Education – The Recap Report

Dr. Tanika Long: Building Bridges of Hope in Barnesville and Beyond

Written by Tajala Kelly on May 13, 2025. Posted in Business, Education, Entertainment, Health and Beauty, Uncategorized.

Sometimes all it takes is one moment — one post, one realization — to change everything.

For Dr. Tanika Long, that moment came during the height of the pandemic.

Scrolling through Facebook, she saw a post celebrating Black history moments from her hometown, Barnesville, Georgia.

Right there, in black and white, was her name — the first and only African American woman from Barnesville to become a physician.

And it hit her: If I didn’t even know that about myself, how would the next little girl know what’s possible?

That spark lit a fire.

It wasn’t enough to have made it out — she had to come back, full circle, and show the next generation how to dream even bigger.

That’s how Full Circle of Hope was born.

More Than Just a Scholarship — It’s a Movement

Launched in 2022, Full Circle of Hope is Dr. Long’s love letter to the town that raised her — and her challenge to every child who’s ever been underestimated.

“We’re teaching kids that no matter where you start, no matter what your circumstances look like, you can still win,” she said. “It doesn’t matter if you grew up in the projects or had a teenage mom — your story isn’t over.”

Through scholarships, book drives, financial literacy carnivals, and holiday giving events, FCOH is rewriting the narrative for families in Barnesville and beyond. It’s about more than money — it’s about breaking cycles, planting seeds of hope, and watering them until they bloom.

The Gala That’s Bigger Than a Party

Every year, Full Circle of Hope throws a gala — but this isn’t just another fancy night out. It’s a celebration of impact, growth, and the dreams that are just getting started.

This year, they’re turning up even more.

For the first time, the gala is moving to the metro Atlanta area — Eagles Landing Country Club in Stockbridge, Georgia.

With a live DJ, surprise guests, a VIP mixer, and 102.9’s very own Vassier Serrano hosting, it’s about to be a night to remember.

But at the heart of it all is purpose: raising money to not only support new scholarship recipients but also bless former recipients with continued scholarships. Because dreams don’t stop after freshman year — and neither should the support.

Why You Should Care — Even If You’ve Never Heard of Barnesville

You don’t have to be from Barnesville to feel the mission.

You just have to believe that every child deserves a shot, no matter their zip code.

“You never know where the next game-changer, the next leader, the next life-saver is coming from,” Dr. Long said. “It could be from a small town like Barnesville. And if we don’t invest in them, who will?”

Want to help? You can sponsor, donate, or grab your ticket at givebutter.com/FCOH2025Gala.

The Message Every Kid Needs to Hear

Before we wrapped our conversation, I asked Dr. Long what she would say to every student she’s reaching through Full Circle of Hope.

Her answer was powerful:

“Don’t let anyone count you out based on where you come from. What they see as weakness — that’s your superpower. Own it. And once you make it, reach back and lift somebody else up too. That’s how we change the world — together.”

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJHagAuuYb1/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet

Healing the Whole Woman: Dr. Jennifer Mbianda’s Vision for Transformative, Culturally Rooted Care

Written by Tajala Kelly on May 2, 2025. Posted in Business, Education, Entertainment, Health and Beauty, Influential People, Lifestyle.

In a world that often asks women—especially Black women—to carry it all while caring for themselves last, Dr. Jennifer Mbianda is creating something different: a safe, intentional space where women are seen, affirmed, and given the tools to heal wholly.

She’s not just wearing the white coat. She’s wearing her story, her purpose, and her mission—to bridge the gap between clinical care and the personal, emotional, and cultural nuances that shape how we truly feel. And she’s doing it with compassion, excellence, and authenticity.

Medicine That Honors the Whole Woman

Dr. Mbianda’s practice, EMDI Health, is a reflection of her truth: that health is not just the absence of illness, but the presence of balance, confidence, and care. With specialties in family medicine, obesity medicine, and aesthetics, she meets women at every stage of their journey—from chronic illness to personal restoration.

