Plus Size Fashionista, Gigi, Is On Fire!

Giavonni Jenkins is a curvy, multi-award winning model, brand ambassador and actress. As seen on the Steve Harvey Talk Show & VH1’s reality TV show “Black Ink Crew Chicago". She has been modeling for several years now and flourishing. She is a curvaceous, petite, plus size model that advocates in erasing negative stigmas regarding curvy women while encouraging body positivity for ALL women.

She has modeled for Ashley Stewart, Sears & Roebuck and Co. & Macy’s and more. She is the proud recipient of the “Model of the Year 2017” award that she has received from the "Fashion World Grammys" right here in Chicago. Also, you can find her modeling on the website of Bella Sky and HerTreasures boutique. Currently, she is one of the Semi-finalist for the Finding Ashley Stewart 2019 promotional campaign and contest. She has graced the New York runways during New York Fashion Week for "RunWays on Fire" & “NYFW Takeover”. In addition, she has had the pleasure of being a brand ambassador for brands like Nickelodeon & Gatorade and Model Esteem etc. Likewise, she has been blessed to have walk the runway for the 2018 “Black Women’s Expo” which takes place in front of 35,000 people each year. Additionally, Giavonni has a degree in Fashion Production from The Illinois Institute of Art, which has only enhanced her knowledge in the fashion industry world. Her expertise is in runway, print, editorial, showroom, commercial, Ecomm modeling styles and more.

Giavonni also serves in ministry with her church, as a part of the Intercessory Prayer Ministry (IPM) at New Life Convent Southeast “Outreach and Special project Team”. She wears many hats such as mediator & counselor with gifts in exhortation, healing and deliverance.

1) Describe yourself in three sentences.

I am a person that sets out to inspire and empower others. I love to laugh and enjoy this one life that we have been blessed to have.

2) Tell us about your childhood. How would you describe your upbringing in a few sentences? How did this affect your adulthood?

 I grew up between two worlds. I grew up between the Northside of Chicago and the Southside. I had to learn to adapt quickly. I grew up as a latchkey in the 80’s. It taught me how to be very self-aware and responsible very early on. I had be too be creative as a child and these skills has very much helped and me now in my adult years.

3) What motivates you to succeed? Advice for others seeking inspiration.

I prayed to God to ignite my passion again. I lost it after what I call a major life changing set back. He hears and He answers! This is the most focus that I have been in a very, very long time. Therefore, I draw my strength from God he is my inspiration and motivation when I want to give up. When “others” did not believe in me, He always did and for that I Am eternal grateful.

4) Tell us your definition of a "win" and a "loss"?

A “WIN” is again that God is in (Approved by Him); a loss is anything that MY God is not a part of (meaning it was not authorized by HIM)!

5) If you could change something about your past, would you?

Yes, I have a laundry list and you don’t have enough paper! However, I am learning to trust the process even when things do not turn out the way I envisioned them.

6) Sum up your career goals, life goals, and personal goals in a few sentences.

Learning to push pass my let downs and failures with the intention to bounce back better than that last time. Learning to give myself the grace and mercy that I freely give others. Do not settle anymore ever & aim high and add tax & interest!

7) What is your most appreciated "failure"?

All of them, It taught me that I am much stronger than I ever would have known had I not experience them. Come to find out I am much more resilient that I realized!

8) Describe your feelings about plus-sized fashion, the industry and the representation? What are your critiques?

My critique about the industry is one of the reasons why I am a part of it, to bring about change and bring more attention to body positivity and what that may look like for the future.  We as women want to see “real life” models, women and men that look more like ‘US’ (FullFigured). We will eventual become the norm and I am just the women to aid in pushing this movement.

9) Why do you want to be Ms. Ashley Stewart and what sets you apart?

I pride myself in bringing love, passion, fierceness and a raw sense of confidence and truth that I have found within, this sets me apart. Also, I have a story to tell that includes restoration & second chances. In addition, I want women to know that there is a new level of body acceptance that is taking place in world and that our time is now.

