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SUSTAINABILITY FOR A #HAHT AUDIENCE

In 2015, Miami Swim Week was just another week for those in the swim industry to showcase their upcoming products from their newest swim collections. With minimalistic white washed runways, swim companies from all corners of the world travel to promote their new ideas. Though, with swim shows scaling to about a quarter of a million dollars, those participating have to be diligent and determined to make a mark on the swim world. Though, with all the same silhouettes and “curvy” identifying models, came a new character to the dynamic week. With exquisitely diverse apparel, model choices, and sustainable application, Hot as Hell established themselves as a true threat to the swim world in 2015. Since their debut at swim week, Hot as Hell, or as their family ran company calls it, “HAH”, remains as a dynamic force to the pairing worlds of sexy and sustainability when considering the swim industry as a whole.

Owner and CEO of HAH, Sharleen spent her days in the 90′s designing for the iconic swim division of Victoria’s Secret. This annual collection that is released once a year still remains iconic to the everyday Victoria’s Secret shopper and allows them to activate their summer accessories. Though, while designing these swim collections for so long, Sharleen noticed a detrimental amount of waste that the company was contributing to the world. She didn’t agree with these tactics in more ways than one and left the company to consider what she valued and how she could make change. With these morals in mind, Sharleen set out to create something that embodied both “sexy” and “sustainable.”  With these two core values, Sharleen established “Hot As Hell” , a digitally infused LA fashion label. Their style is designed as a “universal” line where their swim, lingerie, and apparel, can be altered to be worn in numerous ways. Providing a dynamic stance on the ever changing world of fast fashion.

When creating a fashion label to create change, one like Sharleen had to think about the people she surrounded herself with in order to embark on this journey. By cultivating a group of girl bosses into the “HAH” family, Sharleen selectively chose five girls to work hand in hand to make one dream happen. With a vision and all hands on board, The HAH team became a staple to their social audience. But from there, HAH’s efforts to be a transparent company stretched farther then the team making their products. By showcasing those who help to ship, package, and assemble their products, HAH made a universal commitment to show how there is no “I” in team. In the video linked here, you see a dynamic group of workers making Sharleen’s initial vision come true. All handing picking and creating these dynamic tasks, HAH has created an inner empire that reflects on great scales to their outer empire. Showing their audiences that its “cool to care” and that “Starting somewhere is better than not starting at all.”

One element that is a monumental to the HAH brand is their value for sustainability that is implemented into all of their swim and apparel. Looking to the figure above, you can see how HAH utilizes sustainable products to make their everyday wearable collections. With their sources and materials being composed of mainly corn starch, their fabrics are biodegradable. Their suits range from being UV protective, chlorine resistant, to not snagging or pilling. With these core concepts, the team at Hot As Hell has created their own terminology to define things that correlate with their brand by implementing the saying “HAH”, pronounced like laughing sound “ha-ha-ha”, into words like #HAHt, #HAHonesty, and other forms of this catchy phrase to embody their brands identity. From their swim that is made for the modern LA fashion mogul, to their one of “HAH” kind pieces that they thrift and repurpose, Sharleen has implemented the idea of valuing both “sexy” and “sustainability” into their brand’s landscape. Thus, bringing a new lens to the ever boring world of fast fashion when considering style and sustainability. 

From the sustainable aspect comes the deliverables that come with the products bought from HAH. They pride themselves on selling eco friendly clothing but make sure the bags they come in are reusable, recyclable, and overall sustainable as well.  In the figure below, you can see how HAH utilizes their bags for delivery. Along with their ideas behind being sexy and sustainable, HAH has also implemented the hashtag #StartSomewhere into their brand’s universal identity. This idea is implemented into their bags and is truly “HAHt” to their customers who care for the good of the earth while still being stylish. This hashtag also goes into their newest implementation of the HAH brand where with every sale made online, HAH will donate a percentage of the sales to planting trees in ecosystems all across the world. This “One for One” system is trademarked through HAH by using the hashtag #StartSomewhere to activate the ways that they can make change beyond the clothing they wear.  Giving the user a purpose beyond just buying clothes for the aesthetic and style, but for the community and atmosphere we identify with on a daily.