“I’ve always believed that how a woman feels on the inside should be reflected on the outside,” she says. “We deserve to look in the mirror and recognize our strength, our softness, and our beauty.”

Healing Beyond the Scale

As a board-certified obesity specialist, Dr. Mbianda challenges the deeply ingrained shame and stigma that often surround weight. “Obesity is not about a lack of willpower,” she says. “It’s a chronic, complex disease tied to genetics, hormones, trauma, and environment.”

Her approach is rooted in evidence—but delivered with empathy. She doesn’t just treat conditions. She treats the woman behind them.

From the Bahamas to the U.S.—and Back Again

Raised in the Bahamas and trained in the U.S., Dr. Mbianda walks between worlds. She saw what was missing in both and decided to create a bridge between them. EMDI Health now serves women in Florida and the Bahamas, bringing advanced, culturally-aware care to places where access is limited—but the need is great.

“There was a gap in care, especially in women’s health,” she reflects. “So I built what I wished I had growing up.”

The Power of Representation

“I didn’t see doctors who looked like me,” she shares. “And I knew that had to change.”

Today, she’s the doctor she needed as a girl: one who not only treats her patients but truly sees them. She talks honestly about aging, skin care, beauty, and body changes—not to shame, but to empower.

“We say ‘Black doesn’t crack,’ but that’s not entirely true,” she laughs. “Our melanin protects us, but we still age—and we deserve to age beautifully and intentionally.”

Leading With Transparency—On and Off the Screen

Dr. Mbianda isn’t just making moves in the exam room. She’s sharing her journey, wisdom, and life lessons with thousands of women online. From health education to motherhood moments, she’s inviting us behind the curtain—and modeling what balance looks like in real time.

“My patients wanted to see the person behind the white coat,” she said. “So I show up as my full self—because that’s where the connection begins.”

A Message for the Women Still Finding Their Voice

When I asked what she would tell the next generation of aspiring physicians and wellness leaders, her answer was simple and bold:

“Own your story. That’s your power.”

Dr. Mbianda built Emdi Health from a vision rooted in gaps, challenges, and lived experience. She didn’t wait for permission—she created what didn’t exist.

“There is room for you. And if you can’t find it, create it. You don’t have to fit someone else’s mold to be excellent.”

A Quiet Force with a Loud Impact

Dr. Jennifer Mbianda is quietly shifting the landscape of healthcare, one woman at a time. Her work is a call to be intentional—with our bodies, our choices, and our healing.

She reminds us that we are allowed to be soft and strong. That we are deserving of rest, beauty, and comprehensive care. That our well-being is not a luxury—it is a birthright.

And as Michelle Obama would say, “When they go low, we go high.”

Dr. B just showed us how.

Dr. Mbianda’s EMDI Health, Hollywood FL

Ayiti! Ayiti! Ayiti! Director Robenson Lauvince’s Film ‘July 7’ Reclaims Haiti’s Narrative on President Moïse’s Assassination

Written by Tajala Kelly on May 2, 2025. Posted in Business, Education, Entertainment, Fashion, Featured, Influential People, Lifestyle, Top 10, Trending.

In the heart of Atlanta, I sat down with Haitian filmmaker Robenson Lauvince to discuss one of the most anticipated international films in recent years: July 7th: Who Killed the President of Haiti? What began as an exploration of a tragic political event unfolded into a conversation about legacy, truth, and the power of telling your own story.

From the opening of our conversation, Lauvince made it clear—this was more than just a movie. “It’s the first time we get to talk about ourselves,” he said. And he meant that literally. With 90% of the cast and crew being Haitian, the film is deeply intentional in its authenticity. Shot in Creole and French, and featuring cultural giants like former Miss Universe Haiti and acclaimed author Gary Victor, the project is a landmark achievement in Haitian storytelling.

A Story That Had to Be Told

When asked what compelled him to tell this story, Robenson didn’t hesitate. “Haiti is the first Black independent nation in the world,” he said, passionately. “But we’ve always been silenced. Misrepresented. Forgotten.” That frustration turned into fire, fueling a production that became his most serious and personal work to date.

