Stephanie Humphrey has proven to all that it is possible to turn passion into proceeds. Her passion has driven her to the business of entertainment.  Talented, gifted, beautiful Stephanie Humphrey is the leader of her own mission to a destination of infinite possibilities.

Stephanie Humphrey has proven to all that it is possible to turn passion into proceeds. Her passion has driven her to the business of entertainment.  Talented, gifted, beautiful Stephanie Humphrey is the leader of her own mission to a destination of infinite possibilities.

AMADI: Who is Stephanie Humphrey? For those who don’t know you, please give a personal introduction.

SH: I am fearless, driven, funny, loyal, a perfectionist, and fierce! I am a woman on a mission to be successful in a career that I love, and use the influence of that career to make a positive impact on my community

AMADI: When did you realize that you wanted to be an entertainer?

SH: A few years ago, I produced and hosted my own television show on a small public-access station in the Philadelphia area.  What started out as a way to get some experience in front of the camera turned into what would become my true passion.

AMADI: As an active member of the media, what do you enjoy most about the business?

SH: I love the immediacy of television.  What you do in front of that camera is reaching people instantly.  I love the effect I’m able to have on people as a result, it’s a connection you can’t get anywhere else.

AMADI: The role of the media, as some may agree, is to educate, entertain, and inform.  How do you incorporate these roles in an effort to uplift your community?

SH: I’ve always been involved in mentoring young people in different ways.  Being in the media makes it that much easier for the message to reach its intended audience.  People just tend to listen more intently when you have a television background because they feel they already know you. So since I have their attention, I try to make the message interesting and informative at the same time.

AMADI: Passion is an important element in the relationship of persistence and consistency.  How has being persistent and consistent allowed you to develop in your passion.

SH: Being persistent and consistent are the only ways you can be successful in your passion or any area of your life.  You need persistence because success does not necessarily come right away, and you need to have faith that you are doing what you’ve been called to do.  You need consistency because you never know when opportunity will present itself and maintaining a high level of discipline, preparation, and professionalism is what you’ll need to take advantage of that opportunity.

AMADI: I understand you write and edit your own work. What are your feelings about creative control in reference to your work?  How does having creative control set you apart from others in your field?

SH: Creative control is crucial because ultimately you have the say in how your image is presented to the world.  I get to decide who I am and how I want to be perceived.  Once you’re perceived a certain way (positive or negative), it’s very difficult to change the public’s opinion of you.

AMADI: What is “The Opportunity Prayer” and how has it helped you to grow as a leader in your community?

SH: The Opportunity Prayer is the way in which I motivate people to follow their dreams.  I talk a lot about my own experience of leaving a lucrative career to  pursue something that was not assured, but that I had a passion for and the fact that I’m much happier since making the switch.  I’ve given the speech in my community and have gotten awesome feedback from people that have been able to use it as inspiration in their own lives.

AMADI: Describe your most rewarding experience since being in the field of entertainment.

SH: I think the fact that I’ve been able to make and sustain a living in this industry is my most rewarding experience so far.  Contrary to what people see on television and in movies, this is an extremely difficult business to be successful in.  There are not very many people who can say they do this full-time, and are making a decent living.  So I always try to take time to reflect on that, count my blessings, and get to work on my plan to move forward.

Stephanie Humphrey has proven to all that it is possible to turn passion into proceeds. Her passion has driven her to the business of entertainment.  Talented, gifted, beautiful Stephanie Humphrey is the leader of her own mission to a destination of infinite possibilities.

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One of the problems we face is the shortage of good black men. Too many are dead, incarcerated, lazy and irresponsible. Men were created to provide, protect and lead. But events during slavery psychologically reversed the roles of the man and woman. Slavery was designed to keep the black man behind the woman. We are now in a time where we need our men at the forefront.

For generations, the male presence has been absent in many black households. If we are to help our men, we must understand that our boys have to transition into manhood as they grow older. Even though he is physically a man and possesses a job, it doesn’t mean he’s a man. A man is judged by his character and not by the size of his wallet. Too often we allow his credentials to dictate who he is.

Many men aren’t being men because they don’t know how to be. But just as you can find time to party, you can find time to read the bible or go to church to learn how to be a man. Despite our history, we are all able to distinguish right from wrong. In 2011, all men should add “being a better man” to their list of things to accomplish.

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In some instances, these desires to create act as hobbies, and in others, surface as inescapable necessities; certainly making them the envy of those who feel obligated to adhere to society’s expectations of conformity.