INTERVIEW WITH SHARLEEN ON THE TOPIC OF #STARTSOMETHING

From the well rounded world of sustainability implemented into HAH, Sharleen has also set out to make sure HAH is identifiable by all types of humans. By including models that actually don’t identify as “models” and more as personalities that embody the “go getter” lifestyle of HAH. By incorporating DJs, actors, dancers, and all type of performance based models into their campaigns, Sharleen has created an authentic atmosphere for HAH. This authenticity promotes all types of confident humans being their best selves with overall positive auras. Whether it be bettering themselves or bettering the world around us, HAH is always in collaboration to promote both walks of life into one garment. Even just this past campaign for HAH, Sharleen chose to use a plethora of plus size women from all walks of life to model their newly drafted collection. By having all types of humans in the campaign, Both Sharleen and the identity she has created with HAH shines through at grand scales.  Leaving those who interact with their brand able to always identify with being both sexy and sustainable. 

From sustainability to packaging to inclusion. HAH has made it their mission to check the most boxes and make sure those who identify with brand are mutually satisfied. With this in mind, they have also have made it their mission to make very gender neutral / versatile products. By having soon to be mothers and actual mothers walking alongside their toddlers, both covered in head to toe HAH on the Miami Swim Week catwalk, they have broadcasted that everyone is represented in regard to the brand. Leaving nobody questioning whether or not they align with the brand’s identity. By making clothing for such a modern demographic, HAH has effectively found the niche ways to include those interested with the environment along with being stylish.

In conclusion, when considering the ways HAH has implemented eco friendly clothing into the world of modern fashion, many would commend their strategic brand’s design. From apparel and swim crafted from corn starch to creating reusable and recyclable swim bags, HAH has made it their mission to make their impact on the world of digital fashion. With the background of Sharleen and her past experience working in the fast fashion world of Victoria’s Secret, it is notable to consider the effort she has made to make our world a better place. From the people working with the company to the way she create garments, everything is done effectively with a nod to the world around us. With love infused into every stitch and every cut, Sharleen has created an online empire of “#HAHties” that merge the world of being sustainable and fashionable. Creating and underlying movement that will continue to impact the ways audiences from all corners of the world view and assimilate with the atmosphere around us.

Going forward, HAH will continue to make garments that flatter every shape, size, gender, and all walks of life to embody their collections. By cultivating an atmosphere of its own, HAH will live beyond the world of the fashion industry and effect the ways future clothing brands approach making “Sexy” and “Sustainable” a #HAHT statement.

LINK TO HAH’S WEBSITE

LINK TO HAH’S INSTAGRAM

(ALL IMAGES AND VIDEOS FOUND FROM HOT AS HELLS WEBSITE)

#HAH

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COMMERCIAL LINK // WEBSITE LINK

JANE THE “VIRTUE”

When first beginning the documentary, I had little knowledge of the ways in which Jane Goodall contributed to the atmosphere surrounding the wild life in Africa. As the film progressed and a timeline began to form, I found her process to be so interesting and innovative. As an individual who focuses all work into a digital level, it was so interesting to see someone making such impactful actions beyond an online screen. Her hands on abilities with the chimpanzees and how she began developing this relationship was so inspiring and intriguing to watch evolve at such a magnified lens. I believe this documentary shined a light on the ways humans from any walks of life can contribute to the world around us just by having a good heart. Jane went into the reserve as an unbiased outsider and has now gone on to be “family” to those focussing on the good of wild life. This idea is evident with her intentions because she never once forced herself into a space of discomfort for the primates. She allowed them to accept her as an outsider and later as family. She acted with respect, consciousness, awareness, and most importantly, love.

All audiences can look to her courageous acts and begin to consider ways that they can apply themselves to helping all walks of life improve their communities. With Jane bringing such awareness to this developing community, she learned more about herself and how humans interact than the actual primates she was studying. By helping to develop the community and atmosphere of the chimpanzees Jane learned the true developments and adaptations of her true and honest heart that went into the whole process. She cared for the primates and through specific studying and care, she developed a connection that lived beyond the community in Africa and into the hearts of those who genuinely care for those who are in need of care taking.

As the film came to a close and began to showcase the modern day Jane accepting awards and continuing her process, I found the most rewarding part of her process to be the self awareness she gained while studying the primates. She contributed her heart and soul to these animals and with love, she expanded her own work to provide for others. Jane’s care taking is incredibly inspiring and reminds those that regardless of you identity, one can always find ways to contribute at a level of respect and love.  With her genuine process in mind, it’s artists like myself that are able to view her experiences and apply them to my own artist journey when considering my surroundings as an individual.