The film’s gripping trailer—tense, evocative, and emotionally rich—set the tone for what audiences could expect. But Robenson revealed it wasn’t just crafted for impact—it was a solo mission. Due to the language barrier with his production team, he had to create the trailer on his own. “I wanted it to feel urgent. Honest. I wanted people to want more.”

Not Just a Day, But a Movement

While the film’s title references the day Haitian President Jovenel Moïse was assassinated, Lauvince emphasizes that the story isn’t confined to that moment. “This isn’t about one day,” he said. “It’s about how we got here. About a system designed to divide us.”

The film dives deep into Haiti’s historical, cultural, and spiritual foundation. It’s a layered portrayal of a people often painted in a singular, monolithic way. And it’s not afraid to hold a mirror up to internal conflict either—highlighting how systemic manipulation often turns Haitian against Haitian.

A Global Response Rooted in Pride

With over $60,000 in pre-sale tickets and a Miami premiere that drew over 2,000 attendees, the response has been overwhelming. Haitians across the globe—UK, Africa, Canada, and beyond—bought tickets even if they couldn’t attend. “We’re prideful,” Robenson said. “When one of us does something good, we show up.”

That energy has caught on outside of the Haitian community too, with African-American executive producers and allies joining the movement. “Our PR rep is a woman, my assistant director is a woman—it’s women that have driven this engine.”

The Risk and the Reward

Taking on a story of this magnitude wasn’t just emotionally heavy—it was dangerous. “This kind of truth-telling comes with risk,” Robenson admitted. “People don’t know your intentions. They don’t know what you might reveal.”

But the reward? Global distribution. A cultural awakening. And perhaps most importantly, a reminder to Haitians everywhere that their voice, their pain, and their power matter.

“We can’t wait for others to tell our stories anymore. If you’re a singer, sing. If you’re a writer, write. If you’re a filmmaker, make films. That’s how we take our voice back.”

As for what’s next? Robenson teased more Caribbean-rooted stories—less political, but equally powerful. And while he carries the weight of a nation’s voice, he does so with pride, clarity, and unshakable purpose.

WATCH THE TRAILER:

Blueprints, Not Handouts: How Star Chapman Engineers Community Wealth

Written by Tajala Kelly on May 2, 2025. Posted in Business, Education, Influential People, Top 10, Uncategorized.

In a world that too often confuses profit with purpose, Starsheema Chapman is carving out a lane where both can not only coexist—but thrive. Hers is a mission rooted in dignity, driven by lived experience, and charged with a purpose that echoes through every community she touches.

“I came from public housing. I didn’t have a trust fund, a Rolodex, or a roadmap—but I had a knowing,” Chapman tells me, her voice steady, resolute. “I knew I wanted more, and I wanted to bring people with me.”

That conviction led to the creation of Star The Accelerator, a business that’s more liberation blueprint than startup course. Alongside her husband, Star also co-founded First Choice Care, a thriving home care agency in Kinston, North Carolina. But let’s be clear—this isn’t just about entrepreneurship. This is about emancipation.

“When you build something for your people, you’re not just breaking cycles—you’re building altars.”

Star’s course doesn’t just teach clients how to start businesses—it teaches them how to reclaim their time, their finances, and their futures. From navigating EINs and licensing to mastering Medicaid billing and team training, she’s holding doors open and handing out keys.

“Mentorship saved me,” she says. “And now I do the same. I’m not gatekeeping, I’m giving game.”

That game includes a full A-to-Z playbook: client intake systems, staff policy manuals, and even branding and marketing strategies. The goal? To fast-track success for women and men who, like Star, weren’t born into access but were called to impact.

And Star doesn’t disappear once the check clears. Her alumni know her by name, and many still call her years after they’ve launched—some now earning six figures, thanks to her guidance.

“We don’t toss you to the wolves. We walk with you,” she insists.

This model of communal success isn’t just good business—it’s radical in a world built on individualism. It’s James Baldwin in motion: “You have to go the way your blood beats.” And for Star, that rhythm has always led back to community.

