Los Angeles-based Haitian writer Mike Gauyo is making it his mission to build creative opportunities for POC youth. You can thank Mike for hit series like "Insecure" and "Ginny & Georgia. Mike not only sees the importance of sharing his perspective as a Black gay Haitian immigrant, but also explores outside of his comfort zone to bring new narratives to life. To align with his values of making the writing industry more accessible to people of color, Mike founded Black Boy Writes/Black Girl Writes to connect young Black writers with industry professionals. Through Mike’s amazing program, students can receive mentorship from established writers like Amy Aniobi, Morgan Cooper, and Kemp Powers. If you are interested in Mike Gauyo’s efforts to create a more inclusive Hollywood, his newest show “Send Help”, or his experience with writing some of America’s favorite series please continue reading the interview below!

Bringing Awareness of Piping Plovers (The Ultimate Underdog) with NYC Plover Project

Have you heard about the Piping Plover? It is an adorable tiny shorebird that is seen to nest as well as feed along coastal sands and gravel beaches throughout North America. These sweet and loveable birds NEED our help! Between environmental, human, and predator impact there are only around 6,000-8,000 of them left in the world. Luckily, we have the New York City Plover Project, which has been working towards bringing awareness to the Piping Plovers and striving to help them to their fullest abilities to repopulate and stay safe. Please read further about how you can help protect the Piping Plovers, especially on your trips to the beach this summer, with the founder of NYC Plover Project, Chris Allieri.

Articles, Editor's Pick, zIssue 44Goldie AharonAugust 1, 2022birds, plovers, endangered, cute, adorable, in need, new yorkComment

Making Waves with Ethical Vegan Hair and Skincare Brand GRATIUM

GRATIUM is a certified organic vegan hair and skin care brand that ethically produces natural hair and skin care products! Based in the UK, this incredible brand proudly advocates for healthy hair and skin care products without the use of toxic ingredients that prevent all hair types from flourishing. Dedicated to creating organic products that use natural ingredients, GRATIUM has been nominated this year for ‘the best emerging brand’! From their best seller’s Clay Shampoo to their new GRATIUM Conditioner, there are numerous products you will want to try. To learn more about GRATIUM, and their devotion to successfully creating organic hair and skincare products, please read our exclusive interview with the CEO of GRATIUM below.

SWAC: Beauty, zIssue 44Sophie LaSalaJuly 29, 2022hair products, hair, Beauty, skincare, skin care, Vegan, organic, vegan make-up, organic productsComment

Kayla Thompson Is Singing Her Way Into Our Hearts

You better watch out! Kayla Thompson is a one-of-a kind musician that is singing her way into our hearts. Singer/songwriter best known for hits such as "Younger," which gained major recognition through Spotify's Fresh Finds Pop Playlist. Along with Honest, Pray you Away, and most recently, The Remains (Stripped), which was recently released and is the original version of her previous single, "The Remains." When she’s not singing, she is advocating for other black artists, appearing in American Eagle's Black History campaign, and serving as a board member for Projects of Hope. Her dreamy sound and genuine lyrics are not something to miss and we can't wait to see what she does next! Please continue reading to learn more about her singles, advocacy for black artists, and position as a board member for Projects of Hope.

Fiona Frills - Changing the Game in Skincare

Fiona Frills, the founder and Gen Z entrepreneur behind Frilliance, is not only a young entrepreneur providing clean, affordable, and effective skincare for teenagers, but she is also a successful YouTube influencer with nearly 1 million subscribers. Frilliance has a wide range of products, such as the cutest heart-shaped pimple patches and a soothing Perfecting Primer + Serum, which you will not want to miss! She also has makeup assortments such as cream blushes, illuminating cream highlighters, and moisturizing lip balms. Her line doesn't stop there, as she also has acne-fighting face masks to help combat the long-term pandemic. Fiona Frills is changing the game in teen skincare by being a relatable and accessible source for teen skincare shopping, and we couldn't be happier. Continue reading to learn more about Fiona Frills' skin care line development journey, as well as her Frilliance routine and upcoming new drops!

