Fly

Scale Necklace

Very cute necklace from Laura Lombardi Jewelry.

 

NYT: Fela's Women

Beautiful costume design and make-up styling adorn the queens/co-wives in Fela!, a musical about the Nigerian singer and activist. Check out the article and slideshow on the New York Times website. Images from NYT.

 

FGOTW

 

Who? Alexandra, 20

Where? I am a resident of Olney, MD.

What do you do? I am a full time mother, student and entrepreneur. I have recently launched my own natural hair care line for natural haired women called Safi Natural Hair Care. You can also learn more about the line on my blog.

What inspires you? My daughter has been my biggest inspiration along with my mother. I have been through so many changes the past few years and I feel like I am finally coming into my own and following my dreams.

Why are you fly? I am fly because I embrace my flaws and accept who I am not. Having this state of mind has help me embrace and love the real me.

Advice: The advice I'd give to other young women would be to be ambitious and take risks. No dream is un-real anything can be made a reality with hard work, knowledge, support and peace of mind.

FGOTW

 

Who? Gillaine Chapman, 28

Where? I am born and raised in Toronto, Ontario CANADA!!

What do you do? I am a Freelance Photographer. I shoot anything and every thing! Right now I’m in the process of renovating my site, Gillaine Chapman Photography. I’ve shot for Toronto’s Caribana Festival and for Chatelaine Magazine, Canada’s leading Women’s magazine. But my 2 loves (yes you can have more than one!) are fashion photography and travel photography.

What inspires you? Colors, scents, food, music…and new surroundings. Just being in a new place can rejuvenate my mind to come up with all sorts of ideas! Going far from home is great, but just going to a different part of the city, especially here in Toronto, you can feel the diversity by visiting all the different areas (Kensington Market, Chinatown, Little Italy, Little India) and feed off that culture’s energy.

Why am I fly? Hmm… cause I just wont give up on what I love. Period. Photography is definitely not a 9 to 5 kind of job, so at times it can be hard to make ends meet, but each project is a whole new escapade. When I get that perfect shot, it’s an insane feeling that makes it all worth it!

Advice: My advice is to KEEP GOING. In whatever you do. Things may not come when you expect them to so keep going! I actually went to school for Photography back in ’01 and after a month had to drop out for financial reasons. 5 years later I went back, and graduated last year - the only black person in my graduating class.

Lobo Mau at Colab Studios Pics

This weekend my studiomate and I hosted our very first event. We were SO excited and honored to have the lovely ladies of Lobo Mau feature their latest pieces at our space, Colab Studios. Despite the huge, chunky snowflakes coming down on these Philly streets the turnout was fantastic and a lot of people walked away with fabulous Lobo Mau purchases.

With tea candles, Christmas lights and our bright yellow chairs, the space was transformed into a boutique that complimented Lobo Mau's design aestheritc. You see that model form in the corner? It belongs to my mother and I've been dying to have it in my space. She inherited this 1962 size 10 gem from the sewing studio she worked in, and I played in years ago when as a little girl. It was a special moment to have it in my own studio.

 

I loved seeing Lobo Mau's Amazon inspired screenprinted goodies and fell in love with the necklaces, made from brightly painted seed beads straight from the garment district of Rio de Janiero.

Between the chatting, catching up with friends and admiring the wares I was beat (as you can see in the last picture below right, I was trying to rest my feet) but I had a great time and look forward to having more events in the future.

 

FGOTW

 

Who? Sumaya Haji-Jama, 22

Where? I've been living in Detroit for the last five years. But I've lived all over, and grew up in Mississauga which is right next to Toronto, Ontario in Canada. Ethnically, I'm Somali.

What do you do? I am a student, daydreaming nightowl, lazy workaholic, travel-addict nomadic homebody, jane of all trades. Might sound cliché, but i want to help make a difference in any way that I can, and inspire others to do the same. I heard this once somewhere and its been stuck with me ever since, but i 'aspire to inspire'. I want to be and do so many things. I have a new idea like every week, and I'm pretty sure my mom was afraid I'd be a college dropout to pursue my dreams but my education is very important to me. Over the years, I've learned that being a student doesn't mean you have to put them on hold although it may feel that way. 

What inspires you? Spirituality, and more importantly, Islam. The older I get, the more important my spirituality has become so vital to who I am. I love talking to others about it, exchanging ideas, and providing an outlet for people to ask questions. It's so important especially in light of all the negative media it has had in recent times. Quotes inspire me to such an unbelievable extent, the right one can truly make my day and help me get my mind right. The strength of others, people I meet, books I read, creativity, art, my mother, music, history, poetry, travel, different cultures, natural wonders of this world, a sunny day, technology, fitness, films, independent businesses, DIY tv channels like foodnetwork and HGTV, currentTV, graphic design, and food. But above all, learning. I recently started my blog, Inspiração/Coração, which basically means 'inspiration/heart' in Portuguese. It showcases all the things that inspire me in my daily life. I also have another blog, Not Another Muslim Blog, which discusses topics to introduce Islamic concepts to others and talk about issues faced by modernday/young Muslims.

