Bessie A. Winn-Afeku2013-05-25T04:45:29-04:00Bessie A. Winn-Afekuhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/author/index.php?author=bessie-a-winnafekuCopyright 2008, HuffingtonPost.com, Inc.HuffingtonPost Blogger Feed for Bessie A. Winn-AfekuGood old fashioned elbow grease.5 Things That Creative Entrepreneurs Can Learn From Andre 3000tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2013:/theblog//3.30475272013-04-09T17:14:41-04:002013-04-11T11:09:48-04:00Bessie A. Winn-Afekuhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/bessie-a-winnafeku/
It was the Spring of 1994; my friends and I had just purchased the album Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik and after listening to the first minute of the title track "Player's Ball," we knew that the duo OutKast -- (Andre Benjamin also known as Dre/Andre 3000 and Antwan Patton also known as Big Boi ) would be one of the musical talents to put Atlanta on the map in terms of their music and lyrical style. *Oh, and let me not forget to mention the Dungeon family* Not only did OutKast create music that was hip and popular, but they created music that had substance and made us want to engage in discussion about their lyrics.
Their lyrics had depth, and they made us think...
They made us move.
They carried our mind to places, and left us open to what hip hop could really be.
Outkast rapped about social issues on a local and national level. They were consistent throughout the years, and the music they made was timeless. But it was Andre 3000 that captivated me the most. Don't get me wrong, both Andre 3000 and Big Boi had an audible and mental hold on me...But there was just something about Andre 3000. There was something about the way he delivered his gift to his audience that made me feel like I was a pupil being schooled by this master of style on how one should deliver as a creative professional.
I think I was 14 when he first spoke to me, or at least made me feel like he was specifically talking to me. He had me at his first bar on "Players Ball." It is no secret that Andre Benjamin better known as Andre 3000 has been one of my many inspirations. Andre has always had a lyrical and fashion style that he owned and this has allowed him to possess a creative savoir-faire that only a handful of artist possess. And like Andre said in the first bar or so on the "Players Ball" track:
"It's beginnin to look a lot like what? Follow my every step take notes On how I creep I's bout ta go in depth...."
And..I have followed his every step.
In following Andre's music career, acting career and his entrepreneurial endeavors there are quite a few things that I believe many creative professional can learn from the success of Andre Benjamin's journey as an artist.
1. Be your authentic self.
Andre 3000 has always been known to have a style of his own -- and he owns it. He went against what his role as a rapper should be and did his own thing. Do your own thing. Use that gift that is unique to you...and use it for your own benefit. From his style of dress to his style of MC'ing, you know an André verse when you heard one. When you are authentic people will always know what you will be delivering. Own who you are and what your brand represents and take responsibility for it.
2. Evolve (It's OK).
Initially Andre 3000 came onto the scene and was introduced to us as a rapper, but then he began taking on acting roles in films like Four Brothers, Idlewilde, as the voice of Sunny Bridges in the television cartoon series Class of 3000 and even launched a men's clothing line, Bixby. Most recently Andre 3000 served as the face of Gillette's "Masters of Style" campaign and played the role of Jimi Hendrix in the biopic, All is By My Side which is in post production. Throughout the years even through his evolution, Andre has still managed to not only keep a loyal base of fans, but to grow a bigger one as well.
3. Engagement matters.
With Andre 3000's art of storytelling through rap, he manages to draw his audience in and keep them engaged. Whether it's via social media, email, through performance, or your work it's self; make a way to engage with your audience who are the people and the community you have created that has become drawn to you and your work. Find a way to let what you do resonate with your audience. Make them feel like they are an audience of one when it comes to the delivery your art/work. Create work that will draw your audience into you.
4. You do not need to say "YES" to every opportunity.
If an opportunity or project does not excite you, then don't do it. If it is not beneficial in any way -- don't do it. If you know that saying yes to it will possibly mean having to say no to better opportunities in the future or it effecting your brand-then don't do it. It's okay to not book every customer -- because everyone is not your customer. It's okay to not appear at every "networking" event. It's okay to not write for every single news website and magazine that offers you an opportunity. It is okay to say NO. Because in saying yes to everything you end up doing rushed work and filling your schedule with things that most likely don't excite you. And the one thing you can't do is rush creativity. Not being seen everywhere and involved in everything grows your demand. Andre 3000 continues to leave his musical audience hungry. He has not done an album with his partner Big Boi (Antwan Patton) , has not had an album out in years and one rarely ever sees him mentioned on gossip blogs (unless of course it about where he is and when he is coming out with new music).
5. Compete with your own brand.
"Tryin to outdo the last verse that I birthed, that is my curse.." 3000 stated this in the song "Watch for the Hook." We could all benefit from doing the same thing, meaning we could all benefit from just trying to out do ourselves. One sure way of limiting our creativity is by actively competing with what other creative professionals or artist ..competition with others can open the door to other creativity killers..like comparison. Don't do it. Some may argue that competition is the drive that everyone needs..maybe..but your point of reference now becomes all about what the competition is doing. Your focus, should be you. Don't abandon your own potential while waiting and trying to figure out what the next person is doing.]]>Doc Waller on Creativity, Honesty and Getting Antigravitytag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2013:/theblog//3.26051612013-02-04T18:10:45-05:002013-04-06T05:12:01-04:00Bessie A. Winn-Afekuhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/bessie-a-winnafeku/TEDxAtlanta talk. Intrigued and inspired -- because I just can't seem to use one word that would describe it. No, let's go with these three: Intrigued, inspired and lifted. Because that is how I felt and always feel when I witness someone delivering any type of message or performance; while at the same time being vulnerable and naked for their audience. After all isn't that is the best way for an audience to receive the delivered message as it was intended? Well this is exactly what happened to me when I watched Doc Waller's TEDxAtlanta talk and whenever I read his work or watch his videos on his website.
