Gabriela – The Recap Report

State Representative Erica Thomas Releases Non-Partisan Rap Song ‘Betta Vote” produced by Celebrity hit maker Blac Elvis

Written by Gabriela on October 31, 2022. Posted in Entertainment, Influential People.

Erica Thomas, a State Representative from Georgia has released the official video & audio for new her song ‘Betta Vote’ featuring Scotty ATL. The hip-hop tempoed sing-along anthem is intended to encourage people to get out to the polls on election day. Representative Thomas’s goal is to get all people, from both sides of the aisle to cast their ballots.

“I created this song as a fun way to get people to participate in this election no matter what party they are voting for. Change doesn’t come from sitting on your couch, it comes from being proactive!” states Representative Thomas.

She partnered with local organization Rep GA to create ‘Betta Vote.’ Rep GA is on a mission to train, build, and serve a civic empowerment community that amplifies diverse representation. The organization believes the inclusion of culture like art, music, food, and even fashion deepens its goal of empowering citizens to act.

Executive Director of Rep GA Kimberlyn Carter states, “Community and Culture Leaders like State Representative Erica Thomas, Scotty ATL, and hitmaker BlacElvis produced more than a song and video; they produced an agent of change, an agent of action with this civic engagement hit “Betta Vote”. The track, the hook and the visual elements of voting deliver and connect. Integrated civic engagement takes into account myriad issues our communities face and the activities required to fight for political power. We believe “Betta Vote” is a movement song as we aim to get out the minority-focused vote in this midterm election and every election. Rep GA elevates the voices of marginalized populations by designing a civic empowerment community built to fortify a future where representation across leadership equally represents all. You BETTA VOTE!”

Esteemed music producer Blac Elvis was more than happy to produce ‘Betta Vote.’ He states, “This Project is important to me because our freedom is at stake, and voting the right people in place will insure fairness and equality where it’s necessary!!!”

Early voting is now open until November 4th. You can also hit the polls on Election Day, November 8th!

Check out the music video here:https://www.instagram.com/p/CkYJPVsjZ4W/?hl=en

Betta Vote will be available soon on Spotify and Apple Music.

Clothing Brand, Initiated Apparel Launches Globally On October 14th

Written by Gabriela on October 7, 2022. Posted in Business, Fashion.

Mark your calendars everyone! Atlanta-based clothing brand, Initiated Apparel will launch its anticipated first collection via a pre-sale launch Friday, October 14th. The self-empowering focused brand has its sights set on uplifting the self-love movement by combining unique designs while radiating positivity through messaging. “Initiate your higher self, ignite your mind” is the company’s motto.

The mission of Initiated Apparel is dedicated to providing quality clothing with timeless, positive messaging and visual appeal. The initial drop will feature hoodies, T-shirts, and athletic wear. Founder and CEO Kareen Thomas was inspired to start the brand after recognizing the negative mental toll the global health pandemic had on the ‘human experience’.

He states “After making it to the bright side of my own self-improvement journey, I realized that self-encouragement and belief in my own abilities were essential fundamentals to activating an elevated life. I want to help ignite this fire in others.”

The brand strives to initiate greatness, enlightenment, and self-belief to their consumers. CEO Thomas plans to expand the brand to incorporate additional signature and custom items in 2023.

Follow @initiatedapparel on social for up-to-date designs, merch drop dates, and promotions.

Matte Collections Stuns Miami Swim Week with Confidence Collection

Written by Gabriela on July 19, 2022. Posted in Fashion, Influential People.

This past weekend Matte Collection had their exclusive show at Miami Swim Week in nothing less of course than the iconic Versace Mansion. The brand’s campaign featured on the runway was centered on body confidence with hip-hop royalty socialite, Angela Simmons starring in the show. Admiration and praise were all that the audience had for the extraordinary night.

Founded by designer Justina M., Matte Collection stole the hearts of everyone at the yearly gathering of the world’s best summer wear brands. The successful show is fresh off the heels of the company’s global Confidence Campaign, also featuring Simmons.

Joining Simmons on the runway were rapper JT, of the City Girls duo, content creator Achieng Agutu, and influencer Ari Fletcher. The models flew down the runway in shades of green, purple, and orange swimwear and coverups while strutting self-love.