I believe the true “influence” behind Goodall and her long lasting care to those in the animal kingdom, was her respect she had for those outside of her community. As an outsider, she is coming onto their domain and by taking the right precessions, Jane respected the chimps and always continued to learn from their lens. She never forced any ideas, actions, or any harm to environment she was entering. I believe we can all learn something from her process and understand that although it could be problematic to walk on others ways of life, with respect, love, and honesty, anything is possible.

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“CHASING TIME” / CHASING CORAL

COMMERCIAL LINK // WEBSITE LINK

Before watching the Netflix Original, Chasing Coral, I had watched numerous shows and movies that pertained to wild life and how our carbon foot print effects the world around us. But for the first time, I was taken below the surface and into the depths of the ocean. Beyond the glaciers and rainforests, comes the bodies of water that take up most of our earth. The documentary showcased a range of coral reefs that had once been plentiful and blooming with adaptations for organisms to coexist with. But with the world changing and global warming at an all time high, the documentary showcased a mirrored lens that showcased what once was and what now is. This contrast was devastating to comprehend and truly left me frustrated for the world. This gradual process has slowly but surely effected the wildlife and the ways the ocean continues to identify as an atmosphere to such wildlife. 

One moment that captured my attention in the documentary was when they contrasted the melting ice caps documentary to the current epidemic with the corral reefs. I found it interesting how they paired these two diverse yet similar situations. Even to the point that the two creators of each project came together in support of one another. I believe this collaboration process speaks beyond the world of change and shows all audiences how though different, any two groups with like minded interests can come together to create change.

One process that I also truly found fascinating within the documentary was the innovative use of technology implemented into the research conducted by the team interested in bettering our coral reefs. As a photographer, it was interesting to see their process of how they documented the reefs and how with modern technology, they were able to capture images to instigate change. In the photography program here at Parsons, one idea that is always enforces is to create imagery that can communicate and ultimately inflict change. This concrete idea enforced in the classrooms was extremely evident with the images of the coral reef recorded by the Chasing Coral team and how they used advanced technology and photography to create change.

I believe with the use of this modern technology possessed in this film, viewers are able to take away the idea that modern ideas are able to be executed. With smart phones, cameras, and all kinds of image capturing products at our finger tips, all communities are able to make change through the vessel of modern imagery. From small scale to a larger scale, it's easy to act and create change to enhance the world around us for the future. By photographing the coral reefs and the gradual change that left the corals bleached white, action was able to be made from those above sea level. From innovative technology to responding to such content, Chasing Coral showed all audiences how staying quiet does nothing but harm. By speaking up and speaking out about issues that matter, imagery has continued to influence the ways we view and create change in our world everyday.

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To conclude my partake in Street Art week, I found myself finishing a project for my final by wheat pasting around the city. The images I chose to wheat paste  represent my relationship with my hair through a non promotional lens. Now, instead of my usual virtual route, I decided to wheat paste my images for the public around the city. This process was so interesting to dive into and truly left me feeling excited to create at a higher level. Anyways- Im stoked on how these turned out. Above you'll see my documented process of how this process turned out :)

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Soho - New York City 2019 . Im very inspired by vibrant street art that is written with uplifting messages. Very cheesy but at the end of the day I love the vibrancy, graphic appeal, and overall aesthetic of this street art.

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Sustainable Fashion - Hot As Hell by Charlene Ernster

When considering the world of fast fashion as a whole, many would come to the conclusion that the worlds of Forever 21 and Zara are ruining the planet and ecosystem with live in. Today, more sustainable options are being brought to the table that are more eco-friendly and overall providing a better world for the future. Its fashion icons like Charlene Ernster that worked for Victoria Secret in the early 90s designing their iconic swim line but have since left to create bigger change for our world. Almost 30 years later, Charlene has now left her angel wings at Victorias Secret to form her own eco-friendly line Hot As Hell aka We Are Hah. “HAH” is a LA based fashion brand that creates swimwear, lingerie, and all forms of clothing for the modern California girl. Though, with the vibrant world she has surrounded herself with, Charlene has vowed to stay true to the world around her by only creating clothing using innovative / recycled materials. From shipping packages to the tags that hang from her iconic One of HAH-Kind pieces, Sharlene continues to innovate the world of fashion and sustainability with her family ran business, Hot As Hell.