From back-to-school drives to HBCU scholarships, from food banks to future children’s books for foster youth, the Chapmans’ commitment is comprehensive. Their forthcoming series—The Brotherhood and Sisterhood of the Traveling Suitcases—is a love letter to foster children who deserve more than a trash bag to carry their belongings.

This is the work of people who see, who feel, and who act.

“It’s one thing to survive the system. It’s another to rebuild it for others. That’s the Star Accelerator difference.”

—a sentiment worthy of Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s unapologetic truth-telling.

Looking forward, Star has her eyes on franchising First Choice Care, turning it into a plug-and-play model that helps others leap over the hurdles she once faced. Education programs, policy updates, and private-pay expansions are all in the pipeline, proving once again: she’s not just responding to the moment—she’s shaping it.

“I’m building something bigger than me,” she says. “Because when you empower one, you empower many.”

Follow the movement: @StartheAccelerator

Enroll or learn more: www.startheaccelerator.com

Mindfulness, Mayhem, and a Meditating Llama: Emotional Intelligence Coach Emily Morash’s Neuroscience-Driven Guide to Unfunking Leadership

Written by Tajala Kelly on May 2, 2025. Posted in Business, Education, Influential People, Top 10, Uncategorized.

If you’ve ever walked out of a meeting thinking, “What just happened?”—this book is for you.

If your team is talking in circles, burnout is the norm, and your Slack thread is a silent scream—this book is for you.

And if you’re a leader who wants to do better but feels like you’re winging it every day—this book was made for you.

Meet Emily Morash—keynote speaker, coach, former nonprofit executive, and the brilliant mind behind Unfunk Yourself: Leading Mindfully in the Midst of Mayhem. In a lively interview with The Recap Report, Emily opened up about her unconventional journey, the science behind her work, and why it’s time for leaders to stop reacting on autopilot and start leading with purpose.

This isn’t your typical leadership manual. Unfunk Yourself is part self-awareness deep dive, part neuroscience lesson, and part pep talk from your no-nonsense best friend. Oh—and the cover features a meditating llama surrounded by chaos. Because of course it does.

From Nonprofit Firefighting to Focused Leadership

Before the workshops and keynotes, Emily spent 20 years managing nonprofit teams—where limited resources, high stakes, and chronic miscommunication were a daily reality. “I worked in small nonprofits, big ones, corporate-style nonprofits—you name it,” she said. “And no matter where I was, the same problem kept showing up: people couldn’t talk to each other effectively.”

That experience sparked a realization: strategy doesn’t matter if your team can’t communicate. So, she made it her mission to teach leaders how to slow down, tune in, and build teams that actually work.

Why Leadership Feels So Funked Up

According to Emily, the root of most leadership chaos isn’t incompetence—it’s biology. Our brains are wired to react emotionally before we process things logically. That’s why a sharp email can feel like an attack. Why meetings spiral. Why feedback becomes conflict. “We’re constantly scanning for danger, even in the boardroom,” she explained.

The result? Leaders are often making decisions based on assumptions, stress, or past experiences—not the present moment.

The fix? Mindfulness. But not the Instagram-quote kind. Emily teaches a grounded, practical version of mindfulness: being aware of what’s happening inside you and around you, in real time, without judgment. And yes, it’s harder than it sounds—but her book makes it feel doable.

The Tools: Mindful, Practical, Game-Changing

Unfunk Yourself offers more than reflection—it gives you actionable frameworks to shift how you lead:

The Communication Compass: Helps teams understand how they speak, listen, and process. Because not everyone communicates the way you do—and that’s okay.
The Identity Trap: Reveals how internalized “shoulds” and assumptions shape your leadership style—and how to break free from them.
The Mindful Leader Practice: The centerpiece of Emily’s method—a hands-on approach to cultivating awareness, empathy, and intentional action.

Each tool is grounded in research, brought to life with real client stories, and wrapped in just enough humor to keep things human. One skeptical reviewer summed it up perfectly:

“I regret to inform you that I enjoyed this book.”

