All over HBCU Land, this past fall swag was slayed from left to right.
There was no need for a runway because students ripped the runway all over HBCU campuses.
Shaheed Whitfield had many fashionable moments and it’s no surprise that he was bestowed the honor of being selected as Best Dressed by his fellow peers at Tennessee State University. Whitfield is a Junior Business Administration major hailing from the Gateway to the West, St. Louis, Missouri.
Wednesday is the day that organizations and students dress in their best for Courtyard Wednesday. Whitfield disregards Wednesday as being the only special day for dressing up because he uses any day of the week to dress for success. His friend at TSU, Adrianne Carter, applauds Whitfield because he does is a style more than one way.
“I love his style because it’s so easy for men to get caught up in one signature style and stick to it but Sha literally can go from sneakers to a loafer and it never feels forced,” Carter said.
If you’re looking for a fashion show, the campus of Tennessee State University provides that and Whitfield is one that will catch your eye with his reversible style.
It’s not unusual for students to dress up for various events on campus and Whitfield is a key player in helping put on some of those events because he is a member of Student Government Association with the Student Union Broad of Governors.
Keeping it professional is second to nature with Whitfield being a newly inducted and active member of the Chi Psi chapter of Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business Fraternity, Inc.
His best friend, Nia Varner Taylor, is excited about Whitfield’s exciting projects. Ready to expose the greatness up his sleeve, she stated:
“Shaheed’s growth with fashion will only continue to expand and his next project will be his blog laughing in Spring of 2017 called BlackBoyFly.”
Whitfield describes his style as cultural vanguard. It’s not unusual to catch Whitfield saying, “Black Boy’s Be Fly” very confidently because that’s a quote he lives by.
“Coming from stylish city like St. Louis, fashion is a big deal & it was difficult to adjust from the “STL Urban Fly Guy” to the “Classic, Suit & Tie Look” but Shaheed took control of both & dominated,” Taylor said.
With the ultimate goal of becoming a stylist for GQ it’s obvious why he is always on top of his game.
“Most of the time on campus you can see me in some distress jeans and sneakers or even seen in a tailored suit,” Whitfield said. If plan A with GQ is not what is meant to be in life, he would like to work in marketing for a major retail company.
He has taken hold of the opportunities of internships and became the very first intern for Appealed Design, a clothing company based out of Nashville, Tennessee. The company provided an opportunity for Whitfield to design a shirt, and part of the proceeds went towards a scholarship for him.
The shirts sold out so be on the lookout because there is no telling what is next for this man of fashion.
He has even worked on committees to create new Tennessee State University paraphernalia so the bookstore might soon have some touches of Whitfield’s swag magic.
When it comes to Do’s and Don’ts this is what Shaheed Whitfield lives by:
Do’s
Be yourself when dressing
Always try new trends
Be tailor and taper
Know what work’s for you.
Dont’s
Don’t try too hard to be in fashionable
Don’t wear BAGGY clothes if it’s not like a vintage piece or not your style
Don’t Overdo it
Don’t be a person that’s all about labels
You can keep up with Whitfield on Instagram @_notablenazeer Twitter @ TheBest_OnEarth and Snapchat @ Shaheed05
WDSU.com reports: The family of the Dillard University student gunned down a year ago in Central City said on Monday that they are honoring her memory as police continue to search for her killer.
The family is still looking for answers concerning the year-old murder of Myeisha McDaniels.
She had just graduated from Dillard. Any leads are appreciated. We want this crime solved. https://t.co/BziIYKb2Eq
“These historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) were compared only with one another for these rankings. In order to be on the list, a school must be currently designated by the U.S. Department of Education as an HBCU. To qualify for the U.S. News rankings, an HBCU also must be an undergraduate baccalaureate-granting institution that enrolls primarily first-year, first-time students and must be a school that is part of the 2017 Best Colleges rankings.”
According to Spelman’s website, the college was founded in 1881 as the Atlanta Baptist Female Seminary, later Spelman College in 1924. Now a global leader in the education of women of African descent, Spelman College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and we are proud members of the Atlanta University Center Consortium.
The Talladega College Marching Tornadoes Band will perform at President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration in the nation’s capital on January 20, reports The Associated Press.
The Great Tornado is the only HBCU band that agreed to march in the inaugural parade.
“Congratulations to Talladega College Marching Tornadoes for [being] selected to march in the 2017 Presidential Inauguration Parade!” according to Grumptown magazine‘s Facebook page. “Represent for the State of Alabama! Marching Tornado Media.”
The Associated Pressconfirmed on Monday that the Marching Tornadoes will, in fact, perform at the inaugural parade.