Doc Waller is a performer, artist, writer and director whose career spans from dance to television and on to the stage. I had the opportunity to chat with Doc about him developing his antigravity and how we can find ours to keep us honest in our work.
When and how did you discover your antigravity?
Well, antigravity was something that I reached well before I could identify it (or label). I knew it was a part of my make up -- part of my core. However, strangely enough, the identity of it (the phrase) came to me on a morning run. A lot of my breakthroughs come to me while I'm running, actually. There's an Incubus song called "Antigravity (Summer Romance)" that I was listening to while running. As soon as the chorus played -- it all became clear to me. It was like a painter adding the colors to a blank canvas. My process, my frame of thinking had become illustrated.
What does your antigravity cause you to do when it comes to performing and creating?
That's a very good question, and I'm still trying to figure that out at the moment. I believe it puts me in a mental/emotional state where I can be very judgmental of myself. It allows me to hold a mirror up to myself and investigate my own idiosyncrasies -- to become comfortable with them. Antigravity allows me to step out of myself and allow the creative work (words, scripts, choreography, music) to be articulate cleanly through me.
Why is finding ones antigravity important for creatives/artist?
I think it's important because it will allow us to distinguish ourselves from other creatives/artists. It will allow us to find our own voice. I believe that originality is damn near impossible at this point. However, authenticity is still very possible -- and very much an obligation for creatives/artists, in my eyes.
Tell me about your book and some of your current projects that you are working on
The book is a smorgasbord of honesty. It's me speaking freely about what I feel every human being is faced with on a daily basis. It's blunt. It's considerate. It's necessary. It's a book that grows with us, and whose parts, separately, will affect us at different points in our lives/journeys. Most importantly, it's a book whose philosophy can be applied and embraced independently. Each reader will be able to take the book for what it's worth to them and pass on that inspiration in their individual way.
I'm starring in a fabulous production about the Tuskegee Airmen (FLY) at Theatrical Outfit. I'm developing an independent news/media network called Public Avenue which will probably take of later in 2013. I'm working on breathing life back into my web series talk show, "On Beauty with Doc Waller," and developing an amazing city-based lifestyle online network back in Auburn, Alabama.
You can also connect with Doc Waller on the following sites; his website, twitter, and Facebook.]]>The Image of Visiontag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2012:/theblog//3.17897182012-08-16T17:57:39-04:002012-10-16T05:12:28-04:00Bessie A. Winn-Afekuhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/bessie-a-winnafeku/
Tunnel vision. It's a term that we sometimes throw around to express either how focused we are on a project or when a person only sees something from their point of view. Meet Jamellia, a 19-year-old Africa-American female college sophomore who has, well, tunnel vision. But more specifically, she has a condition called retinitis pigmentosa, which causes her to experience tunnel vision.
Retinitis pigmentosa is an eye disease in which there is damage to the retina." The retina is the layer of tissue at the back of the inner eye that converts light images to nerve signals and sends them to the brain.
What makes Jay's story so fascinating to me is that retinitus pigmentosa among her demographic is very rare because it is most common amongst white males. I wanted to share her story because I felt compelled to include her in my "I am The Change" photography project.
While photographing and recording Jamellia, I had some time to talk with her to learn more about her life with retinitus pigmentosa, how she is the change she wants to SEE in the world, and how she still manages to excel in college despite her "tunnel vision."
So how old were you when you were first diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa? And tell me about the day you found out and the things that went through your mind.
I was 7 years old when I was first diagnosed. I only remember going to the ophthalmology center for a regular check-up and we ended up staying there for the whole day. They ran a bunch of tests on me. At the end of the day, my mother never told me what was wrong until I got a lot older.
What are you in school for and what are your career aspirations?
I am a psychology major, sociology minor with a concentration in vocational rehabilitation with hopes of one day helping to employ and counsel people with disabilities similar to mine, since we are often under-paid even though we have the capabilities to do just about anything.
How many other young people do you know of with retinitis pigmentosa?
I know two others personally with retinitis pigmentosa.
How is your life different from your peers who do not have RP?
My life is different in that it is sometimes hard to keep up with other people my age when I am unable to see things at night. Nightlife doesn't exist for me because I can't see at parties. That kind of dampers my college experience. I also can't drive, so it is even harder for me to do things in the day time.
Why do you think it's important for people to learn about retinitis pigmentosa?
It is important for people to learn simply for their enlightenment on a different perspective of what blindness consist of. Not all of us are completely without sight, nor will all of us lose all of our sight in the future, but we are still blind, nonetheless.
]]>The Change You Want To Seetag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2012:/theblog//3.14687822012-05-03T15:19:27-04:002012-07-03T05:12:03-04:00Bessie A. Winn-Afekuhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/bessie-a-winnafeku/"You must be the change you wish to see in the world" by Mahatma Gandhi is one of the most popular quotes to date. This quote encourages people to not just wish for change but to live out the reason one wants to see positive change in the world.
