I started my natural hair journey when I moved back from Atlanta to Los Angeles. My entire life, I could not get my hair to grow past my shoulders. I had been blonde, red, brown and everything in between and yet my hair was stuck at a certain length, or so I thought. In the pictures below, anytime you see my hair past my shoulders, it’s admittedly, not mine.

Image: Sequoia Blodgett – The Many Looks of My Hair

A Hard Decision

I’d worn extensions on and off for years. Around 2013, I decided to go natural for the first time since I was a child. It was one of the hardest decisions of my life. No perm, just straight natural. I watched a million YouTube videos, taking a deep dive into the natural hair community and nothing was working for me. Moreover, I was spending tons and tons of money on natural haircare products and trying to whip up concoctions in my kitchen. Nothing was working. My hair was breaking off massively and granted it was heavily dyed at the time, so that wasn’t helping the matter.

(Image: Sequoia Blodgett/Natural Hair Journey)

The true turning point for my hair growth journey happened when I was cast on a TV show called, Startup U on ABC Family. The producer had worked on another show with Diddy, called, Making the Band and having felt like he had a firm grasp on black women’s hair, he called me downstairs one day and said, “Sequoia, I want to update your look. You need a weave. I want you to go get 16-inch Brazilian.” Mind you, he was a white man. Slightly thrown off, but figuring he knew what was best for my image at the time, I complied.

How Tech Helped Out

Mind you, I was in San Mateo, and there was no one in sight or at least to my knowledge, that dealt with actually installing black women’s weaves so I pulled up the app Styleseat and found someone in Richmond, where all the black hair salons were located. I went to her after having to track down two bundles of 16-inch Brazilian, I didn’t know about Mayvenn at the time, and she worked her magic. Coming out with a full sew-in, I was camera ready.

(Image: Shooting Talking Head Footage for “Startup U”)

My install was about $200.00 and I kept my weave in for three months. My hair was starting to grow significantly. I can’t recommend everyone do this. In fact, stylists only want it in for two but I tried to push it. In addition to that, I also wouldn’t let her sew down the perimeter because that is where I experience the most thinning.

Natural Hair Academy

Once three months was up, I took it out for a day, got it washed and straightened, that’s the ONLY time I add heat to it and have her sew it right back up. I did this for literally two and a half years straight. My hair never saw the light of day for basically three years and it went from shoulder length to past the middle of my back. It’s actually just as long as my extensions now.

Image: Three years of Growth

So guess what, I’m going to Paris to talk about it at the Natural Hair Academy on June 10th. It’s one of the largest natural hair conventions in the world. If you are interested and want more information on it, click here.

We as black women think that we have to do all of these things and spend tons of money to maintain healthy natural hair. The bottom line is, just don’t touch it. Whip it up in a protective style, weave, braids, etc., be gentle with it and leave it alone. It will cut your costs in half, grant you peace of mind, and you too will have flowing natural hair, if that’s what you desire.

Though he’s been acting for more than 30 years, Courtney B. Vance credits his award-winning performance as Johnnie Cochran for the FX series The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story with pushing his already successful career to the next level. Now, Vance will be co-starring with Tom Cruise on the big screen in the upcoming summer blockbuster reboot of The Mummy.

In his role as Army Colonel Greenway in The Mummy, Vance is charged and challenged with keeping Cruise’s character, Nick Morton, in line. Shot in various locations, including Oxford, Surrey, and London in the United Kingdom, the film wrapped production in Africa.

(Image: Courtesy of Universal Pictures)

On Working With Tom Cruise

Vance says working with Cruise and the cast of The Mummy has been one of his greatest experiences on set.

“Tom Cruise is one of the most wonderful, kind, and generous men that I’ve ever met,” he says. “He took care of us on the set in London. Everybody had organic food, coffees, and teas—on the set, we didn’t do the traditional lunch and dinner breaks. During the production, there was continuous shooting, but you’re [also] continuously on a break. So, you can go and get an organic pizza slice or organic juice; healthy and organic food is brought on the set all the time. When we went to Namibia to finish the final month of shooting, [Tom] brought that whole [organic food] team out there for the entire time. When your tummy is full—even while shooting for long hours—you feel good.”

On His Role in the HBO Film ‘The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks’ 

(Photo Credit: Courtesy of HBO)

In Oprah Winfrey’s critically acclaimed HBO movie, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, Vance portrays Sir Lord Kennan Kester Cofield, a slick Southern con artist, who perpetrates as a lawyer representing the Lacks family in various legal matters. The film also stars Winfrey, who plays Deborah Lacks, the youngest daughter of Henrietta, and Rose Byrne, who plays Rebecca Skloot, a journalist and author.

Vance says he was grateful that he had the opportunity to be included in this project, and that, after receiving the call from George Wolfe, he made himself available immediately. Wolfe and Vance had previously worked together, when Wolfe directed him in Nora Ephron’s Lucky Guy. A Broadway play, Vance played the role of James “Hap” Hairston alongside Tom Hanks, who played Mike McAlary. In 2013, Vance earned a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor because of his portrayal of this character.

“When that man calls me, I jump,” Vance says of Wolfe. “I said, ‘George, I’m so jammed right now, but when do you need me? Tell me where I’m going.’ I had a day or two to get my stuff together and go down there.”

The story of Henrietta Lacks had a profound effect on Vance. “The movie is devastating, because—once again—this is another situation where black folks were experimented on,” he says.“We’ve heard about it time and time again, the most famous being that Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment, which was well-documented, but there are others that people don’t know about.”

“The whole world was operating under the fallacy that people of color were inferior,” Vance continues. “It’s interesting that they were getting the blood from black folks, and found out that these cells—these strong, amazing, immortal cells—were from a poor black woman with five kids. Why weren’t they doing it for white people? If we were so inferior, why take blood from us?”