The choices to act on such daring passions often draws the confusion, and at times, the criticism, of others, as our obligations often override our imaginative, though very concrete ambitions. The argument being, that while hope is often deemed commendable, it can’t guarantee the assurance of success. However, not all of us are so afraid to follow our dreams and act on our inner-most inspirations. Some of us actually concede to the invisible pull that guides our artistic destinies. And such is the case of artist/entrepreneur, Vivian Taylor; jewelry designer and owner of Kelviv LLC, a company which specializes in handmade bracelets, necklaces and earrings.

Taylor, who is a wife, mother, and grandmother, came to realize her gemmed dreams after spending 30 years working in human resources for private industry. Subsequently, her latest and greatest palpable passion was discovered, following her choice to enroll in a jewelry-making class; which only further added to her now impressive list of tangible creative expressions. Prior to discovering her newfound passion, she expressed her overwhelming need to create through furniture upholstery, painting, drawing, and sewing. And according to Taylor, her list of multi-faceted talents will only continue to grow, as she states, “My art reflects my life experiences, and acts as one of my releases. While working my regular, everyday 9-to-5, I needed to express myself creatively. I’ve always needed to do something with my hands; create on some level. And still do. I’ll never be totally fulfilled unless I am continually evolving, as it pertains to my different crafts. So here I am again; only this time, with jewelry.”

At this point, she is looking to create new and exciting trends for both the retired and working woman, while planning to launch and co-specialize in jewelry that men can proudly wear as well.

Her home-based company, operating in Temple Hills, Maryland, also benefits the community which surrounds her, as she contributes portions of her profits to a number of charities, hosts various fundraisers, and helps to reduce the proverbial carbon footprint by using both recycled material to make her jewelry; and remaking, reworking, restoring, and updating existing jewelry for her clients.

Unlike many other jewelry makers, Vivian Taylor purposely creates uniquely-tailored pieces of jewelry. While she may make similar pieces, none are ever identical. Orders are customized so that clients may better explain the pieces they want; consequently, because no two people are the same, no two pieces of jewelry are either. Bridal showers and in-house parties also act as venues for groups of clients to specifically design jewelry around her selection of semi-precious gemstones, sterling silver, Tibetan silver, silver toned metals, gold plated metals, and gold toned metals.

And though each of Taylor’s pieces is unique, her prices aren’t at all extravagant. Considering our nation’s current economic status, all pieces are individually and reasonably priced. With her booming business, Taylor does not seek to build an empire; she simply wants to create intimate pieces for her clients. However; “…in order to make [jewelry], I have to fund it. And to fund it, I have to sell it.” Therefore, while she doesn’t specifically seek affluence, she does run a lucrative company by making a profit.

The jewelry-making business is most beneficial these days, as people seem to favor style over expense. With that said, because of her skill set, custom designs, and ever-increasing clientele, Taylor is often sought after for jewelry expos and various showcases, to display her labors of love. She says, “As of right now, I am expanding my business even more by collaborating with varying organizations and other vendors; clothing designers, sororities, and other jewelry makers.”

Most of Taylor’s business is promoted through word of mouth, the circulation of her business cards, and her website: www.celestialgems-kelviv.com, all of which, continue to increase the productivity of her company and moreover, acts as a testament to the notion that risks, dreams, and determination can transform from simple curiosities, to enjoyable hobbies, and ultimately to beautiful surprises.

In the business world, success can be defined in a number of ways. For some; it is defined by the wealth they accrue, for others, it may be the name and reputations they secure; but for Vivian Taylor, her successes are defined not only by her ability to create; but by the sheer token that she is able to love what she does, as she does what she loves.

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Running low on the dough until that tax refund check hits your account? No fear. Good fashion can actually cost you very little. A wise shopper is one who does his/her research. Let me do all of the heavy lifting for you. Read below for a quick reference guide to great places to shop and create your Bentley look with that Chevy money.

H&M

H&M started popping up out of nowhere to become a great starting point for creating that millionaire look at recession prices. With over 2,200 stores and counting, there is no question that H&M has taken over the world of affordable fashion. With their unisex selections, you can dress the whole family in this one-stop shop. From tailored suits for men and teens to denim for women and children, H&M carries a variety of different concepts to mix up your daily look. If you are searching for a new head-to-toe look for less, I’d recommend hitting H&M first.

