Tag: Blog

YK Model & Talent Agency Takes Over – Black Women’s Expo 2017

 

YK Management Model & Talent Agency took over the main stage at this year’s 2017 Black Women’s Expo held at Chicago’s McCormick Convention Center, April 7-9. Models from the Fashion Agency walked the runway on Friday and Sunday afternoon rocking some of the hottest brands. Founder and creator Yoshimi Kiosha, does it all on her own and preps her models for each fashion show. The 27 year old entrepreneur knew Fashion Management was her dream at the young age of 12.

“At 12 years old I decided to branch off and start my own fashion management. I remember recruiting people when I was young because I always had a passion for it. My Freshmen/Sophomore year of high school I had my own clothing line at school named Geishagirl. I would pick out fabric and my step-dad had a printing shop and helped me out. Through it all my grandmother was my biggest supporter and in 2009, YK Management was established. I eventually want to rent a building and make it a school and agency,” said Yoshimi.

Now Yoshimi takes on events such as, The Black Women’s Expo and her models walk the runway.

YK MODELS:

After the show, I interviewed a few of the models, make-up artists and hair-stylists on their experience at the fashion show. 

One of the newest models to YK Management, 24-year-old Christian Pittman, explained how she was in a previous fashion show and Yoshimi was there recruiting and scouting models. From there, Yoshimi liked what she saw and Christian joined the team. Although, she has been modeling with YK for a little under 2 months, she explained how practicing with the other models has been unbelievable. 

“It’s like an adrenaline rush on the runway but fun. We only had about a month to practice before the expo and Yoshmi managed to get all the models ready and organized. Her vision and method helped put everything into perspective,” said Christian. 

24-year-old model and veteran Dominique Penn, has been with YK Management for a few months. Since she was a little girl she knew she loved fashion and has been modeling for 8 years. 

“I watch fashion shows and I love to express myself with wild and bold colors. Modeling gives me a confidence and I enjoy walking the runway,” said Dominique. 

Besides being a model for YK, Dominique has been doing lingerie modeling for about a year for Jewcee Boutique. “I’m trying to do different things and have a variety of pictures,” she said. 

Last but not least, 17-year-old model Keyera Jones said her experience at first was nerve-wrecking but after changing and coming back on the runway, those nerves went away and she enjoyed herself. 

“It’s a wonderful experience to be with YK Management. Yoshimi scouted me at my very first fashion show I did and now, I’m here,” said Keyera. 

Currently a Junior at Simeon High School, the young model wants to pursue Fashion and work in the industry as a stylist and make-up artist but noted her main focus would be modeling. 

ABOUT THE GLAM TEAM:

Behind every model there’s a glam team with talented individuals who help put the final pieces together. Each model had their hair, make-up and were styled to promote each brand of clothing line on the runway. 

Freelance Make-up artist, Toni Mead said her friend tagged her in a flyer where Yoshimi was looking for make-up artists for the fashion show. Although it was her first time at the Expo she noted it was a great experience. 

“I’ve worked with a WNBA player for a spring collection photo-shoot and did a hair show but never the Black Women’s Expo,” said Toni. The make-up artist goes by antigorgeous on Instagram. 

Make-up artist, Jessica Patterson has done professional make-up for proms, weddings and now added fashion shows to her list. She also looks forward to attending the Black Women’s Expo next year. 

“The energy was fast-paced but exciting and I’m very honored to have done some of the models make-up,” said Jessica. She goes by, _Jesstimeless on Instagram. 

Make-up artist, Jasmine Martinez explained how it was interesting being at the expo and noted it was also her first time. 

“I have been doing make-up for a year now and it has been very lucrative,” she said. Jasmine goes by Jayevelyn on Instagram

Full-time Hairstylist, Tiffany Shelly said it was also her first time at the Expo and noted it was fast paced but awesome. She explained how she enjoyed doing the models hair and eventually seeks to have her own hair salon.

“I hope to have my own suite and also build a glam team,” said Tiffany. You can find her work on Instagram at Tiffanystylezglamoursly.

VENDORS:

The Black Women’s Expo was filled with many talented exhibitors and it was a cultural explosion of fashion, food, health, art and music. You definitely don’t want to miss next year’s event.

Fashion Designers     

  • Menace.Denimz
  • Woke Fashions
  • Merci 88
  • Eden Brand                                
  • Eptome Boutique                                    
  • Edward Ark Collection
  • Addison & Clark
  • Hoop Legend
  • Merci 88
  • Khamryn B
  • Her Treasures Boutique
  • Idrine Bishweka
  • Gidi
  • CBN

YK MANAGEMENT MODEL & TALENT AGENCY:  www.ykmodelandtalent.com

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Fashion Designer – Hola Chola Pop-up Shop

FullSizeRender (1)“It goes to show that if you really believe in something go for it,” said Susanna Gonzalez.