The news that an HBCU band will perform at Trump’s inaugural parade almost immediately ignited controversy and backlash against the black college from the Talladega community.
“We were a bit horrified to hear of the invitation,” said Shirley Ferrill of Fairfield, Alabama, a member of Talladega’s Class of 1974.
“I don’t want my alma mater to give the appearance of supporting him,” Ferrill said of Trump on Monday. “Ignore, decline or whatever, but please don’t send our band out in our name to do that.”
Fayetteville State Chancellor James Anderson appeared comfortable using the controversial n-word while rapping with students at the black university on campus.
Anderson used the word while talking about guns and rapping with a group of students on campus. He has said since that it was a mistake.
“I encountered some students rapping one day in front of the student center,” Anderson said in a statement. “I stopped and listened and they asked me about my knowledge of rap music. They asked me if I knew any rap songs, and I simply was repeating lyrics from music with which I was familiar.”
“Admittedly, I should not have repeated a song that contained inappropriate lyrics, especially with so much violence in today’s world, and in a day and time when we trying to instill in our young men and women the importance of respect of others and each other,” he added.
Though, Anderson said that it would be wrong to be hypocritical and not use the original lyrics.
“Today’s college students are very astute to rap and hip-hop music. I did not want to be disingenuous and not use the actual lyrics because the students would have resented that,” he said. “At the same time, I spoke with them about the importance of not limiting themselves to one component of rap music.”
“I asked them also if they listen to positive socially conscious rap like Nas and Mos Def because it is my belief that you aren’t being open-minded and you are limiting yourself to one message if you don’t become familiar with the many messages being conveyed,” Anderson said.
Just a few months ago the very goofy and energetic Jamal Rakesh Averett walked the campus of North Carolina A&T State University as King, but it was just a dream once arriving his freshman year. Behind the 9,033 followers on Instagram, and the smile that served as an ambassador for his University, Averett was an individual who many people thought had everything together.
He soon left NCAT not having a job, however. It was the day before graduation, excited for the big day to walk across the stage; Averett was getting his cap and gown together along with his stylish outfit. A moment that he would remember for the rest of his life received a harsh twist when a denial letter from the company Millers Coors came in the mail stating that he did not receive the job he interviewed for.
Being flown to Chicago for his interview, and feeling very confident it seemed that if it was a dream come true. That dream faded quickly and left this University King clueless about what was next after the crown. The story of who Jamal Averett is now, begins in a small town two hours and thirty-one minutes away from where he received his degree.
Weighing over 250 pounds in high school, Averett refused involvement in school because of his self-image. Knowing that he had the potential to really be a greatly involved individual within various aspects of a high school experience, his self-image would always stop his feet from walking into doors of opportunity.
Food became his healing mechanism for hurt. Having a father who was not present in life and battling a fight with drugs, Averett had to grow up in a single-parent home with his older brother and sister, Rico Thomas, and Kierra Averett. His mother Esther Ratcliff had to work extended hours at her jobs many days to just provide for all three children. Life began to change when Averett and his family moved to Greensboro, North Carolina. Feeling afraid about all of his next choices, he stayed optimistic.
Having a father who was not present in life and battling a fight with drugs, Averett had to grow up in a single-parent home with his older brother and sister, Rico Thomas, and Kierra Averett. His mother Esther Ratcliff had to work extended hours at her jobs many days to just provide for all three children. Life began to change when Averett and his family moved to Greensboro, North Carolina. Feeling afraid about all of the life’s changes, Averett had no idea that Greensboro was the place of tremendous evolution when he moved there with his family before starting junior year of high school.
Signing up for a gym membership at a local gym, Averett began working out two times a day, and even recalls almost passing out some days from working out so hard. His best friend, Charity Maddox has been affected by the healthy change as well. “Now exercising and healthy eating is a part of his life, he is always challenging me to do better,” Maddox explained.
Knowing that he was destined for North Carolina A&T as a college choice, he worked even harder towards getting his health together. Choosing his sister’s Alma Matter hit home. “I was nervous because Jamal is my younger brother and we’ve been through it all together; there was the world out there to be discovered,” Kierra Averett stated as she thought about the excitement sending her baby brother off to school.
“I looked at senior pictures and it made me realize that I had to keep working towards getting my weight down,” Averett said, reflecting on the very moment.
It’s freshman year in 2012, walking on the campus that he would be learning on for the next four years, he takes a deep breath and imagines doing everything that he never got to while a child. Now 190 lbs. Averett was feeling better, looking, better, and ready to do better. Stepping out on faith he ran for Mister Freshman and won. He went on to run for Mister Sophomore and was disqualified for campaigning on social media.