KARMALOOP.COM

If you have a little bit of time to look for some new gear, one or my personal favorites is an online spot, called Karmaloop. Karmaloop.com is an online re-seller of name brand underground street wear & fashion. From G-Shock watches to winter coats, Karmaloop is the place to find the “must-have” items that you won’t find in stores anywhere else. Even better, they offer regular specials, excellent deals, and money saving promotion codes to include free shipping and 30% off of your total purchase.

Express

Have expensive taste with little dough, but want to pull off that professional look? Express is the place to go for the creation of sophistication for men and women. For example, their men’s fashion brand is designed for those seeking anything from the “Kanyezzy loafer” look (work or church) to the “Diddy Ciroc” look (going out) to the “military” look (casual). With 550 stores open nationwide, they are the sixth largest specialty retailer of unisex apparel. Express stands above the rest for not only their uniquely inspired clothing lines, but also their frequent sales. Box sales, online offers, mailed coupons and promotion codes are all great ways to get those must have items without having to pay that got to have price. It’s not too late to step up your GQ game for 2011. Shop Express.

Urban Outfitters

Urban Outfitters is a very popular place to find great fashion and very unique household products. Originally founded in the 1970s it was known as the “The Free People’s Store.” Urban is famous for its current fashion trends and incredible sales. Where else could you go and find outfit essentials and stylish accessories for little or nothing?

Forever XXI

First established in 1984, Forever 21 has always provided an extraordinary selection of today’s fashions with creative design concepts that won’t break the bank. Forever 21 is notoriously known for carrying women’s fashion and accessories but very little people know that Forever 21 also carries a men’s line of clothes called 21 Men. If you find yourself strapped for time, swing past Forever 21. I’m sure you will find a fit for you at a margin of the cost.

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It is much easier to prevent a disease then to cure it.

Heart disease
Heart disease was the #1 disease affecting Americans in 2010. The World Health Organization’s (WHO) statistics showed 31.5% of women and 26.8% of men die of heart disease.

To prevent heart disease, become physically active, eat a heart healthy diet, and quit smoking.

Obesity
Two-thirds of Americans are now either overweight or obese. Obesity has become an epidemic in the U.S. and leads to other diseases such as high blood pressure, hypertension, and diabetes. The best way to prevent obesity is through a well-balanced diet and physical activity.

Cancer
The 2008 World Cancer Report predicted that deaths caused by cancers will nearly double by the year 2030. This means 27 million people will suffer from cancer by 2030 resulting in 17 million deaths every year. Experts believe the main culprit will be poor lifestyle choices. There are many forms of cancer, but limiting the intake of red meat and animal fat, exposure to the sun, alcohol intake, and knowing your family’s history can limit the risk of developing cancer.

Infectious disease
Disease-causing germs such as bacteria, viruses, parasites or fungi spread diseases directly or indirectly from one person to the other – sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), HIV, etc. Infectious diseases are now the world’s biggest killer of children and young adults; they lead to 16.2% of worldwide deaths.  Simple things like washing your hands and preparing foods properly could prevent the chances of spreading infectious diseases.

Tuberculosis
Around 2 million people die of tuberculosis (TB) every year. Researchers have shown almost one-third of the world’s population is infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that cause tuberculosis. The bacteria are spread through coughing and sneezing. Be sure to cover your mouth and wash your hands.

HIV/AIDS
Nearly 25 million people have been infected with HIV/AIDS from 1981 to the present.
According to the latest data from the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), an estimated 2.7 million people became newly infected with HIV in 2008, and 2 million people died of AIDS-related causes in 2008. Practicing safe sex and monogamy can prevent the chances of spreading or contracting HIV or AIDS. Your partner may look safe, but the only way to know the current status of yourself or your partner is by getting tested.

Lower respiratory tract infections
Diseases of the lungs, such as pneumonia, kill more than 4 million people each year. Lower respiratory tract infections also include tuberculosis and whooping cough. Washing hands, and following a healthy diet and exercise routine will help keep the immune system strong in order to fight off infections.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
COPD includes lung diseases that make breathing difficult. It is estimated that by 2020 it will be the third biggest killer in the world. Smoking is the most recognized cause for COPD but occupational exposure to dust, air pollution and certain inherited diseases have been known to cause the disease as well. Exercises built around strengthening your lungs, such as cardio, are a good way to prevent COPD.

Influenza
An estimated 36,000 people die annually due to complications from influenza. Influenza, which is more commonly known as the flu, is a highly infectious disease that is caused by the influenza virus. Transmission of the disease is made through both airborne and physical contact. Hand-washing, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding people with the flu are a few ways to combat interception of the virus.

