ymboi magazine: azania
DESCRIPTION
Y’MBÔI Magazine is a digitally interactive publication for the culturally and fashionably conscious individuals around the world who are rebellious, innovative and eclectic with their sense and definition of style. We are speaking from a voice that is loud yet prominent and street fashion, beauty trends, music, and current issues. We do not look to anyone for fashion advice, we create our own. We do not blur the lines of society, we eliminate them. There are no wrongs or rights, no blacks or whites. Our catwalks are sidewalks, the inspiration our continent. We speak not to you, but on behalf of you- our fashionable streets.TRANSCRIPT
AzaniaSoul PuRPoSE
I've found that real inspiration is hard to come by
lately. To me, it seems that everything that comes
across my eyes is so saturated. With the first issue I was
inspired simply by the fact that it was the first issue;
that my thoughts and ideas that have been swimming
in my head for over a year were finally 'tangible'. With
this issue I had to dig deeper than reality and I thought
digitally. Digital media, although a teenager at best,
has become the source of pretty much everything. Big
business are no longer judged on their portfolio but
on how many Facebook likes and how many twitter
followers they have.
Chenai [email protected]
iNMYMIND Before people go on dates they now Google
people to find their history. All this with a click of
a button. To me that was really inspiring. I thought
back to what I was doing as a teenager and some-
how cheer leading practice and chorus didn't add
up to completely changing how the world works.
I knew I had to pay my respects to the gods of
digital media, for without them Y'MBOI would be
virtually (pun totally intended) impossible. So, read
our 'Digital Checkout' feature (pg 22) to see some
of our favorite shopping sites, and check out our
cover girl and guy to see how they've reaped the
benefits of digital media.
“WhEn lIfE gIvEs you lEmons pull out thE vodka and takE shots”
EDITOR’S NOTE
iListen
“the cat eye shades never go out of style.”
“Warmer months=more events=less sleep. these are the best for nights when I can't make it to the sink. I keep them right by my headboard!
vagabond ($150)www.ray-ban.com
simple Cleansing facial Wipes ($5.99)www.soap.com
~Fuse ODG Ft. Tiffany~ - azonto
iUse
iWear
STAFFBIOS“anyone can do the dance and put their own spin on it. It just makes you want to move!” sylvia silvestre
social media directorHi I'm Sylvia and I'm obsessed with beauty prod-ucts and natural hair. Reading books, learning, and listening to music are my hobbies.
tess mangiardimusic Writer“You can never be overdressed or overeducated” - Oscar Wilde
kadia Blagrovefashion assistantKadia Blagrove is a NYC freelance fashion writer and blogger. She’s been working in the fash-ion PR industry for years, producing fashion shows, styling, and working with some of the most creative minds in the industry. Her fashion knowledge and passion stems from her travels and her exciting fashion ad-ventures she has experienced. Her inspiration is endless. She in-stantly connects with the reader with her bubbly and friendly writing style and shares her fun and exciting fashion stories.
Amber BennafieldEditorial assistantAmber Bennafield 22 of Newsport News, VA at-tends Old Dominion University majors in Fashion Mer-chandizing while minoring in Journalism communications. In her free time she enjoys shopping, laughing with friends, and blogging about all things fashion. Her goal is to become editor in chief of her own magazine.
annamarie houlisWriter“Frowning gives you more wrinkles.” :-)
Ronald Williamssocial media assistant“Be here now.”
Zee phillipsfreelance Writer“In order get success you have to learn to live with regrets.” :-)
iShop~www.karmaloop.com~“I spend way too much time on this site”
“Of course I love facebook and twitter but I’m a huge fan of pintrest and viddy. pintrest is a great for photography on any subject and viddy is great for those with 30 second attention spans! “
iSocialize
these 3 keep me up to date from kony to snookie.