Enter the IamTheChange™ campaign, a global social good photography campaign, brand and soon-to-be coffee table book that I created inspired by the popular Mahatma Gandhi quote to inspire others to embrace their WHY or to discover their WHY. I wanted to find a creative way to capture the WHY for everyone -- the reason WHY they are the change they want to see. Our "why," or the reason we are the change, is also tied into our purpose on this earth... the reason we were sent here. Over the next 7 months or so I will capture images of people across the U.S. and abroad. All people. Young, old, gay, straight, black, white -- from all walks of life. My hope is that through the many images, participants and gazers recognize their WHY. They embrace it and live out the reason WHY they are the change.
In keeping with my belief that the arts and imagery can effect and spark social change; I created IamTheChange™ to not only combine two of my passions, photography and social good, but in hopes that it would inspire people.
We are all here on assignment -- a purpose if you will, and we've been given gifts to use while we are here. I figured what better way to communicate the idea of change than to use imagery. What better way to show people that their existence in the world matters and it makes a difference.
We all can use our gifts to inspire others to realize their own, and possibly spark the mind of the person that will change the world. So, what contributions do you have that may change the world? We all have something in us. We already have everything that we need.
Take a moment and visit iamthechangecampaign.com and be inspired to be the change. ]]>Vanity With a Mission: Doing Good While Looking Goodtag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2012:/theblog//3.13686882012-03-21T17:40:12-04:002012-05-21T05:12:01-04:00Bessie A. Winn-Afekuhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/bessie-a-winnafeku/
You are probably wondering how a company that specializes in "human hair extensions" can help to empower women rescued from human trafficking. Well, the answer is quite simple and may not surprise you. Through forming lasting partnerships with the Life and Hope Association, AEFISIP and Hagar, Arjuni empowers women rescued from human trafficking or child prostitution by teaching them new skill sets and helping to restore balance and stability back into their lives. Arjuni's "Safe Practices" mandate helps to deter hair traffickers who operate illegally in the region. With a compensation program that is strictly adhered to, all hair donors are able to generate needed revenue through the Arjuni platform. Below, Janice Wilson tells us more about Arjuni and the importance of businesses being socially responsible.
Where did you get the inspiration to launch Arjuni and how did you select your non-profit partners?
Cambodia was, and continues to be, my inspiration. This country deftly showcases the best that humanity has to offer, as well as the worst that humanity has to offer. At Arjuni, we're doing our small part to lend weight to the "best" showcase by providing a platform upon which women prove daily our resiliency and determination, no matter the prior circumstance. Our non-profit partners were chosen according to their ability to not only provide support to women when exiting a traumatic circumstance, but also their commitment to provide support as women transition into sustainable employment. Rehabilitation isn't successful simply because a woman is hired. Rehabilitation is successful when a woman is confident that she deserves to be hired.
What is your personal philosophy on giving and how have you been able to incorporate that into your brand?
My family has taught me, by example, that it's an honor to be a human being. I haven't the right to relish all the good stuff that humanity has to offer, until I've thrown my own contribution onto the table. Being human shouldn't be assumed. It's an earned status. Our clients are very aware that we hold ourselves to not only a qualitative standard, but also an ethical standard. When they purchase our products, they know that our cause to cultivate sustainable alternatives for previously trafficked women becomes their cause. It's vanity with a mission. The intent to do a bit of good, while looking good.
Why do you think it is important for local/ global businesses to "give back" to their communities?
I don't want to argue the merits of capitalism. But I've worked at non-profits and I've worked at for-profits. And I'll say this: I much prefer to depend upon revenues rather than grants in the effort to make a substantial and continuous contribution. Why should businesses give back? Simply put, because we're better positioned to do so. As soon as we give, we get. Which makes it all the more easier (read sustainable) to give yet again. I'm a strong advocate of economic development serving as a prerequisite to personal development. The result is that the ensuing personal development serves as the catalyst for economic growth. We all contribute. We all benefit. Despite the higher entry fees such as the need for more intensive training and more robust support systems, the return more than justifies the investment.
Want to learn more about Arjuni? Visit www.arjuni.com for more information
]]>Breast Cancer Awareness: Janae Veal On How She Beat Cancertag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2011:/theblog//3.10973122011-11-16T11:24:52-05:002012-01-16T05:12:02-05:00Bessie A. Winn-Afekuhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/bessie-a-winnafeku/
Every now and then, we meet people whose mere presence changes the way we look at life. That is what happened to me when I met Janae Veal. Janae reminded me a lot of my self. We are the same age (31), we both have a passion for using our talents to inspire, we are both driven and we both grew up in Atlanta, Georgia. There is one difference, though; Janae is the "one out of eight women" that will have breast cancer in her lifetime. Janae's journey is nothing short of an inspiration. I had the privilege of photographing Janae and asking her some questions about her journey. The whole time we were together she beamed and radiated joy. Her energy, her enthusiasm and her passion for life are contagious. Janae made me realize that many of the things in this life that we think matter don't. She went from having a very active lifestyle as a National Physique Committee figure competitor and personal trainer to spending a lot of her time in the hospital for treatments. But, she beat it. She beat breast cancer and is boldly looking forward to the future. Enjoy my conversation with Janae Veal below
...
BWA: What was your life like before you were diagnosed with breast cancer?
JV: Absolute craziness LOL. I worked three jobs (personal trainer, bartender and NIKE athlete sales associate). I was also an NPC figure competitor so I trained very hard, with two-a-day cardio sessions (seven days a week) and one weight training session a day (five days a week). My days would normally start at 4 am and not end until like 10-11 Monday- Thursday. Friday- Sunday would be filled with workouts and my bar tending job at the night club. I was super busy! Now that I've looked back, I think I was too busy.
BWA: Describe the day (3/29/11) that you found out that you had breast cancer.