Fashion Designer and owner of Hola Chola Brand, Susanna Gonzalez has proven to be a fearless self-starter entrepreneur. This past weekend I attended the Hola Chola pop-up shop inside the National Museum of Mexican Art located in the Pilsen neighborhood in Chicago. Susanna shared her story and how she became an independent artist.

Growing up in New York she felt sheltered at home because she was unable to explore. She felt drained at the everyday routine and rituals. Her family was accustomed and set in their ways but Susanna felt an urgency of wanting more.

“At 23 years old I made a bold decision to relocate to Los Angeles but, as time went by I felt like I was losing touch with my roots and religion back home. I forgot who I was because I was away from home so I decided to take a journey to Jalisco, Mexico,” she said.FullSizeRender_3

During her time there she celebrated one of Mexico’s colorful and patriotic festivals in September known as their Independence Day,  El Mes De La Patria (month of the homeland). She explained how her adventure in Mexico was a life changing experience because she felt the unity of the people and how it brought the Latino community together.

“They barely had anything but people were happy and I was drawn to the churches and religion,” she said.

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Her time spent in Mexico inspired her from religion to the arts. One thing that stuck with Susanna was “La Reina.”  She explained how ever since her journey she kept seeing La Reina appear and would pray.

“Our Lady of Guadalupe is the patron saint of Mexico, where she is known as La Reina de Mexico and is very much a cultural icon,” Mamiverse.com.

After her stay in Mexico Susanna decided to go back home to live in New York but while there she felt a sense of sadness.   FullSizeRender_12

“I felt uncomfortable knowing people in my hometown/background in Mexico were poor and had nothing,” she said.

She wanted to artistically bring to the life the culture and what she saw in Mexico but knew she would be held back from her full potential in New York because of her parents. She continued to pray to La Reina for guidance until one day she received a phone call for a job opportunity in Los Angeles and relocated once again. Although, she was working in L.A. she had an idea to work on her own brand and that’s when Hola Chola came to mind. Soon she found herself on her spare time working on her brand and was determined. As time went by she became passionate and diligent on the attire she made. Through the process of being away from home, working and starting her brand she was alone but never gave up.

“My family didn’t believe I could do it but here I am today and I just recently quit my job in November,” she said.

Her personality and smile gave an uplifting vibrant vibe. The ambiance in the room was electric and there was a variety of merchandise from hats, clothes to even suitcases.  Inside the main gallery room there were nail technicians from Hush Nail Salon in Chicago, Hennessy V•S complimentary mixed drinks and a DJ on stage. The event had people from all backgrounds and each person’s style conveyed uniqueness from edgy, spunk, eccentric and overall creative. Being that it was her first time in Chicago she proved that no matter where she goes she can conquer any obstacle’s and draws an audience with her brand and style.

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A special thanks to Cold Chillen Ent. for joining forces with Susanna Gonzalez to put the event together to Hush Nail Salon for coming out and doing some fabulous manicures  to Hennessy V•S for the complimentary mixed drinks and to the DJ for playing some great music and engaging the crowd.

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Cold Chillen Event Mngmt. Team

Instagram: @Holacholainc , @Ssuperior , @Pherolive , @djkingmarie , @hushsalonchicago

Twitter: @HolaCholaInc

WWW.HolaChola.Com

Cold Chillen Event Management Coldchillen.com

Hush Nail Salon www.salonhush.com

#HolaChola #HennessyV•S #ColdChillen #HushNailSalon

 

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Recap of the 16th Annual Chicago International Salsa Congress

This year marked the 16th annual Chicago International Salsa Congress, (CISC). The four-day event took place on Thursday February 9 to Sunday February 12 at the O’Hare Regecy Hyatt. The Salsa Congress is an event where different dancers from all around the world meet to share the same love and passion of dance. The event was full of non-stop excitement and features dance workshops, performances, competitions, vendors and social dancing to the live band and DJ.

Due to the many workshops available during the day I was able to go to a few even though I wish to have done them ALL! My first workshop was Vogue with Instructor Carlos 007 of Latin Rage Dance Company in Los Angeles. The class taught me how to incorporate voguing with salsa moves. Just like Salsa, Carlos explained the importance of moving your body and telling a story through vouging.  