Vance recalls a particular scene with Winfrey, as Deborah Lacks, becomes distraught after discovering what they did to her mother. “I was destroyed. That scene, on the screen, devastated me,” Vance says. “The abuse that our people have taken for so many years [is devestating]. And when the credits roll, and [the audience] realizes that still—to this day—the family has not been compensated in any way, it’s a double tragedy.”

Life With Wife Angela Bassett

A devoted husband and father, Vance and his wife, actress Angela Bassett, are both experiencing a well-deserved upswing in their careers. However, nothing comes before family. The couple’s twins are now 11-years-old. Together, Vance and Bassett work closely together as a team to coordinate their work schedules in a way that ensures someone is always home to care for their children.

They also take care of Vance’s mother, who is battling Amyotrophic Laterals Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease. “It’s a horrific disease where you have no control over your muscles, the main muscle being your diaphragm,” he says.

“However, we’re blessed to have our mother is with us. She can spend her remaining days with us, surrounded by family, and not in a nursing home. We can see her on a daily basis, and the children can see her and see the cycle of life. She has a ventilator that breathes for her, but she’s still got joy. We all have our rhythm with her. Friends come by and spend time, too. So, we’re just grateful.”

Last night was the series premiere of Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta. However, I was given a sneak peek of the program, when WE tv invited me to the exclusive screening of the highly anticipated reality show, which took place Tuesday, May 16 at the iPIC Theater in New York City. Let’s just say, I’ve found my new favorite reality TV binge show.

A Recap of the Private Screening Event for Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta

As described in the press release, the series “chronicle[s] the perks and perils of being born into hip hop royalty, in the city that the New York Times called ‘hip hop’s center of gravity.’”

The statement continues:

“The rich history of the Atlanta hip hop scene has fostered a unique sense of pride and closeness among the artists that resembles a family. But like any family, Atlanta’s next generation of hip hop stars do not always get along. Growing up together in the shadow of their legendary parents has established tight bonds and bitter rivalries, as everybody fights for their chance to push their way into the spotlight.”

Shad “Bow Wow” Moss, the celebrated child hip-hop phenomena, not only stars in the series, but he is also executive producer of the Atlanta branch of the franchise. In addition to following the life of Moss, the program also showcases Shaniah Mauldin, daughter of Jermaine Dupri; Zonnique Pullins, daughter of Tameka “Tiny” Harris and T.I.; Reginae Carter, daughter of Lil Wayne and author Toya Wright; Ayana Fite, daughter of DJ Hurricane; and Brandon Barnes, the younger brother of Waka Flocka Flame and son of infamous hip hop manager Ms. Deb Antney.

NEW YORK, NY: Zonnique Pullins, Shad Moss, Reginae Carter, Shaniah Mauldin, Ayana Fite, and Brandon Barnes attend the WE tv’s Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta premiere screening event on May 16, 2017, in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for WE tv)

Jermaine Dupri, Da Brat, DJ Hurricane, Ms. Deb, Toya Wright, and Kristinia DeBarge, daughter of R&B singer James DeBarge and featured cast member on the original Growing Up Hip Hop, also came out to support the show’s launch. DeBarge even gave attendees a sneak peek of season two of the drama filled inaugural series, which is set to debut later at a later date. After the screening, cast members of Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta answered questions on a Q&A panel moderated by Sway Calloway.

Initially Hesitant, but Pleasantly Surprised

Although reality TV is among one my favorite guilty pleasures, I was initially unsure about how the series would measure up to my expectations. In my opinion, the current reality TV market has become so oversaturated with stories told from the perspective of attractive, wealthy, and entitled young adults, that the plotlines are just too predictable. Could Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta bring something fresh to the table, breaking ratings records with its authentic capture of sincere moments of vulnerability, or would it be another formulaic “unscripted” show featuring fabricated drama?

This skepticism only further increased in the wake of the highly trending #BowWowChallenge incident.

Travel day. NYC press run for Growing Up Hip Hop. Lets gooo. I promise to bring yall the hottest show EVER. May 25th on @wetv

A post shared by Bow wow (@shadmoss) on May 8, 2017 at 6:53am PDT

After all, Moss was on his way to New York City for the Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta press tour when he made the rookie mistake of posting an uncredited stock image accompanied by a vague caption on his Instagram that gave followers the wrong impression about his travel accommodations.

(Screenshot Source: Twitter/Al_Khee)

Was this careless publishing of “alternative facts” karmic foreshadowing of what audiences could expect from the show? Though hesitant, I did my best to keep an open mind and not allow any preconceived judgments cloud my own.

As it turns out, Bow Wow’s lack of fluency on “the gram” wouldn’t be the only thing to surprise me that week; the premiere episode of Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta was a lot more interesting and entertaining than I had originally anticipated. I actually really enjoyed it! Of course, the show had its fair share of classic reality TV plot devices that err on the side of inauthenticity—such as first-person green screen “confessionals,” or frequent “impromptu” visits to practically deserted boutiques and restaurants. However, in the case of Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta, these moments were often overshadowed by a number of unexpected twists and moments of organic sincerity.

So, without giving away too many spoilers, these are three things that surprised me about Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta:

1. Yes, They Actually Grew Up Together

Although most are aware of past professional and creative collaborations between the celebrity parents of the featured cast, many probably underestimate the extent of how deep these relationships really are. As a result of their parents’ relationships, Pullins, Moss, Carter, Mauldin, Fite, and Barnes have actually known each other for years, with history dating so far back, their friendships are more reflective of familial bonds. There was even a point where Carter and Pullins sang together in the girl group The OMG Girlz. And since everyone has known each other since back in the day, the chemistry between cast members is not only genuine, it’s dynamic.