Insight with a Side of Sass

What makes Unfunk Yourself special isn’t just the frameworks—it’s Emily’s voice.

She’s smart, compassionate, and unapologetically herself. “I take my work seriously,” she told us, “But I don’t take myself seriously.” That philosophy shines through every page, making the book as enjoyable as it is useful.

And yes, the meditating llama on the cover? That’s intentional. It’s a symbol of what it means to be a grounded leader in a chaotic world. “That llama is me,” Emily laughed. “Learning to stay centered while everything’s on fire behind you.”

Ready to Unfunk?

Whether you’re leading a team, navigating a career pivot, or simply tired of chaotic leadership culture, Unfunk Yourself is the no-fluff, full-heart guide you didn’t know you needed.

Grab your copy and explore the tools at www.unfunkyourselfbook.com.

You’ll find free resources like communication assessments, guided meditations, reflective journals, and pep talks to keep you on track.

Because leadership doesn’t have to be soul-sucking.

With Emily Morash, it can be mindful, bold—and just a little bit funky.

Empowering Black Filmmakers– Filmhub’s Black Cinema Vertical

Written by The Recap Report Staff on February 5, 2025. Posted in Business, Education, Entertainment, Influential People.

For over 15 years, Greg Maurice has been immersed in the world of film distribution and acquisitions, navigating an industry known for its challenges and systemic gatekeeping—particularly for African-American and Black filmmakers. As the leader of Filmhub’s Black Cinema Vertical, Maurice is on a mission to level the playing field by creating opportunities and removing barriers for underrepresented voices in film.

“The film industry has always been a tough space, especially for Black and brown filmmakers,” Maurice explains. “Throughout my career, I’ve focused on finding ways to highlight these filmmakers and create distribution strategies for their work. Historically, they’ve lacked access and opportunities because so much of the industry revolves around Hollywood relationships.”

Maurice points out that while technological advancements have made it easier for filmmakers to produce content, the road to distribution remains fraught with challenges. “There are so many films being made by talented Black filmmakers, but they don’t have the avenues to distribute their titles. That’s where Filmhub comes in.”

A Platform for Change

Filmhub launched its Black Cinema Vertical to provide a dedicated space for Black filmmakers to distribute their work and share often overlooked stories. Maurice sees this as a pivotal moment in the industry. “It’s about creating opportunities, building distribution strategies, and amplifying stories that haven’t been told,” he says.

Transparency and education are central to Filmhub’s mission. The company empowers filmmakers by giving them access to valuable insights and tools, helping them understand the distribution process and monetize their films. “We value transparency as a company,” Maurice emphasizes. “We want to equip filmmakers with as much insight as possible, from how to use our platform to how to market their titles effectively. It’s all about giving them the tools to succeed.”

Championing Diverse Stories

One of Maurice’s primary goals is to showcase the diversity within the Black filmmaking community. “There’s so much diversity among us, so many talented filmmakers with different stories to tell,” he says. “Unfortunately, Black films are often stereotyped as fitting into one specific narrative. I want to break that mold and highlight the range of genres Black filmmakers are creating—thrillers, comedies, action films, and more. It’s important to show the breadth of creativity coming from our community.”

By collaborating with a variety of channels, Filmhub ensures these unique stories reach audiences that might otherwise never see them. Maurice believes that amplifying these voices enriches the cultural landscape and challenges outdated perceptions of what Black cinema can be.

Building Trust Through Results

Filmhub’s success speaks for itself, thanks to the filmmakers who have benefited from the platform and shared their experiences. “We’ve built our reputation through word of mouth,” Maurice says. “Our founders wanted to prove that what we’re doing works by letting the filmmaking community speak for us. We haven’t done traditional marketing or promotions, but the feedback we’ve received from filmmakers—especially from the Black community—has been incredible.”

The platform’s case studies and filmmaker feedback have helped shape its tools and strategies, enabling Filmhub to better serve its users. The company continually refined its approach to meet filmmakers’ needs, from licensing deals to distribution insights.

