-Face’s feast from Spirited Away, the grey stuff from Beauty and the Beast, and an instant Mcdonald’s microwave from Spy Kids are all things we dreamed about at some point of our childhood. Movie after movie, we saw characters stuff their faces with feasts we could only pester our mom for on our weekly grocery shop. Whilst seemingly harmless, the effects of such representations can have a bigger impact on the well-being of the next generation than we would expect.

Editor's Pick, Articles, zIssue 41Saanvi SethiMarch 14, 2022kids, health, Wellness, eat healthy, kids health, healthy kids, obesity, cartoons, kid shows, veggie, start young, healthyComment

Breaking Down Clothing Labels: Eco-Friendly Materials to Look For

The fashion industry accounts for 10% of global carbon emissions, which is expected to increase by 50% by 2030. With climate change impacts on the rise, more people are starting to shift toward a sustainable lifestyle.

Recent surveys have indicated that 75% of millennials consider sustainable practices when purchasing products and aim to align themselves with brands that share their environmental values. An additional one-third of consumers are willing to spend more on products if they’re eco-friendly.

Some fashion brands have started to recognize the demand for eco-friendliness. If you’re interested in buying eco-friendly clothing but do not know where to start, here is a breakdown of how to read labels for sustainable fabrics.

Meet Lucas Barker - From Shakespeare To Tech!

Lucas Barker may be young, but his experience as an actor started even before he could read. He is currently on the screens as Fleance, the son of Banquo on the thriller film 'The Tragedy of Macbeth,' written and directed by Joel Coen and based on the play Macbeth by William Shakespeare. However, behind the scenes, Barker is a reasonably typical teenager interested in Computer Science. He belongs to his high school's robotics club, provides IT support to his neighborhood, and volunteers at a local senior community. In addition to being the local IT guy at the senior centers, Barker has helped raise money for women's shelters and clean water programs in California, and he has actively supported Riverhouse Children's House Durango in Colorado. To learn more about this young, but promising talent, please, continue reading below.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 41Prachedes Indyra GermanoMarch 9, 2022Actor, youngactor, technology, teen starComment

In Support Of A Better World

While I live in New York City, the digital explosion due to COVID has given me the gift to train pole dancing with incredible talent from all over the world, but mostly Ukraine and Russia. I feel so blessed to be able to work under and call these insanely passionate hardworking talented people friends. The Ukrainians and Russians however have a huge difference – their government. Ukrainian’s president Volodymyr Zelenskyy is very western leaning. He wants to continue with the separation of Ukraine from Russia. He wants Ukraine to join NATO and the EU, clearly for a good reason, and for his country to have a democracy. And then there is Putin, the Stalin of our day. His own people can’t even like a Facebook post opposing Russia’s government without the threat of going to prison.

zIssue 41, ArticlesKira BuccaMarch 7, 2022Ukraine, Russia, war, peace, a better world, politics, politicalComment

Tackling Space Travel and LGBTQ Support with Avery Cyrus

Avery Cyrus is a digital content creator based in Palm Beach, Florida. She is one of the top Hispanic LGBTQ creators on social media and known for showcasing her travels, adventures with her girlfriend, and DIY creations on TikTok and Instagram. Avery recently partnered with TikTok to donate $10,000 to the Trevor Project, a nonprofit organization that provides 24/7 crisis support services to LGBTQ young people. One of their main features is the Trevor hotline, where you can reach out via call, text, or chat through their website to speak to a trained counselor. As a strong advocate for LGBTQ youth, Avery has promoted the Trevor Project on her platforms on several occasions. She has also recently teamed up with Space Hero to train like an astronaut and show that space can be accessible for all. Although space travel seems light years away, Avery is hopeful to one day find a safe way to space or even Mars! Read on in her interview with Jejune to hear more about Avery’s platform and future projects!

Ways To Help The People Of Ukraine

On February 24th, Vladimir Putin ordered Russian forces to invade the neighboring country of Ukraine. Since then, the whole world has been keeping a close eye on the war evolving in the Eastern European country. According to a New York Times article, the number of refugees that have fled the country has surpassed half a million. Mr. Putin seems intent on capturing the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, which would dismantle the country’s democratically elected government and capture Ukraine under Russian rule.