For my Final Project, I will be analyzing HAH to create a full brand analysis on how they operate and function in a sustainable environment. From Victoria’s Secret to plotting her own twist on the world of fashion, Charlene has cultivated the true meaning of staying “HAHT” while being kind to the earth we live on. By analyzing the way Charlene has built HAH, defined herself as a “sustainable” icon in the world of fashion, I believe all brands can look to HAH to see the future of fashion and how wearing eco-friendly clothing is always “Hot As Hell”

WEBSITE - SHOP

VIDEO LINKS

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Final Proposal: Why Would We Want We Wore What?

When considering modern technology today, many would agree that most visual content we obtain comes from the vast world of social media. From Instagram to Facebook to Twitter, 2019 has brought a new modern level of broadcasting to the general public. With influencers being paid over thousands of dollars to create one of a kind imagery, paid content is being advertised to all genres of audiences 24/7. Though, with numerous influencers hustling to book jobs and create a visual narrative for their followers to relate to, is there an influencer that constantly stays at the top of the food chain? And if so, is it possible to create an atmosphere off a virtual world you have created for your followers?

Danielle Bernstein is an average 26 year-old, East Coast Native who loves to drink iced lattes and travel with her close group of girlfriends around the world. Though, to her followers, Danielle puts on the persona of @weworewhat. An iconic style guru with a whopping 2 Million + follower count across all social media platforms. Blogging since 2009, Bernstein began sharing her thoughts / juxtapositions of her modern wardrobe to a small group of women around the world. Today she is New York’s most notable Fashion Blogger, Designer, Business Entrepreneur, and has landed herself on Forbes 30 Under 30 List. With such success, Danielle has taken her everyday hobby of sharing her creative lifestyle online to creating an atmosphere that her itching followers value more than gold. With such a “cult” following comes brand deals, paid posting, and income beyond those working 9-5 jobs. Through relatable imagery and a clear online presence, Danielle has established herself as online mogul who continues to put her modern twist on the world of fashion.

In my final project, I will be analyzing Danielle and her self made brand (www.weworewhat.com) to conclude why her media presence has brought such modern success. From online posts to creating social media imagery, she constantly documents her life for her habitual followers to indulge in. While investigating her brand, I will analyze her style of imagery, the way she communicates with her audience, and how she has transformed this everyday hobby into a multi-million dollar empire. 

GirlBoss, Danielle Bernstein, has utilized the modern world of social media and truly capitalized on the contemporary way to sell a product, vibe, and overall brand in 2019.

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Seeing Through The “Lens” Of All

As a photography major here at Parsons : The New School, we are often challenged to create work that sparks a conversation and will ultimately create change. When I viewed JR’s political and powerful images, I began to reflect on those in my program and how work like his reaches beyond the screen of Instagram. I find it incredibly commendable how he is diving deep into his own feelings and regurgitating a powerful performance. With his images being posted in such powerful places, only sparks the beginning of the conversation and allows those immersed in the tragic situations to find peace. By giving a platform to those at odds end in these traumatic situations, leaves those feeling empowered and ready to create change. Although just images, any viewer is welcomed to take a step back and realize the deeper values that coexist within his beautiful imagery. With that said, I believe it’s those in political power that must see these images being implemented as visual activations and take action in order to create permanent change for our country to understand. An image won't change the world but it will start the conversation.

From what my grandparents have told me, I am lucky to have had my ancestors migrate smoothly to the United States decades ago to raise family and work. On the other hand, I think about some of my closest friends and how in today’s society they are left feeling unsafe and unsure of the future. It infuriates me that they spend every day wondering what the US will bring them tomorrow. From harding working immigrants to celebrities facing tribulation after tribulation, our country must do better about shaping our future. There must be change made and with the world being so connected through social media, I personally believe that change isn't far away. We have our foot in the door but we must act fast in order to create permanent change and ensure our friends and families are living in the United Stated feeling safe and protected 24/7. Through art, we can conveys these topics like JR  and numerous other artists have

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0% Regret 100% Artistry

“I Might Regret This: Essays, Drawings, Vulnerabilities, and Other Stuff” by Abbi Jacobson