JV: The day I found out I believe I was off of work ... I was at my grandmother's house watching TV with my aunt, grandmother and cousin. It was around 9 pm I guess, I remember I was waiting to see Chris Brown on "Dancing with the Stars" (I never watch that show, really!). Then my mom walked over from our house and started watching with us. Shortly after that my other two aunts came over, which wasn't normal at that time since they didn't stay close. Just as Chris Brown was about to come on, my aunt asked if I wanted her to tell me or my doctor? My aunt works at the doctor's office that I went to and I signed a consent form saying that she could give me the results if needed. So once she said that I already knew. I was shocked but I wasn't super dramatic, I listened to her talk and once she was done, I cried. I didn't cry because I had been told I had cancer, I cried because I thought of all the things that I had to do and wanted to do in the future.
BWA: Where do you see yourself five years from now?
JV: I will be running a successful foundation/campaign that raises awareness of the importance of faith and confidence in fighting breast cancer but more importantly through living life. And hopefully I'll be married. :)
BWA: What is one thing that you have learned about yourself along this journey?
JV: I've learned that everything that I thought was important in my life isn't. I also learned that I wasn't putting my faith to good use. I'm burning through it now though. :)
BWA: What has this journey taught you about femininity and the power of being a woman ?
JV: I've learned that femininity is not defined by your hair. I have even more confidence without it.
BWA: What is your definition of inner beauty?
JV: Inner beauty is how strong, loving, courageous, faithful, forgiving, honest, passionate, giving, grateful and sincere a person is.
BWA: What are some challenges you have had to overcome (mental and physical) and how have you been able to overcome them?
JV: Challenges as far as this journey are concerned: I had many financial challenges (because my work went to less than half [of what it was], 15-20 hours a week at a part time job), I had to depend on others (I'm a super independent person) and treatments were pushed back, therefore prolonging the journey (they were held off many times). I handled every single challenge the same way: I cast all of my burdens unto Jesus. My FAITH is so strong. I know that with every being of my body that God does everything for a reason so I let go and let God.
BWA: You wake up in the morning -- what is the first thing on your mind? Last thing on your mind at night?
JV: My mind never ever stops moving. I wake up every few hours in the night. Chemo meds keep me up and so does all the water that I drink to flush the chemo meds through. I promise it moves at like 1,000 miles a minute. LOL. And it's either thoughts of my health, thanking God for the good and asking him for healing in the bad OR it's thoughts for my foundation that I'm starting. I can't shut it off, I just turn it down. :)
]]>Rock City: A Creative Movement and a Clarion Soundtag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2011:/theblog//3.9036712011-07-19T16:37:13-04:002011-09-18T05:12:01-04:00Bessie A. Winn-Afekuhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/bessie-a-winnafeku/
Imagine spending some time with award winning song writers, artists, and personalities in the cultural pulse of Atlanta, and walking away from the "encounter" with your hopes restored. That is what happened to me when I met up with the duo Rock City in Atlanta's Lil' 5 points. We shopped for music at Moods Music, and finished the evening with dinner at STIR Caribbean restaurant. I had the privilege of getting to know the brothers that make up Rock City, Theron "Da Spokesman" Thomas and Timothy "Don't Talk Much" Thomas, as artists and as people. I was blown away with their talent, their story, their energy, and passion for their work as artists.
It all began in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands where Rock City has been performing since the age of 5 and 6. Their talent at that time was in essence the lifeline for their family. Their winning performances at numerous local talent competitions provided income that would pay the bills and support their family. They even recalled a time when they had to walk miles to perform at a show just so that they could get the money to turn the lights back on in their home.
It is no secret the Rock City is proud of where they are from; you feel the passion when you talk to them, and you hear it in their music. Promoting the exceptional beauty of their home is also another way for them to continue being the lifeline for the country that has been supporting their career for so long. "This is how my people eat in St. Thomas. Tourism is how people eat. The more people that visit our island, the better our economy is. People don't visit one year, the island doesn't move the way is supposed to and the crime rate goes up. Growing up, I knew when people were not visiting St. Thomas, because 3 or 4 of my friends died that year...because there was nothing to eat."
Recently, Rock City parted ways with Akon's Konvict music label after 5 years, allowing them to independently release their debut Free At Last on their own label Rebelution Records and unleashing a wave of creativity. When I asked them what is one of the biggest lessons the two of them have learned so far from their career, Da Spokesman stated; "The more you can do on your own, the better off you will be. Independence in anything in life is important...the more progress you will see.." and Don't Talk Much added "..and the more leverage you will have...because you have proven that what you are doing works".
The Rock City sound is diverse. It's original. It's like a mixture of the styles of Will.I.Am, Sean Paul, Flo Rida, and Steel Pulse. They're authentic. They want to be seen more as artists than as song writers. Although they love to write, their heart is in performing and being respected as the artists they have always been.
Artists that have influenced them include Bob Marley, The Fugees and Steel Pulse, who have always been their favorite group. If you've ever heard their music, it's not difficult to see why. Don't Talk Much recalled how listening to steel pulse makes them feel; "It takes me back to when we were kids and we were still in the projects, my dad always played their records in the house. Even though we were poor and struggling, we were still very happy because we were so close as a family. We didn't have the things that money could buy, but we had each other. So listening to Steel Pulse now...it mirrors me back to those days. I think one of the members of [the group] The Clipse said it in one of his songs, 'Who knew I was happier when I was piss poor..?' Those childhood memories are so good".