“Using pain to create the creativity and to create masterpieces,” said Carlos 007. 

Another workshop that I took was Ladies Styling with Blanca Aviles of Latin Rhythms in Chicago. She taught the class how to style your hands, arms, and legs while dancing Salsa. The fluidity of each body gesture is what makes any dance unique. Another important tip I took away from the class is that each movement should come natural when dancing.

“Take the stuff that feels organic to your body,” said Blanca. 

A few other workshops that I did was Partner-work on 2 intermediate/advanced with Tamara Livolsi and Tito Ortos and Salsa Turn Patterns on 2 beginner/intermediate with Ernesto and Maritza. Both classes involved practicing with a partner and most importantly having the patience to get the steps right. 

“Keep training and discipline whatever you can grab your hands onto,” said Tamara.

Each workshop was tailored to what the instructor teaches and a great way to learn the many different dance styles. Although, some classes were more challenging than others it still gave people an opportuity to step out their comfort zone and learn.

“Never stop learning and have fun,” said Maritza. 

And that is exactly what each performance exuded from the afternoon and evening showcases. From the costumes to their facial expression each dance group and or solo dancers gave their all and showed. This year in particular was extra special and emotional for some of the performers because it was their last debut. Ericka Crespo who dances with Urban Vibe Dance Company in Chicago performed her last mambo routine. The group danced to Celia Cruz’s “Caramelo,” and you felt the love and passion that was put into the choreography. 

“This was an emotional and bittersweet performance overall. I’m grateful to have been part of the dance world in general and to have a oppportunity to show others the art of dance,” said Ericka.

Another dance company who closed the 16th annual CISC on Sunday night was Gifted Souls who also came to an end as they debuted their “Last Roar,” a Lion King inspired choreography. Director Rocky Quinones of Gifted Souls moves on to become a new father and at the end of their performance a machine exploded with pink and white confetti to reveal the gender of his baby to be, a girl. There was a total of 56 dancers who performed the “Last Roar” the majority being from Gifted Souls and some from other dance companies who auditioned. Overall, the performance was breathtaking and unforgettable. 

At the end of every performance each night the Grand Ballroom was cleared in order to have an open space to dance, hence the term “Social Dancing.” Some of the live bands/artists who closed the night were Jimmy Bosh and the All Star Orchestra featuring Yoko, Herman Olivera and Nelson Gonzalez on Tres, La Japonesa Salsera and all the way from Spain Tromboranga Salsa Orchestra.  

This year’s Salsa Congress was another success! And I hope to see you at next year’s CISC, until then DANCE!

http://chicagosalsacongress.com/Wordpress/

Video Credit to Media Team and Edited by Mabbo

 

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Canadian Rapper/R&B Artist on the Move

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Outside of music Dwayne “Salez” Lespoir is a local promoter in his city which started off as a way to showcase his talent. However, it became bigger than that and he soon found himself bringing in well-known artists. “No one wanted to give me that chance so I had to do it myself,” said Salez

Born and raised in Montreal, Canada the 28 year-old rapper/singer of Guyanese descent has written and produced his music. He also takes the time to write music for up and coming artists. In 2010 his mixtape “Hard Work Pays Off,” and his single, “Headlock,”  was highly acclaimed and received a great deal of attention. But his hard work doesn’t stop there, Salez recently shot a music video in Jamaica named, “Live Like This,” and is anticipated to make its debut very soon.

Salez continues to write music and feels it is about expressing yourself. “If I hear a hip-hop, jazz or pop beat and it takes me to someplace I write to it. To me music is not about having a lane but it’s more about being able to connect with different people all around the world,” he said.

He describes his music as a way to give a vivid picture of himself, his life and struggles he’s encountered. Although Salez has set some ways for himself it was not always easy and hit a few bumps down the road. He has encountered closed doors, other artists not wanting to collaborate with him, DJ’s who refused to play his songs and “friends” who were not a support system. Through it all he continues to overcome obstacles and works for what he loves. “I’ll prove everyone wrong because being the underdog was something I always loved. So I never let it phase me or discourage me cause I know my time is moments away,” he said. img_9373

Some of Salez inspirations growing up were Biggie Smalls and Fabolous. Other influences include Chris Brown, Eric Bellinger and Jeremih and noted he is a big R&B lover. If he had the chance to collaborate with a known artist or producer he admits it would be Fabolous because of the status he has maintained for years and managed to stay relevant year after year.

When I asked Salez where does he see himself in 5 years and hopes to accomplish he said, “I definitely see myself writing hits for more famous celebrities. Headlining my own show and to have a song on the top 10 Billboard Charts.