NEW YORK, NY: Sway, Reginae Carter, and Zonnique Pullins speak at the WE tv’s Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta premiere screening event on May 16, 2017, in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for WE tv)

2. Though Born With a Silver Spoon, These Kids Know How to Hustle

Although I walked in assuming that, other than Bow Wow, these kids were simply the spoiled beneficiaries of nepotism and extreme privilege. However, I could not have been more wrong. Sure, they may have moments of bratty-seeming soundbites on the show, but in actuality, each one was very humble and down to earth.

Carter, Fite, and Mauldin, in particular, didn’t even appear all that interested in pursuing a career in the music industry. A former member of OMG Girlz and the daughter of rapper Lil Wayne, Cater mentioned that she was currently working with her mother to pen her first novel.

NEW YORK, NY: Reginae Carter and her mom, Antonia Wright, attend the WE tv’s Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta premiere screening event on May 16, 2017, in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for WE tv)

Fite, who can be seen discussing how she quit her job as a retail manager within the first few minutes of the episode, clarified during the panel that she didn’t quit her job because she didn’t enjoy working. Rather, at that time, she was also trying to develop her own clothing line, so she took a temporary hiatus from her retail position to focus on her designing aspirations. She also mentioned that, now that her line is complete, she has since returned to the former retail gig.

NEW YORK, NY : Ayana Fite, daughter of DJ Hurricane, playfully gives her father style advice, while attending the WE tv’s Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta premiere screening event on May 16, 2017,  in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for WE tv)

Meanwhile, Mauldin, whose status as music mogul Jermaine Durpi’s daughter would theoretically allow her to transition into any facet of the music industry with ease whenever she wanted, is in school pursuing a college degree. Perhaps the most reserved of the bunch, it’s clear that, much like her father, Mauldin’s no-nonsense work ethic will lead her down a successful career path of her own making.

NEW YORK, NY: Shad “Bow Wow” Moss, Jermaine Dupri, and Shaniah Mauldin attend the WE tv’s Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta premiere screening event on May 16, 2017, in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for WE tv)

3. Is Bow Wow Really Ready to Retire?  Not Without J.D.’s Seal of Approval

Contrary to previous reports about Bow Wow’s  “retirement from hip hop,” I don’t think he will ever actually be done with recording music—at least, not until mentor Dupri is finally satisfied with the well-rounded, mature quality of his send-off album. Dupri certainly didn’t seem all that impressed by Bow Wow’s most recent album, Ignorant S***, which he impulsively recorded with Soulja Boy in one night.

You can find out how everything unfolds on Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta every Thursday night at 10/9c on WE tv!

Tonight, the series premiere of Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta airs on WE tv at 10/9c. As part of the press roll-out to the national broadcast premiere, on Tuesday, May 16, Strategic Heights Media and WE tv invited me to the exclusive screening of the highly anticipated reality show, at the iPIC Theater in New York City, and let’s just say, I’ve found my new favorite reality TV binge show.

A Recap of the Private Screening Event for Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta

As described in the press release, the series “chronicle[s] the perks and perils of being born into hip hop royalty, in the city that the New York Times called ‘hip hop’s center of gravity.’”

The statement continues:

“The rich history of the Atlanta hip hop scene has fostered a unique sense of pride and closeness among the artists that resembles a family. But like any family, Atlanta’s next generation of hip hop stars do not always get along. Growing up together in the shadow of their legendary parents has established tight bonds and bitter rivalries, as everybody fights for their chance to push their way into the spotlight.”

Shad “Bow Wow” Moss, the celebrated child hip-hop phenomena, not only stars in the series, but he is also executive producer of the Atlanta branch of the franchise. In addition to following the life of Moss, the program also showcases Shaniah Mauldin, daughter of Jermaine Dupri; Zonnique Pullins, daughter of Tameka “Tiny” Harris and T.I.; Reginae Carter, daughter of Lil Wayne and author Toya Wright; Ayana Fite, daughter of DJ Hurricane; and Brandon Barnes, the younger brother of Waka Flocka Flame and son of infamous hip hop manager Ms. Deb Antney.

NEW YORK, NY: Zonnique Pullins, Shad Moss, Reginae Carter, Shaniah Mauldin, Ayana Fite, and Brandon Barnes attend the WE tv’s Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta premiere screening event on May 16, 2017, in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for WE tv)

Jermaine Dupri, Da Brat, DJ Hurricane, Ms. Deb, Toya Wright, and Kristinia DeBarge, daughter of R&B singer James DeBarge and featured cast member on the original Growing Up Hip Hop, also came out to support the show’s launch. DeBarge even gave attendees a sneak peek of season two of the drama filled inaugural series, which is set to debut later at a later date. After the screening, cast members of Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta answered questions on a Q&A panel moderated by Sway Calloway.

Initially Hesitant, but Pleasantly Surprised

Although reality TV is among one my favorite guilty pleasures, I was initially unsure about how the series would measure up to my expectations. In my opinion, the current reality TV market has become so oversaturated with stories told from the perspective of attractive, wealthy, and entitled young adults, that the plotlines are just too predictable. Could Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta bring something fresh to the table, breaking ratings records with its authentic capture of sincere moments of vulnerability, or would it be another formulaic “unscripted” show featuring fabricated drama?

This skepticism only further increased in the wake of the highly trending #BowWowChallenge incident.

Travel day. NYC press run for Growing Up Hip Hop. Lets gooo. I promise to bring yall the hottest show EVER. May 25th on @wetv

A post shared by Bow wow (@shadmoss) on May 8, 2017 at 6:53am PDT

After all, Moss was on his way to New York City for the Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta press tour when he made the rookie mistake of posting an uncredited stock image accompanied by a vague caption on his Instagram that gave followers the wrong impression about his travel accommodations.

