1. 1st BILLIONAIRE in Hip hop
Forbes has named Shawn ‘Jay-Z’ Carter a billionaire. In the United States Jay-Z is only the 5th Black billionaire and the only one to come from hip hop. Goes to show you, it doesn’t matter where you come from, you are limitless if you choose to believe. According to Forbes Jay-Z’s billionaire status can be attributed to investments in “…liquor, art, real estate (homes in Los Angeles, the Hamptons, Tribeca) and stakes in companies like Uber.” Jay-Z is an artist who has always been about ownership, from the establishing of Roc a fella records and Roc Nation. Coupled with his extensive music portfolio it is easy to see his road to 10 figures. So proud of this King,
As Mrs. Carter sang, “That’s a lot of brown children on your Forbes list.”
2. Drink More Water
In the spirit of drinking more water, I have to share my water bottle with ya’ll. Strangers stop me on the street to ask where I got it from. It is 64 ounces (half a gallon) of convenience and a challenge rolled into one. I could go for the gallon challenge by simply marking up and utilizing a gallon jug of water, however, that is not convenient for my on the go life. This water bottle is sturdy, taller than it is wide, and has a straw (a feature I never knew I needed, until now). The motivational time labels are also encouraging as I try to pace myself throughout the day.
3. Must Watch: When They See Us
To be young, black, and disposable. You ever watch something that makes you squirm. No matter how much you try to be still, your body physically reacts to what you are seeing? That is how the first part of the four part When They See Us directed by Ava Duvernay series affected me.
After watching 13th by Duvernay I knew I was in for something with this four part film. Ava is using her power to shed light on powerful stories. Starting with the Central Park 5. A true story about 5 teenage boys 14-16 years old who were charged and sent to jail on rape charges, coerced by police to confess to a crime they did not commit.
When They See Us is one of the series that Ava Duvernay has directed as part of her Netflix deal. I look forward to more of her work.
4. Serena: Highest paid female Athlete
In fact, Serena Williams is the only woman on the list of the worlds highest paid athletes. Sitting powerful at #63, she surpasses the likes of Dwight Howard and Tom Brady.
5. Pray for Sudan
Months of protest in Sudan led to the successful ousting of President, Omar al-Bashir in April 2019. Optimistic that the country would head in the direction of democracy, a government for the people, military control of the government has put that dream on hold as they terrorize Sudanese. Death, rape, abuse, and starvation are the current atrocities that are reigning over Sudan. There is not enough media outrage and coverage of the hell that this African, muslim nation is experiencing. We will not sit by in silence as the military continues its rampage.
Peititions to sign: Stop the Sudanese government & Militias from using Ammunition & Excessive Force on Peaceful Protesters , The UN must investigate the 3rd of June human rights violations in Sudan by the Military
Articles on how to help and organizations working in Sudan: The Sound Heart Organization, Refinery 29, CNN
6. Jackie Aina on Essence Digital Cover
EVERY. SINGLE. THING. If you are not already following beauty sensation Jackie Aina, do yourself a favor and stop playing yourself. Her latest cover on Essence digital cover is further testimony to her growth and success. I am so proud and excited for everything she does. In the beauty industry there are not many darker skin black girls that are given a mic or seat at the table. Jackie’s brutal honesty has made her reliable when she reviews and holds companies accountable. She is needed. There is space for more of us!
7. Rihanna: Wealthiest Female Musician
Rihanna is named as the world’s wealthiest female musician, surpassing Beyonce, Celine Dion, and Madonna. While fans are busy harassing Rihanna for an album she has been busy stacking that coin and breaking barriers. As far as I am concerned, between her beauty and fashion collaborations, music, and whatever she pulls off in her limitless journey, she will be rich forever.I predict in the next 2-3 years, she will be on the billionaire list. I look forward to it!