Before I moved to New York City for school, my high school friends began binging the new show Broad City. They explained it as the new “explicit-everyday girls running around NYC” show. I was immediately drawn and started watching the show habitually. I remember thinking about how I may be in similar situations as Ilana and Abbi running around the city finding themselves in mischievous adventures. Once I moved in, Broad City became my safe haven. I found their actions and adventures to resonate so much with my actions in the city as well. Being it was the first time I was living outside my own house, I found this show to be incredibly comforting beyond imagine. Reminding me daily that Ilana and Abbi act in this comedy show but in reality, their sketches were their truth. In every scene the two girls found themselves in odd situations that began mirroring my experiences as a student in the city as well. As I dived deeper into the show and began understanding the architecture of how the show was composed, The rhythmic endeavors the girls would broadcast became more technical and thought out. They began making episodes that connected and developing the show as more of an atmosphere and less as a “mini minute” showing. I found their growth to be inspiring and left me wondering how living in such a city like New York world enhance the way my art would grow as well. I was excited to embark on my journey as a student but to also develop my self as a human. And with the aid of Broad City, I felt a level of comedic comfort that to this day has truly enhanced the way I exist in NYC.

As I spent more time in NYC, the Broad City brand had expanded as well. With that both Ilana and Abbi both began taking individual approaches to their art. Both began releasing individual projects while still promoting Broad City. Their audiences grew as a whole but also individually. With that said, I found myself stumbling upon Abbi Jacobson’s new novel “I Might Regret This: Essays, Drawings, Vulnerabilities, and Other Stuff.” When I saw the format of the book, it immediately reminded me of the architecture of the show. A bit messy, doodles and random entries in all corners of the pages, and multiple stories embodying one true message. I was so inclined with the juxtaposition, so I ended up purchasing Abbi’s book of scribbles + stories. 

Once I dived into her rollercoaster of observations, jokes, heartbreaks, and honest opinion, I found myself identifying with her beyond the TV screen. I personally believe this book redefines the entire atmosphere of “celebrity” in ways that maybe Abbi herself cant even comprehend. By being so raw, so honest, and vulnerable, Abbi invites a whole new audience to her “Broad City” infused crowd. All of these factors leave a level of connection and emotional attachment to Abbi as a writer, performer, all overall artist. Page to page she inspires those to be “everything” and to not take life so seriously. These words of wisdoms are interesting to hear from a celebrity with such a following / power but its rejuvenating in a world like ours today. From her random sketches to stories regarding her past relationship, Abbi opens up to her audience and allows those to see her in a closer light. I believe this book is a true embodiment of Abbi and is probably the most “raw” version of the artist we have seen to date.

If anything, I personally believe this book emphasizes for all readers to live life as honest as possible and to find the humor within the bumps. Abbi explains very dark times in her life but due to her comedic past and artistry, she is able to carry out the stories in humorous ways. Leaving the reader comforted with her words of laughable wisdom. She speaks on heavy topics and allows herself to dance with them in her own tone. After reading, I can truly say her writings, sketches, and overall presentation of the book, has encouraged me to stay true to my own artistry and to not put so much pressure to make something flawless. She stated in the book that “some of the best experiences don’t end with a bang, but rather a dose of reality.” I completely agree with this quote and find myself going back to her life lessons a lot.

As I continue my journey as a student in New York City, I’ll continue to look at artists like Abbi Jacobson for constant inspiration. Through her book she teaches her readers to take on the world and to be their own individual. As an actor, writer, producer, comedian, fine artist, Abbi continues to inform her followers to never settle for one path and to do all. She inspires me to stay focused as an artist and brach out into multiples disciplines within my atmosphere. Overall, I truly enjoyed this book and feel any audience, fans of Broad City or not, will be able to connect with Abbi and her creative outlook on life.

VIDEO INTERVIEW HERE : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vxPbKINQVAw

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TIFFANY HADDISH - THE LAST BLACK UNICORN

“Life happened for me...But I just kept pushing 'cause I know what I'm supposed to do here on this Earth."

“I believe my purpose is to bring joy to people, to make them laugh, and to share my story to help them. To show people that no matter what, they matter, and they can succeed. No matter how bad things go, no matter how dark your life is, there is a reason for it. You can find beauty in it, and you can get better. I know, because I’ve done it. That’s why my comedy so often comes from my pain. In my life, and I hope in yours, I want us to grow roses out of the poop.”