You can listen to Salez music and follow him at:

http://www.salez.ca , www.instagram.com/salez514 , www.snapchat.com/salez514 , www.YOUTUBE.COM/SALEZ514 , www.FACEBOOK.COM.Salez514 , WWW.Twitter.com/salez514 , www.soundcloud.com/SALEZMTL

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Chicago Salsa Congress – Press Party

 

What better way to bring in the 16th annual Chicago International Salsa Congress then by hosting a press party just 9 days before with a few sneak peek performances.

On Tuesday January 30 I had the pleasure to attend the press party held at Chicago’s Block 37 inside of the restaurant Latinicity. The evening consisted of music, performances, socializing, appetizers and drinks.

So what exactly is the Chicago International Salsa Congress (CICS)?

The founders Rosita and Saladeen Alamin of Cultural Expressions Productions and the Chicago Intercultural Alliance created a multicultural community through Afro-Latin music and dance. In 2002, both Rosita and Saladeen formed the first CISC.

The goal was not just about having music or dancing but to empower personal awareness, creativity, passion, leadership and inspire. The CISC gives an opportunity for up and coming artists to perform alongside some of the most elite and well-known artists. The event also showcases dance companies from Chicago, other states/city’s and even different countries.

As stated in the Chicago Salsa Congress website their mission is to:

“unite cultures and generation, engender leadership through empowerment opportunities in its showcase and to keep alive the history of the many cultures collaboration in the creation and evolution of Latin and Afro-Caribbean music and dance.”

On February 9 – 12, 2017 the CISC will take place at the O’Hare Hyatt Regency. The non-stop entertainment event will have dance workshops throughout the day and it will include different levels of dancing from Salsa, Bachata, Jazz, Hip-Hop and more. The night performances begin at 7:00p.m. inside of the main ballroom where the different dance companies and solo performers will showcase their finest choreographies followed by a live band for social dancing until 3:00a.m.  Outside of the main ballroom there will be a DJ playing music and vendors.

This is definitely an event you don’t want to miss!

For more information you can visit their website at Chicagosalsacongress.com and purchase your tickets today!

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“Patience is a talent but it is also the main reason why so many people give up early. This business isn’t an overnight success even though it may feel that way. It takes years. Look at me, 13 plus years and I still love it,” said Abel Lopez.

Born and raised in New Jersey Abel or also known by his nick name Amess is an aspiring artist who writes his own music but noted he has been creating music differently. “Many call it freestyling but to me it’s deeper than that. Now i just turn the mic on and let the words come out,” he said. At the moment he is working on a mixtape named “Take Your Time / TYT.” “This project is basically about a man and woman going through “love problems” in their relationship. The boyfriend happens to be an artist so it becomes harder for his girlfriend to hold on since his career is starting to take off,” he said.  fullsizerender_3

Ever since Abel was a young kid he was into music and then decided to rap one day. As he grew so did his passion for music and with the help of Youtube he taught himself how to build a recording studio in his home. Consistency and patience are two attributes Amess carries in order to continue succeeding as an artist. His biggest motivator is his mother who raised him and his brother on her own. In the music industry his motivator growing up was 50 Cent. In the mist of working and creating music a typical day for him would be checking his stats on social media to make sure his brand is growing on a daily basis. He also takes time to set up his daily promotions on social media and depending on how much is needed he will go to the studio to record. When I asked where his brand name Lamborghini Dreamz came from he said it was something he once said in a song and ever since it has stood with him and it is also his favorite car. He also clarified what the brand name means for his music career. “Lamborghini Dreamz doesn’t mean “the car” it means to live a life that not many get a chance to and just live the Lamborghini Dream. Not everyone owns a Lamborghini and not everyone is going to have that Lamborghini Dream in them,” he said. His music career has taken him to perform in venues from New Jersey and New York. If there is one artist he could open for it would be Drake because he is a huge fan and feels he can relate to his audience. 

The art of creating music has not always been an easy journey and was at a standstill for Abel. However, all that changed when his best told him about the show Empire on Fox which then motivated him to do music again. He appreciates how the show illustrates what goes into a record label and how a family can go through obstacles but still stand together and own an elite record company. At the time Abel is learning how to play the piano and drums and hopes to own his own clothing line and record label. This is an artist you don’t want to miss out on!