The Confidence Campaign features models with different body types and embraces diversity. Addressing the inspiration behind the creation of the Confidence Campaign in an in-depth interview with BET.com, Justina McKee said, “I want to make sure that every woman feels sexy, beautiful, and confident while spending time at the pool and on the beach. Everybody deserves that!” The Founder of Matte Collection then elaborated that the campaign is all about women “embracing” the body they have, and “owning it.”

Embracing the campaign, Angela Simmons made a splash and posted her unedited bathing suit pics on social media. Simmons became a trending topic after the photos from the annual event, showing off her body made their way around the internet. Many praised and applauded her honesty and openness when many in the spotlight shy away from it.

Some of the major stars that were in attendance were Mary Fitzgerald from Selling Sunsets, singer and influencer Malu Trevejo, and Rapper Toli. While the show wrapped, the after-party continued in full force with VIP guest, DJ Khaled spinning into the night. Guests danced, toasted and enjoyed the week’s most memorable installation!

For more on Matte Collection, follow their sizzling IG: @MatteCollection

Black Music and Entertainment Walk of Fame Celebration

Written by Gabriela on June 27, 2022. Posted in Entertainment, Influential People.

Now is the time that black excellence is recognized across the country in its entirety and the recognition continued on June 18, 2022, with the third Crown Jewels of Excellence Ceremony hosted by the Black Walk of Fame in Atlanta, Ga. The two-part event took place at the intersection of MLKJ Dr and Northside Drive followed by a live celebration at Home Depot Backyard.

The Walk of Fame is a joint initiative created by the Black American Music Association (BAM) and Georgia Entertainment Caucus. The black American music Association was founded by Michael Mauldin and Demmette Guidry and is dedicated to monitoring media and advocating the preservation and celebration of the art form known as Black Music. The Georgia entertainment caucus is run by Catherine Brewton and State Representative Erica Thomas and focuses on bridging the gap between the Georgia Political Sector and the Entertainment industry.

With over 3000 festival attendees and 250 celebrity attendees, the ceremony was a site of momentous celebration for the luminaries and icons impacting black culture. It aims to “Honor iconic individuals and organizations that have impacted Black culture and community alongside those who continue to lead us into the future.”

This year’s inductees included Cathy Hughes, Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington, Kenny Gamble & Leon Huff, Robert Smith, RUN DMC, T.D. Jakes, Charlie Wilson, Donnie McClurkin, Tamela Mann, The Clark Sisters, NAS, Angela Bassett, Steve Harvey, Bob Marley, Patti LaBelle, and Prince.

The ceremony began with an introduction by the hosts LeToya Luckett and Willie Moore Jr. followed by greetings from Georgia Representative Erica Thomas. After formal welcomes, it was time to unveil the Crown Jewels of excellence.

To celebrate the inductees as well as The newly minted Juneteenth holiday, a massive celebration was held at the grassy Home Depot Backyard including a star-studded red carpet. Some stars in attendance were Mayor Andre Dickens, Representative Erica Thomas, Vince Barry, Elijah Blakes, LaTocha Scott, Julian Marley, Jac Ross, Angela Simmons, Damian DJ Jackson, April, and Edward Ellington Jr., Sir the Baptist, Jekalyn Carr, and more.

For the celebration, BMEWOF introduced a unique culinary experience curated by Chef Daryl Shular, who is one of the most talented and respected chefs in the country. Shular is the first African American and minority chef to successfully become a Certified Master Chef. The menu included an array of seafood, meats, southern cuisine, and delectable desserts.

The night ended with a spectacular firework display, featuring one of Prince’s most popular songs “Let’s Go Crazy.”

The Crown Jewel of Excellence emblems for June 2022 – and for every class of inductees moving forward – will continue to be added at the BMEWOF’s location in historic downtown Atlanta, preserved for all the world to see, and for generations to come.

For more information on the organization and how to participate at the next induction ceremony, visit: WEBSITE

Follow the walk of fame’s official Instagram @blackwalkoffame

Sports Illustrated Model and Brain Cancer Survivor, Victoria Vesce

Written by Gabriela on June 27, 2022. Posted in Fashion, Influential People.