Their song writing credits include Rihanna's Man Down, Pussy Cat Doll's When I Grow Up, Macy Gray's Help Me, Justin Bieber's Run Away Love. The list goes on and on and on. One could never take the fact away that they are phenomenal writers and remarkable performers.
At a time where many artists are "manufactured" and "produced", Rock City gave me somewhat of a relief to know that there is still some authenticity and true artists left in the industry. It speaks volumes of their talent and their drive that this duo was with a record label for 5 years and did not release an album, but was still able to use their success to take care of their family here and abroad. Da Spokes Man, a clothes loving, outgoing, energetic artist and Don't Talk Much the picky, shoe loving one, who doesn't talk too much until it's time to perform. Together, they are the Rock City duo: A creative movement, and a clarion sound.
]]>Female Genital Mutilation: Who Has the Right to Name It a Crime?tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2011:/theblog//3.8406512011-03-27T10:56:25-04:002011-05-27T05:12:01-04:00Bessie A. Winn-Afekuhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/bessie-a-winnafeku/
Those like me who oppose Female Genital Mutilation/Female Circumcision believe that it is another form of torture meted out to women that is used for the benefit of patriarchal systems that are just plain wrong, inhuman and violent. What basically also emerges here is a deep-rooted system of male domination. The man aids and abets FGM by the values he was brought up with and some of the power to do this comes from men's greater access to resources and structures of authority both outside and inside the home. "Father" did not interfere, claiming that it was a woman's affair, yet it was done wholly to benefit the men.
Usually the pressure to abolish FGM comes mainly from outside the culture that is practicing FGM, or is perceived to derive its inspiration from some source that is foreign or even hostile to that culture. No amount of outside pressuring or lobbying of a government is going to succeed or convince people to change forms of behavior, which some of these members of a culture see as perfectly acceptable and even desirable.
Proponents and some of those who practice FGM make a claim that it is their right to culture, and a cultural right to self-determination. Their argument is that they are not trying to impose the practice on other people cultures, so they are not interfering with anyone else. There is a bit of truth in this view and Western feminist opponents can easily be accused of cultural domination and imperialism. Cultural self-determination is a deeper right in their view, than the Western feminist conceptions of rights, which remains for most Arabs and Africans at grassroots levels. For things to change, the people who have to be convinced that FGM should no longer be practiced are not primarily governments and legislature, but rather women themselves, at village and township levels.
A few years back, when I was in undergrad at Georgia State University, I read an article written by Oyeronke Oyewumi, that challenged the writings and the activism done by writer Alice Walker. Her challenges are based on his opinion that Western feminists have no type of understanding to which they will be able to liberate African and Arab women from FGM. She claims that Alice Walker's approach to FGM is "an assault in the guise of an evangelizing mission to eradicate female circumcision in Africa." He also goes on to say that Alice Walker's writing is best read within the context of Western imperialism in relation to Africa. Oyewumi is not alone in her analysis of Western activism towards FGM. Many African and Arabic feminist have these views as well. They also hold the belief that while they have a certain type of knowledge and understanding of the culture they have more of a right to stop the act of FGM.
True, in order for FGM to be effectively abolished in these societies, it will be necessary for actual members of these societies to reject it, and to do so with conviction, as with any societal "issue". Eradication will only actually happen when they themselves condemn or reject FGM as a harmful practice. This means a further or new development taking place in the perception of people's rights, responsibilities and the obligations in these same African and Arab societies. The further or new development does not have to be based on a mere imitation of contemporary Western secular or feminist ideologies. It will not be the result of African or Arab societies capitulating to the domination of values or ideas arising in the course of Western history and culture. It may have its own bases developed from human nature or society that are found in these Arab and African cultures.
So what do you think? Do you think that when it comes to us taking a stand in humanitarian issues do we just leave certain issues up to the people themselves can define then as a problem or as something harmful and wrong, and only they can change it not governments, or international NGOs or laws or Westerners? I think not. Because of my belief in the true meaning of universal rights and the rights of all women, I would dare not to ignore these types of issues and think, "Oh, they will take care of it". Because sometimes they don't.]]>Social Responsibility: Are You In?tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2011:/theblog//3.8226832011-02-14T12:03:34-05:002011-05-25T18:30:24-04:00Bessie A. Winn-Afekuhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/bessie-a-winnafeku/
Enter Nicole Garner, CEO of the Garner Circle PR, one of the premier PR firms in the Atlanta market. Some of her clients include Ne-Yo, Ciara, Janelle Monae, Keri Hilson, Chrisette Michelle, and Jaguar.In the fall of 2010 The Garner Circle Headquarters' [CREATIVE CLOSET] opened their doors to the "pop up agency" concept. Her agency granted two deserving non- profit organization an opportunity that would truly benefit from the industries of fashion/beauty/ entertainment, the opportunity to receive pro-bono PR and publicity services for their organization or community cause. The agencies "new talent" sought out non- profits who are making a difference but may not have the resources or the voice to get their efforts heard. The 2010 Creative Closet winners were the organizations Sole Plus and Beauty Recycled.
Sole Plus is an organization that encourages students to present their own message for social change. Students are challenged to create their message thoughtfully as well as artistically using Converse All Stars as their canvas. Beauty Recycled is spreading the spirit of sustainability throughout the beauty world through a vast industry-wide initiative promoting environmental consciousness, landfill avoidance, and green growth opportunities.