He went on to run for Mister Sophomore and was disqualified for campaigning on social media.
Not giving up he went on to run for Sophomore Class Vice President. Falling in love with Student Government Association, and being a King he went on to run for Mister Junior and finally Mister North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. All of the potentials for becoming a student leader was finally unleashed after hiding it inside for so long throughout childhood.
“I would hear things like the past Mister NCAT is chill and well put together, he is built, he is serious……Are you sure you are fit for this,” Averett explained as he smiled remembering the day that he was announced, king. No one can attest to the growth during his reign as King as much as his queen Myja Gary.
Always screaming “My Kinnnngggggg” when seeing him after they are separated, it is obvious the two became close friends. “One thing that stood out to me over the year was his work ethic. Whatever he says he is going to do or wants to do; he puts his mind too,” Gary said.
Knowing that he was different, he was ready for what would take place his senior year.
Senior year had many challenges and the clock was running out of time to find his passion for what he wanted to do after college. He was great at motivating others to pursue their purpose but still struggling to find his. Unlike many other individuals in college, Averett never accomplished the achievement of completing an internship. He was qualified for many, but never took the time to focus on the future so he just lived in the right now.
Focusing so much on helping students he put himself last. Understanding the disconnect with his father, Maddox saw the passion for him wanting to be Mister A&T. “Growing up, Jamal battled with his relationship with his father and that created a stronger desire to be a big brother to the males at A&T,” Maddox said. “He left becoming a brother, friend, and mentor to the students at A&T and the greater Greensboro community.”
Realizing he had to get himself together he began applying for jobs. Flying out to various interviews, Averett began to receive many denials. Falling to a rock bottom he felt as if he had to have the perfect answer for everyone.
With so many thinking that his world was picture perfect, he attempted to find anything to make himself look good in the public eye.
Taking on an internship in Colorado with USDA he could finally brag about having some type of sustainability. He finally realized that he had to find happiness for himself and not the satisfaction of others. He went on to find a job with a good salary, and even a company car but went to work every day miserable.
One day everything that he hoped and prayed for came in alignment with his passion and purpose.
He is now set to move to Washington D.C. taking on a full-time job with Oracle that begins in February. Paying close attention to opportunities that his brother took in college, Rico Thomas is always happy to see success for his baby brother Jamal.
“GROWTH, he has truly grown every year and sets even bigger goals for himself,” Thomas said..
Many changes took place in Averett’s life.
He went from a size 44 in pants to a size 30. He went from wearing a 3X in shirts to now a size medium. He also went from not knowing his passion to fulfilling his dreams for career goals. Averett in now in a place of consistent happiness; not having a perfect life but happy to be transitioning through life’s ups and downs.
Who knew that the young boy who would starve himself to sleep and wrap himself in saran wrap would be an Aggie Alum always looking for better opportunities to DO!
“My heart cries to see how much he has grown,” Esther Ratcliff, his mother, explained as she looked relieved at the fact Jamal overcame childhood problems. “He pushes me to be the best that I can be.”
When asked the important question of if his college experience prepared him for the real world, he replied:
“I feel like the college experiences have well prepared me. I have been able to use connections, as well as my platform to continue to inspire and build connections with people.”
Having the definitive goal of becoming a director of Student Activities at a Historical Black College or University, we will soon see Averett helping the next generation of student leaders after he obtains a Masters in Higher Education.
James Bowen II, Mister NCAT 2014-2015 with Jamal Averett, Mister NCAT 2015-2016
Livingstone College students live by the motto, “There is life in the stone at Livingstone.” And Alexia Veale gives life through her style on a regular basis. Veale is a Junior Biology major aspiring to be a pharmacist hailing from “Queen City” Charlotte, North Carolina. If Veale had to describe her style it would be unique.
“There’s is a time and place for certain outfit choices…”
—Alexia Veale
This risk taker is all about stepping out of the comfort zone. Being a very thrifty person, putting together outfits that are fashionable and inexpensive are easy because Veale is an experienced bargain shopper. With the majority of her wardrobe coming from thrift stores, it decreases the chances of others having similar outfits enormously.
Veale not only has beauty but brains and a caring heart as well. She is a current member of The Livingstone College LaLas cheerleading team and a 2016-2017 CIAA All-Star Cheerleader for Livingstone. Always looking for ways to give back to her community in Charlotte, she frequently gives her time to One Love, a nonprofit that provides school drives for kids and children’s therapy. Veale’s role is to help the students realize the importance of being involved and focused on school along with healthy relationships with peers.
“There’s is a time and place for certain outfit choices. I just like to do me and I care less if people don’t like it; if it makes me feel good then that’s all that matters,” Veale described as she passionately stated the importance of satisfying self.