Articles, Editor's Pick, Most Popular, zIssue 41Kaylyn WenzelMarch 2, 2022Ukraine, Russia, Help, Europe, NATO, Refugee, Government, Stay Informed, Donate, Evacuation, PlanComment

Shooting for the Moon with Marcelle LeBlanc

Marcelle LeBlanc is a shining star you’ll want to learn more about! This Alabama based multitalented actress developed an interest in the arts at a young age, doing readings as Shirley Temple and playing Annie in “Annie”. Since we have had the pleasure to see her in “Stranger Things”, “Cobra Kai”, and her first voiceover role Hulu’s “PEN15”. Most recently, Marcelle stars as ‘Mary Ellen’ in the CW “The Waltons: The Homecoming”. Marcelle has so much to offer, and her dedication extends beyond her work as an actress. She is an advocate for arts education, and is passionate about finding a cure for Polycystic Kidney Disease, where she has helped to raise funds for the cause. At only 14 years old she founded nonprofit “S.T.A.R.S,”. “S.T.A.R.S” is a scholarship program that works directly with the Alabama Arts Alliance to create opportunities for kids from all backgrounds who want and need access to after school arts programs. Continue reading below to learn more about the multitalented Marcelle LeBlanc!

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 41Sophie LaSalaFebruary 28, 2022kids, Kids, child actor, Actor, actress, Art, artist, kid artist, CW, Stranger Things, givebackComment

The Brave, Honest, Beautiful Sydney Morgan

Sydney Morgan is a digital creator and make-up artist based in Los Angeles, California. In 2018, she was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis, which is a chronic, inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. Sydney became home schooled and bedridden while battling this disease; so, she turned to makeup videos to distract herself. As makeup was something she could do from home, it became the creative outlet and therapy she needed. Sydney took her talent and wisdom to Instagram, and eventually TikTok and Youtube, which has now garnered a large following. Sydney takes advantage of this following by taking every opportunity she gets to bring awareness to Colitis and Crohn’s disease on her platforms. Sydney also is active in the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, where she has her own team, Sydney’s Superheroes, for the annual Take Steps event which benefits the foundation. Read on in our interview with Sydney to learn more about Colitis and Crohn’s disease and some future projects she has coming up!

The Queen of Comedy - Jiaoying Summers

Jiaoying Summers is more than a pretty face! She is a comedian, producer, CEO, and Founder of Summers Media. She does philanthropic work uniting Asia and the USA and is also a spokesperson empowering women and providing a safe space for all black, all women, all Latino, LGBTQ, and Asian to be themselves on her two open mic clubs in LA and Pasadena. Summers became a sensation on TikTok during the pandemic and talked with Jejune about giving a voice to the minority and the misrepresentation of the Asian community, and much more. Keep reading to know more about the Queen of Comedy.

Celebrating Black Owned Businesses This Black History Month

Small black-owned businesses rarely get the limelight that they deserve. Therefore, Jejune has compiled a list of environmentally and socially responsible black-owned businesses to celebrate this month and every month thereon. According to Black Owned Now, an online advertising and marketing platform featured within this article, due to national microaggressions and systemic racism, black-owned businesses are inhibited from reaching great amounts of success. Supporting these businesses has a direct correlation to the welfare of the economy and job market, as black purchasing power amounts to $1.4 trillion as of 2021. This list covers a variety of industries, such as: fashion, beauty, advertising, and accessories. Enrich your wardrobe or daily routine by supporting the businesses 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.

Reasons to Consider Shopping for Sustainable Food - By Cora Gold

With increasing wildfires and storms brought on by climate change, it’s little wonder that 67% of Americans report feeling the weight of climate anxiety.

You may be wondering how a single person can contribute to a healthier planet. Even the most minor changes to your daily habits can play an essential role in making improvements. For example, modifying how you grocery shop can influence the foods you see on shelves and manufacturing methods.

If you’re looking for a way to get more involved in the fight against climate change, consider shopping for organic and sustainably sourced foods. Food is considered sustainable when its production is good for the environment, the workers and the consumers, sometimes aligning with organic and local farming. While the concept of sustainable food can be complex, there are simple ways you can make better choices at the grocery store.