Philanthropist, model, recent Sports Illustrated Finalist and Brain Cancer survivor Victoria Vesce has a long history of advocacy and philanthropy with various organizations, but her advocacy took on new meaning when she became a cancer survivor at age 24.

Victoria has raised a small-town southern girl who has always had big dreams of pursuing something great. She grew up on a Buffalo Farm in rural eastern North Carolina. Feeling like there was a larger world to explore, she states, “I always knew I was bigger than my hometown.”

In 2016 and 2017 while dancing in the NBA for the Charlotte Hornets, and studying for the LSAT, Victoria started losing her hearing and experiencing extreme headaches. She began experiencing symptoms like fainting, unexplained adrenaline rushes, and dizziness. After a CAT scan and repeated visits to the doctor and ENT, she was diagnosed with a tumor. Doctors discovered another tumor (carotid artery) during an MRI. Surgery occurred 6 weeks later, and following that, Victoria underwent 30 rounds of experimental radiation treatment.

Today, Victoria is fully deaf in her right ear and chronically suffers from tinnitus. She enjoys a new perspective on life and has gratitude for the organizations and people who have helped her along the way.

Victoria states, “My motto in life now is that life is short. I have quit shaming myself or changing myself to please others. I own my life, imperfections and all. I want to help others to reach a point of good health, happiness, and fulfillment – as I have,” said Ms. Vesce. “Brain Tumor Awareness Month presents a chance to become educated about the issues that affect people with cancer diagnoses. It’s also a chance to give to organizations that save lives.”

Even with a life that has been completely altered, there is no slowing Victoria down. She currently works with Berman Law Group in South Florida and continues to model and grow her social media platform. She is a signed model with JL Model Management and Marilyn’s Agency. She recently became a finalist for Sports Illustrated Swim. She says going to the Dominican Republic, shooting with the team, and seeing herself in the magazine is a dream come true.

She currently stars in her own podcast named, Validated By Victoria, where talks all things valid. From getting through life’s struggles, how to get abs, bad dates, and more, Victoria tells it how it is. “I love talking about all things that I think are valid in my life and what others should know from dating to grief.” Stay tuned as she’s rebranding the podcast and line up of guests! She can’t wait for it to debut soon.

Victoria wants to be remembered as someone who endured the fire but still rose from the ashes, especially after her mom’s passing. She wants the world to know her name in a positive light and leave a mark with everyone she meets.

She is currently transitioning into more TV and Film, as well as, taking over her Dad’s company while creating her own. She has multiple projects in the works as she’s rebranding herself this summer.

You can keep up with Victoria on social media @VictoriaVesce

New York Theological Seminary Celebrates 40 Years of Service!

Written by Gabriela on May 17, 2022. Posted in Influential People.

This year’s 18th Annual Urban Angels Awards Gala: Redeeming Lives, Restoring Hope, and Reclaiming Power

The prestigious New York Theological Seminary is celebrating 40 years of audacious service and preparing to host the 18th annual Urban Angels Award Gala.

A little about The New York Theological Seminary: The institution was founded in 1900 by Wilbert Webster White as the Bible Teacher’s Training College in New Jersey. President White developed a curriculum that combined the study of the Bible in one’s own language with practical training for ministry. After moving to New York City in 1902, the school was renamed as The Biblical Seminary in New York, and in 1966, it became New York Theological Seminary.

The NYTS is becoming the premier model for institutions around the world seeking to transform urban communities through contemporary, global, economic, and social strategies. The distinctive attributes that characterized the Seminary from its inception is its emphasis upon ministry and mission, its unique urban focus, its openness to all, and its diversity in denominational and cultural traditions.

The President of the NYTS, Dr. Walrond states, “Through the creative collaboration of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and trustees, we have begun to reimagine what NYTS represents in our community and our world. While political turmoil, social upheaval, and economic crises narrate our current reality, NYTS continues to shine as a beacon of hope for those called to serve humanity.” Dr. Walrond is a trailblazer herself as she is the first African American Woman to hold the position of President for this prestigious institution.