Veale has no Do’s and Don’ts to live by for fashion because she is the ultimate risk taker believing in dressing how a person feels. That explains why so many of her peers at Livingstone College respond “Oh, that’s Alexia for you” when she pops out with an uncommon or weird arrangement.
Follow Veale on Instagram @ratedlexx and Snapchat @alexiaveale
HBCU students rely on student loans more than their non-HBCU peers, a new report says.
Black college students borrow, on average, at higher rates than white grads — consequently, they graduate with substantially higher debt compared to their peers at non-HBCUs, according to a new report from UNCF.
But changes to federal policy could help students at historically black colleges and universities, or HBCUs, reduce their student loan debt.
UNCF’s FDPRI leader Dr. Brian K. Bridges said that today student loans “have become one of the primary ways students pay for college, but for students at HBCUs—many of whom are first-generation college students or who disproportionately come from low-income families and have less access to financial resources—the reliance on student loans is far greater.”
“When placed into the broader context of the types of students served at HBCUs, the findings of this report help us to better understand the factors that impact HBCU students’ need to borrow and their challenges repaying their loans,” Bridges said. “These factors include racial wealth gaps, declining investments in higher education, unmet financial need, limited institutional resources, and other economic barriers often experienced by African American students and their families. Despite these challenges, HBCUs continue to be a ‘best buy’ in higher education by offering by offering comparably lower-cost tuition and disproportionately producing African American college graduates.”
He continued:
“UNCF awards $100 million each year in need-based student scholarships to address the financial obstacles that HBCU students confront. We are doing our part. Now, the country must invest so that HBCU students can earn their degrees with more resources and less debt.”
“Recently, some analysts have questioned whether the student debt crisis is real. For HBCU students, who increasingly are on the hook for financing college costs, the crisis is ever so real,” Cheryl L. Smith, UNCF’s senior vice president for public policy and government affairs, said, urging the Trump administration, and Congress, to work to find solutions to help low-income and minority students graduate with less debt.
“This report documents the crisis and suggests four policy areas that are ripe for reform to reduce the heavy debt burden faced by HBCU students,” Smith said. “Congress and the next administration have an opportunity with the renewal of the Higher Education Act to lessen the financial load.”
As an instructor in the College of Education and Urban Studies at Edward Waters College, the instructional goal is to reach students to make learning relevant, engaging, fun and helping students to apply to life not just academic lessons.
There are many African students studying at HBCUs in America, they wish to prepare themselves to gain as much education as possible then return and run their companies in technology, education, banking, commerce, trade, finance and the dynamic other areas of study.
African students look at education so different than African Americans, that is why there is a disconnection with African students and African American. Given assessment, African students look at it as just another hurdle to overcome.
African American students may moan, grip and not see the assessment just as it is, a test to overcome.
African students are confident and mature in their outlook on school, while African Americans do not make any connection and see it as a hindrance to other pursuits that have nothing to do with success in life.
These are just my observations and cannot be characterized for the majority of both these groups, but the assessments tell a story and send a strong signal.
Tests do not judge the success of living away from home, tests do not determine the career success of students, it is a gauge of academic achievement and growth; there is more to it than just assessments are taken on a computer. This is why engagement, exposure, hands-on and student lead instruction is vital anywhere in the world.
Students need to understand the reasons for being a good reader, why comprehension is important, the value of grammar and the engagement of networking and collaboration.
Accessing videos from YouTube, that contain lessons learned from Chinua Achebe a Poet, Writer, Mentor, Political and Community Activists; involved in the community he serves and provides a foundation why education is valuable.
The growing TEDX and TEDTALKs allows African across the diaspora to share their thoughts, dreams, and challenges of a united and progressive Africa.
It is important to go beyond just interpretation, understanding, and application of speaking, it is important to know how to put these pieces of education, technology, commerce, trade, natural resources and build a knowledge-based society to use to grow African communities and empower African children for generations to come. “African children need to be taught how to be producers.
“African children need to be taught how to be producers at all levels, not just at the bottom being consumers.”
Prof. Wm Jackson
Stated in the TEDx, “Africa Post-Colonial Development: Fatoumata Waggeh at TEDxGallatin” Africa must invest in herself and not allow foreign countries dictate the priorities of her people. No foreign country can understand the vision for another country
and make the necessary changes to create generational wealth, progress and build all around stability.”
Nations that do not invest in the growth of their children generational run the risk to not developing into productive nations with thriving economies, they rely on foreign investors and fall back into colonized ideologies and economic slavery.