I keep up with current events through:
iLearn
C O N T E N T SI s s u E 2
BEautytIps
thEplaylIst
onthE
CovER
Digital Checkout - PG. 18
SPOTLIGHT - Shaunte Antoinette - PG. 24
Interview with CO-STAR - PG. 30
Nas
PG34
magfEatuREs
The TRON Inspired Photoshoot - PG. 10
Ill Bliss Tye Shio Solo Thang K’la
The WeekendLloyd BanksVieira ZPK
Frank OceanBojo Mujo
PG28
Chenai BerkeleyEditor In Chief
002 Creative Media LLCgraphic design
Sylvia Silvestresocial media diretor
Ronald Williamssocial media Intern
Kadia Blagrovefashion assistant
Amber BennafieldBeauty assistant
Zee Phillipsfreelance Writer
STAFF
Spencer Kohnphotographer
Wenya ChangBeauty & groom [email protected]
Angelina Vivacefashion & style [email protected]
AnnaMarie Houlissite Contributor
Tess Mangiardisite Contributor
Terrence Watsonmen’s fashion Contributor
CONTRIBUTORS
B E H I N D T H E S C E N E S
B E H I N D T H E S C E N E S
AV HELP! I love the way couples look when they match each other. My boyfriend and I are going to an event and he does not want to be all matchy. I however, want us to still look good to-gether taking photos and look like a couple! Any alternatives? - Couples Therapy
Couples Therapy,Men, we can’t live with them-- can’t live without them! I personally like when couples match but in a less matchy matchy way! The best way to pull this off is to either pull color in from what your wearing in some way that isn’t whoa! Have a great multi colored sundress? Have him wear a shirt that is one solid color from your dress. Another way to pull two looks together is to go for the same genre of style. You both can sport a punk rocker or preppy look yet still have your individual style. Good luck!
AHey AV!I have a dress I would really like to wear; however I am in need of Spanx, BUT Spanx’s are so expensive! Are there any other cheaper alternatives? - Smooth Sista
Smooth Sista,I totally feel your pain! I wear Spanx under many of my dresses! Even though Spanx do last long and well worth the money, I know they are super pricey. You can sometimes find some at TJ Max, Marshalls, or Nordstrom Rack for a discounted price. Also, Spanx has came out with a cheaper line sold online or at Target.
Xo
Hey AV!My wardrobe is not that big and I am getting sick of the pieces I currently own. I would love to go buy a whole new wardrobe but I don’t have the budget for it. Any advice? - New Image
New Image,I currently went thru this myself. Accessories, Accessories, Acces-sories! With stores like Forever 21 or H&M there are many accessories that can change an entire look! Just adding a hat or a bold necklace can take something and give it an update! If you are still bored with that think about changing an old garment to fit the new you! For example, take a button down shirt and rip off the sleeves, or take old jeans and cut them into shorts or a skirt. Look for inspiration, get in-spired, and play! Go wild and enjoy your creativity!
Email your questions to Angelina at
Xo
Xo
needstyling
advice?
INDEPENDENT STYLIST, ANGELINA VIVACE, ANSWERS SOME OF YOUR
FASHION QUESTIONS
A SK A STYLIST!INDEPENDENT STYLIST, ANGELINA
VIVACE, ANSWERS SOME OF YOUR FASHION QUESTIONS
dress-marianna BarkesdaleShoes- Christian Louboutinanimal Bangles- tribal Couture
EMPIREstatE of mIndPHOTOGRAPHED BY: Spencer Kohn
MAKE UP BY: Danielle Hutton
HAIR BY: Will Zanni II
STYLED BY: Angelina Vivace
MODEL: Erika Gurry
EMPIREstatE of mIndPHOTOGRAPHED BY: Spencer Kohn
MAKE UP BY: Danielle Hutton
HAIR BY: Will Zanni II
STYLED BY: Angelina Vivace
MODEL: Erika Gurry
dress-marianna BarkesdaleEarring- stylist owned
dress-titania InglisEarring-stylist ownedBoots- the old gringo
dress- marianna BarkesdaleEarrings/shoes/Ring- stylist owned
dress- marianna Barkesdaleshoes- Charles davidson
Earring- stylist ownedBow- marianna Barkesdale
top- marianna Barkesdalepants- Jumashoes- Charles davidEarring- stylist owned
The internet has been a second home to many. A place to find a job, bond with family, LOL with friends, and even shop! This “Digital Age” has made life a bit more convenient than it has been centuries ago.
Shopping was once a pastime, an event that was scheduled for the weekend, something one would have to make time for – gone are those days! Today, the world can shop for almost anything from the comfort of their homes or from the convenience of their phones.
We all shop for different reasons and with so many options out there in cyber space, shopping can be a bit overwhelming. We’ve narrowed down the most popular and helpful “cyber-malls” that can address common shopping situations.
Digital Checkout
By: Kadia Blagrove
I need a great pair of shoes and I don’t have time to run around searching for ‘em!
There are sites that exclu-sively cater to footwear. Heels.com offers an array of different styles and sizes. If you are truly a shoe ad-dict, try shoe stylist sites like Shoedazzle; they cre-ate a personal style profile for you and match you with your perfect shoe!