Every year The NYTS hosts the Urban Angels Award Gala. The Gala and Fundraiser is the institution’s premier event to honor “angels” among us for their transformative work in community and society.” Urban Angels” are defined as a person, group of people, or organization who/whose has had an impact on global and urban (cities) ministries, innovatively; has created social mobility and/or economic equality in their respective fields; has pushed boundaries in their field; work and passions intersect with the mission and values of the New York Theological Seminary.

The in-person gala fundraiser, themed Redeeming Lives, Restoring Hope, and Reclaiming Power will be held on June 2, 2022, from 6 PM-9 PM EST. Proceeds from the event will tackle prison education reform and support their pioneering second Master’s Degree Program at Bedford Hill Corrections Facility for Women.

The night will celebrate the 43rd Health Commissioner of New York, Dr. Dave Choski, Managing Partner & President of Sugar Hill Capital, Margaret Grossman, Co-Founder & Executive Director of Campaign Zero, Deray Mckesson, Managing Director, Racial Justice – Trinity Church Wall Street Philanthropies, Susan Shah.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: https://nytsurbanangels.splashthat.com

Met Gala 2022: Gilded Glamour

Written by Gabriela on May 4, 2022. Posted in Entertainment, Fashion, Lifestyle.

The most coveted night of the Fashion year, the Met Gala. The theme for this year was Gilded Glamour but what does that mean? Let’s break that down!

According to the Oxford Dictionary, the word Gilded means to be covered thinly with gold lead or paint. While some celebrities adhered to this interpretation most chose to reference the Gilded Age, the time period after the Civil War, roughly between the 1870s to early 1900s.

We’re talking about a time of excess and extravagance. New York City was taking shape into the city we think of today. Picture Grand Central Station and The Statue of Liberty being erected.

Advancements in technology were taking place left and right. Women of the upper class were able to play around with different textiles as more was available to them. “Women’s dresses often featured a combination of many textiles, like satin, silk, velvet, and fringe, all adorned with over-the-top textures like lace, bows, frills, and ruffles,” Vogue writes

Of course, the night wasn’t complete without a little bit of drama! While the stars hit the red carpet, many on social media were first to call out the underwhelming looks of the evening.

Now, let’s get into some of the looks!

Jamie McCarthy / Staff / Getty Images
**Billie Eilish**

Jamie McCarthy Getty Images
**Blake Lively**

Jamie McCarthy Getty Images **Megan Thee Stallion**

David Fisher/Shutterstock
**Taylor Hill**

Akai Jackson: America’s Favorite Mindfulness Coach

Written by Gabriela on March 18, 2022. Posted in Business, Health and Beauty, Lifestyle.

The common theme of Akai Jackson’s career has always been helping people grow into the best version of themselves. The longtime entrepreneur’s dynamic approach to health and wealth wellness is the byproduct of formal education, life experience as a decorated college athlete, and his own personal journey with mindfulness and growth.

The pivotal moment in his life was when he was injured playing basketball in high school. His college basketball dreams were shattered . The injury he received came out of the blue, blindsiding him and his hopes. The sudden change affected his mental state and happiness. He had to step back and focus on his mental health. This period of self reflection changed his life forever and helped shape his career path.

Akai owns the personal development agency, I.X.L. Today. It curates mindset shift programs that transform clients from existing to excelling in their physical, mental, and financial health. He focuses on the importance of mindfulness to grow through any situation, how to get started and give people tools for their mental strength.

He states “In 2019, about 20 percent of Americans experienced a mental illness. That’s about 50 million Americans.” Mental health and wellness is a topic not talked about enough. It is stigmatized and most people don’t know how to excel and not just exist.” The most common fears I help my clients overcome are the fear of change, loneliness, rejection, uncertainty, something bad happening, and the fear of failure.”

The two ways Akai treats depression in his practice are CONNECTIVITY & COPING SKILLS. When people are depressed they tend to isolate themselves. I.X.L. ‘s Cognitive Behavior Therapy matched with Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy and Behavioral Change in Exercise approach is second to none and very applicable and effective immediately.

We all have our bad days but Akai tries to stay positive through it all. The way he’s able to do this is by asking himself one question everyday. “What if when I woke up this morning, all I had was what I was grateful for the day before.” This allows him to think about every little thing he is grateful for. It’s something he recommends everyone does each morning.