Folk Duo HuDost and the Collective Voice

HuDost is a Kentucky based musical group made up of members Moksha Sommer and Jemal Wide Hines. The folk duo recently released their newest album, ‘Anthems of Home’ with singles ‘Our Words Will Be Louder’ and ‘Home is Bigger Than Us.’ The single ‘Our Words Will be Louder’ was inspired by the painful polarization around BLM in their own community. The duo put together a powerful music video to match the song and invited friends and local activists to join. Additionally, all proceeds from the song went towards The Poor People’s Campaign, a local non-profit that empowers people with greater challenges to register to vote. Moksha and Jemal are also social activists and representatives for ONE, a non-profit organization working to end extreme poverty. The pair has lobbied with their representatives both locally and at their offices in DC on various issues such as extreme poverty, the rights of girls and women and HIV/AIDs. They also work with ONE’s sister organization Blood:Water, a grassroots organization that addresses the HIV/AIDS crisis in Africa. Read on in our interview with HuDost to learn more about their new album and the non-profit organizations that they partner with.

Art, zIssue 40Kaylyn WenzelFebruary 15, 2022Folk, Music, Music Group, Duo, Album, New Single, BLM, nonprofit, Vote, social activism, Poverty, HIV, AfricaComment

Don’t Fit In With Fab The Duo

Talk about a power couple! Meet Fab The Duo! This interracial power couple based in LA serves Rock music with a side of Philanthropy. Their spunky yet glamorous aesthetic is worthy of admiration this Valentine’s Day! Both Greg Driscoll and Brendan Eprile are outspoken body positivity, LGBTQ+, and gender expression advocates, and they make that prominent in their musical abilities and fundraising work. Fab The Duo recently released a song called “Weird Year” with artist Lucy and La Mer, which accurately depicts the mood of 2021. “Weird Year” is a flawless send-off for 2021, and we are here for it! Jejune is delighted to share this interview! If you are interested in Fab the Duo’s music, their support for LGBTQ+ organizations, or just sheer curiosity about how they can be so amazing, please continue reading below!

Audrey Hsieh is Keeping Hope Alive

Audrey Hsieh is a young actor based out of Los Angeles, CA. Her new film “Mixtape” recently premiered on Netflix where she plays the fun-loving, fashionable friend Ellen. You may also recognize her from the film “Here Today,” starring Billy Crystal and Tiffany Haddish. In her interview with Jejune, Audrey gushes about the wholesome and supportive work environment on both films, and what she is up to now! Audrey is currently in college studying psychology, with the hopes of becoming a therapist someday. At her high school she helped kickstart Hope Squad, a nationwide peer-to-peer suicide prevention program. Although long graduated, Audrey is hoping to continue this work in her future career choice. Read on in our interview with Audrey to learn more about her current projects and future aspirations!

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 40Kaylyn WenzelFebruary 11, 2022Hope, Hope Squad, film, TV, Actor, Actress, College, Psychology, Therapy, Suicide Prevention, Career, AspiringComment

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

Laura Turner: The Underrepresentation Of Abuse

East Midlands-based screenwriter Laura Turner gives voices to those who suffer from abusive relationships. With her recent film Lapwing, Laura aids us with a magnificent period piece that highlights the rather underrepresented topics of emotional, physical, and verbal abusive partnerships. Laura makes it her mission to dismantle stigmas around the conversation of abuse and, of course, uses her love of screenwriting to push harrowing stories like Lapwing to the forefront of media. Laura and Lapwing's story is empowering, and Jejune is so excited to share them both! We highly encourage you to check out Lapwing. The film's streaming link can be found at the end of this interview! Please enjoy! And if you are intrigued by Laura's screenwriting talents, her work with domestic abuse victims and organizations, and her upcoming projects, please continue reading below!

zIssue 40, ArtSAMANTHA COLÓNFebruary 7, 2022Film, film festival, producer, domestic violence, #emotionalabuse, movie, Directors, executive, charityworkComment

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!

How The Horror Genre is Growing on Tristian Eggerling

Tristian Eggerling is a young actor based out of Los Angeles, California. You may recognize him from his most recent film, Halloween Kills, where he starred opposite of Jamie Lee Curtis. In his interview with Jejune Magazine Eggerling describes what it was like working on a horror movie, the lessons he took from set, and how this experience made him a horror fan. A man of many talents, Eggerling also opens up about his parkour training and how he is giving back to the community through Caterina’s Club, a non-profit organization that works to feed, house, and educate at risk youth. For those looking to help out in their own community, he encourages others to find what they are best at and look for ways to share it with someone less fortunate. Read more on our interview below!

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 40Kaylyn WenzelFebruary 2, 2022Horror, Movie, Film, Actor, Genre, Los Angeles, Halloween, Parkour, community, non-profit, youthComment