Sites:-Heels.com-Shoedazzle.com
I need something one-of-a-kind. Everyone around me shops at the same local retailer.
Branch out! Thanks to in-ternational shipping, you can now find that “out of this (your) world” ensem-ble. Fashions from other cities like Tokyo, London, or Paris have their own special flair, much differ-ent than your average local retailer. ASOS is especially popular due to their great selections and awesome prices.
Sites:-Asos.com-Boohoo.com-ZoZoTown.com-Tobi.com-NastyGal.com
I need an elaborate and amazing designer piece for a special occasion but I don’t want to break the bank. Especially since I’ll probably only wear it once.
The Sex and the City movie introduced the world to Bag, Borrow, or Steal. Since then, there have been many other for-rent designer online boutiques on the rise. You get the real deal designer goodies for usually 50% or more off and can still keep some space in your closet for the keepers. If you are someone who likes to keep up with the seasons, rent-ing is your perfect shopping strategy (especially if you are just trying to flaunt the “it” bag of the week).
Sites:-RentTheRunway.com-BagBorroworSteal.com
I like to buy my labels in bulk, point me to the direction!
Many luxury shopping sites offer trend reports and styl-ing influences to ignite your inner fashionista! It’s like looking at a store mannequin but better.
Sites:-Net-a-porter.com-Luisaviaroma.com-Bluefly.com
I don’t care where this item is located or if it is design-er. I don’t even care if it is rented. But where do I find a pair of red studded shoes?
Looking for that one specific item, huh? ShopStyle is the place to check. You type in the item desired and it will find images and shopping links to anything closely or exactly related. It’s basically Google for shopping!
Sites:-ShopStyle.com
DIGITAL CHECKOUT
Online orbrick & morter
Now before you click the check-out button, you must know the pros and cons of online shopping. Is it too much of a risk to buy this on-line rather than in an old-fash-ioned brick & mortar store?
I love luxury brands and I also like keeping them! How can I keep my de-signer threads without losing money?
Thanks to sites like Amazon and Ebay, deals are much easier to find because they are provided by shoppers like you. People sell and buy “used” items online all the time. Furthermore, because there are so many sellers it gives the shopper many sale options.
Sites:-Fashionvault.ebay.com-MyHabit.com-RueLaLa.com
Once you’ve become sea-soned with particular shop-ping sites, you’ll know the sizing and quality each has to offer so you won’t even have to try before you buy.
As you know, this isn’t your mother’s home-shopping; you don’t have to wait for the infomercial or TV seg-ment to air to get a fly pair of jeans. Enjoy the con-venience of digital home shopping.
• Convenience and comfort while shopping • The “store” is never closed• You can shop at multiple stores at once with only a few clicks• Comparison shopping dilemmas are eased • No check-out or fitting-room lines• Quick and easy transactions • More access to deals and savings • No more heavy shopping bags• Easier to find exclusive styles • Great way to send gifts to distant loved ones
• No fitting-rooms• Can’t touch or feel item• Delivery time• Complicated returns or exchanges (depen ing on the site)• May experience technical difficulties• No real human assistance unless you make the dreaded phone call • No cash or checks accepted • Shipping & Handling costs• May develop a need to buy items in bulk due to S&H costs each purchase• May become addicted
P R O S
C O N S
Many online stores are also get-ting involved with social net-working. Heels.com allows you to view your friends’ wishlist, making birthday and Christmas presents so much easier to shop for!
Giuseppe Zanotti Wedges Black Suede Leopard Print Cindy Pumps ($165)www.giuseppezanottishoe.com
“The trend is print in shoes. I’m a shoeaholic and these shoes just feed into my addiction. They add a whole new dimension to any spring outfit. It adds a playful-ness.” -- Sylvia Silvestre (Beauty Director)
Topshop High Waist Sorbert Jamie Jeans ($80)us.topshop.com
“Pastel Any-thing!” -- Kadia Blagrove (Edito-rial Assitant)
Jeffrey Campbell Lita Spike ($189)www.solestruck.com
“There’s nothing like a Jeffrey Campbell orginal. The Lita Spike is haute! Won’t find another shoe like it!” –Amber Bennafield, Editorial Assistant
A Maxi Dress - Haley printed halter patio dress, banana republic ($109.99)bananarepublic.com
“You can dress it up or dress it down, but either way, it’s a summer necessi-ty” -- Tess Mangiardi (Music Writer)
Beautyon a budgetfashIon
dopE stREEt fashIon
“Of course celebrities look flawless on the red carpet, but remember who works the magic behind the scenes: hairstylists, fashion stylists and makEup aRtIsts!” –shaunte’
Spotlight
- By: Amber Bennafield
Make-UP ARTIST
Shaunte'Antionette
Makeup artist Shaunte’ Antionette of hampton, virginia realized early on that being an entrepreneur takes a strong person and sacrifice to create a brand and a business from the ground up.