Lmfaooooo who's mans is this @smoss?! pic.twitter.com/MHDvIcMppG

— Osama Bin Drinkin'? (@Al_Khee) May 9, 2017

Was this careless publishing of “alternative facts” karmic foreshadowing of what audiences could expect from the show? Though hesitant, I did my best to keep an open mind and not allow any preconceived judgments cloud my own.

As it turns out, Bow Wow’s lack of fluency on “the gram” wouldn’t be the only thing to surprise me that week; the premiere episode of Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta was a lot more interesting and entertaining than I had originally anticipated. I actually really enjoyed it! Of course, the show had its fair share of classic reality TV plot devices that err on the side of inauthenticity—such as first-person green screen “confessionals,” or frequent “impromptu” visits to practically deserted boutiques and restaurants. However, in the case of Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta, these moments were often overshadowed by a number of unexpected twists and moments of organic sincerity.

So, without giving away too many spoilers, these are three things that surprised me about Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta:

1. Yes, They Actually Grew Up Together

Although most are aware of past professional and creative collaborations between the celebrity parents of the featured cast, many probably underestimate the extent of how deep these relationships really are. As a result of their parents’ relationships, Pullins, Moss, Carter, Mauldin, Fite, and Barnes have actually known each other for years, with history dating so far back, their friendships are more reflective of familial bonds. There was even a point where Carter and Pullins sang together in the girl group The OMG Girlz. And since everyone has known each other since back in the day, the chemistry between cast members is not only genuine, it’s dynamic.

NEW YORK, NY: Sway, Reginae Carter, and Zonnique Pullins speak at the WE tv’s Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta premiere screening event on May 16, 2017, in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for WE tv)

2. Though Born With a Silver Spoon, These Kids Know How to Hustle

Although I walked in assuming that, other than Bow Wow, these kids were simply the spoiled beneficiaries of nepotism and extreme privilege. However, I could not have been more wrong. Sure, they may have moments of bratty-seeming soundbites on the show, but in actuality, each one was very humble and down to earth.

Carter, Fite, and Mauldin, in particular, didn’t even appear all that interested in pursuing a career in the music industry. A former member of OMG Girlz and the daughter of prodigy rap lyricist Lil Wayne, Cater mentioned that she was currently working with her mother to pen her first novel.

NEW YORK, NY: Reginae Carter and her mom, Antonia Wright, attend the WE tv’s Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta premiere screening event on May 16, 2017, in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for WE tv)

Fite, who can be seen discussing how she quit her job as a retail manager within the first few minutes of the episode, clarified during the panel that she didn’t quit her job because she didn’t enjoy working. Rather, at that time, she was also trying to develop her own clothing line, so she took a temporary hiatus from her retail position to focus on her designing aspirations. She also mentioned that, now that her line is complete, she has since returned to the former retail gig.

NEW YORK, NY : Ayana Fite, daughter of DJ Hurricane, playfully gives her father style advice, while attending the WE tv’s Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta premiere screening event on May 16, 2017,  in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for WE tv)

Meanwhile, Mauldin, whose status as music mogul Jermaine Durpi’s daughter would theoretically allow her to transition into any facet of the music industry with ease whenever she wanted, is in school pursuing a college degree. Perhaps the most reserved of the bunch, it’s clear that, much like her father, Mauldin’s no-nonsense work ethic will lead her down a successful career path of her own making.

NEW YORK, NY: Shad “Bow Wow” Moss, Jermaine Dupri, and Shaniah Mauldin attend the WE tv’s Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta premiere screening event on May 16, 2017, in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for WE tv)

3. Is Bow Wow Really Ready to Retire?  Not Without J.D.’s Seal of Approval

Contrary to previous reports about Bow Wow’s  “retirement from hip hop,” I don’t think he will ever actually be done with recording music—at least, not until mentor Dupri is finally satisfied with the well-rounded, mature quality of his send-off album. Dupri certainly didn’t seem all that impressed by Bow Wow’s most recent album, Ignorant S***, which he impulsively recorded with Soulja Boy in one night.

You can find out how everything unfolds when the broadcast premiere of Growing Up Hip Hop Atlanta airs TONIGHT, May 25, 2017, at 10/9c. Catch it right after the season finale of Braxton Family Values, only on WE tv!

For most aspiring women, there’s a time to be young, there’s a time to grow your career, and then there’s a time for motherhood. For Serena Williams, quality sleep is key if you want to meet or exceed all the expectations that come with being a female role model, as well as, being a first-time mom. The 23-time Grand Slam tennis champion is currently raising awareness about the power of rest in the new “Tempur-Pedic Sleep Is Power” campaign, her first major endorsement since announcing her pregnancy last month.

In April, the 35-year-old revealed on Snapchat that she’s pregnant by accidentally revealing her baby bump. On Mother’s Day weekend, Williams showcased an even bigger bump halfway through her pregnancy on her Instagram account.

So how does she keep her batteries charged given all the new demands on her time? “I require consistent, restful sleep in order to be at my best,” said Williams through a spokesperson. She also reveals that she’s been a Tempur-Pedic owner for a decade, which helps her power up for a rigorous training regimen. On average, Americans get 6.8 hours of sleep per night, short of the seven to nine hours that people need, according to the National Sleep Foundation.

Many folks just assume that the demands of being an athlete are too much for a new parent. But that seems more myth than fact. A 2017 study by Tend Lab finds that moms and dads actually outperform non-parents. Secondly, Williams is known for her positive attitude on and off the court, and that should translate well in her effort to become the best tennis player of all time. A 2010 study by British economists finds that happy people tend to work harder than others.

Williams has said that she plans to return to the sport in late 2017 with an eye toward winning a record 25 Grand Slam titles and beyond.