Ms. Garner's personal philosophy on giving is that it is their due diligence to serve as a corporate neighbor in the industries that they serve, and the pop up agency concept will allows us to give back, utilizing their resources and expertise in a truly meaningful capacity. Garner's current community involvement include- Personal Growth High School Series, Alvin Ailey 50 member, Big Brother Big Sister, A Day In Her Shoes Shadow Day Initiative with the She Is Me Program, The Enchanted Closet, and Rolling Out's Female Success Factor.
When I asked Garner why she believes it is important for local businesses to "give back" to their communities she state simply... "Giving back is the rent we pay to live on this earth." And indeed it is. It is because of businesses like The Garner Circle PR that non-profits organizations can continue to grow and become a catalyst for social change.
To learn more about the Garner brand please visit http://www.TheGarnerCircle.com and http://www.TheGarnerBrand.com
]]>The Heart of Haiti Beats ontag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2011:/theblog//3.8061442011-01-10T10:36:06-05:002011-05-25T18:25:24-04:00Bessie A. Winn-Afekuhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/bessie-a-winnafeku/
One year after the Haiti Earthquake, the heart of Haiti beats on and continues to be an inspiration to others. But at times my heart aches when I think about all the money that we raised to help rebuild Haiti. I was asked by The Blog Rollers and the firm Everywhere to be part of a fabulous group of bloggers and social media enthusiast as an Ambassador for a movement that would put money directly into the hands of the people of Haiti... My heart leaped! My heart leaped because this movement appropriately called The Heart of Haiti -- gives us the chance to put money directly into the heart of Haiti. And by 'the heart of Haiti' I mean the people of Haiti, the artisans that can and will transform some of the most unlikely materials into beautiful pieces of art.
Here is a little bit about HOA:
"Spearheaded by Willa Shalit and her company Fair Winds Trading, along with Macy's Shop for a Better World program, Heart of Haiti is helping to rebuild Haiti through "Trade, Not Aid." In other words, using commerce and culture can create social change. Through the sale of Heart of Haiti products, artisans are able to earn life-changing income for themselves, their families, and their communities. The initiative is enabling artisans to repair homes, pay school fees, and feed and clothe their families. The income also allows them to have access to better nutrition, improved education and health care. The Heart of Haiti collection is an array of handmade products for the home -- quilts metalwork, ceramics, and paintings -- created by Haitian artisans. Each item is designed by a Haitian master artisan and produced by hand in Haiti from recycled materials. The Heart of Haiti collection has already led to employment of 350 artists in Haiti and has provided some financial benefits for an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 people in the country."
Despite the current environment these skilled Haitian artisans work in, they are able to make beautiful works of art out of the world around them. We all would like to find a way that we can "give back" and to make an impactful difference; by making a purchase from Heart of Haiti we are making a direct contribution. Consider shopping the Heart of Haiti line at Macy's. You never know how you will change someone's life. 'If you think you're too small to have an impact, try going to bed with a mosquito in the room.' Nothing you ever do is too little to make a difference."
]]>Changing Lives and Futures 34 Degrees Southtag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2010:/theblog//3.6957372010-08-26T13:39:59-04:002011-05-25T17:30:22-04:00Bessie A. Winn-Afekuhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/bessie-a-winnafeku/"what if's" begin coming to you. What if..you stopped and gave $1.00, What if.. you were able to give about two hours of your time to feed the homeless, or What if...you stopped and waited when someone in need began to approach you for help.
Many times it is the little things we can do to help someone that ultimately changes their life. Now let's look at this on a larger scale. As we watch the news and read the newspaper we hear about natural disasters, poverty, illness, and the fact that there are so many humanitarian issues that we sit back on our couch and want to help...but can't help the way we really want to. What if one day you decided that you were going to go ahead take the leap and help change someone life...and spend the rest of your life doing it? Well, the Grants did just that.
Meet Marshall and Malaka Grant, a married couple living in Atlanta, Georgia with their children. They felt the tug, the calling, the pull, the push...or whatever it is you want to call it that inspires you to create change. For the past couple years, the Grants have wanted to be of service in Africa. But it was not until recently -- about six months ago -- they got the vision and the invitation to go to South Africa to live and to be of service. And ever since then the wheels have been in motion. So what exactly will they be doing in South Africa you ask? Some of the things the Grants will be doing include taking over a Learning Center in Plett(Plettenberg Bay) . They will be handling the day-to-day administrative and educational duties as the new center directors. In addition, they will also be aggressively seeking to build new Learning Centers in other townships and working with youth at the primary school level while providing them with a strong foundation for success. According to UNICEF 2.5 million children are orphaned in South Africa today. With this alarming amount of orphaned children, you can definitely see why a big part of their vision is to also work with and mentor orphaned children. Millions of children and families have been devastated by the HIV/AIDS epidemic in South Africa leaving many of the children without proper models. And many of the children also live with aging grandparents or are in the care of siblings who are barely older than they are. The Grant's goal as a family is to engender a sense of community to orphans and at risk children.
When I asked if there was one thing that Malaka and her family would want people to be left with after hearing their story, what would it be she said:
"The thing that we would want to leave people with is that one life can make a difference. I read a quote the other day and it said: 'If you think you're too small to have an impact, try going to bed with a mosquito in the room.' Nothing you ever do is too little to make a difference. No amount of time is too small, no gift is too tiny. Even a smile is charity. That's what I'd like people to remember. We want our kids to know that this life is more than just fancy clothes and keeping up appearances. We want them to be true global citizens"
Indeed, you don't necessarily have to pick up all your belongings and move to South Africa. However Marshall and Malaka Grant show us that giving, charity, and social change are without borders.
