Faith, Ambition & Film His Life Changer "The MICHAEL FOSTER Experience"
Filmmaker Michael Foster “The Michael Foster Experience” Urban Freedom Magazine Photoshoot
The film-maker whose mother had him at the age of 15 began his entrepreneurship journey from college sighting music as his first love. Michael was faced with lots of challenges while in college and decided to take charge of his own life and dreams
The renowned actor, filmmaker & fashion writer, whose mother is going for her masters currently, described his hardest battle as learning. He went along his life alone trying to make progress and revealed that having to handle all things himself brought about his current drive to rely on self even when accepting support from others.
His quest to fund himself was a total victory, having worked full time with an insurance company and as a bathroom attendant during weekends; Michael made more money as a bathroom attendant despite peer pressure.
The popular film-maker revealed how different brands asked him to be an influencer so that their brands can be implemented into his blogs since he had cultivated a social media and blogging presence, describing it as a point of meeting with his blessing. So much so his goal he imagined two years ago was to take his brand to the next level being a part of GQ Magazine. I was sincerely excited for him when he revealed he accomplished his goal before at the closing of 2016! Along with building further fashion and business opportunities with his circle of entrepreneurial friends called the “Inner Elite”.
When questioned about how he manages his business and family, he revealed that his mentor taught him how to balance both business and love before his marriage.
He continued by appraising the fact that he married his best friend, whom he knew since he was 13. Michael further revealed how supportive she is, which ultimately clears the air on any option of choosing between love and business.
The film-maker who sees clear communication of schedule and making important dates as a priority as his strength of balance, says it takes a lot of work.
The actor while giving advice to other entrepreneurs warns that:
Losing the reason for following one’s dream can cause discouragement”
Thereby encouraging us to remain creative; and to always keep going irrespective of trying moments that may test one’s faith. The fashion writer tells fans to anticipate what will be a permanent fixture showing Gentlemen’s styling with Urban Freedom magazine in the year 2017. Also he will be releasing his new movie which will show actual depictions of his life. Along with all his new adventures GQ Magazine that we will be following as well!
Inner Elite, LLC
TheMichaelFosterExperience.com
Facebook: The Michael Foster Experience
Instagram: @TheMichaelFoster
Effortless Grace, Style & Branding Expert: Dayna Bolden
Q&A: Laura Williams
Article & Interview: Louise Wheeler
Black women in our generation have been working hard to create a platform where they can be inspiring, uplifting, and encouraging to others.
Dayna Bolden defines the word inspiring with the confidence she exudes in her effortless style with managing her work-life balance while building her brand. Originally from Cincinnati Ohio, Dayna relocated to Baltimore with a dream and a strong pursuit of her passion after graduating from college.
From mother to wife, to corporate America to pursuing fashion endeavors, Dayna has found a way to balance the obstacles of life and face any adversities by pressing forward in her goals and ambitions. While she embraces her natural beauty and style, she encourages all women from different backgrounds to embrace their natural beauty. Her humbling personality, fierce style, encouraging words, and radiant beauty continues to inspire women all over the world.
As Dayna zeroed in on her goal with creating her blog, she teamed up with her best friend to create a brand with the goal to make a difference and make her presence known. Dayna wanted motivate women that you could do anything you put your mind to. Her eye for style and naturalista techniques propelled her blog to becoming successful to date. As she humbly remains to be in awe of her success, her strong following on social media continues to grow along with many doors opening for her brand.
Urban Freedom Magazine Cover Photoshoot: Dayna Bolden & Style Contributor Louise Wheeler II
While maintaining a full-time job, keeping family values in mind, and building her brand, Dayna emphasizes that time management has been key in helping her find balance with her home life and her business. She continues to work hard at networking and introducing her brand to the unfamiliar, while strongly encouraging any aspiring bloggers to do the same.
“Stay true to who you are and your vision. Don’t be distracted by what everyone else is doing.”
While keeping this affirmation in mind, Dayna still continues to reaffirm her goals daily. Still working to inspiring women around her, Dayna hopes to encourage her beautiful baby girl to never give up and put her mind to anything she wants to be in life. The words “I can’t” doesn’t exist in her vocabulary, and she motivates women to live life to the fullest.
“If God is in her, she will not fail.”
– Dayna Bolden
Dayna closes out our conversation with some feedback on women being confident in their own skin- “Being comfortable in your own skin is what helps with confidence, you only have one life to live, so do whatever makes you happy and put your mind to it. You only have one life to live.”
Dayna has big plans in the future for her brand. She has hopes to continue to inspire women with beauty, style, and grace with the expansion of her brand. It was truly our pleasure to be in her presence during our cover photo shoot.