REVIEW

I first found out about Tiffany Haddish after seeing the 2017 summer box office hit - Girls Trip. Her presence, energy, comedy, and overall aura captivated me and had me leaving the movie theater being a full “stan” (die hard fan). When watching movies in general, I never forget how a specific actor can compel me to laugh. If I fall over crying laughing, I'm sold to the artist. This was just the case for Haddish and her unbelievable breakout performance. From there, I investigated her comedic career and began binging all of her stand up comedies online. From 45 minute specials to talkshow interviews, she constantly put on a show, kept me on my toes, & laughing until the end. I began to appreciate and value the way she made those around her feel. She continued to always finds ways to make anyone feel comfortable when attending her shows or having a conversation with her on a red carpet. When I discovered she had a book being released soon I immediately signed up to pre-order. I recall the overview explained how the book will investigate her upbringing and overall rise to fame. Once the book arrived, it only took me a few days to read cover to cover (including the hilarious audio book she narrates). As I turned from page to page my emotions ranged everywhere from dying laughing to hysterically crying. She explains how she has continued to use humor as a coping mechanism to deal with her rough upbringing. She explains her trials of being tossed into Foster Care and living with numerous different types of families. She jokes by saying she can “be friends with any kind of person” because she lived with numerous types of families. Though, with such movement from house to house, Tiffany continued to find ways to make those around her laugh. From cracking jokes to stay out of fights and violent situations, any reader would begin to develop a loving friendship with the storyline and Haddish herself. With numerous lows she goes into depth about how her darkest times have influenced her true passion of comedy and to this day motivate her to be a better person and to always be the “the last black unicorn” standing.

 I believe The Last Black Unicorn redefines Haddish as a dynamic force in the world of Hollywood by establishing her artistry as a “beautiful refurbished soul” that brings constant sunshine to those around her. Celebrities from all corners of the globe can look at Tiffany’s past experiences and new star-studded career and reconsider the ways we define “success” in the world of entertainment. I personally think this book opens numerous doors for those in the entertainment business and for Haddish herself. By publishing a book where Tiffany is broadcasting her flaws and past on paper and embracing her tumultuous upbringing, she is validating all readers to be ok with their dark pasts and moving forward with strength, confidence, and most importantly, humor. When observing Tiffany’s brave story, all readers can look back and realize “Wow, If Tiffany can get though it... so can I.” She allows all of her followers and new audiences to read about her most vulnerable moments including having to reteach her mother how to read and walk after a brutal car accident to embracing her biological father into her life and finally accepting his love. With all the food Tiffany leaves for her audience, there is bound to be one crumb for every reader to relate to and nibble on. She reminds all that is “ok to not be ok 24/7″ and to muscle through rough situations. She relates to all and allows people into her intimate world, that she explained to have kept a lot to herself  to focus on bringing more comedy to the table. Her hard work and bravery has lead her to big success and will only continue for the future. I find her charisma, bravery, and talent, to shine in all aspects of her life and through this book, I can promise this is truly just the beginning for Tiffany Haddish.

After the release of her New York Times Best Selling book, Tiffany went on to host Saturday Night Live and lead numerous skits. One entitled “THE LAST BLACK UNICORN” that pokes fun at her self given name about her having an inner source of magic along with referencing a large mole she had as a child.  With her debut on the SNL stage, Tiffany became the first Black Female Comedian to host the hit skit TV show ever! By doing this, Haddish has opened up numerous doors and continues to show the world how she redefines the rules and continue to break the barriers. Thus, empowering her audience to shoot high for their dreams and run with passion. She continues to empower and lift up those in the darkest situations and reminds all to smile, laugh, and fight hard for your passions. I personally value her immensely in my life and will continue to follow her journey as a true “influencer”. Overall, in times like now where the world is  harsh, dark, and unequal, its true icons like Tiffany Haddish that will continue to radiate positivity and leave people feeling empowered to conquer their wildest dreams.