It’s not unprecedented for mothers to conquer the tennis world. Australia’s Margaret Court won three of her record 24 Grand Slam championships after giving birth in 1972. Belgium’s Kim Clijsters won the US Open in 2009 and 2011 after having her first baby in 2008. But Clijsters has said that it’s much tougher to win a Grand Slam after childbirth because of all the changes a woman’s body goes through that makes it tougher to move laterally on the tennis court. And Clijsters was 26 when she returned while Williams will be 36.

Williams is engaged to Reddit’s Alexis Ohanian and their baby is due in late summer to early fall. It’s safe to say that all eyes of the sports world will be upon her to see if she can make tennis history.

It was also just announced that Williams has joined the board of SurveyMonkey—a startup that offers a platform for creating online surveys.

Author Chanel Martin is a certified Life Purpose Coach and Brand & Media Exposure Coach. She helps entrepreneurs turn their purpose into profit and get brand exposure. A co-founder of two haircare companies, her brands have gained national exposure with media outlets such as MSNBC, Forbes, Essence, Ebony, BET, Business Insider, The Real, and more. Chanel also teaches companies how to raise funding for their small business or non-profit. You can learn more about her by visiting her website: www.chanelemartin.com.

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime event, sometimes you need a once-in-a-lifetime location. And if you’re planning a wedding, anniversary, vow renewal, or just a long overdue getaway, there’s no place like Turtle Island.

A 500-acre, privately owned island in Fiji that looks like a picture postcard come to life, Turtle Island offers warm sunshine, beaches of powdery sand, sumptuous meals, warm local hospitality, and outdoor activities unlike any you’ll find at a typical all-inclusive resort.

Here are 10 reasons you should visit Turtle Island:

1. It’s Easy to Get There

Considering how far away Fiji is (hint: it’s in the South Pacific), getting to Turtle Island is surprisingly convenient. One direct flight from Los Angeles to Nadi via Fiji Airways takes less than 12 hours. If you’re in Business Class, the hours fly by—pun intended—quite comfortably.

Turtle Airways planes are equipped for land and sea. (Photo: Aniesia Williams)

Once you arrive, it’s a short seaplane or boat ride to the island. Depending on when your flight lands, you may need to stay overnight near the airport or relax at the rejuvenation center.

2. The Traditional Fijian Bure on the Blue Lagoon

Remember the movie Blue Lagoon, starring Brooke Shields? Parts of that movie were filmed here. High, thatched roofs and local wood are hallmarks of the bure—or cabins—on Turtle Island. But don’t let the eco-friendly design fool you; these are luxury digs with high-end fixtures and bedding.

Tradition and luxury come together in the Turtle Island bure. (Photo: Aniesia Williams)

3. Friendly People and Unforgettable Hospitality

Visitors to Turtle Island enjoy true Fijian culture, which stresses the value of friends and family, community, and caring. Culture is shared through stories, songs, and activities where you can learn about the local flora and fauna.

Resort staff and guests pose for a picture. (Photo: Aniesia Williams)

4. Being Pampered by Your Own ‘Bure Mama’

Couples are pampered by a “bure mama,” who attends to their needs during their stay—think of someone akin to a personal concierge. Bure mamas ensure all housekeeping needs are taken care of, can step in as a tour guide when desired, and will even take pictures and prepare photo albums for you to go home with.

The fine hospitality on Turtle Island. (Photo: Aniesia Williams)

5. Award-Winning Cuisine

Travel and Leisure rated Turtle Island’s food among the best in the world. Diners enjoy local seafood, Australian beef, and island-grown fruits and vegetables, accompanied by wines from around the world.

A refreshing salad preceding a delicious dinner. (Photo: Aniesia Williams)

Visitors can enjoy shared dinners open to all guests, as well as many specialty options, including beach picnics, private meals at the bure, lantern-lit lagoon dinners, and moonlit mountaintop dinners. Each bure also has a fully-stocked refrigerator for refreshments anytime.

6. Pristine Beaches That Stretch for Miles

Enjoy Turtle Island’s 14 white, sandy beaches from a daybed on the veranda of your bure, a seaside hammock, on horseback, or simply walking along the beach.

Picturesque Turtle Beach. (Photo: Aniesia Williams)

7. Blissful Pastimes

Guests of Turtle Island can enjoy as many (or as few) activities as they like. Scuba diving, windsurfing, sea kayaking, and fishing are included. Take a glass-bottomed boat ride, walk through jungle paths, or hike to the highest point on the island. Every evening, there’s a sunset dinner party, followed by the chance to take in Fijian music and stories.

Both pool and sea beckon on Turtle Island. (Photo: Aniesia Williams)

8. Private Getaways

There are never more than 14 couples at the resort at one time. Guests’ bures are wide-set for privacy and solitude. While couples are always welcome to dine together at dinner, guests always have the option of dining alone.

Tropical romance. (Photo: Aniesia Williams)

9. Unforgettable Special Events

Couples getting married or renewing their vows have the option of a traditional Fijian ceremony—complete with handmade wedding clothes—and a feast followed by wedding cake. The music, the minister, a champagne toast, and the marriage license are all taken care of.

Entertaining and educational culture. (Photo: Aniesia Williams)

10. No Additional Costs

Guests enjoy a truly all-inclusive vacation—where all meals and beverages are included—plus all activities, laundry services, cultural experiences, spa services, and entertainment. Just like you’d imagine in paradise.

* This article previously appeared on the A Global Lifestyle website.

Aniesia Williams is an LA-based, yet global senior brand strategist and expert, multimedia journalist, and digital beast. She was recently named as one of Network Journal’s Top 40 Under 40. She brings more than a decade of experience in marketing, new media, and branding. She has provided her expertise to some of the world’s largest brands, including Ford, Samsung, Shell, Lionsgate, and the Clinton Global Initiative. As a journalist, Aniesia also writes extensively about business and luxury travel experiences. Beyond her own media platform, A Global Lifestyle, Aniesia has provided content for top publications, including Business Insider, Black Enterprise, and Ebony Magazine to name a few.