her natural ability to not only make her clients look beautiful, but feel beautiful as well is a gift she has grown to ap-preciate. While none of her progressing success has come easy, she continues to excel in the industry, one client/event at a time. Specializing in Fashion MakeUp Artistry her passion for makeup comes from her love of fashion, art, and free-dom of expression.
YM: Describe what beauty is to you? SA: Beauty goes beyond appear-ance it starts within. Makeup does not define beauty it enhances what we already have.
Shaun
te'A
ntion
ette
YM: What sparked you interest in makeup?SA: I simply enjoy mak-ing people look and feel beautiful! I’ve been so inspired by great make up artist in the industry such as Kevyn Aucoin, Sam Fine, Crystal Wright, Ricky Wilson, and TIA Dantzler!!!
YM: How did the ‘Pop-Up Beauty Bar’ come about? SA: The Pop-Up Beauty Bar is something I created to give people a fabulous experience while getting their make-up done. This includes makeup tips, and even giveaways. Whether it’s in a boutique while shopping, or a party while dancing, Hosting a Pop Up Beauty Bar at your boutique, salon, club, or home is easy.
YM: What type of projects/events have you provided service?SA: A little bit of everything. I hosted a beauty workshop at Hampton Univer-sity with celebrity hair stylist John Eley. I’ve done community events, photo-shoots, fashion shows, weddings. I’ve worked with numerous models, stylists, and designers. I’ve also done bigger projects such as short film “Unveiled” directed by Shumaya Bang starring ANTM Reality TV star Anchal Joseph and a music video by Virginia’s ETP winners of 106 & Park wild out Wednesday.
YM: What’s next for Shaunte, the makeup guru?SA: I will be moving back to NYC in August and will be under management. I’ll continue to be a freelance MUA and I will be looking to launch my lipstick line KissNMakeUp soon!
YM: Are you into any trends for this season?SA: Bright lipstick! Per-sonally I wear almost any color! It’s time to step out the box and stay out. Some of my favorite bright lip colors are from Kaoir Cosmetics.
YM: What is your makeup must have?SA: Mascara! I love Lash Blast by Covergirl!
YM: Do you have any skincare advice?SA: Skin care is very impor-tant! My tips for better skin is to always remove your makeup before going to bed. 2. Know your skin type (Your skin texture usually falls in one of these catego-ries normal to dry or com-bination to oily.) 3. Find the right products that best fits your skin to start a daily skin regimen! Lastly ALWAYS use sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun.
@Kiissnmakeup /Artistryofshaunt
KeepUp With Shaunte
Theplaylist
10 songs that should be on your ipod now! ~nas~
song tItlE: Bye BabyalBum tItlE: life is good
this album is gold, “Bye baby” is a share all kind of track where nas gets into details about a few of his past marriage challenges
~the Weekend~song tItlE: high for thisalBum tItlE: house of Balloons
this is a track all guys should have on there ipod, something slow for the honeys
~tye shio~song tItlE: o
underground female rapper tye shio laces amazing samples and beats with her positive rap flow.
~solo thang~song tItlE: miss tanzaniaalBum tItlE: I am travellah
this track just goes hard
- By: Zyambo phillips
~Ill Bliss (feat. phyno)~song tItlE: anamachi kwanualBum tItlE: oga Boss
This song is hot fire! Bliss has talent keep an eye out!
~frank ocean~song tItlE: sierra leonealBum tItlE: Channel orange
“sierra leone” is one of many awesome titles on this album.
~vieira Zpk~song tItlE: nos E Que nos
~lloyd Banks~song tItlE: the sprintALBUM TITLE: V6 The Gift
Banks has done it yet again another hot mixtape with bass popping beats and super nice rap skills, this is a must have
~k’la~song tItlE: Blame
~Bojo mujo~song tItlE: thando Iwam
Music has the power to tell a story, to change and to create. With lazy days and late nights, blazing heat
and crashing waves, there is no doubt that sum-mer is here. With it comes the music that defines
it. Everyone anticipates the next big thing, the next story that will become their summer
soundtrack. Co-Star, an up and coming hip-hop/R&B duo, have their own stories
to tell.