WATCH:

YOU TUBE INTIMATE INTERVIEW (MUST WATCH)

SNL SKIT HERE

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Assignment #2 - Changemaker Celebs - The Strength to Move Forward

When initially thinking about Demi Lovato and her superstar reputation, many would begin to consider her powerful vocals on her pop infused albums along her charity work around the world. Starting as a Disney princess with her first spotlight in 2009, Lovato has truly evolved and grown into her own. She is vocal advocate about mental health and continues to encourage her fans to put their confidence first. Along with her iconic wrist tattoos spelling “Stay Strong” across her wrists, symbolizing her benchmark of sobriety, Lovato has continued to push those around the world to seek help when dealing with depression, substance abuse, and eating disorders. Through her music, fashion style, and overall celebrity philosophy, she continues to celebrate her life while guiding those to talk about these taboo issues. On her latest tour, Lovato  paired with a mental health team, that had helped her in the past with struggles of her own, to speak with her fans attending the show. RollingStones.com spoke on her advocacy by saying “Demi Lovato is putting her fans first for her upcoming Tell Me You Love Me tour by providing free therapy sessions and wellness workshops through CAST Centers – a wellness, addiction and mental health program based in Los Angeles – the singer announced Wednesday.Fans will have the chance to sign up for the intimate chats, led by CAST founder and CEO Mike Bayer, as well as listen to special guest speakers talk about their own personal journeys with mental health and wellness.”  I personally believe that since the beginning of Lovato opening up  about her struggles in her first MTV documentary, “Staying Strong : Demi Lovato” , Demi has created this environment where her fans feel connected and vulnerable with her to share similar experiences and stories. The RollingStones.com article continued by quoting her mentor Mike Bayer on how he believes “Demi is a both a friend and a business partner who shares our passion for encouraging people to seek help and realize their true potential...She’s an inspiration who uses her own personal experiences to engage people in meaningful conversations about mental wellness. It is my hope and passion to bring this conversations of hope and healing mainstream, this tour is a step in that process.” I too agree with Mike and find her ways of giving back to the community limitless. Being a fan of Lovato’s now for over 7 years, I believe she does the most and always finds a way to give back to her community. Going forward, I know Lovato will continue to empower and promote the well being of all while creating pop music for everyone to enjoy.

https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/demi-lovatos-upcoming-tour-will-include-free-therapy-sessions-for-fans-197026/

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Womens March

With influential celebrities like Lauren Jauregui broadcasting her views to her millions of followers, many millennials have begun to take action and join the movement. I personally believe this uproar is 1000% necessary and is the only way equal rights will ever be heard. By having influential celebrities join society as one to promote equality is incredibly empowering in my eye. One concept that comes to mind is the Kendall Jenner Pepsi Commercial. Although incredibly problematic, these iconic marches have now begun to imbed themselves into mainstream media like multi-million dollar Pepsi commercials. I have have taken part in numerous marches and will continue to stand with those in influential statuses to continue to fight for what's right for human rights.

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Jen Atkin - 

Named “ The Most Influential Hairstylist” by Forbes, Jen Atkin has cultivated an empire of culty fans with her brilliant use of social media to bring attention to all things hair. Staring in the early 2000s, Jen moved to Los Angeles with little to no money but with a passion to style and create in the world of hair.  While being a receptionist and assistant to numerous top hair stylist, she began working one on one with top celebrities like Sofia Vergara and Jennifer Lopez. With rapid clients and assisting jobs coming her “Ouai” , Jen launched her first solo project Maneaddicts.com. ManeAddicts is an online forum where hairstylists, colorists, trendsetters, and all hair lovers, can post their ideas, get inspo, and see what’s new in the world of hair. Thus, being one of the very first mainstream channels to focus their attention strictly to hair in the beauty scene. Fast forward to 2016, and after numerous celebrity clients including Bella Hadid and The Kardashian Tribe, Atkin decided to launch her second project and own Haircare line, Ouai. With the intention to make their main marketing advertisements in the digital world, Jen knew her modern company would flourish due to the success of her friends in the beauty world like Emily Weiss with Glossier.com. With numerous social media posts and branded content, Ouai has become the most recognizable haircare line on all social media. 

I’m incredibly inspired by Jen’s charisma and overall individuality with the numerous projects she has taken on. She is a big believer of taking on  numerous projects and having a deck of tricks up your sleeve. Along with being the ultimate GirlBoss, Jen continues to travel around the world to educate all hair lovers on the latest tips and tricks in the evolving world of hair. By teaching free classes for her fans and followers, she is constantly giving back to all community while always being on point with the latest products at The Ouai.

To see her full haircare line click here www.theouai.com