SWAC: Beauty, zIssue 44Maddy MaierJuly 26, 2022skincare, #skincare, young, entrepreneur, women entrepreneur, influencer, gen-z, makeup, brand, clean, natural, acne, natural makeupComment

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!

Scarlett Bella Song - Dancing For a Difference

Scarlett Bella Song is using her dancing to make a difference, and we couldn't be happier. She is a South Korean dancer, social media personality, and designer who started competing in dance when she was three years old. She has over 600,000 social media followers and has been dancing her way to the top. She recently collaborated with Annie and Sisters on the teen line Annie x Scarlett, which consists of 15 pieces with messages of kindness, empowerment, and collaboration. She also performed as the first and only dancers last month at the Kids Rock For Kids: Global Teen Rock Music Festival in New York City, which raised money for Ukraine and homeless youth in NYC. Continue reading to find out more about her dance, jewelry line, Asian American heritage, and involvement in the Kids Rock For Kids: Global Teen Rock Music Festival.

The Impacts of Social Media Activism

Social media has its pros as well as its cons… but in order to make a real impact on social justice in America, individuals and communities need to step outside and speak up for what they believe in.

Articles, zIssue 44Goldie AharonJuly 21, 2022social media, activism, women, BLM, Technology, online, balance, awareness, Volunteer, donation, protestComment

Shop Sustainably With These American-Made Companies

The current climate crisis has consumers eager to shop sustainably with American-made brands committed to eco-friendly manufacturing and shipping. Sustainable companies use organic, nontoxic and environmentally friendly-sourced materials and ingredients in their products, while purchases from the United States help offset harmful transport emissions. Make a difference by shopping for sustainable clothing, beauty and furniture products with these 10 eco-conscious, American-based companies.

SWAC: Fashion, Articles, SWAC: BeautyCora GoldJuly 19, 2022Sustainability, USA, ethical brands, Shopping, american-made, companies, clothing brandComment

Ariel Rose - Star of Tomorrow

Ariel Rose is a Miami-based singer/songwriter who is an upcoming artist you don't want to miss. She has performed at various events across the country and has a growing fan base. She has gone from being an award-winning artist at the age of 15 to being the featured vocalist on a Suncoast Emmy-winning project called River of the Last Valley. Ariel Rose is a fan of Latin multi-cultural sounds, and it shows on her debut album Rythems of Life, produced by Grammy-nominated Colombian producer Juan Vicente Zambrano, which was recorded in both English and Spanish. Ariel also partnered with United Way to raise funds for the Miami Pandemic Response through her single "Somebody Loves You." If she wasn't already impressive, she also recently released "In Paraso", a new EP with four songs in both Spanish and English. Continue reading to learn more about her Latin influences and musical style, as well as her new EP "In Paraso", and the various charities she supports.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 44Maddy MaierJuly 18, 2022music artist, female artists, Musican, latinx, Miami, pandemicComment

Anastasiya Mitrunen: Understanding The Effects of One’s Actions

Los Angeles-based actress Anastasiya Mitrunen makes it her mission to advocate for those that can not advocate for themselves. Whether Anastasiya's work in her industry or her philanthropy, she does everything with the hope of ending others' suffering. You can find Anastasiya recently starring in her feature film "The Walk," opposite Terrance Howard and Jeremy Piven. "The Walk" premiered on June 10th and relays the story of a court-ordered Integration in Boston. Although Anastasiya's character is not on the right side of history, her acting is genuinely insightful to the hate we are still trying to counter in modern times. Anastasiya Mitrunen has won the Best Actress Awards in several film festivals, and without a doubt, "The Walk" is a must-see movie! If you are interested in Anastasiya's feature film, her thoughts on her character Pat Coughlin, or Anastasiya's humanitarian work with L.A Animal Save 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

Fashion With A Purpose

A show to remember! Restored Reflection, Inc. founders Rionel Fisher and Tamela Robinson-Fischer held their 2nd Annual Fashion With A Purpose Fashion Show, which was hosted by KJLH Radio Personality Tammi Mac. This event, held at Grand Hope Park in downtown Los Angeles, began with a red carpet and was followed by a fashion show featuring designers from around the world. All proceeds from this event will benefit Restored Reflections, Inc., a non-profit that provides economic impact training, education, and community development to at-risk, inner-city youth and young adults. Continue reading to learn more about four celebrity guests: actor Dustin Harnish, model Sabrina Ann Frontino, actor Chris Levine, and actor Christian McClure, and why Restored Reflections Inc is important to them.