The educational levels of citizens is one of the important factors that plays into if a nation will be able to be involved in global trade, technological innovation, the education of its
people and even influence the political stability of that nation.
Africans have a unique vision for change that can be applied to many African communities across their respective nations. Listening to writers and activists on YouTube that have influenced not just thousands, but millions in South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria and
across the continent of Africa. There are important thought leaders
There are important thought leaders and entrepreneurs with progressive ideas and skills.
Wole Soyinka and Chinua Achebe share their passions to improving their nation’s strength in areas of national educational accessibility, political stability, growth in commerce, the participation in global trade and applying technology to best serve the poor and underserved. To effectively engage and empower with education is a key priority as
each generation moves towards entrepreneurship, youth and teens are developing into smart creatives and technological innovators.
The careers of African societies are no longer just agriculture and industrial they are progressively being adapted to knowledge application, tech innovation and research and development. Technology has the potential to reach millions to provide resources and new opportunities of learning and workings to provide the necessary things families need. The discussion of colonization by foreign rule can never stop because the consequences are still seen today.
Technology has the potential to reach millions to provide resources and new opportunities of learning and workings to provide the necessary things families need. The discussion of colonization by foreign rule can never stop because the consequences are still seen today.
Technology has the potential to reach millions to provide resources and new opportunities for learning and workings to provide the necessary things families need. The discussion of colonization by foreign rule can never stop because the consequences are still seen today.
“Getting things done is better than having things perfect. Done is better than perfect. Whatever you have in your hands, get going with it. Just do it.”
Charles Igwe
Colonization was designed to keep Africans “under” educated, lacking in political power and even possessing little or no economic foundation to build wealth and stability.
Africans must continue to apply their passions, abilities, and talents to help their communities growing through education to make transformative changes using literature, writing, and the integration of technical resources.
HBCUs are some of the most stylish campuses in the world. Howard University, specifically, is a campus where some students will “pop out” just because. Overall, the goal for many students is to simply showcase their personality through what they wear on a daily basis.
Check out this week’s Stylish Buzz MarkAnthony Burns:
MarkAnthony Burns is a junior, Supply Chain Management major at Howard. He can be seen on campus in anything from a monochromatic streetwear look to an upscale suit and tie number.
“…Dress as if you were going to be interviewed on spot.”
MarkAnthony Burns
This Detroit native exudes style in every sense of the word. Through his use of bold colors, stunning name brand pieces, bright prints and unstoppable confidence, MarkAnthony has definitely created a name for himself on and off campus. His fashion idols include his dad (pictured below) who has been considered one of Detroit’s most fashionable people by his peers, and the rapper Fabolous who inspires MarkAnthony to keep looking to the 90s for fashion inspiration.
MarkAnthony describes his style as a “mixture of conservative and pop, and chic or as my friends would say “Chic Fly.” Detroit in general just breeds its natives to dress for success. Dressing has always been a huge part of my life, as it represents who you are as a person and the amount of creativity a person channels into their appearance.”
MarkAnthony’s Looks!
Make sure you follow MarkAnthony on Instagram so that you can stay updated on all of his upcoming looks!
A former Tuskegee Airmen, Willie Rogers, died in St. Petersburg on Wednesday, CBS News reports. He was 101. Rogers was also the oldest surviving member of the original Tuskegee Airmen. But CBS Tampa affiliate WTS reports that he was pretty low-key about his participation over the years, some of his own family didn’t know about his past. Rogers was drafted into the army in 1942 as part of the 100th Air Engineer Squad. Rogers also served with the Red Tail Angels. In 2007, President George W. Bush awarded Rogers with the Congressional Gold Medal.
Under the leadership of Dr. Frederick D. Patterson, the School of Veterinary Medicine was created at Tuskegee Institute, now University. (According to the university, nearly 75 percent of Black veterinarians in America are Tuskegee graduates.) Dr. Patterson also brought Tuskegee Airmen flight training program to the Institute. The all-Black squadrons were highly decorated World War II combat veterans and pioneers of the modern day Civil Rights Movement. Tuskegee University states that 15,000 men and women shared the “Tuskegee Experience” from 1942 to 1946.
When the sun is out and the weather is just right, in the “Land of Golden Sunshine,” you’re bound to find students strutting the campus of Tennessee State University. Fancy is a word that can describe the swag and Ja’Mecia Mone’.
“…There is nothing wrong with having a few trendy pieces in your closet.”
— Ja’Mecia Mone
“Fancy” Bailey is the example of stylish for this week. Bailey’s nickname Fancy can be heard yelled throughout the campus and in return, she turns with a smile. Bailey is a Mass Communications major with a concentration in Leadership Performance hailing from the same city as her Illustrious University, Nashville, Tennessee.