Contact:
IG: @ itsdaynadane
GQ for Cancer: Bernard Fogg “The Fight for His Life turned into the Foundation of his Business”
By: Mercedez McIntyre
As I sat across from Bernar Fog at my dining room table I was instantly able to recognize an amazing amount of peace n joy. Inquisitive about the man that can battle what most people fear yet with an air of humble confidence. The GQ for Cancer Founder, Bernard Fogg is extremely thankful for staying on top of his health saying it has motivated him to continue to do so, as well as motivate other men in the process. Bernard who was officially diagnosed with cancer on December 5, 2014 having visited four different specialists was officially diagnosed cancer free as of July 13th, 2015. Born in Baltimore, MD, Bernard enjoyed a glistering career in public relations as he prepared to start his own personal PR before the inception of the ailment that changed the course of his life.
The 29 year old who has a go-getter mentality believes that life and opportunities are endless having gone through the process of treatment which enabled him learn a lot about himself as a man. Bernard describes masculinity not just on the basis of strength but seeking to be healthy so as to be there for one’s family.
The ability to maintain a positive attitude towards issues played a key role to Bernard staying on top of his health having drawn strength from his mother; his role model whose encouraging words to always think first before getting emotional cannot be overemphasized. The music lover main goal is his inner peace which his life truly relies on it and he feels so good on the experience gained to combat every other battle life may throw at him. He founded The Gentlemen’s Quest for Cancer to address the impact of men under the age of 40 also fighting for better health with cancer and other major health issues that could possibly be prevented.
Bernard’s treatment served as a learning class for him in putting the care of oneself as a priority which is rare to find in young entrepreneurs today.
The support he get, the huge cut of processed foods and the amazing love showered on him tells how close Bernard Fogg is in closing his cancer chapter in 2017.
Upon probing if the handsome young entrepreneur was a Bachelor or not he has confirmed he is by choice. Being a true example of his foundation Bernard stated before he would add romantic engagement to his life he stands by his purpose of taking care of one's health first.
Our interview easily went into 3 hours. Sincere exchange of honesty and life's triumphs connected us automatically. There is so much more to this amazing Black man that we will be following his journey in Urban Freedom issues to come. So stay tuned and be sure to support him with the contact information below.
Contact Information:
Twitter: @gqforcancer
Facebook: GQ for Cancer (business); (personal) Bernard Fogg
Instagram: @gqforcancer (business); (personal) @gqtrilogy1
Website: www.gq4c.org ; Apparel: www.gq4c.org/shop
Email: info@gq4c.org
The Need for Acceptance & How it can Distract "The Creative" Entrepreneur
50 Cent Is Talking About Leaving 'Power' Because It Wasn't Nominated For a Golden Globe- http://www.complex.com/pop-culture/2016/12/50-cent-power-golden-globe-instagram-post
At what point does a person transition from being satisfied providing to their people vs. demanding the accolades of those who have never appreciated their culture in the first place. Recently 50 cent stated he would consider leaving the television show power because it wasn’t nominated for a Golden Globe. Taking a look at those who put together the award why would they consider it? How can they relate to it for it to be a consideration? It is one thing to consider boycotting those who segregate however why quit your art?
The frustration felt by the part time rapper and full- time entrepreneur Curtis Jackson is completely understandable. Jackson stated “I understand Power wasn’t meant to be a headline show on Starz, but it was the highest ranked”. This is true and confirmed by the network Starz. With a response from Starz saying “We are grateful for the excellent work being done on ‘Power’ by the producers, cast and crew. We certainly think this exceptional show has been overlooked by various awards committees, but the fans have made it the second most watched show on premium cable in 2016…and those are accolades that mean just as much if not more.”
Just as well recently Lupe Fiasco has confirmed via twitter he will have no other upcoming albums due to others feeling his lyrics were Anti-Semitic. How much work had already gone into his current tour? He already has dates set, times, ticket sales to end his music by his choice due to a misunderstanding. Think about the support of those attending those concerts. Who have already bought tickets supporting his music and art. How far do we take opinions of others in our society? This is not a problem but an epidemic in the culture we live in from the start up entrepreneurs to those with millions.
Often the goal becomes forgotten but the accolades being the validation entrepreneurs are seeking. If we return back to why we began, how far we have come, and are we affecting our targets then I truly believe we will return to calling our work what it is… “Art” and all art is not for everybody to appreciate but for you to be proud of! I ask all of our entrepreneurs to remember this as we work at it ourselves at Urban Freedom Magazine.
Nile Style: More than your expected Barbershop & Business Experience
By Mercedez McIntyre
Interview Conducted by Ai Brown
The C.E.O of Nile Style Barbershop, Shanile Shakoor, in an interview reveals how he lived with a lie that he told daily by his positive reply when asked if he feels good to have his own personal business. The one out of six children grew up in Jersey City and described himself as a natural born leader following a verdict from his mom sequel to his leading roles in academic, performances and play.