What got you guys into music? PRESSURE: Both of us were raised in the church, and Joey’s mother is an amazing singer, so music is in our blood. We love how music can control your emotions and we wanted to relate to people and uplift them through music.
What is your favorite thing about the music business? JOEY: Creating a brand that gives you an opportunity to be multital-ented and creative. It really allows you to be a true entrepreneur.
By: Tess Mangiardi
Your least favorite? PRESSURE: The fact that you can be a target for spontaneous made up stories from the media, just for entertainment. Nevertheless, it isn’t our focus so it won't affect our progress.
How did you two meet? JOEY: We met in high school when Pres-sure moved to York, PA. We just became instant friends because of the morals that our families instilled in us and, through that, discovered we both had the same passion for music. I started to manage Pressure as a rapper first for two mixtapes, but then we decided to be-come a group in order to help change the sound of music.
“Gone” is a really great single, where did you get the inspira-tion for it? PRESSURE: Thanks a lot! “Gone” is a really personal song about two different experiences that Joey and I went through. It’s about a relationship that was deteriorat-ing–not because of each other but because both of their worlds just couldn’t fit together. The clashing lifestyle, family surround-ings, and group of friends made the relationship unrealistic. Sadly, though two people were truly in love, the relationship had to end.
In my interview with them, Joey and Pressure discuss the things that inspire them, their ongo-ing passion for sound, and the stories behind their music.
With the mixtape, “One Night Only: Encore” on the rise and a new EP coming out soon, vo-calist Joey and rapper Pressure might just be the next big thing we’ve all been waiting for. Cen-tered out of York, Pennsylvania, Co-Star creates an upbeat, eclec-tic sound that is sure to keep you moving. You can take a listen here and follow them on twitter
Get To Know:Co-Star
Do you feel like you’ve grown as artists from the release of “The Rain” to now? PRESSURE: Yes, very much. We definitely loved making that record–plus, it was very popu-lar– but we have so many more things to discuss. We’re finally understanding how we want audiences to hear both of us shine as a group, rather than two separate people.
Does “One Night Only: Encore” have a theme that you’re going for? JOEY: The first mixtape “One Night Only” is about experienc-ing many emotions for a girl in just one night. “Encore” is the top ten records from that mixtape, with a few bonus tracks, thanking our fans for their support.
Do you both write lyrics? PRESSURE: Yes, 99% of the songs you hear are written by Joey and I. We take pride in that.
Who are your musical inspira-tions? JOEY: Michael Jackson (of course), and most definitely Chris Brown, Drake, TI, Rick Ross, Usher, and Wale.
Do you feel like you’ve grown as artists from the release of “The Rain” to now? PRESSURE: Yes, very much. We definitely loved making that record–plus, it was very popu-lar– but we have so many more things to discuss. We’re finally understanding how we want audiences to hear both of us shine as a group, rather than two separate people.
Does “One Night Only: Encore” have a theme that you’re going for? JOEY: The first mixtape “One Night Only” is about experienc-ing many emotions for a girl in just one night. “Encore” is the top ten records from that mixtape, with a few bonus tracks, thanking our fans for their support.
Do you both write lyrics? PRESSURE: Yes, 99% of the songs you hear are written by Joey and I. We take pride in that.
Who are your musical inspira-tions? JOEY: Michael Jackson (of course), and most definitely Chris Brown, Drake, TI, Rick Ross, Usher, and Wale.
Do you feel that your heri-tage inspires your music? PRESSURE: Definitely. Joey is from Liberia and is used to different rhythms and melodies from his country. I’m from Baltimore, which is a place with a lot of rhythm and dance music. We are both influenced greatly by our heritage and you can catch the different styles in our music.
What’s next for you two? Are you planning anything big? JOEY: Right now, we are in the fi-nal stages of wrapping up our EP “Director’s Cut”. After its release, we’ll be having a concert. We are excited to show the growth of Co-Star in the next chapters of our career.
What’s your favorite per-forming experience? JOEY: We had a video shoot in a popular club out here in York, Pa, where we currently reside, and the whole city came out to show love for us. Our fans demanded us to perform over and over again and it was an overwhelm-ing feeling of support from them. We were so happy.
What’s your favorite song on “One Night Only: Encore”? PRESSURE: Honestly, there is no favorite. We put raw passion into every record, and each song means something to each of us. We’re just glad it’s doing so well and being heard. As an artist, that’s all you want: for people to hear your work and appreciate it for what it is.