The Future of Black Cinema

For Maurice, the ultimate goal is clear: creating distribution strategies that engage audiences and give filmmakers the platform they deserve. “It all comes down to how you engage an audience,” he says. “Filmhub serves as a catalyst, offering insights and transparency while making information and resources readily available.”

Through its Black Cinema vertical, Filmhub is paving the way for a more inclusive film industry. By empowering Black filmmakers, diversifying the stories being told, and breaking down barriers to distribution, Maurice and his team are helping to reshape the landscape of cinema.

Dr. Key Hallmon’s No One Is Self-Made Redefines the Path to Entrepreneurial Success

Written by The Recap Report Staff on January 31, 2025. Posted in Business, Education, Influential People, Lifestyle.

“It takes a village.” It’s a phrase many of us are taught, rooted in the belief that unity and togetherness drive collective success. Yet, in today’s culture—where entrepreneurship and individual success are glorified—the term self-made has become a badge of honor. But can both community and individualism propel us forward? Dr. Key Hallmon, an entrepreneur, speaker, and change agent, tackles this question head-on in her HarperCollins debut, No One is Self-Made.

For Dr. Key, village is more than a word—it’s a movement. When she engaged with entrepreneurs at all stages of business, one common thread emerged: they needed community and funding. Rather than focusing solely on financial solutions, she set out to solve both. She understood that building a strong community would organically lead to increased sales, visibility, and access to resources—ultimately impacting funding in a more sustainable way.

This vision materialized as The Village Market, a direct pipeline connecting Black entrepreneurs with consumers and corporate partnerships. To date, her model has generated $8.8 million in direct sales for Black-owned businesses and awarded $800K in grants. Through partnerships with brands like Mastercard and Sprite, The Village Market and The Village Retail have created new opportunities for Black business owners to thrive.

Her belief remains true: “Community will always be the thing that saves us and propels us forward.”

Before launching The Village Market, Dr. Key founded a speaker series called It Takes a Village, where she introduced audiences to successful business owners. This early initiative was a precursor to her broader mission—proving that entrepreneurship thrives in community, not isolation.

Now, with her debut book, No One is Self-Made, she’s expanding this conversation on a national scale.

Set to release on February 4, No One is Self-Made challenges the deeply ingrained belief that success is achieved alone. Dr. Key argues that individualism erases the critical role of mentors, supporters, and communities who help shape an entrepreneur’s journey.

“We must return to community to build our coalition and collective.”

The book explores key challenges entrepreneurs face, including:

Loneliness
Financial insecurity
First-generation business struggles
Purpose and vulnerability and more.

Dr. Key provides actionable solutions to humanize the hardships while celebrating the journey—offering a bold roadmap for business owners who want to embrace collective economics and community-driven success.

More than just a mantra, “Support is a verb” is Dr. Key’s call to action. She challenges people to actively support Black-owned businesses—not just through one-time purchases, but by making it a lifestyle.

Real support means patronizing Black businesses consistently, knowledge-sharing and mentorship, and gathering intentionally to align on shared missions and visions

By embodying these principles, communities can build long-term economic strength from within.

Dr. Key’s journey as an author started long before No One is Self-Made. At just seven years old, she dreamed of writing a book. Now, she’s bringing that vision to life—not just to share her story, but to provide a blueprint for others.

Reflecting on her journey, she shares:

“You can have a vision when you’re younger, and if you’re diligent, work hard, and treat people well, there will come a time when you actualize the dreams you once spoke about.”

No One is Self-Made is not just a book; it’s a movement. It calls on entrepreneurs, change makers, and leaders to embrace the power of collective success—because real, lasting impact is never built alone.

To pre-order/order No One is Self-Made and to RSVP for tour stops and local activations visit: www. drkeyhallmon.com/noism/

How East Point is Staying Camera Ready with their International Film Fest

Written by The Recap Report Staff on November 5, 2024. Posted in Business, Education, Influential People, Lifestyle, Music.

For over 19 years, the Peachtree Village International Film Fest has brought rich, diverse content to Atlanta, and this year, they’re elevating this initiative with the launch of the East Point International Film Fest. Born from a partnership with the East Point Convention and Visitors Bureau, the festival aims to establish East Point as a premier film destination for visitors from near and far.