You can follow Abel on his social media outlets below.
Instagram @imchasingdreamz
Twitter @ImChasingDreamz
Soundcloud @https://soundcloud.com/amesslive
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Last night I had the pleasure to support Ms. Erin Leary the owner of BeBuddhaJewelry on her blog launch. The launch party was at Maybe Sunday Collective a small boutique located in the Pilsen neighborhood in Chicago. Inside the boutique there were tables which displayed the many different handmade BeBuddha accessories from earrings, necklaces, bracelets to rings and shirts. A photo booth was also in the mix and necklaces were the props. Ms. Leary also made key-chains for those who attended. When I asked Ms. Leary how she felt about her event she said, “excited and nervous.” Outer piece for Inner Peace is her motto. Ms. Leary has made her passion her business. The pieces of jewelry are bright and bold or soft and subtle and you can’t go wrong with either one.

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You can check out and purchase BeBuddha Jewelry  at: BeBuddhaJewelry.com  and make sure to follow her on Instagram @BeBuddhaJewelry

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Ms. Erin Leary rocking her handmade tassel earrings 
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NEW MUSIC ALERT! The A.S.A Project – Little Lady (Official Video)

Stop what you’re doing and watch this new video entitled  Little Lady  directed by Jacob Cuevas. The A.S.A Project which stands for “Always Something Awesome,” is a spunky group that gives you both alternative and hip-hop in their music. This new hit is full of energy, love and surely an album you don’t want to miss out on. Make sure to also check out the rest of their upbeat videos on The A.S.A Project (Album) below.

Below you will also find the websites to Heart of the City and Private Stock along with their social media outlets. So if you’re an artist looking for exposure then they are your go to.

Twitter: @HOTC_TV

Twitter: @TheASAProject_

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheASAProjectMusic/

Twitter:@pvtstck

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pvtstck/?pnref=story

http://hotc.wpengine.com/

www.pvtstck.com

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La Verdad Podcast

“Quien dijo miedo,” meaning “who said fear,” is a quote that Christian Alequin’s grandmother used to tell him and is now his advice to anyone that is trying to pursue their dreams and goals.

Christian Alequin and his friend Carlos Martinez launched La Verdad’s podcast and blog in 2016 where they began documenting and telling stories from the point of img_6225view of two Urban Latinos. However, the journey began before that in 2015 when they started creating apparel designs. As time went by their customer base grew as well.

The idea of having apparel was driven by 2 single fathers Christian and Claudio who is no longer working with them. “We also had an idea to help out other single fathers and show them personal development through workshops,” said Alequin.

Soon after Carlos joined the group, their apparel line evolved and they began selling shirts that said “Cultivo” meaning “Cultivation,” onto their website Laverdadltd.com

As Claudio left the group to do his own thing Christian and Carlos revamped La Verdad into a podcast and began selling more apparel onto their site. As their site says, “La Verdad is focused on being true to our roots through originality.” 

Their 6 fundamentals are:

  1. Culture
  2. Tradition
  3. Art
  4. Community
  5. Inspiration
  6. Scholarship

La Verdad recently grew from 2 to 4 when Vanessa Figueroa, also known as Vfig, and Natalie Reyes, known as Nati, joined the podcast. The ladies give their perspective from a woman’s point of view. 

The group is mobile therefore, they do not have a set location. Carlos lives in Michigan and takes the time to drive out to Chicago to do their podcast recordings and Christian will also drive to Michigan so that the two can take turns traveling. The two have become dedicated to their work and keeping their fan base up to date with new shows. At one point during the summer the team went on a hiatus due to their lives and careers outside of the podcast. During that time their fan base would ask where is their show and what has happened. The amount of people who showed their interest in the podcast has given the group inspiration to continue on with their podcast/blog. 

Although the group has relied on viral marketing which has been working well for them, they have also thought about doing a street team and passing out flyers about La Verdad. Another idea that they had was to have a family podcast.

La Verdad has had a few special guests from Abel Muhammad a Student Minister who is devoted to helping out communities of color. Also, Adriana Almanza who you might remember, posted an “open letter” to Facebook as a response to what Donald Trump said about undocumented immigrants. These are just some of the podcast’s special guest to name a few. The group continues to reach out to individuals as a way to not only help their podcast grow but to also give their audience something new each time.

“Align yourself with positive people and go for it but have a plan,” said Carlos. 

 

By: Lucia A. Crespo

You can listen to new shows on LaVerdadltd.com and make sure to subscribe to their website. 

  • As well as follow them on the social media outlets listed below.
  • Facebook – La Verdad Ltd 
  • Instagram @Laverdadltd 
  • Twitter @Laverdadltd img_6258
  • From left to right: Carlos, Me (Lulu), Vanessa, Natalie, Christian.
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