Depression
Clinical depression is one of the most common mental illnesses; affecting more than 19 million Americans each year. Developing healthy habits such as not overworking, taking breaks, meditation, and exercise can help prevent depression.

As simple as it seems, a healthy diet, physical activity, and a well-balanced lifestyle can help to further prevent the onset of many diseases. Take control in 2011 and begin to live your best life now.

References:

Joint United Nations Program

World Cancer Report

World Health Organization (WHO)

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A brief conversation with RatheMC on her latest project, “Victory Lap”

In a game where only the strong survive, we must recognize that it takes a “Heart of a Champion” to compete.  RatheMC has not only proven that she has what it takes to stay in the game, but she makes it clear that she is just warming up. Just like a true player, her skills are evident through the swift transition of tracks, consistent flow of lyrics, and the overall precision of her performance. She is not one to ride the bench. As a matter of fact, she has all the qualities of a star player. After reviewing her latest mixtape, “Victory Lap”, it is safe to say that RaTheMC is definitely built to win.

Amadi: To complete a “Victory Lap” it definitely takes a “Heart of a Champion”. What can your listeners expect to receive from “Victory Lap” that proves you definitely have the “Heart of a Champion”?

Ra: Consistency. Victory Lap has a totally different feel from Heart of a Champion but it showcased my work ethic in a sense. I wanted my supporters to know that I’m fully committed to consistently delivering good music.

Amadi: Persistence and consistency are important factors in the equation of success. How has remaining both persistent and consistent helped you to grow in your success?

Ra: As long as people constantly see me or hear me, they’ll never forget who I am. That’s the motivation behind staying consistent for me. And it’s definitely worked so far lol. I try to stay as relevant as possible by just being around and always giving people something to remember.

Amadi: Since we are on the topic of success, how does RatheMC define success?

Ra: Happiness. Success for me is about being content and happy with the strides your taking. It makes me happy to know that people support my music, so in a way, I do feel successful.

Amadi: There are many people who have been cheering you on from the sidelines, waiting patiently for you to complete your “Victory Lap”. But there can be no one more excited than you.  What are your favorite tracks on “Victory Lap” and why?

Ra: My favorite track off of Victory Lap is “Top of the world” produced by Flight Boy. That record has such a good feel to it and it speaks to the place I’m in right now in my life. I feel great!

Amadi: We know we are dealing with the “Heart of a Champion”. We’ve witnessed you take your “Victory Lap”, but we are certain that you are far from “The Finish Line”, so what can we, the fans, expect next from RatheMC?

Ra: You all can expect a lot more music, groundbreaking visuals, and many more shows. I’ll also be releasing a video for a record titled “Dreams” off of Heart of a Champion very soon.

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Photo Credit www.iknowtheledge.com

As the 2010 year comes to an end, AMADI Magazine decided to do a recap of the music industry.  From Chris Brown’s BET tribute to our beloved Michael Jackson, to the highly anticipated release of Kanye West’s new album, “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy;” music artists have yet again, raised the bar for the industry.  Let’s take a look into some of the highs and lows of this year.

The year started out smoothly with Beyonce’ winning six Grammy awards for her “I am….Sasha Fierce” album.  The diva dominated in three categories for “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on it)” and also won “Best Contemporary Album of the Year.”  Monica made an awesome comeback with the debut of her album “Still Standing.”  Her singles “Everything to Me” and “Love All Over Me” both made the Billboard Hot 100 list; with “Everything to Me” reaching number one.  Having to legally change his stage name from Rick Ross to Ricky Rozay didn’t stop this Teflon Don’s album from reaching the US Billboard 200 list.  Seems to me the South had a good year.

Photo Credit www.upscalehype.com

Many of us are still mourning the death of music legend Michael Jackson; despite the 18 months we’ve had to get used to his absence. The year has had quite a few artists paying tributes to the late icon.  But none of them topped Chris Brown’s tribute at this year’s BET Awards.  Chris’ career suffered after his domestic dispute with Rihanna.  But despite the dark shadow that continues to follow him, the singer managed to pull himself together and give an awesome, yet emotional performance for the “King of Pop.”  Some are still angry, however, many are still supportive.  Beyonce, Jay-Z , Trey Songz, Drake, Nicki Minaj and Marvin Sapp were some of the winners that night, with Nicki beating Trina and Lil’ Kim in the Best Female Hip Hop category.