The East Point International Film Fest has been years in the making. Founder Len Gibson has spent this time connecting with various municipalities across Georgia to broaden the festival’s impact. In conversations with Fulton Films and the Georgia Film Office, he learned about the impressive work underway at the East Point Convention and Visitors Bureau (EPCVB), led by Chantel Ross Francois, and discovered they shared a vision of bringing a film festival to the city. A mutual friend helped bridge the gap, and the East Point International Film Fest was set in motion.

What makes this year unique is the festival’s mission to unite industry experts and enthusiasts nationwide to showcase East Point’s offerings. While many pass through East Point due to its proximity to the world’s busiest airport, they may not get the chance to experience the city’s cultural richness.

Taking place from November 7 to November 10, the festival opens with a press conference and brunch and wraps up with a cocktail reception. The event will feature a wide range of activities, including 60 film screenings, various panels and workshops, an awards show, and a pitch contest.

Highlights this year include The Business of Music and Film panel, which will celebrate legendary Southern hip-hop producer Rico Wade, and the inaugural East Point Convention and Visitors Bureau Culture Impact Award ceremony honoring former East Point Mayor Patsy Jo Hilliard, the city’s first African American and female mayor.

Other notable events include a free screening in collaboration with Black Girl Film Camp, featuring short films by young African American women, followed by a Q&A session. Additionally, there will be a showing of the Atlanta-shot comedy Car Lot, starring and executive produced by NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, directed by Atlanta native Dorian Forbes, and featuring Jamal Willard, DC Young Fly, and others.

The ultimate goal of the East Point International Film Fest is to establish East Point as the “go-to” film and TV hub in the Southeast—a place where projects can be seen and sold. To achieve this, the festival offers year-round training to demonstrate that East Point is “Film Ready,” with notable productions like Black Panther and Stranger Things already filmed there.

Additional focus areas include:

Music Integration: Enhancing film and TV projects through impactful soundtracks and scores, which are essential to the success of any production.
Marketplace Creation: Providing a platform through the festival where filmmakers can showcase their projects.
Industry Training: Developing opportunities for young minds in the business and encouraging economic growth within the City of East Point.

To purchase tickets and stay updated on event details visit www.EPIFF.org and follow @epiffga on social media.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Stormi Banks Leads a Debt-Free Revolution

Written by The Recap Report Staff on November 1, 2024. Posted in Business, Education, Influential People, Lifestyle.

In an entrepreneurial landscape where accessing funding and mastering grant writing often feel like formidable obstacles, Stormi Banks, CEO of the Pink Print Firm, is dedicated to breaking down those barriers and creating opportunities for women entrepreneurs to thrive. Pink Print is more than a grant writing agency; it’s a movement dedicated to empowering women–especially women of color– to build and sustain debt-free businesses, achieve financial independence, and create lasting legacies of wealth.

Since its founding, Pink Print has aimed to go beyond securing funding to instilling financial literacy and stability for future generations. “The power of entrepreneurship lies in our ability to uplift each other,” Banks explains. “By equipping women to establish financially sound, debt-free businesses, we are laying a foundation for generational wealth and stability.”

Demystifying Grant Writing for Entrepreneurs

Central to Pink Print’s mission is dispelling the misconceptions surrounding grant writing, which many assume to be a simple path to funding. Banks underscores that the process is nuanced and highly competitive. “Grants require careful alignment with funder goals and meticulous preparation,” she notes. “Our role is to guide clients through this complexity, from assessing eligibility to crafting standout applications.”

Beyond funding, Pink Print provides a partnership to navigate each step of the grant process. By emphasizing clear strategies and precise positioning, the agency empowers clients to grow sustainably with the right resources in place.

Financial Freedom as a Core Mission

For Banks, financial freedom is not just a business tagline—it’s a deeply personal mission. Growing up in communities facing chronic financial challenges, she saw firsthand the effects of debt and instability. “Achieving financial literacy and control over finances is transformative,” she reflects. “It’s about building lives and businesses that are free from debt, enabling people to focus on growth and legacy.”