“Classic never trendy,” are the words of Bailey. Not a trend based type of young lady; Baily asks the question, “When a trend dies who are you?” She adores dresses, blazers, blouses, and solid T-Shirts when it comes to dressing down. Bailey does think trendy pieces are nice to have but limits them. “Now, don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with having a few trendy pieces in your closet. However, don’t let that be ALL you have in wardrobe,” Bailey said.
You will not catch Bailey involved in campus organizations because her soul leads her to make a difference in her community through her voice and media skills. Being a motivational speaker for young ladies, she crafts her motivation into comedic but serious & focused topics geared toward feeling good about self, knowing who you are, and most important in her perspective knowing Jesus more than knowing self. With those concepts, Bailey stresses the fact that God can mold you into the woman he wants you to be.
Here are some Do’s and Don’ts that Ms. Fancy goes by when it comes to clothing that she would like to share:
DO always look nice for no reason.
DO buy clothing that is versatile. You could dress it up or dress it down.
DO make sure to add your personal stamp to your trendy pieces.
DO mix and match your clothes! You have more options than you think. You’ll find yourself never repeating an outfit and saving money.
DON’T just dress up because you have extra hair in your head! Your weave is not the boss of you! Weave or no weave, still be your cute self!
DON’T “leggings are not fashion, it’s an excuse” – Timothy Snell. The End.
DON’T be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, you may start a trend.
DON’T be dull with professional attire. Yes, it is VERY possible to look professional and be glamorous!
You can keep up with Fancy and her stylish ways on instagram @FancyTheKing Twitter @MsFancyTweets and Snapchat @JmoneFancy
“What should we be doing going forward?” Africans can save Africa: Arnold Ekpe at TEDxEuston
There are millions of potential brother and sister bloggers in Africa, diverse people of color and culture, yearning to tell their stories, developing and waiting to share their brands and expand their opportunities to collaborate in education, business, commerce, finance and global entrepreneurship.
This writing is a contribution of knowledge to share and hopefully motivate and inspire Africans desiring to blog, microblog, videoblog, podcast and create dynamic content
within their communities. Their (African) voices and stories are important and should be shared on a global platform of respect and collaboration on dynamic Social Media platforms.
To represent the African diaspora and historical significance of the art of storytelling.
What better way than to share with the world, to create unique content that is just as diverse as the most culturally rich continent in the world, Africa. I encourage Africans of all ages to write their stories, to use their creativity to share innovative ideas and create content that bridges generations and cultures.
The ability to create unique and transformative content that can connect and unify their continent.
Following the literary talents of Chinua Achebe, Ngugi wa Thiong’o, Wole Soyinka, Ben Okri, Buchi Emecheta, Ama Ata Aidoo, Dinaw Mengestu, Africans are historic creators of stories’, poets, and diverse content creators. African children are learning that through education
they can contribute to the world in ways not available decades ago.
Colonialism attempted to silence the voices of Africans, it failed because the voices of Africans can be heard whispered on the flowing waters and in the air currents, stories that travel through the trees, and the paths both dirt and paved across the continent.
Social Media platforms and tools are allowing African boys and girls to share their stories with the global community, bringing attention to their lives right from their mouths and to the ears of billions globally.
As an educator and parent, I want to encourage African children, teens, youth and young adults to share their stories through the diverse tools that blogging has to offer and enhance their language abilities, “language is the way to memory.”
Do not allow others to tell your stories as was done during the centuries of slavery, oppression and colonization.
In the spirit of Chinua Achebe share your stories and let the world hear you. Chinua Achebe the “Father of African Literature” has stated many times that the minds of the people were influenced by the colonization of Europeans. That African writers need to be activist in their
writing, to challenge the thinking of Africans, to encourage intellectualism and activism even still today.
The thinking and the writing of Africans are challenging the “emperors” way of thinking,
“because the storyteller has a different agenda” than the emperor, “Conversation with
Chinua Achebe 2012.”
In many ways, Africans have a responsibility to share their stories and share their voices, what better way to tell truth to life what Europeans have tried to deny for decades. There was a denial of building of thought leaders and intellectuals in Africa during colonial rule. The independence of
The independence of Ghana in 1957 and subsequently other African countries allowed for the potential of building new intellectuals that, in turn, will teach others. Sharing the value of their voices just as Achebe, Soyinka and others have done, storytelling is a powerful
tool to build cultural pride and dignity.
The 20th and 21st century have opened new ways for Africans to soar, to embrace the winds of change that allow for the chains of colonialism to dissipate. Achebe shares that Africans have the right to share their expressions. No matter the medium, the tools, or the platform. The encouragement of children is important because as Achebe says that “children can fly,” and should be encouraged to.