Mastering a skill as an individual is something truly amazing, but this husband-and-wife duo tackles the photography industry together. Regis (husband) and Kahran (wife) both went from the world of marketing to capturing the essence of all things beauty within a few frames. Each of their skill sets has awarded them the chance to look out of their lenses from a different perspective.

Their approach to successfully taking the internet by storm with their ode to natural hair and kiddies makes us want to learn more about their work. BE chatted with CreativeSoul about all things photography.

Black Enterprise: How did you get started in photography?

CreativeSoul: We both started out in the marketing and design world and fell in love with photography while dating long distance. We decided to start CreativeSoul Photography together while Reg was in school studying photography.

(Image:creativesoulphoto.com)

BE: How did your sole focus become the natural hair movement?

CS: When we first decided to get started in the kid’s fashion industry, we noticed that a lot of the models would send us their snapshot before the shoot and would have gorgeous natural hair. When they arrived for the shoot, many of them would arrive with their hair straightened because they felt that’s what they needed to do to thrive in the industry. We decided to do a couple of personal shoots showing child models rocking their own natural curls and the success from those shoots allowed us to create our own niche in this space.

BE: What advice would you give other professionals looking to navigate through the business world with their significant other?

CS: The best thing that helped us in our journey was figuring out each other’s strengths/weaknesses and dividing responsibilities based on that. Reg is much better at some of the technical aspects of the business and Kahran much better handling the client side, business, and marketing. We try to stay in our own lanes, which gives us each a sense of personal ownership in the business.

BE: Describe your feelings toward your photos that garnered massive attention via social media.

CS:  We are always surprised when our photos go viral because we never really know which ones will take off. Our roller girls shoot was one of our very first photos to go viral garnering attention from celebrities to everyday people around the world. We love hearing stories from moms of little girls who say that they are inspired by our work and use our photos to inspire their daughters to be confident with who they are.

(Image: creativesoulphoto.com)

BE: Did you have any setbacks when creating CreativeSoul?

CS: In the beginning of our career it was very difficult to fully expand and grow our business while Kahran was still working a full-time job. With only one spouse being dedicated to the business it meant that we had certain aspects of the business that had to be put on hold until we could find a convenient time. After seven years of building our business, Kahran was finally able to leave the corporate world to focus on the business full-time.

BE: How important is it to find your niche?

CS: In the photography world it is extremely important to find your niche because it is easy to be forgotten in the large pool of photographers. Finding your niche not only allows you to stand out from the crowd but also allows you to focus on the things that you are good at and love to do.

(Image: creativesoulphoto.com)

BE: Explain your entrepreneurial mindset and what it means to society?

CS: In our business, we always strive to keep our brand positive and uplifting. Years from now when people see our work, we would love for them to be able to get a glimpse at our culture during this time and see positive images that uplift our community.

BE: Who are some of your inspirations?

CS: For photography, our biggest inspiration would be Gordon Parks. We absolutely love his work and the legacy he left behind. We love the way his images tell a story and leave the viewer wanting to explore more about what was going on during that particular time. For business, we love the way Oprah has continued to reinvent herself and her business over time while maintaining a positive image in the industry.

BE: What does the CreativeSoul brand look like within the next five years?

CS: We’d love to see our brand expand to much more than photography in the next five years. We’ve recently opened our online art store selling fine art created with some of our most popular photos turned into art. We’d also like to use our brand as a connection point in connecting the kids that we work with to other brands and organizations that can help them pursue their own dreams and initiatives.

BE: What are some brands, individuals or organizations that you would like to work with?

CS:  We’d love to work with organizations like Black Girls Rock! because we think that they would be a perfect fit for our brand. We’d also love to work with some of the major brands like Dove to be able to tell their brand story in a unique way.

BE: What are the various qualities the two of you bring to your business relationship?

CS: Kahran’s career in marketing, technology, and design allows her to bring a unique set of skills that are needed to help build and expand our business. Regis is amazing at the technical aspects of photography and is the key to bringing all of the pieces together. Reg keeps our day-to-day business running smoothly and makes sure everything is picture perfect.

Regis (left) and Kahran (Image: creativesoulphoto.com)

To view some of CreativeSoul’s other amazing work visit creativesoulphoto.com or their Instagram @creativesoulphoto

Written by contributor Regan Farley 

Spring is officially in full swing, which means summer is just around the corner! Although warm weather is an excellent excuse to get outside and enjoy all the majestic beauty that Mother Nature has to offer, for self-proclaimed sofa spuds like myself, it’s also a great opportunity to embrace the wonders of the great indoors—i.e. relaxing on a comfy couch beneath the frosty blast of an A.C., with a bowl of popcorn, glass of wine, and entertaining TV shows. And as the flowers continue to bloom and temperatures continue to rise, us indoor enthusiasts can take solace in the continuous rollout of summer series premieres.

So, whether the debut of a new season means finally getting some kind of resolution for a previous cliffhanger, or you’ve grown bored of current programs and are looking to discover fresh entertainment, here’s a list of five summer TV premieres that you can look forward to:

1. The Bachelorette 

Why You Should Watch:

Now in its 13th season, most are fairly familiar with the premise of this show and kind of know what to expect; there will be a parade of attractive guys from all walks of life, each desperately seeking a chance at true love (*cough* or fame *cough*) with one girl, a recently rejected fan favorite from a previous season of The Bachelor. We can also expect many romantic dates, exotic vacations, wild challenges, rose ceremonies, trips to “the fantasy suite,” and questions surrounding the authenticity and/or mental stability of certain contestants.

So, why is this particular season of The Bachelorette so special? See for yourself:

(Source: YouTube, User: tvtymes)

No, your eyes are not playing tricks on you! For the first time in the history of the franchise, America’s favorite “bachelorette” is black!