This dedication to financial empowerment underpins Pink Print’s latest initiative: the Debt-Free Revolution.

The Debt-Free Revolution: Elevating Financial Literacy in Atlanta

On November 16, 2024, Pink Print’s Debt-Free Revolution will come to Atlanta, expanding the firm’s reach in a day-long event focused on practical strategies for women entrepreneurs. Targeted at business owners from ages 18 to 40, the event promises to offer actionable insights for building wealth, eliminating debt, and accessing funding.

“The Debt-Free Revolution goes beyond inspiration,” Banks explains. “We want attendees to leave with specific steps they can immediately apply to reshape their financial outlook.”

With an emphasis on debt reduction, financial growth, and grant accessibility, this event represents a critical step in Pink Print’s vision of creating resilient, debt-free businesses. By providing the tools and guidance needed to gain financial autonomy, Banks hopes to inspire women across industries to transform their futures.

More Than an Event—A Movement

For Banks, this journey toward debt-free, women-owned businesses is about more than funding—it’s about dismantling barriers that hinder growth and inspiring women to forge legacies of financial independence. “This is the start of a lifelong journey,” she concludes. “The Debt-Free Revolution is about cultivating confidence, independence, and wealth for women entrepreneurs.”

Join the Debt-Free Revolution

As the November 16 event nears, Atlanta’s women entrepreneurs are invited to join this transformative experience, gaining insights and connections to build a future free from financial constraints. To learn more about the Debt-Free Revolution and secure a spot, visit https://thedebtfreeclinic.com/waitlist

For more information on The Pink Print Firm, visit https://pinkprintfirm.com/

Revitalizing Fenton Village: Daniel Moijueh’s Mission to Empower a Thriving Community

Written by The Recap Report Staff on November 1, 2024. Posted in Business, Education, Featured, Lifestyle.

Daniel Moijueh, Executive Director of Fenton Village in Silver Spring, Maryland, is dedicated to protecting and fostering growth within this vibrant community. Home to approximately 240 businesses, Fenton Village is a thriving neighborhood with establishments ranging from restaurants and salons to music and art stores. Under Moijueh’s leadership, the community is adapting to ongoing development, positioning itself as an enduring cultural and economic hub.

Central to Moijueh’s leadership is his commitment to advocacy and strong community relationships. By hostingmonthly forums, he brings together local business owners and residents to address critical issues, including crime, the impacts of construction, and homelessness. This open dialogue fosters a collaborative spirit, empowering Fenton Village to meet challenges together while creating a supportive network that strengthens community ties and resilience.

A key initiative Moijueh is developing is the launch of a Fenton Village app—a resource aimed at streamlining connections between businesses and residents. This app will offer users easy access to information on local businesses, from restaurant recommendations to retail services, enhancing accessibility and helping businesses reach patrons through a user-friendly platform.

With a rich background that includes 13.5 years in the U.S. Army, Moijueh brings resilience, discipline, and a unique perspective to his role as a community leader and entrepreneur. His career has been marked by challenges that sharpened his insights, including a personal business setback in 2020 when he invested $250,000 to open a jewelry store, only to face overwhelming financial strain as the pandemic took hold. Though he eventually closed the store, Moijueh regards the experience as a valuable lesson in persistence—a story he shares to inspire other business owners facing tough times.

Moijueh’s vision for Fenton Village extends beyond short-term gains, aiming for a sustainable, thriving community. Leveraging his expertise in government contracting, he is exploring options for tax incentives, grants, and government partnerships to support local businesses. By securing these resources, he seeks to cultivate a flourishing small business ecosystem that can serve as a model for other communities, showcasing how economic resilience and community values can fuel sustainable growth.

Through his dedicated efforts, Moijueh is transforming Fenton Village into a resilient cornerstone of the greater Silver Spring area, where economic vitality and community spirit go hand-in-hand.

To learn more about Fenton Village, visit https://www.fentonvillagesilverspring.org/