Nile Style Barbershop: 6622 Harford Rd #1 Baltimore, MD Credit: Distinct Eye Photography
Shanile started his entrepreneurial career as a youngster selling kool-aid which was fueled by the entrepreneurial mindset of people around him and further lead to the entrepreneurship concept instilled in him. The inception of his business was surrounded by challenges but with commitment, sacrifice and focus, the Nile Style boss believes that its erstwhile reply was no more a lie.
When asked about how he financed his dreams, Shanile explained that he did a research on how much capital is required of him. He revealed that he had saved a lot of money, tried to curb his spending and still got a loan from his parents which he has never missed a payment for the first 18 months which have helped him live a credit healthy life.
C.E.O of Nile Style Barbershop, Shanile Shakoor
The Nile style boss revealed that his biggest risk was leaving a huge client at a shop where he was working considering the consequences which actually paid off for him. He further disclosed that he starts his day with prayer and when asked how he balanced love and business, he replied that he considers himself romantic enough to include his wife in his business dealings but confessed that his hardest part was staying attentive. “I am learning to be more present/ in the moment,” he says. He advises upcoming and current entrepreneurs to stay focused and guard their energy from distractions. Shanile currently plans to have a gathering of men on a monthly basis in 2017 to discuss daily issues as part of his authentic manhood series on how to reject passivity.
Be sure to head down to “Nile Style” for a new barbershop experience of class & relaxation the next time you are in the Baltimore/ Maryland area!
Nile Style Barbershop:
6622 Harford Rd #1
Baltimore, Md 21214
(410) 444-9411
Credit: Distinct Eye Photography
Taking the 1st Steps: Transitioning from being Managed to Self- Managing Your Own Business
By: Roosevelt Andlove
It feels good having money in your pocket, I’d like to believe everyone can attest to that. I started working when I was 15, not because I had to, but because I wanted to. It’s something about feeling money in your pocket that brought the allure to seek out a part time job.
The consistent, calculable checks you get are something like a godsend. You know what you’re going to make; they establish your per hour worth right out the gate, you know that as long as you show up and do a passing job you’re guaranteed money on payday. But what happens when that consistency is taken away.
Trial and error is the term. Having your own business, being young and black, there is a bit of a learning curve you have to achieve to be successful. Stepping away from the 40 hour work week is the first step. Stepping away from what someone has dictated what you are worth and how long you have to work seems like a clear cut choice for a lot of young budding artists wanting to be the next Basquiat or Mark Zuckerberg. That is, until reality sets in.
Some young entrepreneurs are blessed to have a mentor that has been where you are, and gone on to be where you want. So if you are in the position to have someone to show you the ropes, learn everything you can from them, then apply it for yourself. I’ve been able to have several mentor’s from the start of my career, and each one has the same underlying theme. Know your worth.
So remember, if you want to work for yourself, Trial and Error is key, know your worth, never stop learning, and never cheat yourself
As simple a statement, this is probably the hardest ideal to bring to fruition. It almost transcends the words and becomes a lifestyle. Just ponder that; you set your hours, your pay, your product, everything. This means total control. Praise when it goes right, and side eyed looks when it doesn’t. But this is where another key ideal comes into play. Never stop learning.
Especially for photographers, such as myself, out the gate you either set yourself too high, or too low. It takes time to perfect your craft, and secondly price your craft. I still adjust myself to where I feel comfortable charging, or not. This means that no matter how good, or bad you are at something, it takes time to cement yourself. With that being said, once you have everything down, as far as experience and your knowledge of you craft, this is where the final step must be applied. Never cheat yourself.
This is where you’ll catch the most flack, but regardless of what people say, always stay your course, and don’t be afraid of losing a client because they don’t want to pay you what your worth. Have faith that your work is good enough to bring another willing client your way.
The African Passport Introduction!
By Tahirah Wiley
The African Union is considering launching a passport that will grant visa-free access to all 54 member states. The union aims to distribute them to all African citizens by 2018-2020. One of the passports issued by the African Union for officials and people who travel a lot on business, and the other by individual countries for everyone else. Many hope that the e-passports are the first steps to mobility for Africans on the continent. It is also hoped to boost trade economic growth opportunities.
The first batches of passports, which are electronic, were unveiled at the AU summit in Kigali, Rwanda. They were issued to heads of state and senior officials at that time. The first recipients were chairperson of the African Union Idris Deby and Rwandan President Paul Kagame. “We’ve been overwhelmed by requests and enquiries of other ministers, officials, and African citizens to share in this privilege of holding an African passport,” Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, chairperson of the African Union Commission says, according to The New Times.