What’s your advice for people looking to get into the music business? JOEY: We’re not too big on telling people about the music business, because we too are still learning a lot. One thing we would say, though, is overwhelm the people with consistent high-quality work. That way, they’ll have to pay at-tention to you. Run it like a busi-ness because, just like any other business, you’re not just making music, you’re building a brand.
NatureThe secret to RADIANT skinWith love
fRom
Uneven skin tones, blemishes, oily skin, dry skin and acne are problems we all deal with. Concealer, foundation and other makeup products are phenomenal for a quick fix, but at the end of the day when the makeup is removed you are reminded of the underlying problem.
Many skin products claim to get rid of the problem yet in the end you are left with a milder version of your issue. Many of these products contain harmful chemicals, toxic materials, and fragrances that irritate the skin. Skincare specialist, Dr. Susan Taylor, Harvard trained dermatologist and clinical researcher in ethnic skin care and dermatology, gives us the 411 on products to avoid in our skincare products:
- Cleansers, toners or astringents containing alcohol, propylene glycol, fragrance, or dyes- Products containing essential oils (concentrated oil extracts from plants)- Moisturizers containing fragrance, lanolin, dye, alcohol or propylene glycol- Sunscreens containing fragrance, oil, PABA- Makeup containing oil- Alpha-hydroxy acid in high concentrations or at certain levels of pH- Detergents and fabric softeners containing fragrance, dyes, or preservatives
- By: Amber Bennafield
Well, the milk powder is rich in vitamins and minerals; it keeps the skin well moistur-ized. It is ideal with relieving dry and itchy skin. Without a doubt, the combination of all three of those products will have your skin looking FAB!
Below are a few fast facts that aren’t widely known, but definitely something African American women should know about their skin.
What you should know:
The amount of melanin that is present in darker skin tones makes them
more prone to skin prob-lems. So the importance of proper skin care is higher. Natural products, keep the skin youthful, healthy and
beautiful.
Vitamin C is one of the best ingredients to diminish
dark spots and blotchiness. It helps with uneven skin
tones.
Since African American skin is oilier so always prefer to buy milk-based cleansers. They are said to be best in
terms of removing excessive oil from the skin without removing nourishment.
Beauty products with soy help during the winter by providing elasticity to the
skin.
The secret to flawless, radi-ant skin lies within natural and organic products. They help minimize the chemi-cal overload that’s used on your face and skin and helps to restore your natu-ral beauty. The advantages to using natural products are obvious, but not just to the visible skin, but your overall body and health as well.
From Nature with Love is the ideal website for your every need. From organic oils, bath and skin bases, mineral makeup, to skin care ingredients, you’re able to personalize your very own organic fixes. The natural products include ingredients that are easily absorbed in your skin, leav-ing it replenished, moistur-ized and healthy.
v i s i t t h e w e b s i t e a t : W W W . f R o m n a t u R E W I t h l o v E . C o m
Why From Nature with Love?Easy! They provide top quality products that are “sourced from the most reputable origins and are refined and produced in the most organic manner pos-sible-- without the use or addition of chemicals and preservatives.” With various options, you are able to buy as much or as little to fit your specific need. Best of all their products are afford-able.
Best Sellers:Illipe Butter very similar to cocoa butter it’s used for dry and over processed hair, dry skin, sunburn, healing sores and it helps to keep your skin toned. (This is definitely top choice!) For best results use routinely, especially when you’re try-ing to even out your skin tone. Lime essential oil. While it helps clear oily skin and acne, it is often used to help get rid of cellulite. The properties in the oil help fight the excess waste in the skin that leads, which leads to cellulite. Lastly, whole milk powder!
flaWlEss
skInWhat woman doesn’t like soft, smooth skin?
How often should I was my makeup brushes, and what is the best method to dry them?
I clean my brushes once a week with Cinema Secrets Professional Brush Cleaner. It is a quick drying formula, removes 99.9% of all bac-teria and it smells like vanilla! Once a month, I recommend shampoo-ing and conditioning your brushes. Shampooing gives your brushes a through cleanse and conditioning them keeps the hairs soft. I would recommend laying them on a towel, on a flat surface overnight. Lay the brushes flat so that the water does not get into the ferrule of the brush, which then loosens the glue and ruining the brush.Find it here!
I want longer lashes but I’m scared to try Latisse. How do I get fuller and longer looking lashes?