For the remainder of 2022, Akai plans to release a course called 26 Weeks To Live. It focuses on how anyone can plug into who they are and what they do. This 6 month program will catapult you from simply existing to living purposefully. He’s also started penning his second book, Winning the War.

To learn more about I.X.L. Today and get obtain your free mindset journal visit: https://ixl.today/

Follow him on social @ akai.jackson22

Keep Dreaming With Visionary Jay White

Written by Gabriela on March 3, 2022. Posted in Business, Food, Influential People.

Jay White, publicly known as Jay the Dreamer, is a multi-talented serial entrepreneur, author and creative force in Atlanta.

To call one a renaissance man is usually a compliment, but for Jay White, it might actually be an understatement. He’s an author, self-taught tap dancer and entrepreneur to sum up just a few of his ventures. His imprints businesses include Atlanta’s west end fixture and 5-star rated 640 West Community Café that offers a variety of teas, coffees, smoothies, burgers and tasty vegan options, a Pedicab company: PedicabsATL which creates a magical date night or brunch experience through the city, a Haberdashery line and wine line with an array of Merlots.

What can’t he do? If you asked him directly, he’d say able to juggle all of his ventures because he focuses on one project at a time.

All of his accomplishments are rooted in the determination he had as a child. The son of God-fearing parents, he was raised to be independent and responsible. Always in tune with his purpose to love God and help others, whenever his hard working parents weren’t planning to attend church he’d catch the bus to worship services—as young as seven years old!

He is an entrepreneur at heart with a plethora of gifts and talents that he has been able to successfully merge into an admirable lifestyle. His work touches many across the globe as he encourages them to walk in their purpose. His books and live poetry all carry the theme of EMPOWERMENT! His first published work of art, Tap Into Your Destiny paved the way for 8 more books and multiple film projects including The Hustle Is Sold Separately: https://www.thehustleissoldseparately.com

In 2022 Jay expanded his pedicab business to the west coast after dispatching five of his signature bikes to the Rams vs. Bengals Superbowl game. Also in 2022, he released the controversially titled book, No More Bodies: The discontinuation of promiscuity and meaningless sex. From the book’s website: No More Bodies started from a vision of Jay White. He wanted to challenge himself to go deeper spiritually. You can view Jay’s official intro of the book HERE.

When he’s not writing or innovating you can catch him traveling internationally, spending time with family and making moves with fellow visionaries like Colin Kaepernick.

Visit Jay’s website: https://www.jaythedreamer.com

Follow all things Jay White on social: @JayTheDreamer

Tik Tok Star Brooklyn Queen Releases New Single “Eyes On Me”

Written by Gabriela on March 2, 2022. Posted in Entertainment.

Inspired by gratitude and Beyoncé, 16-year-old Detroit native Brooklyn Queen is a pint-sized powerhouse making her mark on the music world with a message of positivity.

Teen royalty Brooklyn Queen has a new single out “Eyes on Me” produced by talented beatmakers Jupyter, Dre Butterz and Timeline333. Brooklyn and writer/producer collaborated to ensure that “Eyes on Me” had a more mature and meaningful sound from some of her previous songs. She is growing and maturing, and her music is too. The wildly popular influencer elaborated on the motivation behind the new track.

“I made “Eyes on Me” because of the pressures of having so many people watching. This song has a deep meaning to me, it’s about friendship, love, and business. It’s about never allowing myself to be mistreated, disrespected or unappreciated. I’m a Queen, I realize my worth and the power I have while the world has Eyes on Me.”

Brooklyn knew she was meant to be an entertainer from a young age. Once hitting the stage at the age of 5 she never looked back. She states, once she heard the audience cheering for her she wanted more of it.

In addition to creating original music, gracing stages across the country, and headlining her very own sold-out Live Nation House of Blues tour, the ambitious teen queen has made appearances on The Talent Show, and, and stars as a lead cast member “Senna” on Brat TV’s Charmers the new show, which follows a coven of teen witches at a summer camp called Whispering Sky.

Brooklyn’s music can be streamed on YouTube, Spotify, YouTube Music, Apple Music, Pandora. “Eyes on Me” is now available on all platforms, the lyric video can be found on https://youtu.be/GqT-78ezWJc

You can follow her on Instagram here: @Brooklynqueen03

Author: Gabriela