The question still remains whether this will make it easier for travel among Africans. Many countries have more flights to London or Paris than with other countries on the continent. For example, there are very few flights between Abuja and Dakar - two major West African capitals - and passengers sometimes have to travel via Nairobi or Addis Ababa in East Africa, or even Europe. Also, millions of Africans are undocumented, and simply won’t be able to get a passport. This is a result of many issues in the countries themselves, including civil unrest, and nomadic lives.
There are strict visa requirements and high-priced airfare still remain as obstacles for the African Union to realize its vision for “a strong, prosperous and integrated Africa,” though countries such as Seychelles, Mauritius, Rwanda, and Ghana have taken lead in easing their visa requirements. Only 13 African states are currently open to all African citizens.
Gentlemen's Fashion Guide: "Business Ready" Fueled by: The Michael Foster Experience
Gentlemen’s Fashion Guide with GQ insider Michael Foster
I always tell people, fashion is the clothes you wear; style is how you wear it. For me style comes in the details or accessories you choose to enhance your wardrobe. For me personally, the autumn and winter seasons give me the most opportunities to show my style. This is because in these months I can pull out different accessories that don't fit spring or summer. Accessory number one, the scarf. For me the scarf can take a casual outfit to "Casually Fly" as I like to call it. This is something I picked up on my first travels to Montreal and Paris, where it's in vogue to wear a scarf year round. How you choose to wear your scarf reveals your personality or simply how you were feeling at the time.
I'm a firm believer that the first thing women (or men) look at when trying to figure out a male's status is his watch and his shoes. Invest in a nice watch, and it will stand the test of time. One of my favorite watches is a DKNY watch that I bought used at a pawn shop for $30 fifteen years ago and I've only had to replace the strap once. From there you can add a bracelet and/or ring that match your watch. Your watch, shoes, and belt should all match. Don't get caught wearing a brown belt with black shoes, or vice versa.
The pocket square is a nice little piece of cloth that I use to accent my blazer and shirt of choice.
When figuring out what I'll be wearing, I start with the blazer. That's where I start because for my personal style I realize I'm a blazer man. With that being the case, I've found out how to maximize my blazer fetish. Every now and then I'll go to Goodwill and look at the blazers they have available. From time to time I'll come across a blazer that's great quality and fits my personal style. From there I take it to get tailored specifically for me and voila, for $30 ($5 for blazer and $25 for tailor) I have a brand new addition to the wardrobe.
When choosing the proper accessories for your wardrobe remember that these are the items that will truly show your style and who you are as a person.
Sincerely,
“The Michael Foster Experience”
https://www.theinnerelite.com/
Instagram: @themichaelfoster
Your Body Can not be bartered for Love: New Age Relationship Business
By: Melanin Reigns
Where did the misconception that our bodies can be bartered for love begin? Perhaps it has never been a conscious thought of our own but what does our patterns and day to day habits reveal about us? . . .
Pace yourself
This is not another "one night stand" shaming blog, but in truth, how many women walk away from one night stands feeling refreshed thus looking for nothing further. . .?
NOT MANY. .
It's unnatural for divine creators to take energy from a source and not want to manifest something greater, to be shared amongst the rightful lender and broader community. However, a woman must keep in mind that just because a man (or woman taking upon the energy of a masculine vessel) beds you, it does not ensure that they are willing to co create with you on any level.
Why Does It Matter?
One word: EXPECTATIONS
Avoid them at all cost
Expectation is the first stepping stone to disappointment.
Too often sisters operate in the mindset that if they offer their vagina to someone; that person is in turn, indebted to love or even maintain communication with them.
FALSE
My advice to you is to know yourself.
Know your wants, needs, insecurities, shortcomings and your strengths.
This makes all of the difference when approaching intimate matters outside of self. Knowing the root of your urges and behaviors will help you identify if you're being led by your spirit or your wounds.
After all, the word intimacy phonetically defines itself as: IN TO ME I SEE.
Your vagina is not and will never be an offering or ticket for a man or masculine vessel to see the rest of you. I promise, sex on the first date isn't the issue. Sex as a tradeoff for the protection and provisions of a man is.
So what's your best option?
Do not expect, EXPERIENCE!
Take a deep breath, you no longer have to hold yourself hostage to the spell of emotional and mental codependency.
You are free to choose what is best for you, and I mean ALWAYS choose what is best for you.
How can you be sure?
eciprocity . .
It is no secret that new age women give too much of themselves, sexually, emotionally and financially; in hopes of acquiring what seems to be the unattainable in this generation.
Genuine, patient and consistent love.
However, what is settled for majority of the time falls short of just that. Most relationships and bonds are formed of attachment, the illusion of comfortability, and codependency. Be sure that the circulation of energy is healthy.
As receivers, we must be extremely careful what we are allowing into our space.
It's best not to compromise out of sexual starvation!
Maintaining a level of sexual discipline will keep your thinking clear.
Ask yourself, "Am I being led by my spirit or my wounds?"