After being released on March 26, 2010, T.I. managed to land himself in prison again, for an 11 month-term.  He and his wife Tameka “Tiny” Cottle were arrested in Los Angeles, California for drug charges, which violated the rapper’s probation.  Lil Wayne was released from prison in November, just in time for his daughter’s twelfth birthday.  Hopefully he doesn’t make the same mistake as T.I.

Photo Credit www.thirstyroots.com

While speaking of the Young Money CEO, his team members, Drake and Nicki Minaj had an awesome year.  Both artists released their albums.  Drake’s “Thank Me Later,” sold 447,000 copies in its first week and stands at platinum status, earning him the number one spot on the US Billboard 200 chart.  While many doubted it would happen, Nicki sold 375,000 copies of her debut, “Pink Friday” in the first week, earning her the number two spot.  Congratulations to them both.

One of the biggest highlights of this year was the signing of Willow Smith to Jay-Z’s Roc Nation label. The 10-year old released her single “Whip My Hair,” which peaked at number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100, making her the youngest solo artist in history to do so.

Last but not least, Kanye West’s highly anticipated album, “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” debuted at number one, selling 496,000 in its first week. The rapper worked collectively with producers No I.D. and the RZA to bring together the well-produced album. He also produced a 35-minute video for his track “Runaway,” which also includes a few tracks off of the album. The album definitely met AMADI’s expectations.   That’s it for the 2010 recap. 2010 was a good year.  Let’s see what 2011 has in store for us. – N. Milan

Credit to www.wikipedia.com and www.billboard.com

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#1 Leggings: Size, shape, height, nor ethnicity is a barrier to this stylish and essential piece. If you are without a few pair, you’ll find yourself in the minority, as celebs like Ciara, Nikki Minaj, and even Willow Smith have been seen wearing them up, down and around town.

#2 Nikki Minaj as a Household Name: From hot pink hairstyles to six and seven-inch heels, she has propelled us into a world where fantasy can safely be merged with reality.  With her bold lyrics and charismatic energy, she has been deemed the “Queen of Hip-Hop,” by Rolling Stone Magazine.

#3 It Pays to “Go Skinny”: Long gone are the macho days where men thought “going skinny” was only for women, as Lil Wayne became one of the trends’ biggest supporters. Classic, stylish, and reasonably priced, Levi jeans became an easy way to cash in on the trend.  It’s proof that skinny jeans do not have to hurt your pockets…unless you try to put your keys into them!

#4 The Saga of Lady Gaga: Whether deciding to pair feathers with zippers or leather with sharp objects, she stops traffic. Some people think her style is crazy while others see it as genius. If you are a fan, just know that she is only getting started. No matter where she goes, she never fails to show off her eccentric fashion sense and inspire others with the notion that different is the new cool.

#5 The Love/Hate Relationship of Kanye West: Undeniably, he makes hits, but his music is not what makes the town buzz; it’s his style sense. He showed us that fashion can be fun with mixes such as a dinner jacket, fitted jeans and loafers or a pair of J’s with fitted jeans and a dope t-shirt.

#6 The Smiths: Proof that it is never too early to develop our moneymaking mentalities. Jaden and Willow Smith soared to the top of the movie and music charts. Fashionably, they bring forth new and futuristic looks that influence the way future generations see style.

#7 Shockingly Eye Catching: The G-Shock watch came in big this year. Now with so many new color schemes and styles, everyone was dying to get their hands on one. The G-Shock is the new way to complete an outfit.

#8 Lace It Up: Who said lace is only for lingerie? This year, the fashions have meshed the intimates with daylight by bringing some of the sexiest materials into everyday wear. Things like gloves, lace-style leggings, even lace trim on high heels found a way to captivate the eyes of women all over.

#9 Natural Hair: This year, more people decided to go natural than in recent years.  Whether it was because of the popping up of the Carol’s Daughter stores nationwide or the result of the sultry music delivered by neo-soul artists, natural hair has become quite a statement.

#10 The Higher the Better: No, they are not stripper heels!  This year, heels have become higher and higher. What was once the three-inch heel is now the considered the flat of shoes.  The trend is 5-inch and up.

“The Perfect Ten,” in 2010, has proven to be a big year for trends and trendsetters. Sneak peeks into 2011 have revealed wide-legged jeans, sheer fabrics, various shades of grey, and 1960s inspirations. The fashion history track remains stuck on repeat. I’m listening to what it will play next.

Stay tuned…

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