Achebe states that he writes because he likes to write, I feel the same passion. To share not just stories, but information to encourage people to think, contemplate, dream, consider the possibilities to grow beyond the limited imaginations of those that do not respect the diversity and the heritage of African nations or the diaspora.
Africans must tell their stories, share their voices and build a new dynamic identity for the 21st century.
Africans are more than a people to be colonized and ruled. They are a people that have passions, expectations, and dreams, this should be shared with the world. African voices can influence geopolitical decisions that will take Africa into the 22nd century and beyond.
Africans as a collective can influence the gaps in education, in commerce, in the innovation of technology and the opportunities to achieve more to the benefits of Africa and African people, not just people from other countries.
54 countries united to solve their own problems can achieve great things if they unite and speak united. Africa united as a strong united force to make positive, and transformative change.
These powerful words from stated that, “no foreigners have ever developed a country, the nationals have developed their own country.”
The Black Expo provides a wonderful opportunity for businesses, entrepreneurs, performers and even youth, teens and young adults to show the community what they are about. How they can better engage and participate in making the community better for everyone in the areas of business, commerce, investments and building needed collaborations.
Networking is a learned experience that youth, and teens and young adults need to understand now at a young age to prepare them for future business, civic and community collaborations and projects. Many have a business dream but do not have access to the resources that allow the dream to come into fruition.
The mental spark is there, but the kindling needs to be provided to build the fire of production so it starts to burn hot and bright. Leading to a viable and strong business that contributes to the community.
Each year the Black Expo embraces, and recognizes and awards business owners, visionaries, entrepreneurs, innovators, and smart creatives. Their passions that drive them are inspiring and lead to continued opportunities to hire and mentor others with the same interests. Even in business it takes a village because the village will buy, barter, and have access to the services the business provides.
Building that business because the relationship is based on trust, respect and the accountability of providing a service and need for the community.
Many that attend the Black Expo, from our observations are looking for that spark of inspiration, that opportunity to gain the knowledge that will allow them to follow their dreams and to help their business.
Potentially hiring new people, providing educational training and financing investments to the community.
Small business is the glue that bonds communities and allows for re-investments. Technology has allowed many to connect with each other and build a network of clients and partnerships. The statements that many are starting to embrace is, “don’t look at your business competitor as competition, but an opportunity for collaboration.”
Hello Tee – www.shophellotee.com
In order for businesses to be recognized, Social Media is not the end all and be all, it contributes, but nothing beats meeting and greeting people with a handshake and a smile. Sharing information and “word of mouth” alliances.
As an Educational Technology and Social Media instructor at Edward Waters College, it is a requirement for my students to blog about their interests, passions, abilities and skills. Building their Brand and understanding how important a digital presence is, but more important building relationships in the community.
Volunteering, mentoring and helping outside of the business brings exposure and respect to the business.
As I talk to youth, teens and young adults at local and national conferences it is valuable because the information they gain is relevant and can be applied to their goals.
Youth, teens and young adults that have a business mind set must be taught things that are relevant to them for the now and how it influences their future.
Moxie Girl and Gabby
The Black Expo is a part of the building process to put people together, a platform where handshakes are exchanged, business cards are flowing and smiles are shared. Before many do business they establish a relationship based on trust and mutual respect.
The business package starts with the building of relationships, having a solid Brand and knowing your Niche.
Developing a Marketing strategy that is a living document with multifaceted avenues to provide streams of revenue not just from one source, but dynamically creating a continuous path to making money, and just as importantly re-energizing the community with investments in people.
The desire to gain business power should never be the priority over humanity. It is the people that are the ones that will help build a business or allow that business to wither away. The youth, teens and young adults attending should be embraced, mentored and provided role models so they can achieve their dreams as future business owners.
Youth, teens and young adults are contributing to business success models.
Too many times there are gaps in education, political influence, economic stability, diversity in commerce and generational wealth is lacking.
Venues like the Black Expo are proved as viable, solid and productive Black businesses that are influencing the community in positive ways and showing each generation of youth that they do have alternatives to potentially dangerous and illegal activities.
There is life in following positive people doing positive things through education, hard work, networking, technology and investments.
Support Black Businesses because these Black businesses support the communities they are established in, by providing needed tax revenue, mentors, role models and job opportunities.
Pro. Wm Jackson, Blogger and Author Harold Harvey author of “Justice in the Round” Essay on the American Jury System.
This blog is independently written by #MyQuestToTeach The information is strictly the opinion of its writer. William Jackson, M.Ed. CVO My Quest To Teach @wmjackson Twitter.