"Will this interaction benefit me or will I regret it after?" "Will the person I am thinking of compromising for, value and appreciate my mind, body, and soul?" And lastly "Am I willing to share this bond with someone without possession?"
Have a conversation with your higher and lower self, in order to find your balance but most importantly; refrain from bartering your body in hopes of gaining love.
The temple of God resides within each of us.
Speak Your Mind: Sekani
Artist: Sekani Brghtn
Music has changed so much over the years, but does it still have the same impact as it did in the generations before us? Of course NOT! Born in St.Ann, Jamaica and raised in Portmore, Jamaica, artist like Sekani is proof that Hip Hop is still very alive and relevant. Sekani makes the type of music that gives you something to relate to but it can also stimulate your mental.
We asked the rising artist to inform us on how his childhood has influenced his passion for music, and he stated the following:
"As a child, growing up I witnessed all of the different sides that life had to offer, the good and the bad. It all played an essential role in my passion for music but I would not realize this until my teenage years. High school was the main factor that officially awakened the inner passion for music, I would skip classes with my brother and his friends just to write."
The passion drives the hunger, the music is survival and the form of an intelligent movement based off of the relationship that an artist has with their surroundings. When all you can think about is creating, we tend to be more persistent in building connections with like minded individuals.
Sekani was also asked what his largest challenge was as a growing artist and he gave the most honest answer possible:
"My largest challenge would have to be finding the optimal individuals to work with towards furthering my craft to the level I know it can be."
The art scene has a very supportive group of individuals and there is always an event to attend. With Open Mic and shows a few times a week it seems like things could get a little costly for any artist. Not to mention studio sessions, traveling back and forth, promo and advertising, etc. We were interested in how Sekani manages to fund his dreams and the response was:
"Terribly I might add, it's hard funding a craft with little to no money at times. Friends play a large role into helping me fund my dreams to be honest. Luckily, I've met friends whose dreams actually run linear to mine so we help each other out where we can."
Friends can play a major role in an artists growth and so can the support of a significant other. Some say that it's a little difficult to date an artist because at times their spouse tends to feel like they're second best. So Sekani was asked if there was anyone special in his life and if so, how does he manage love and business?
"I actually do have someone and she's one of the main driving factors that helps me towards my goal, a pillar I might add. It's kind of difficult to balance the two, in senses where I might tend to drift away when dealing with one or the other but at the end of the day we both know where we stand in the boat. She's at most times at all my events supporting in the crowd so I'd say managing can be both difficult and easy as long as there is common ground."
There's something very unique about Sekani and we are looking forward to hearing more from this artist. While some of his latest tracks can be found on SoundCloud and YouTube, Sekani is currently working on not one, but three different projects! The first project to be released is titled "Fragmented", with another project in the works, he will also be announcing the initial release of his first LP!
Website: http://sincerelysekani.com
Music Links: https://soundcloud.com/sekaneye
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=mCjvMbqErHc (compilation of performances)
Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/sekaneye/
Artist to Watch Dev Dapree
Dev Dapree was born in Florida and moved to Washington DC at the age of eight. She was quickly attracted to the go-go music she commonly heard and learned to incorporate its style with her southern roots that were founded on soul blended with Hip-Hop. Being a southern kid growing up in DC and Maryland help create a unique style along with life experiences.
Dev Dapree
Her approach to the game comes with wordplay, a lyrical foundation and soulful roots attached. Music has always been where the heart is for Dev and she loves to inspire a crowd.
Dev Dapree began her study of music at Duke Ellington School of the Performing Arts where she saw her craft from a different perception and used those teachings to better herself. Her curiosity grew as she learned that music itself was its own language and broad in style. Dev began recording in 2005 and has continued to try to spread her music to the world.
*Check out her featured music on our website*
Official Website : www.devdapree.com
Youtube : www.youtube.com/devdapree
Soundcloud : www.soundcloud.com/devdapree
Speak Your Mind: Kevin Icon Ben
By: Roosevelt Andlove
Kevin Icon Ben
With a humble understanding that God is the Alpha & Omega. He has named himself as an indication of his talent.
Although, artist Kevin Ben, aka, Icon Tha God, is very tangible, physically anyway. Hailing from the West Baltimore neighbor of Lexington Terrace, Icon has carved a niche out in the Baltimore rap scene, being declared as one, if not the best, emcee’s around.
Surprisingly, Icon attributes his love to rap by one of Wu-Tang’s members Method Man. He had, “…not a lot of emotion, but still this raw person…,” Icon states. Hoping to carry the unavoidable bravado that Method Man achieved, Icon still looks to him as a mentor of sorts.