Why are you fly? This part is hard for me to answer because I don't like to or know how to talk about myself. However, after all the grad school apps and personal statements I had to write this year, I'm a little more comfortable with it. I would say I'm not afraid to go against the grain, try new things, explore new territories, and be independent. I'm also a very persistent person and never give up easily. So I guess I'm fly cuz of my drive (and style, lets not forget about that). I try to dress modestly because of my faith but it doesn't mean I don't know how to create looks and trends that are, well, pretty fly.

Advice: Don't be afraid to just do it. Ideas will just remain ideas if you never do anything about it. I know so many people who have amazing ideas but are too intimidated to ever start making it happen. Take baby steps, but by all means do something to get yourself started and you will see everything come together faster than you imagined. Don't let your ideas die in your head, because you'll get distracted, and opportunities do not last. Also, try to do something meaningful and be someone that you would admire, and be a source of joy to those around you. Just like you don't want negative energy around you, neither does anyone else. No matter how hard you got it, don't just settle for surviving, but instead try to thrive. And lastly, never, never ignore your intuition. I honestly think that is one of the best things women have been blessed with.

FGOTW

 

Who? Jena Coray, 27
Where? I live in beautiful Portland, OR, a transplant from the high desert town of Reno, NV where it doesn't rain much. I love all the wet here, the green, the clovers and moss, the gray skies- it suits me.

What do you do? I'm a full time blogger over at Modish and I am working on getting an online vintage clothing shop set up called Miss Modish. I'm also an obsessive cat lover, dog mom, loving girlfriend, laughing friend, writer, yogini, spaghetti eater, nature reveler, big dreamer, photographer, clothing horse and a lazy bones.

What inspires you? My surroundings here in Portland, fellow bloggers, art, poetry, MUSIC, fashion and most of all laughter. Not a day goes by without me finding something to laugh (too loudly) at.

Why are you fly? I'm fly because I embrace who I am — the good, the bad and the curly ;). I'm fly because I'm finding a way to do what I love each and everyday and make a living from it. I'm fly because I always get what I want, not with ease, but because I've learned that if you work your butt off, are kind to people and stay true to yourself, things happen. I'm fly because I feel lucky to be living this life.

Advice: Whatever it is in this world you want to do, you can do it. You can make it happen with hard work, with confidence and skill. Keep a smile on your face and your head up through the tough times and just know, you can be whatever you want to be. Oh and, for God's sake, be nice to each other!

FGOTW

 

Who? Ahyana, 25

Where? West Philadelphia

What do you do? I am a graduate student and crisis intervention counselor by day and the owner of Phreedum, a socially conscious clothing line for men, women, and infants dedicated to using the creativity of design to raise money for nonprofit organizations by nights and weekends. 

What inspires you? The belief that people have unmeasurable amounts of talent and potential, given a little help from non profit organizations, they have the opportunity to actualize such talent and potential. Non profit organizations use a great deal of creativity and ingenuity to help people and they can use a little support as they support others. It's all about an opportunity to provide hope and possibility, these two things are endless fuel for life's journey. 

Why are you Fly? Despite a poor economy, working full time and being in school full time, I am still committed to using what I am passionate about, art/fashion,  to help others become what they desire to be. 

Advice: Don't settle. Dare to have a vision and work towards making it become a reality. Be relentless and unforgiving of failure. Phreedum is a brand that has been my personal journey to freely pursue what I was born to do and to help others do the same. So as I have figured out, amidst the journey, be willing to help others traveling your same road.

FGOTW

 


Who? Leila, 24

Where? I currently live just outside of Chicago. I'm originally from Kingston, Jamaica.

What do you do? For a living I report on courts and legal affairs for a tri-county newspaper but I'd love to do documentary filmmaking. I also blog about natural/afro-textured hair and everything from care to styling to the social and political implications of black women's choice to wear it that way (Black Girl Long Hair).

What inspires you? Hmm. Good question. I'm inspired by the twin ideas of equality and peace. On a less grand scale, I love neon colors, Nike dunks, gardening, thrifting (buying and donating), downloading music I hear in movie soundtracks (seriously, it's become addictive), interviewing people for my job and my blog, painting my nails crazy colors (neon yellow and kelly green was my most recent combination), hanging out with my little sister, listening to public radio (another addiction), reading, and spending in Chicago. These are things that I like to do so I guess they could be classified as inspirations ;).