Using the Power of the Pen to Create Social Awarenesstag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2010:/theblog//3.6521032010-07-20T15:23:58-04:002011-05-25T17:05:23-04:00Bessie A. Winn-Afekuhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/bessie-a-winnafeku/The She is Me Program, Inc. At The She is Me Program, we believe that we are all agents for change, capable of using our lives and experiences to make a social impact on others.
Allow me to introduce you to one such person -- Hannah Friedman, a young woman who is using the power of the pen to create social awareness all around her. Hannah is the author of Everything Sucks: Losing My Mind and Finding Myself on a High School Quest for Cool, a memoir about her upbringing that focuses on sex, drugs, eating disorders and self esteem -- things that take place in high schools all across America. Not only has Hannah been able to write a memoir at such a young age, but she is also the youngest person to have ever been published in Newsweek. She's also a graduate of Yale University. The kicker is that she completed all of that at the ripe age of 23.
I had the privilege of asking Hannah a few questions about her book which would give us more insight into how exactly she put the power of activism in a pen.
Q: Why do you think that the prep school life is so glamorized?
A: I think that any lifestyle that represents wealth and status is glamorized in most cultures throughout history. Gossip Girl is the fabulous, fetishized aristocracy of our seeming democracy.
Q: Other than a jolt of reality, what do you think is missing from the majority of books written by young adults?
A: I wrote this book with the intention of having a conversation with my younger, less confident, more critical self. When I began the book I knew I wanted it to be different from some of the hyper-romanticized, pseudo-princess tales that I read as a teen about eternal love and perfect kisses, where the protagonist's only problem is not having a guy to validate her very existence. I set out to portray teenage-hood in all of its hilarious and awkward and angst-ridden searching for the self.
Q: What type of impact would you like to leave on those who read your book?
A: I'd love for those who read the book to be able to laugh at whatever their own bizarre, embarrassing and silly circumstances are because I think underneath we all feel a bit like a fish out of water.
Q: In writing your memoir, what are some of the things you learned about yourself, and what are some things you would like for young women in society to learn?
A: Writing the book was very cathartic. I knew that if I was writing a book for teens I wanted to be as frank as possible because so much of the frustrations of teenage-hood can be chalked up to a general lack of communication and respect on the part of adults. As a result, I ended up exposing lots of secrets to the light: things I would have been way too ashamed to share as a teenager. I learned that confronting your shame, being forgiving, and asking for help can be the most powerful tools in moving forward.
From venomous social politics to sex, drugs, Ivy League disasters and eating disorders, I tried to cover a lot of ground in this memoir. Too often kids are reduced to a mere label, especially in the media. She's a movie star or a train wreck. He's a drug addict or sex symbol. It's hard for young adults to cultivate a rounded sense of self when everything they see is so handily categorized: valedictorian or deadbeat. I was too hard on myself in prep school. It puts crazy, unrealistic expectations on a person to the point where anything short of stellar performance is worthless. I considered myself a musician, an artist, an athlete and a writer up until my teens, and then suddenly I felt like I got ranked and rated and sorted based on my portfolio, my footnotes, my clothing, my breast size, my social circle, my GPA, and my bank account. I didn't consider myself a musician anymore. I spent so much time writing thesis papers about Jane Eyre I never wanted to write for fun. I wasn't a varsity athlete so I left the court. We should be encouraging teens to explore and innovate; we should be empowering them as the future leaders of the world instead of beating them into submission with endless Scantron exams and unimaginative, un-individualized curriculum. If we focused on feeding the imagination of the coming generation instead of on ranking and testing them on rote memorization, I suspect the results would be exciting, if not revolutionary.
Take a moment to ponder this. What talents are you using to create social change?]]>Empowering Youth One 'Step' At a Timetag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2010:/theblog//3.5812222010-05-19T14:52:43-04:002011-05-25T16:30:24-04:00Bessie A. Winn-Afekuhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/bessie-a-winnafeku/
Allow me to introduce you to the Marching Wildcats of Kansas City, Missouri; an organization and drill team for the youth whose mission is to point children in a positive direction, as well as provide them with an alternative to the negativity seen in everyday life. It is their belief that if they provide our children with a safe, positive place to learn and grow, the possibility of these children becoming more effective leaders, decision makers and assets to their communities is more likely to take place. The Kansas City Marching Wildcats was founded in 2003 by "The Late" Tammy Wesley-Scott. In 2006, Jereaca Black took over the drill team to continue her legacy.
The Marching Wildcats drill team is focused on pointing children in a positive direction as well as providing the youth with an alternative to the negativity that they see everyday. It is their belief that if they provide children with a safe, positive place to learn and grow they will become more effective leaders, decision makers and assets to their communities. By supporting the youth and their creative abilities, this will make a difference in today's youth and in their communities.
Since its inception back in 2003, the Marching Wildcats have had zero teen pregnancies (while they were active with the drill team), a 100 percent graduate rate, while also taking credit for encouraging the majority of their graduates go on to higher institutions of learning. One of the Wildcats first members graduated second in her class in high school and is now attending Bethune-Cookman University in Florida.
So the question is, if extracurricular activities have such a profound effect on our youth, then why don't more of our children have access to these extracurricular activities? It's imperative that our children are not just limited to learning and getting their education from school, but from being involved in other activities as well. Just like the youth that are involved with the Marching Wildcats in Kansas City, young people that are involved in extra curricular activities walk away with leadership skills, awareness of community issues, and a duty to give back to the community, while also possessing an overwhelming sense of self confidence and pride.