Traveling around the art scene in Baltimore you can see how popularity doesn’t mean skill, and as Icon proclaims, “…being a Baltimore artist, you’re overshadowed by the trap rappers, the gangster rappers, the party hip hoppers…. So for me to be different in a town where there’s so many clones and I don’t have the recognition that these guys have, I have to step outside the box…”
More than a rapper, Icon has founded a graphic design and production group within the conglomerate Mass Natives, and with money in short supply for artists, having multiple backgrounds is the way to fund yourself, and as Icon states, “…you gotta grind..”
It goes without saying that Icon is destined for greatness, so I asked, “After everything was said and done, and you can look back on your career and feel accomplished, what word would you want to be used to describe yourself?” And as quickly as I asked, he answered, “Under Rated.”
God is underrated.
If you don’t already, follow Icon on all social media platforms @IconThaGod, and check out UnderRated 2 which features Icon, alongside some very talented local artists.
Relief for Flint,Michigan
Photo Credit- Ken Lund via Visual Hunt
Flint, Michigan can be considered an oppressed part of the US due to the occurring unprecedented water crisis. If we shed light on the water history of Flint, just for the sake of bringing improvements in the economy, certain progress yet harming measures were taken by the government.
Those measures were entirely linked with the concept of reducing the quality of water by adding certain harmful chemicals into it. Soon after, Flint was faced with adverse conditions and everything turned upside down. Now Flints' community is looking for a way out and below stated are certain steps, which can facilitate us in helping them.
Flint drinking water pipes which show iron corrosion and rust
Photo Credit Min Tang & Kelsey Pieper
Helping Researchers Carrying out their Research:
Researchers play a significant role in making people informed about what’s happening around the world. The one research organization, which is highly known for its services, is the Flint Water study that is putting immense efforts for bringing change in the society. You can help them out by simply supporting their cause or even donating to it through their official website.
Donate Cash and Clean Water Directly to Flint people:
You can help the people of Flint by directly donating money to them as well. If you are unable to donate money then, what could be better than donating clean water to them? Clean water and money would help people in getting basic necessities of life.
Can’t Donate Money? Help Government in Identifying people:
If you know people who are living in Flint and would need your help inform the government about them and help the government in identifying them so that they can get adequate help at the right time.
There is certainly no doubt in the fact that Flint needs our help because they are struggling with their survival.
Fix Baltimore: Urban Farming & City Rejuvenation!
Our community highlight feature this issue goes to #FixBaltimore. An organization that has not only helped with repairing the beauty to Baltimore city but hands on teaching the community. Fix Baltimore is an urban community empowerment group. Specializing in community program development through group activities that yield immediate results. On August 29, 2016 members Maurice Ashby and Keith Cooper took their efforts to make Fix Baltimore not only a community project but official enterprise. From creating community gardens to teaching how to grow your own food. Lead by passionate young men and women Fix Baltimore has opened our eyes to a new form of change. Fix Baltimore has not only shown us what entrepreneurship looks like but how to be self-reliant. Urban Freedom Magazine is excited for what’s to come! Be sure to follow our Journey with assisting Fix Baltimore in the year of 2017!
If you would like to assist as well please find all contact information below.
(443) 961-7FIX
208 South Pulaski St.
Baltimore, MD 21223
"Valentines Day with Style" - Fueled By: Eccentric Styles founder Louise Wheeler
Love is in the air and this Valentine's Day we want to play on textures and colors instead of the typical red color.
I am a huge fan of the crushed velvet and silk that's been trending... Add a pop of color if you’re going with neutrals.
You can add color in the makeup, shoes, and accessories. I don't know about you guys, but I LOVE the color gold! It gives a certain "je me sais quoi" to the outfit! Either outfit can be worn with updo styles or hair down. I would prefer a sleek bun or ponytail for either outfit. Go crazy, love birds!
IG: @EccentricStyles
Email: Eccentric.styles29@gmail.com
Winter 2017: Premiere Seasons we Loved with Writers we can Admire
Queen Sugar:*
Starting with a backdrop of the turbulent lives between 3 African-American siblings. Queen Sugar has taken us all captive by the heart, mind & soul. Giving perspectives of family unity no matter our differences and history. Shedding light on major issues that reign in our community...unjustified incarceration. relationships, career, family separation and the one we can all relate to most....Consistent crossroads in life. Showcasing on the Oprah Winfrey Network OWN. Queen Sugar was produced by Ava Duvernay. Duvernay known for also directing “Selma” ; showcased and collaborated with a new female director every episode who also enlisted all star female directors to work by her side each episode. Amazing dynamics have created a television show that caters to every personality. Especially those of us with layers seen and unseen. OWN has delivered television for us, by us, that we can be proud of!
Catch up on Season 1 as we await the arrival of Season 2 which will bring 16 all new episodes.