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

How Protests Differ in the Past to the Present

Protesting has been an incredibly effective way of expression in the United States since the first amendment. Although, over the past couple of decades, this method of proclamation has decreased in efficiency and value, why is this?

SPONSORED - How To Actually Wear Y2K Fashion for Summer

The turn of the century was a time of significant change- especially in fashion. The Y2K era was characterized by unique clothes, bright colors, and excessive accessories. If you're looking to channel your inner 2000s fashionista this summer, read on for tips on wearing Y2K style.

SWAC: Fashion, zIssue 44Sophie LaSalaJuly 6, 2022fashion, fashion industry, designers, sustainable, ecofriendly, New York, new york cityComment

Caitlin Shorey is Taking 2022 By Storm

Caitlin Shorey is an incredible young Pennsylvania based actress that you should know about. She has quickly made a name for herself with buzzworthy roles in television and film. Caitlin has taken 2022 by storm! She made her television debut as the younger version of Clare Abshire in the new HBO limited series, The Time Traveler's Wife, adapted by Audrey Niffenegger's novel and later this year, will make her feature film debut in Mr. Harrigan's Phone, Netflix's film adaptation of the short story by Stephen King. Caitlin’s dedication extends beyond her accomplishments as an actress. She is passionate about philanthropy and is committed to giving back. Since 2018, she has been supporting Inheritance of Hope, sparked by her mother being diagnosed with Metastatic Breast Cancer. In June 2021, she sang to her mom for the last time at a virtual cabaret. Caitlin continues to raise money and awareness so IOH can serve many more families. You will want to continue reading below to learn more about Caitlin Shorey!

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 44Sophie LaSalaJuly 5, 2022kids, cancer, family and friends, family support, actress, child actorComment

Advocating for Equality with European Actor Yohann Chopin

Yohann Chopin is a multi-lingual European actor and producer that should be on your radar. Impressively, he speaks four languages French, his mother tongue, along with Italian, Spanish, and Swedish! He has experience acting in both the French and Italian film industry. He began his career as a producer and later transitioned to acting. Yohann has taken on various roles including Simon Bastelica in the Italian series Rosy Abate: La Serie and Jaubert in French series Versailles. Additionally, he starred in the films Mare di grano in 2018 and Creators: The Past in 2019. Currently, he is working on the French feature film Dissonance where he will play Jérôme Castaing. Beyond his many achievements as an actor and producer, Yohann is passionate about women’s rights and giving back. Since 2013, he has worked as a volunteer for the UN Women French committee and continues to advocate for the rights and equality of women. To learn more about the multi-talented Yohann Chopin, continue reading below!

Abortion Importance in the United States

In 1970, Jane Roe (a false name used for her privacy) challenged a Texas law that had made abortion illegal. Identifying that state laws took away her rights as an American by the fourteenth amendment. The outcome of this event was that the Supreme Court, at the at time, determined that women have the constitutional right to choose to have an abortion, vs the right being determined by individual states.

Throughout history in the United States, most cisgender men in politics have had the final say on what women can do with their own lives, including what they can wear, how they can act, and what they are allowed to do with their own anatomy. So, it isn’t shocking that they are trying to take over the ability for women to decide if they want to get an abortion.

Roe v. Wade was the protective barrier for women in this country, and with it overturned the United States has already criminalized abortion in at least five states so far, Politico, while over eight trigger laws are set to be applied in the oncoming future.