Being fashionable is a huge priority on the campus of Tennessee State University. Whether it’s getting dressed up for Courtyard Wednesday or headed to a grown and sexy lounge in Nashville, Students dress in ways that impress. Justin Young, a senior business marketing major hailing from Clarksville, Tennessee takes his appearance very seriously. The way his dress code comes together includes exploring different variations of casual and professional looks from what is seen in person and online then adding his own flavor to it.
His passion for fashion can lead him in the right direction has his aspirations are to learn the ins and outs of marketing. Furthermore, he wants to lead a marketing team of a large company in the automotive or fashion industry. The company Cole Haan has inspired creative looks for Young. “Working for Cole Haan, I have become a fan of the innovation of mixing a dressy look with the street style,” Young said.
Rather it’s running for the Tennessee State University Flying Tigers Track Team, serving in Collegiate 100, or being active with the Zeta Alpha Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma, Young is always up to something good on the campus of Tennessee State University.
Check out the photos below. You can keep up with Young’s styles on Instagram and Twitter.
In collaboration with Spanish and Journalism department, Howard University hosted its first semesterly cultural excursion entitled ‘Spanish for the News Media’ to Havana, Cuba during December 13-18.
The five-day expedition explored various aspects of the communist country in order to provide an opportunity for students to delve into the language, culture, and history of Havana in addition to sharpening journalistic skills by documenting every experience.
Anthony Brown, a junior at Howard, agreed.
“Being exposed and surrounded by the language enabled me to grasp it better,” Brown said. “Reading signs, conversing with people and reading menus in restaurants helps like nothing other. Journalistically, experiencing a new place and trying to consider how it from an unbiased perspective improved my ability to see things clearly.”
This was expounded upon by a surprise visit by Professor Max Barbosa, a communications professor at The University of Havana who discussed in English while students asked in Spanish the difference between the social, political, and economic issues blacks endure in the United States and Cuba. Due to Cuban Revolution led by Fidel Castro, blacks are viewed as equal- a complete contrast to the reality of many African Americans.
Two weeks since the death of Castro, all around Havana were signs and images immortalizing his death despite his desire not to be immortalized via statues and images. Castro’s death sparked an array of tourists visiting the Plaza de la Revolución for its cultural significance.
Plaza de la Revolucion. Courtesy of Daja Henry.
Howard student Francisco Joseph recounted his visit:
“I think the overall aspect for Cuba’s history really showed. The monuments weren’t erected for the people but were their to signify what they meant to the people. I think the perspective is often skewed of people thinking Cubans are glorifying their leaders, but it just is not true.”
Further historical visits included El Morro Castle, a fortress guarding the entrance to Havana Bay and Finca Vigia, home of Ernest Hemingway.
Howard student Adore Bagasao reminisced:
“The Hemingway house was breathtaking! When touring the house, we were able to see Hemingway’s typewriter, hunting trophies, graves of his dogs, boats, and the bathroom wall on which he wrote down his weight. The house almost seems frozen in time in which you can gain an insight in Hemingway’s life in Cuba. Even for those who aren’t Hemingway enthusiasts, the house has so much to offer. On the way out, we stopped at a stand for sugar cane cocktails which was one of the best drinks I had at Cuba.”
“I felt like the fortress was really inspiring to see,” Alexander Jeffrey, a sophomore at the black university, said. “It was a reminder of how their are grander things in life and even in history, It made me more appreciative of the country as a whole and their progression to where they are now. Seeing the fort reminds me that there is history behind these long standing sites and that we should sometimes stop and think”, reminisced sophomore Alexander Jeffery.
“Seeing the fort reminds me that there is [a lot of] history behind these long standing sites and that we should sometimes stop and think,” he added.
Upon meeting a group of Spelman students and Florida A&M University mathematics professor, Adam Bailey, Cuba appears to be the hot spot for cultural immersion and educational opportunities.
Howard senior Monesha Woods mentioned:
“Experiencing Cuba firsthand was a truly eye-opening experience. Not only was I able to learn so much about the culture there, but I also gained a whole new perspective on the Cuban way of living, much of which challenged my previous knowledge of the country. I left with a whole new understanding of their government and appreciation for their lifestyle.”
As the eighteen Howard students that attended reflect back on their journey to the once banned country, plans are already underway for the spring.
In many ways, Africans have a responsibility to share their stories and share their voices, what better way to tell truth to life what Europeans have tried to deny for decades. There was a denial of building of thought leaders and intellectuals in Africa during colonial rule. The independence of
Youth, teens and young adults are contributing to business success models.