Insecure:*
Congratulations are in order Golden Globe nominee “Insecure” starring Issa Rae. Insecure has broken barriers in the depiction of African American women painting our realities of learning ourselves, relationships, friendships and mostly..the woman in the mirror . Insecure follows the lives of two best friends Issa & Molly. Two best friends leading completely different lives. Issa who has become unapologetically awkward in her own skin represents a new side of Black women we love but rarely get to see. We fall in love with the character more and more simply because she is what most find it hard to be..themselves. To see a Black Woman unafraid to be her true self is a new form of tv other cultures are finally able to learn from. We have missed tv like Girlfriends, Eve, Fresh Prince that brought us reality that represent us proudly. Issa who wears her hair in an array of beautiful natural styles working in the urban youth community she comes from in California she comes from. Finding her life with her live in boyfriend & at one time enthusiastic job begins to find all of her life mundane. Searching for a thrill and writing checks her reality isn't ready to pay for. Molly the prestigious attorney with a good heart and promiscuous life searches for love in so many places the timing even if the man was right, is wrong. Molly drunken on the idea of perfect love finds herself in more beds than hearts refusing to accept the one piece of advice every woman needs to learn..Self-Love without romantic attachment. Season 2 has been confirmed by HBO! Not only is it rare for a season 1 to have a new contract before the previous has ended but even more rare that it is nominated for such a prestigious award! This is what our support looks like…it's undeniable!
Also catch up on Season 1 of this HBO hit !
Bridging the Gap of Upbringing: Entrepreneur Relationships
By: Julian Benjamin
Love is a beautiful thing that most of us are not equipped with knowing how to maintain, but only attain. So after you meet, date, commit to a relationship and the honeymoon stage passes you’re now introduced to each other in a brand new way. The first time you see each other beyond the rose gold lenses. We are all much more than the person in the relationship but also built by all the things before the relationship. All of life’s journeys, battles, triumphs, worries, strengths, insecurities, past relationships, family influence comes into the relationship too.
You find an attraction to all that they are. You find yourself confused just as well by all that they are, I think it’s time we start to dig deeper when dating. We ask ourselves, what does it take to really get to know all that makes the person? What makes them beyond what you think they are made for when it comes to family upbringing? I’ve learned this plays a key role in the factors we may not understand about each other. The process alone of revealing oneself probes a high amount of vulnerability. In that moment you are not only allowing someone in beyond the superficial, but getting your first glimpse of how they handle who you truly are. Do they respond with positivity? Do they want to learn more? Are they interested in knowing more? Are they bored? Have we considered reciprocity in relationships?
Most of us come from different backgrounds. You’re either the first born, middle child, the baby or maybe the only child. You may come from a one parent home, two parents, or even step-parent home. You may have been adopted, searching for the other parent, or raised by grandparents. All of these elements play a part in who we are as well. The roles we’ve played most of our lives are a reflection of the roles we play today. We all grow constantly and heal continuously but there is a reason your partner learned a lesson the way they did. There may be a reason they are more defensive in certain areas and patient in others. Before coming from a place of not understanding in frustration, it's time we take a look to understand past what our eyes see and our egos walk away from.
As we have entered in explaining to others that “Black Lives Matter”, how deep do we go with this concept in our own homes? We must really protect the mental and emotional experiences of our partners as we wish to protect the physical safety of others. This is how we truly bond, repair, build and find what most think no longer exists with authentic love. There is no exact science to building the right relationship foundation. However, we can make sure we utilize the tools that are right in front of us to create bonds that allow you to grow together, no matter the status of the relationships we experience throughout life.
What form of Media are you Helping to Create?
Barack Obama & Denzel Washington -U.S. Embassy Jakarta, Indonesia via VH
“Honest news through media has become one of the rarest things in our community” stated by Denzel Washington who is disgusted with how news has transitioned.
Due to its trending habits on social media, we tend to believe them at first glimpse. He also said, “If you don’t read newspapers or sources that hold precedence for honest news then, you are clearly uninformed because fake news has now become a part of our lives that many tend to believe”.
However, whether newspaper, TV, radio or social media the game is numbers. Now media companies are highly concerned about their ratings and competing with others and least concerned about the legitimate information. If we consider the real picture of this globalized world then, honest media has now become a fantasy. This is while media giants are focused on their profits and less concerned about providing the right, justifiable yet informative news to their audience.
Barack Obama, while addressing the same issue of fake news, stated that fake news and its popularity has the potential of adversely influencing the system of a democratic state because people won’t be able to differentiate between what’s real and what’s fake. In the same manner, they will be forced to believe that what these media channels are trying to convey is actually true.
Facebook and other popular social media sites can also be called as the biggest contributor in delivering fake news because people tend to share stuff with their own perceptions while ignoring the big picture and real effects of the news on its readers. In this manner, people are also actively contributing to increasing the popularity of the fake news.
