Simone Grant

HERstory: Kristel Jones, Kendra Settle, and Nicole “Cole” Mitchell

The month of February is dedicated to Black History Month where we honor and pay tribute to those who have made positive contributions to Black history. Historical figures such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Maya Angelou, James Baldwin, and many more are often highlighted during this month. While we pay tribute to those who have fought for Black rights and equality, Black History Month is also devoted to acknowledging Black men and women who are currently impacting society in a positive way. Kristel Jones, Kendra Settle, and Nicole “Cole” Mitchell are three Black female entrepreneurs from California who are building a foundation that will last a lifetime.

Live Performances Highlight 1500 Sound Academy’s ‘1500 Or Nothin’ Day’

The rain and cold weather could not stop the annual “1500 Or Nothin’ Day” from taking place Sunday, January 15. The yearly event is a celebratory occasion for the acclaimed music academy – 1500 Sound Academy, based in Inglewood, California. The private celebration took place at the 1500 Sound Academy & Volume Studios and included a speech from Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts, live performances, special guests, and a tour of 1500 Academy’s companion facility, the new Volume Studios, located adjacent to the academy. The event included food provided by Trap Kitchen, K Michelle’s Kitchen Catering, and drinks from SelvaRey

Leimert Park Village Book Fair Features Authors, Performances, Giveaways and more

On Saturday, November 5, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., the 15th annual Leimert Park Village Book Fair (LPVBF) took place virtually. Hosted by Jasmine Sanders, co-host of the nationally-syndicated “DL Hughley Radio Show,” the event was free and open for all to enjoy. The family-oriented event is based in the heart of Leimert Park and according to LPVBF, “the mission is to promote, encourage and advocate literacy, education, and the love of reading throughout the Greater Los Angeles area.”

Vendors and Attendees express excitement for the Taste of Soul’s in-person return

Good vibes and energy permeated Saturday’s, October 15, Taste of Soul event which is probably what caused the rain and clouds that filled the sky earlier that morning to disappear. The free family street festival took place on the historic Crenshaw Blvd. and attracted thousands of people from all over to enjoy food, music, performances, and much more. The event took place virtually for the past two years because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Aeriq McNayre wants community to have fun while staying fit with “Simply44”

Los Angeles native Aeriq McNayre began his fitness journey in high school when he played for Palisades High. Today, the personal trainer is still continuing his journey as he not only trains individuals who want to lead a healthier lifestyle both physically and mentally, but being that motivational leader thatthe community needs.  Aeriq is the founder of Simply44, a movement to inspire, motivate, and encourage the community to get up and be active. He definitely “walks his talk” as his social media is filled with pictures and videos of him working out and training, hosting his “Get Outside” community events,

TRAP Medicine will pilot Barbershop Wellness Hub for Black and Brown Men

The barbershop is a space where most men feel comfortable to express themselves and vent. What if there was a place for Black men to receive health and wellness services, mental health, and social care needs all while receiving a haircut? Founder and CEO of TRAP Medicine, Jahmil Lacey, and his team are working tirelessly to make this vision possible. 

Children’s Institute Celebrates New Watts Campus with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

On Saturday, June 25, the Children’s Institute invited the community out for a ribbon cutting ceremony for a day of celebration for their new Watts campus. Designed by architect and designer, Frank Gehry, pro-bono, the new CII Watts campus will provide an array of therapeutic services and free programs including workshops, individual and group counseling, socialization opportunities for Head Start families, employment support, Project Fatherhood and youth groups.

Bank of America and Cornell University Partner to Help Women Entrepreneurs with free online program

The Bank of America Institute for Women’s Entrepreneurship at Cornell is a collaboration between Bank of America and Cornell University. This free online program provides a learning portal that offer women entrepreneurs with the knowledge and resources to create and build successful businesses. It has been successful for women, especially women of color, who aspire to be business owners and entrepreneurs. Women in the program earn a certificate in business from this Ivy League university.