"The School can not function apart from the community"
]]>Percent of Hope for a 'Percent For Art'tag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2010:/theblog//3.4703222010-02-21T13:52:04-05:002011-05-25T15:35:18-04:00Bessie A. Winn-Afekuhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/bessie-a-winnafeku/
Isabel Gates Webster Park was named in honor of one of the first African-American women attorneys in Atlanta -- she won key court cases in the areas of housing and employment discrimination. There stands an 18-foot statue, designed by artist Robert Clements, dedicated to Isabel Gates Webster. There is also a sculpture titled "The Horn Section" designed by sculptor Zachary Coffin. It is a sculpture of suspended trumpets that pays tribute to Cleophas Redwood Johnson, the groundbreaking band director of Morris Brown College who led his band to numerous events that previously did not allow blacks.
by Zachary Coffin
These statues, along with other statues are part of the Percent For Art program. Whenever there is a building constructed in Atlanta, 50 percent is designated to ART. The funds not only help the city to grow aesthetically and culturally, but they also provide funding for visual artists in the city and aids in healing the economy. The Office of Cultural and Public Affairs develops and manages the Public Art Projects for the city of Atlanta. They are committed to creating community through public art and builds upon community support to conserve, preserve and make available public art to citizens and visitors in Atlanta.
Behind every piece of art work, there lies a story and some history. So the next time that you go driving around your city or the next time you decide to go sightseeing in a town that you are unfamiliar with, take an opportunity to observe, admire and reflect on the richness of your surroundings. Ask yourself the question, "What was the inspiration behind that building or that sculpture?" because you'll never know what was the muse of that artist or that architect.]]>"Rockin' the Red Pump" for HIV/AIDS Awarenesstag:www.huffingtonpost.com,2010:/theblog//3.4522992010-02-08T12:11:05-05:002011-05-25T15:25:21-04:00Bessie A. Winn-Afekuhttp://www.huffingtonpost.com/bessie-a-winnafeku/
This killer does not look for its victims based on race, age, or sex; however it is my demographic that falls victim to this killer more than any other. There are many reasons as to why this killer has become the main reason for deaths among African American women between the age of 24 and 35.
These reasons cover everything ranging from:
•education
•socioeconomic status
•access to resources
•lack of involvement from politicians
•not enough organizations effectively addressing the issues
•lack of communication
I could go on and on; in fact many researchers don't know exactly why black women in America have such an abnormally high rate of infection and death. The statistics are alarming and frightening to the point that it makes me wonder how in the world an epidemic like this could ever be stopped. One thing that is for certain is that with any social issue, in order for there to be an effectual change or impact there must first be an effective dialogue that has to takes place.
It is organizations like the Red Pump Project/The Red Project Collective that give me hope for the change against this epidemic that affects African American women and AIDS/HIV. Founded by Luvvie Ajayi and Karyn Brianne Watkins, The Red Pump Project is an organization based in Chicago, IL. The purpose behind this movement was to create and encourage dialogue about HIV/AIDS and raise the awareness about the impact of HIV/AIDS on minority girls and woman. These two young women also created The Red Pump Project for raising awareness among minority women because African-American and Latina women account for more than 80 percent of new AIDS cases in the United States. The Red Pump Project also has a counterpart, The Red Tie Project, which both fall under the umbrella organization The Red Project Collective respectively. The Red Tie Project is an initiative to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and issues pertaining to boys and men. The Red Pump Project has ambassadors in over 20 different states across the country that helps spread awareness within the community. These numbers of ambassadors are still growing. Their biggest event to date was "The Red Pump and Tie Affair" which was held in Charlotte, North Carolina by a Red Pump ambassador for World AIDS Day. At these events, women are encouraged to "rock red pumps" (hence the name).
Not only does The Red Pump Project do groundwork in ensuring women are empowered and educated about HIV/AIDS, they have created a movement among social media and the blogging community. One of the innovative ways The Red Pump Project creates awareness and informing others is with their "Rocking the Red Pump™" campaign. On January 19, they launched their second annual "Rocking the Red Pump™" campaign. They are on a mission to get 500 bloggers in 50 days to "Rock the Red Pump™" leading up to March 10, 2010 which is National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. These 500 hundred bloggers will encourage dialogue about HIV/AIDS and use their voices and influence to get people to talk about the issue, which is riddled with stigma. The Red Pump Project has raised over $3500 for other organizations such as the Chicago Women's AIDS Project, AIDS Foundation of Chicago, and Project VIDA.
The Red Pump Project Team
Because I know that HIV/AIDS is the number one killer of African-American women in my age group, I feel as if I should be part of the solution... and so should you, regardless of your age, sex, race, or sexual orientation. HIV/AIDS does not discriminate who it infects; therefore you should not procrastinate when you choose to get involved, because this disease could potentially take the life of someone you know unexpectedly. Get protected, don't be afraid or timid to ask your partner questions, and don't be afraid to talk about SEX. In order to create change or some sort of impact it requires communicating the issues. Many people are still afraid to talk about sex and HIV/AIDS. It's almost as if they believe that ignoring the issue will make it disappear, I think not. I honestly think that it has made it worse. Co-founder Luvvie Ajayi states:
"Since I've started this, I think I've learned that people are still standoffish about discussing the issue of safe sex with their partners. There is still an element of stigma that comes with it that I thought would be significantly less. We're supposedly a sexually-liberated generation, yet we're still unable to be candid about our behavior..."
February 7 and March 10is National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, what will you be doing to create an awareness? I'll be "Rocking the Red Pump™".