Although attorney Rachel Lindsay may not have taken home the final rose from Nick Viall on The Bachelor, it was clearly a blessing in disguise. Now, Lindsay has the chance to call all the shots as men vie for her attention. And, as she says in the promo, she’s “not looking to play games or get played”—her ring finger is “READY.”

When and Where Can You Catch This TV Show?

You can watch the history-making premiere of The Bachelorette Monday, May 22, at 9 p.m./8c (with future episodes moving to 8 p.m./7c) on ABC.

2. Beat Shazam

Why You Should Watch:

Executive Producer and Host Jamie Foxx challenges contestants, as they compete for cash prizes based on their ability to quickly and accurately identify a song’s title and artist. The catch is that rather than merely working against the clock, contestants must be able to produce an answer before these details are revealed by Shazam, an app designed to speedily identify a song’s credentials based on mere sound bites.

(Source: YouTube, User: PromosTV Network)

When and Where Can You Catch This TV Show?

The inaugural episode of Beat Shazam airs Thursday, May 25, at 8 p.m./7c on FOX.

3. America’s Got Talent 

Why You Should Watch:

This spring/summer oldie but goodie competition show, which seeks out raw American talent with the potential to parlay into an international phenomenon, will be changing things up a bit for its 12th season. Earlier this year, Nick Cannon announced his departure from the summertime smash on Facebook, after hosting the show for eight seasons.

And who will replace Cannon as the emcee for America’s Got Talent?

(Screenshot from America’s Next Top Model, Season 13, Episode 3. Source: The CW via Hulu.)

None other than veteran supermodel and reigning queen of “smize,” Tyra Banks, will be taking over as host for season 12 of America’s Got Talent, alongside judges Mel B, Heidi Klum, Simon Cowell, and Howie Mandel.

Perhaps Banks is brushing up on her hosting skills in anticipation of the upcoming season of America’s Next Top Model? Although Banks has remained at the helm as the program’s executive producer, she did take a step back from hosting ANTM, when it relaunched with Cycle 23 on VH1 last winter. However, Banks recently announced that she would be replacing host Rita Ora, reclaiming her OG hosting gig in the upcoming season.

I missed my ANTM baby so Mama’s back! #ANTM #ANTM24

— Tyra Banks (@tyrabanks) March 16, 2017

Mizz @ritaora, you exemplify Business Boss Brand to the fullest! Thank you for all the amazingness you brought to ANTM ?

— Tyra Banks (@tyrabanks) March 16, 2017

Although Cycle 24 of ANTM is currently still casting, one can only hope that, in the meantime, we can catch Banks unleash her arsenal of impassioned, one-of-a-kind Tyra-isms on the America’s Got Talent audience.

(Screenshot from America’s Next Top Model; Season 4, Episode 3. Source: The CW via Hulu. Meme Source: imgflip.com)

When and Where Can You Catch This TV Show? 

Season 12 of America’s Got Talent premieres Tuesday, May 30, at 8 p.m./7c on NBC.

4. Fear Factor

Why You Should Watch:

I’m sure everyone remembers this ick-factor driven competition show from NBC; contestants face a series of dares that push them to their emotional, physical, and psychological limits. Challenges involved graphic, grotesque, hair-raising stunts like eating live roaches, being buried alive with live snakes, or bathing in cow’s blood. Those strong enough to withstand these stunts and ultimately face their fears were rewarded with a hefty cash prize.

Well, after a five-year hiatus, Fear Factor is back! Now on MTV, Fear Factor‘s Executive Producer and Host Ludacris is aiming to put a fresh, youthful spin on the series. According to an article from The Hollywood Reporter:

“The new incarnation will flip the script on its targeted Generation Z audience and instead of gross-out challenges (like eating worms), will be more playful with the hope of providing a cathartic tension release along the way. The newly designed stunts are geared at tapping into visceral fears of today’s anxious youth — such as couch surfing at 300 feet and waterlogging personal cell phones.

Inspired by urban legends, scary movies and online videos from the zeitgeist, contestants will be pushed beyond their comfort zones where their body’s physiological responses will take over.”

(Source: YouTube, User: MTV)

When and Where Can You Catch This TV Show? 

The reboot of Fear Factor will premiere Tuesday, May 30, at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT on MTV.

5.  Steve Harvey’s FUNDERDOME

Why You Should Watch:

The always entertaining Steve Harvey hosts this new show, which helps entrepreneurs fulfill their dreams.

According to the casting announcement published on ABC’s website:

“Steve Harvey is hosting a new, groundbreaking show on ABC looking for great innovators and entrepreneurs to help fund their American dream. We’re looking for mom-and-pop businesses, unique and interesting products, or creative ideas that just need a little more money to jumpstart their next phase. You could win anywhere from $10,000-$100,000, all you have to do is win over the live studio audience and convince them that you deserve to be funded.”

Think Shark Tank meets American Idol: those looking for a chance to finally make their big, entrepreneurial break will compete for a chance to obtain funding. But, rather than impress a panel of judges, the winners are ultimately determined based on the opinions of the live studio audience.

When and Where Can You Catch This TV Show? 

Watch the premiere of Steve Harvey’s FUNDERDOME Sunday, June 11, at 9 p.m. on ABC.

Public art has the power to transform mundane public spaces into dynamic canvases that make art accessible. These installations meet people where they are and bring imaginative thought into everyday life.

Nekisha Durrett’s “I Love You Miss Celie” art installation (Photo: Nekisha Durrett)

Visual artist Nekisha Durrett uses public art to provoke thought and bring smiles around the country. On April 24, 2017, Nekisha and five other artists pitched themselves to real-estate developers for the chance to create public art installations at the inaugural ART TANK in Washington, D.C.