POP Beauty makes a mascara called Lash Extension Mascara. It is infused with fibers that add onto the tip of each lash with each stroke that ultimately creates luscious full natural looking lashes. There is Keratin and Vitamin B5 that keep the lashes con-ditioned and the mascara is smudge-proof and water resistant! POP Beauty is based on the UK but you can find Lash Extension Mascara at your lo-cal Duane Reade. Give it a try, it will change your life forever. - Find it here!
BeautyBombshellSecretsIndependent Makeup artist Wenya Chang’s tell all tips & tricks!
Wanna ask Wenya for more of her secrets? Email her [email protected]
Lovely by Sara Jessica Parkerwww.macys.com
“Blends a scent of pure innocence with the exotic nature of a precious oil and the sophistication of a fine perfume.” - Sylvia Silvestre
Marc Jacobs Lola ($48)www.sephora.com
“It’ll keep you feeling classy and fresh, all day, everyday.” - Tess Man-giardi
Beauty on a budget
Unisex: CK One ($40)www.sephora.com
“Gotta love the ORGINAL unisex fragrance” - Che-nai Berkeley
True Star by Beyonce (mass retailers)
“Fun, feminine and flirty.” - Kadia Bla-grove
Escada Mini Collec-tion Fragrance Cof-fret ($43)www.sephora.com
“You can’t go wrong with Escada!” - Am-ber Bennafield
Golden Delicious by DKNY
“It’s Sweet and attention grabbing!” - AnnaMarie Houlis
fRagRanCEs under $50
I'm a simple girl. Give me a great self development book and I'm a happy girl.
”Photographer: Spencer KohnHairstylist: Ester RojasMakeup Artist: Mia ValourStylist: Angelina Vivace
Scarf: JumaNecklace: Dirty Librarian Chain
”Skirt: Marianna BarkesdaleTank: H&MScarf: JumaShoes: ZaraEarrings: Wander Luster
BE THE ABSOLUTE BEST YOU CAN BE, AND LIVE THE LIFE OF YOUR DREAMS, THAT YOU WERE MEANT TO LIVE AND PREPARED TO LIVE!
Azania
”
S o u l P u r p o s e - By: Chenai Berkeley
As I get older, I am so acutely aware of how little time is left in this incarna-tion. Not in a negative sense, but in an empowered sense. How to neglect sacred purpose when you really grok death? How to waste time walking false-path when you know your time is limited? Death conscious-ness becomes a glorious fuel for the fire of au-thenticity. Why wait for our death beds to wake up and live it all, when the opportunity stands before us in this very moment. No way of knowing how much time is left. Let’s spend it doing all that we can to live true to our path.” – Jeff Brown.
”
As I get older, I am so acutely aware of how little time is left in this incarna-tion. Not in a negative sense, but in an empowered sense. How to neglect sacred purpose when you really grok death? How to waste time walking false-path when you know your time is limited? Death conscious-ness becomes a glorious fuel for the fire of au-thenticity. Why wait for our death beds to wake up and live it all, when the opportunity stands before us in this very moment. No way of knowing how much time is left. Let’s spend it doing all that we can to live true to our path.” – Jeff Brown.
Dress: JumaEarrings: Wander LusterShoes: ZaraNecklace: Marianna Barkesdale
very morning singer Azania reads those motivational
words to remind herself of her destiny. “I have it taped on
my bathroom mirror” she jokes. Only she isn’t joking. The petite Sierra Leonean breed Boston native knows time is of the essence.
“We are mortal beings, once we’re gone we’re gone.” Since making her debut solo performance at her childhood church choir at the age of 6, the soul songtress has easily per-formed over 600 times with various groups and bands.
Now ready to step into the light on her own Azania’s soul purpose means more to her than ever before!
YMBOI Magazine: What brought you to New York?Azania: Music! I lived in Geneva, Switzerland for 20 years. I’ve lived in Harlem for the past year and wanted to work on my career here.
In Switzerland I had a great career and I had the opportunity to work with great bands. I was apart of a jazz band, a funk band, and I also had my own band. I moved here to start new beginnings as a solo artist.
YM: What made you want to go solo?Azania: I’ve always wanted to, I feel that at this stage of my life I’m much more mature and more confident.
YM:Why soul music?Azania: I just feel more inspired by it. I’ve trained on all kinds of music from classical to reggae. I love many styles, but soul just hits me more.
EYM: I’ve had a difficult time try-ing to figure out who you remind me of and I can’t think of anyone, it’s very difficult to compare you to anyone.Azania: Thank you. That’s a huge com-pliment especially in this age of music.