Why are you fly? LOL, wow. Well, honestly, I gave up the notion a long time ago that I was normal and could 'fit in'. My mom is from Detroit, my dad is Haitian and I grew up in Jamaica. So in a sense, I can never fully fit in anywhere. I have learned over time to embrace my uniqueness and do my own thing.

Advice: Ignore people/systems/institutions that tell you who you should be. Trust your instincts and be who you are. We are our most powerful when we are our most authentic.

Just Go​.​.​.​A Mixtape

Another fly mixtape. This one is from Shalonda. Thanks Adam!

 

FGOTW

 

Who? Danielle, 27

Where? I live in Boston but I am originally from Rochester, NY

What do you do? What I want to do for a living is make sure my life is more creation and less regurgitation. I am a musician/law student/activist/blogger. In all of those thing you can either create something new think differently, present differently or you can recycle what has already been done. So I try to make sure I am truly creating things that are more a reflection of my true self and less a regurgitation of other people's thoughts and ideas.

What inspires you? I am inspired by people who have the ability to take a chance. Step out on faith and do the things that they really feel passionate about. Even when those things are not valued by society. I am inspired by African women who are the mothers of all beings and who are the flyest Queens on the planet. I am inspired by drums and an upright bass. I am inspired by Nina Simone and Thurgood Marshall. I am inspired by Bob Marley and Malcolm X. I am inspired by the sun, moon, leaves changing colors, children, rain, prayers... life. But most of all I am inspired by FREEDOM in the physical and mental realm. I am inspired by the idea that one day all people can be free from both physical and mental suffering. Now that belief inspires me to write, sing, dance, study, research,advocate, petition, protest.

Why are you fly? I am fly because I can write and produce a song by night and inform someone of their 4th amendment rights by day!..lol. I am in the midst of finishing an album, creating a blog to inspire young women and finishing my second year of law school. I am passionate about my people and justice. I believe there are many ways to achieve justice; singing on a stage, advocating in a court room or inspiring people through positive words. I am fly because the creator has given me more than one way to contribute to the world and express love and for that I am thankful.

Advice: You are truly created to be the hands, eyes, ears, breath, living manifestation of the creator. Love yourself and others as God would

Jackie Ormes

Just discovered the first African-American woman cartoonist Jackie Ormes. Images from NYT and here.

FGOTW

Who? Oluwakemi Amin, 27   

Where? Rooted in Nigeria, born in Los Angeles, raised in Oakland, live in Berkeley, CA.   

What do you do? I am the Marketing & Membership Coordinator at the University of California Botanical Garden at Berkeley. And for creativity and service I am emancipating myself through my blog, Emancipate! Oluwakemi. And for breathing I imagine, bask in nature, draw, think, write, cook, study everything, craft, collect, read, experiment creatively create.

What inspires you? Everything and everyone that I see/I've seen, hear(d), smell(ed), touch(ed), taste(d), feel/felt, like(d), dislike(d), hated, love(d), experience(d).    

Why are you fly? I am a woman, I am African, I am from Oakland, I listen, I laugh...loudly,
I am a clutz, I am a perfectionist, I am patient, I am quick, I am clever, I can dance my behind off (when persuaded), I am an observer, I am a designer/creative, I am a big-headed sista, I am modest, I am a mild exhibitionist, I am a nerd, I am ghetto, I am an intellectual, I am refined, I am natural, I am modern, I can be silent, I can be loud, I am old school and I am FLY because I am me. I accept it, I am embracing it, I love it.  

Advice: There is no one on Earth who can ever or will ever be You and there is no one on Earth You can ever be but You, so why not be the BEST You, You can be...ever! The power and potential of You is unlimited!

Kate Moross

Great hand-lettering from graphic designer Kate Moross.

FGOTW

Who? Jeyfree, 24

Where? Born and raised in Bronx, NY. I moved out to Houston TX 3 years ago. I'm currently hiding out in Chicago and been here for the last 2 months. Might head west for some California sun or to ATL for some new southern flavor. I'm a urban gypsy I tend to move around a lot.

What do you do for a living? I am a jewelry artist/visual artist I make one-of-kind hand crafted accessories. My other alter egos are fashion stylist, a makeup artist, a business woman, a trend-setter, a mentor, activist and a true revolutionary at  heart.
 
What inspires you? I am inspired by my everyday social environment. I like to people watch and read their body language. Most of my color palettes I use for my art pieces are inspired by colors we see on a day to day basis. My recent trip to Kenya revealed new inspirations to me: the scenery, the country, and the rich color of my melon skin.

Why are you fly? I know I'm fly because every time I meet a new client or a client receives a custom art piece made with them in mind, the smile on their faces reassures me that my passion has reached their personal style and inner conscience. My good friend told me she thinks I am fly because I don't follow trends, I am my own trend and that my style emerges from the energy I give to the world which has always been positive.
 