Barack Obama also highlighted the fact that fake news not only places the burden on people but also becomes a direct threat to our economy and democracy. People are currently highly uninformed and inter-linked with each other in the most negative manner.
It would be fair to claim that we all are in an urgent need of honest media. Fake news is ruining the conditions of our community and influencing the mindset of our people.
At Urban Freedom Magazine we have a completely different role and goal. To return honest media to the forefront. Your support is what can change this! The attention of the people is what created this. Regardless of how each person feels. The mainstream media aims at what the people feed into. You feed fear and dishonesty…then that is what is created. Feed sources that make you proud.
Are Alpha-Females Doomed to be Single?
By Melanin Reigns
Absolutely NOT,
I mean after all is there anything actually negative about being single?
We have ourselves, family, close friends, pets and friends with benefits that we can call when we are in need of romantic intimacy; so doomed is certainly an inaccurate word to describe the situation.
However, the truth of the matter is that Alpha females are attracted to Alpha Males but most Alpha Males are attracted to beta females.
Two major problems here, alpha males are about 1 out of every 100 men and that statistic may even be too generous in today's world.
The average man is already outnumbered by women, so the rarity of an alpha male is even more strenuous on the alpha female.
Secondly, the attraction Alpha-females feel for the Alpha-males is often one sided because he seeks Beta-Females.
Why is this?
The Alpha Male's drive is based upon the need to be needed, whereas the A.F's is based upon the need to acquire collective "self sustainability".
Also, Alpha Females appear too masculine to Alpha Males which repels them from seeking a lasting partnership with them apart from consensual sex, or business relations. This is the same energy that attracts beta males to the Alpha Female.
However, what all men should keep in mind is that because masculine energy is outwardly exerted, and feminine energy is about depth.
A single Alpha Female must tap into survival mode, in order to protect herself and she will seem overbearing in her masculine energy when doing so because it is an honored part of her essence that is not glorified or accepted in conformed society.
t's also the reason she is balanced at the head and heart. Make no mistake about it, she is a flourishing and evolving feminine vessel, as well and at her best when her complementary partner can take the weight of protection, production and provision off of her shoulders.
If you look around, most Alpha females are beginning to date other Alpha females because beta males are not sufficient and alpha males simply aren't attracted to them.
So what is an Alpha female anyway?
How does a woman know when she is one, how do you become one?
Honestly, YOU ARE BORN ONE!
Working a 9-5, having a car and a house are always a plus but it does not indicate that you are an Alpha-Female.
Models- Entrepreneurs Tracie Washington & Cle Mooring (Urban Freedom Black Wall St Photo shoot)
Three important things define an Alpha Female
Balanced Head & Heart / Masculine & feminine energies
Vision
Drive
Characteristics Alpha Females radiate:
Leader, straightforward about her needs vs wants, balanced in masculine and feminine energies, unconditional lover, master manifester, go getter, goal oriented, divine nurturer, community nourisher etc.
Her key phrases are:
"I AM" and "I WILL"
DO NOT confuse Alpha Females with the "I don't need a man" type of women.
They are more so the "I have a vision that I refuse to let go to waste by any means necessary" type.
She is willing to take on masculine energy of her own to put her vision into action because she knows it is vital to her well being and more importantly her community and future lineage.
She knows her strength is in vision so she truly seeks a protector and provider that will ensure it is fulfilled.
Uncovered secrets:
All polygamous and polyamorous relationships of the past were headed by Alpha-Males and Alpha-Females.
Alpha + Alpha relationships can easily turn into competition.
Which is why both parties must divinely know themselves.
It's most likely that these individuals will take on multiple partners at a time, not for sexual conquest or demeaning purposes (unless established out of the ego) but because their energy will take multiple betas to complement it.
It is highly unlikely that two alphas will find it necessary to add other partners to their Union, because both auras emerged become larger than life itself.
To be continued . . .Stay tuned to our next issue.
Notes: Female and Woman were used interchangeably by CHOICE!
A.F= Alpha Female A.M = Alpha Male
Cole World felt
A review of J. Cole
“4 yours eyes only”
By: Michelle Reed
Even with his success, J. Cole seems to always write from the perspective of a dreamer. He gives relation and hope to those who have yet to accomplish their dreams. He understands the fallacy this country has always taught the black man; success only comes from music, sports, or the streets. J. Cole isn’t afraid to expose hardcore truths, express thoughts on religion, or relationship issues. With great lyrics and an insider perspective, “4 your eyes only” has a heavy dose of real instruments. It is a must listen for those who love hip hop and J. Cole.
*False Prophets is not on the album but surely should be! False prophets highlights J. Cole's view of his childhood idols who traded their originality for fame. A few speculations have been made that the song refers to Kanye West and/or Wale. Either way we can all learn a few things to apply and observe ourselves! Check the song out on our website*