YM: Who do you hear you sound like the most?Azania: I’ve heard Whitney Houston, Anita Baker, Donna Summer but I try not to compare myself to anyone. I’m a strong believer in individuality and I feel it’s lacking in today’s music industry. Companies today think that originality is risk!
YM: That’s so true!!! Everything on the radio sounds the same, and it’s not even good music!Azania: Yeah, that’s why I have so much respect for artists like Sade. She’s in a league of her own.
YM: Any current artist that you like today?Azania: The person that really stands out in the industry for me right now is Adele. She has so much originality and she writes all her own songs. I was surprised at how much the industry in-vested in her because she is so different. You know everyone is complaining that albums are not selling. I’m like no, bad albums aren’t selling [laughs] and many good ones are just poorly marketed.
YM: You’re absolutely right. Do you write your own music?Azania: I Do! I write all the lyrics and melodies and then work with musicians to write the arrangements.
Earrings: Dirty Librarian ChainsDress: Marianna BarkesdaleShoes: Vera Pelle
YM: What moves you to write your own music?Azania: Emotions. I write auto-biographically. I tend to share a part of myself in my music. I’ve always loved to write. Even as a kid I wrote a lot of poetry. I wrote You belong right after a friend of mine gave birth. When I saw her baby I thought about how this is happening every minute around the world. I thought about all the parents that have these feelings and how children around the world have the right to be shel-tered, nourished, and protected. Unfortunately that doesn’t always happen. My whole point in my lyrics is to send a message no mat-ter what. It may be an internal experience but other people may be going through it or may have gone through it.
I WRITE MY OWN MUSIC
” ”
Skirt: Marianna BarkesdaleTank: H&MScarf: JumaShoes: ZaraEarrings: Wander Luster
YM: Do you remember the first time you per-formed? Azania: The first time I ever performed was at church. I can’t remember the song it was either “He’s Got The Whole World In His Hands” or “Jesus Loves Me”. I was 6 or 7 and the choir director asked me to sing the solo. Professionally, the first time I performed I was singing back-up vocals for a hip hop band at a major concert in Switzerland. We were sup-posed to perform at 11pm and we didn’t perform until 6:30am the next morning.
YM: WOW! That’s show biz for ya!Azania: It was definitely an experience. After that I told myself I was going to learn the business and manage myself. And I do now.
YM: You’re extremely active on social media. What are your thoughts on the digital revolution?
Azania: The digital revolution is beneficial. However you have to
be on top of it and really active. The impact of reaching fans in
seconds is amazing. People have written to me from Japan and Bra-
zil! I think it’s a wonderful marketing tool and it’s all what you make it. I
think the digital and social media revolution is great.
YM: Can you give any details about your album?
Azania: It’s going to be very dynamic and it’s going to have funk, ballads, a little jazz,
and is going to be recorded by musicians. I love recording live with an entire band.
YM: With this being your very first solo album what do you plan to achieve?
Azania: My hopes are that it reaches as many ears as possible and that people are moved
enough to listen to it fully and spread the word to even just one person!
Itendto share a partof myself though my music.
”
Lived in Geneva Switzer-land for 20 years. Speaks fluent French
Huge inspirations in-clude:Whitney Houston, Barbra Streisand, Ella Fitzgerald, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, Jill Scott, Alicia keys, and Adele.
Favorite things to do:“I enjoy procrastinating. I like to meditate and go to the gym...when I get to it. I just like to spend time with friends. Feeling and acknowledging gratitude. I’m a simple girl. Give me a great self development book and I’m a happy girl.”
“Azania is a South Afri-can Name. During the time of apartheid there was a political party that wanted to name South Africa “Azania”, meaning freedom, and for some it means “the mother of Africa.””
Giving BackAll As One is a charity I’m involved with. I wanted to see how I could help
Sierra Leone especially the children after the 10-year civil war. Search-ing I fell upon their site and fell in love because it was such a beautiful cause and was well-organized.
I contacted every contact I could find. It’s an organization that takes in abandoned and orphaned children from the war. A lot of them were left on the street because their parents were killed. They offer schooling, a home, and medical treatment. They also show the evolution of some of the children they’ve taken in. It’s so beautiful what they are doing.
The children are so grateful. They write to me. I do have concerts where the proceeds go directly to them.
After one of my fund raising concerts they sent me a photo of all of them holding signs say-ing “Thank you Azania, you’re the best!” I cried!
!Get to know azania
Dress: JumaEarrings: Wander LusterShoes: ZaraNecklace: Marianna Barkesdale
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