Advice: My advice for other young woman is to truly support one another and to let their inner light shine!

FGOTW

Who? Andrea Samuels.  I am 25.

Where? Chicago, IL

What? I am a State Certified freelance Makeup Artist. I go to different fashions shows, weddings and photo shoots all throughout Illinois and make models, brides and aspiring actresses look fabulous. I also do photography, create oil paintings, and draw portraits of people.

What inspires you? I am inspired by artwork, clothing and decorations from different cultures, high fashion photography with unique concepts and bright colors, music gets my creative juices going and my imagination takes me to another level.

Why are you fly? I think I am fly because I can make you look fly! Whether I apply makeup to your exterior or recreate it on a sheet of paper, I can bring out the best in you. My passion is to make people see a different side to them selves that they would have never imagined.

Advice: The best advice I could give for women is to go with your instinct and take risks. I was going to school to pursue a career in fashion design, but it was not my passion. It took me a while to get my courage, go with my instinct and try a career in something I was passionate about. After deciding to pursue my career in makeup, I have been so happy to be able to do what I love to do best on a daily basis. There are highs and lows with any career, but I stay positive and smile. I would not trade this for the world!

FGOTW

Who? Zandile Blay, 26 years old

Where? I live in New York City, was born in Ghana, West Africa; raised in Jersey City, NJ and studied in London, England.

What do you do? I am a fashion editor at Paper Magazine in New York and run my three year-old fashion blog, The Blay Report.

What inspires you? Potential

Why are you fly? My mom won't give me any other choice.

Advice: Confidence is key. Once you build it, there's nothing you cannot do.

FGOTW

Who? Sheena, 24

Where? Right now I'm in a small town on Japan's most southwesterly main island. I'm from Ohio and I'm still recovering from a pretty big break-up with New York City. 

What do you do? I teach English during the school day, and play some serious tag during recess.  Long-term? I hope to live on every continent. For real long-term? I eventually hope to start some sort of organization that gives underprivileged American youth the opportunity to gain high-school credit studying or working in a foreign country for a summer. Have some networking and fund-raising skills to develop first. If you're interested enough please peep my blog, where I document my (non)adventures. 

What inspires you? Deadlines. Tasty things. My brilliant circle of friends. Lists. Tracy Chapman. First-graders. Maps. Karen Finley. Gates and doors. Yehuda Amichai. Changing my mind. Lorna Simpson. Languages. Arranging and rearranging. And, really, a lot of the people I follow on Twitter.

Why are you fly? After spending so much time on planes it just sort of happens to you. Flyness is contagious. ;-)

Advice: Hmm. Go somewhere. Anywhere. Just put on your shoes, take some stuff, whatever, and get away from where you are for a little while. Don't spend all of your money, always keep something saved!  Finally, please handle people gently, don't do things you don't want to do, and be mindful.

FGOTW

Who? Erica

Where? I'm originally from Mississippi, but I now live in Brookline, MA

What do you do? By day, I'm a full-time graduate student, studying to earn my Ph.d in civil engineering and urban planning. By night, I'm a serious crafter and run my own paper goods/furniture business, Edesse Designs.

What inspires you? My greatest source of inspiration almost always comes from problem solving regardless of the discipline. From complex numerical analysis and mathematical models to trying to figure out how to survive the night with a broken heel or how to get away with wearing that same dress for one more day, the steps needed to identify, diagnose, and solve ANY problem forces you to stretch your imagination to the limit. That and exaggerated proportions, uncomfortableness, failures, success, two-sided conversation, neatly arranged produce, dreams that follow after a late dinner of greasy Chinese food, train rides, laundry tumbling in the dryer, day trips, randomness, and anything from the hands of Claes Oldenburg.

Why are you fly? I'm fly because I'm not trying to be anything other than who I am and I accept every aspect of my existence with overwhelming thankfulness and humility.

Advice: Own up to your mistakes, celebrate your success, and follow your gut. And, stay away from Red #3.

FGOTW

Who? My name is Myisha Croom-Turner and I'm 35 years old.

Where? I currently live in a suburb 50 miles east of Los Angeles where I'm originally from. 

What do you do? By profession I am a Corrections Officer for Los Angeles County. I am also a jewelry designer and owner of Brace Yourself Boutique, an online boutique for the Bohemian spirited woman.

What inspires you? I am inspired by my husband who is the ultimate optimist, and by courageous women who go out on a limb and dare to pursue a life they love.
 
Why are you fly? I am fly because I am a 35 year old mother, wife, business owner, officer, loyal friend, loc rocking, anthropologie loving bohemian girl who is not afraid of adding more fly titles to the ones above! ;)
 
Advice: Why are you trying so hard to fit in when you were born to stand out?