ART TANK

Organized as part of Cultural DC’sVision DC Summit, the first-of-its-kind event brought artists and real-estate developers together to negotiate the development of public art projects live on-stage.

Art Tank 2017 host and judges (Photo: CulturalDC & Ralph Alswang)

Each artist had three minutes to pitch themselves to a panel of real-estate developers including Ditto. Development, Foulger-Pratt Development, artspace, Urban Atlantic, ABDO Development, and Forest City Washington. These developers are building multimillion-dollar projects in and around the nation’s capital. Following each pitch, the real-estate developers engaged the artists in a Q&A session before deciding to make a bid to secure the artists’ services for their upcoming projects.

Nekisha Durrett

Nekisha Durrett uses a variety of mediums including construction mesh, adhesive vinyl, window film, die-cut acrylic, and traditional painting to create massive graphic drawings. At ART TANK, Durrett struck deals with two real-estate developers. After the event, Brandon Andrews sat down with her to discuss the business of public art and her thoughts on the event.

Nekisha Durrett pitching at Art Tank 2017 (Photo: CulturalDC & Ralph Alswang)

You create large-scale graphic drawings that transform spaces. How did you decide on this approach?

In a former life, I worked in graphic production for the Smithsonian—large format printing, large-scale photo murals and text panels for museum exhibitions. Working consistently at such a large scale and observing how oversized graphics deepened the engagement of museum visitors’ experiences in exhibitions, left an indelible mark on me.

At the same time, having previously been a student of typography and graphic design, I was interested in the aesthetics and messaging of advertising. I looked to commercial media and popular media (some of it good, some of it bad) and admired how accessible it is to people from all walks of life.

I grew curious about how my art practice could integrate with commercial production, advertising, and public display. While I value and appreciate showing in gallery spaces, I find that they can sometimes be inaccessible or intimidating. I love the way that art in public spaces offers the opportunity for anyone to engage with art and how it dissolves the imaginary wall between art and day-to-day life.

You pitched at CulturalDC’s ART TANK event. Tell us about your experience.

So, public speaking is something that I am working on—like, really really working on. The physical act of making my work is pretty solitary so to get on stage in front of hundreds of people and talk about what I do does not come naturally.

Usually, when pitching an idea in “real life,” it’s just me and one, maybe two other people. When I tell you that I looked for the exit door backstage moments before showtime, I am not kidding.

Did you learn anything about the business of art as you prepared for the event?

I think the preparation for Art Tank reiterated a lesson that I didn’t fully accept until recent years. In my life, the most fruitful experiences have come from pushing myself beyond my comfort zone. I could sit in my studio day in and day out and make work that only I would see for the rest of my days and I’d probably be OK. I wouldn’t starve. No one would ever reject me or my work. I wouldn’t be humiliated.

To push myself beyond the feeling of being safe and OK has been terrifying, painful, disappointing—but the richest experiences I’ve had in my life to date occurred on the other side of that trepidation. I could be OK but I could also take a risk and be fabulous.

Nekisha Durrett’s “The Twisted Horn” Mural (Photo: Nekisha Durrett)

Why is there friction between creative entrepreneurs—including artists—and the business world?

I can only speak for myself as an artist: I’m not sure that I would use the word “friction.” I would consider it to be more of a disconnect.

I lament over this with artists all of the time. I think the messaging about how art is undervalued in our culture is absorbed very early on—by both artists and business people. The insecurity this invokes makes it difficult for an artist to demand what they are worth, and nonartists can be completely clueless about the resources that go into making work so they have no idea what it’s worth—both culturally and monetarily.

It’s very frustrating to work with people who don’t understand the value of what you do in any profession. I’ve been very fortunate to work with a number of business-minded people who actually get it, but I’ve heard tales! I think there is a common misconception among nonartist/business types that artists are just sort of playing in the sandbox, having a good time, navel gazing.

People say things like: “Oh fun! You’re so lucky! You get to do whatever you want! That must be so liberating.” Some of this is true. I know that I am privileged to be able to engage every day in something that I love, but being an artist can be excruciating! Oh, the number of times we are offered “exposure” in exchange for blood, sweat, and tears!

What resources do you think artists and creative entrepreneurs need to build better–more sustainable–businesses?

As an art student many moons ago, there wasn’t a business course offering. From that and other subtle messages, I inferred that making money from art was not possible and to do so or to have a strategy to make money from art was to cheapen it.

I sort of felt, after graduate school, that I would have to make a choice to make money or make art. It did not occur to me that there was a way for the two to exist in tandem, a way to turn this ability that I’ve been developing since childhood into a viable sustainable business.

I think it’s important to know your worth, connect with other artists whom you respect for both their artistic practice and professionalism—intern with them, assist them, carry their stuff—and watch and learn. Know that it is difficult to build a successful business in a vacuum. No one is self-made! It’s so important to connect with people working not only in the arts but, in law, business, museums, etc., and grow relationships. People are the most valuable resource.

You struck two deals with real estate developers at Art Tank. Congrats! What’s the next step in the development of your projects?

I’m used to juggling multiple projects so the first step would be to assess the needs of each project and establish a realistic timeline so that everyone’s needs are met.

Nekisha Durrett’s “A Garden Party” mural (Photo: Nekisha Durrett)

How can readers get in contact with you? Where can we see your current work?

I’m most excited about my 650-square- foot interior mural, “A Garden Party,” that is currently in the installation phase at the new West End Library in Northwest Washington, D.C. (opening soon); a large-scale mixed media piece that will be featured in a one year gallery exhibition at the U.S. Botanic Garden also in Washington, D.C. in December 2017; and “I See Myself in You,” an exterior, wall mounted sculptural piece developed in collaboration with my dearest friend and favorite artist, Hank Willis Thomas to be installed in the Liberty City community of Miami, Florida, (of Moonlight fame). I can be contacted through my website www.nekishadurrett.com