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Acclaimed Indie Author, Zachary Ryan!

1) Describe yourself in three sentences. I would like to say that I'm passionate an give everything in what I involve myself in with writing and my professional career. I would say that I'm very loyal and dependable with my friends and family. Finally, I would say I'm a good time, and you know when I'm in the room.

2) Tell us about your childhood. How would you describe your upbringing in a few sentences? How did this effect your adulthood? I grew up with a mixed family. My parents divorced when I was young, and my dad read married. I grew up with six boys in the house, so it was always kind of crazy. I think I was the forgotten child at some times, so I became this person that needed to make myself remembered. I needed the spotlight to be on me and not others.

3) What motivates you to succeed? Advice for others seeking inspiration? I want to make myself known for something. I don't want something I put my heart in to become a complete joke. I think what motivates me the most is making sure that I don't embarrass myself even fully. I think if something is connected to me that I be proud of it and can stand by it. My biggest advice is to put your all into something that you're doing, but be open to criticism and advice to make yourself and your project grow.

4) Tell us your definition of a "win" and a "loss"? I think a win for me is when my book got picked by a publisher. I think a loss for me is when reviewers called me one of the worst writers they've ever read.

5) If you could change something about your past, would you? No, I know it sounds cliché, but I think everything got me to where I've been. Now, when I think of mistakes do I still cringe absolutely.

6) Sum up your career goals, life goals, personal goals in a few sentences. My career goal is to be able handle being a general manager of the bar that I'm currently working out. I want to make sure that I'm able to handle it and my personal life. Life goal is to go back to school for my masters to be able to teach creative writing. I would like my books to be more recognized. I want to see High School Queens go as far as it can. Personal goals is for me and my boyfriend to get married and have kids. I want to start a family, but that's a long way down the road.

7) What is your most appreciated "failure"? When I was told I was a horrible writer. I think that gave me the motivation to work on books that I loved instead of writing books to be published. I think I write more honest books now then I did back then.

8) Give us a 150 word summary of your latest book. My newest novel is called High School Queens. It's about these high schoolers who are trying to keep their secrets from The Marked Queen. It's very Pretty Little Liars and Gossip Girl. It has that campy, bitchy, and fun nature. You love the backstabbing, the drama, and the secrets. I did want to add some serious topics in the novel with Muslim's view on homosexuality, alcoholism, child abuse, and drug use. I wanted to make it where it had fluff, but some serious topics to ground the boo. You'll laugh your ass off and learn something new in the process.

9) Tell us why you wrote it and how it will affect the target audience. Why is it unique? I wrote this book because I had been writing serious novels for so long that I wanted to switch it up. I needed something to be fully drama, and this was the perfect blend of both. I think it gave me something that I loved I enjoyed every second of it. I could not relate to any of these characters, and that's what made it the best fun. I think it will affect the target audience with the serious topics. I think they'll learn about a different culture they don't know about and the struggles everyone goes through. We all have a mask on, but do you know the person behind the mask. It's why it's so unique because I don't think people talk about that kind of theme a lot. We all put up this front, but do you know what happens behind closed doors?

Follow His Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/Zacharyryanbooks/

Local Restaurant Owner Named to Exclusive List (guest article)

By Doug Schroder

With it being National Small Business Week this week many mom and pop operations are
being recognized for what they do and how they contribute to their communities. One such
establishment that should be noted is Anna's Pizza and Pasta Restaurant, located in the village
of Winnebago, Ill.

Anna's Pizza and owner Brian Weavel have been an integral part of the community since
opening the doors over 23 years ago. Brian has volunteered and dedicated much time to the
community, and beyond, by sponsoring sports teams, holding fundraisers, and supporting
many different causes along the way.

Leaders in the pizza industry have recognized Weavel, like the time he was selected as a
guest editor for a month by Pizza Today magazine. Or when he was a guest last fall on the set
of the cable television show Small Business Revolution. Or when the United States Chamber
of Commerce featured him nationally in an article. Most recently he was selected to speak on
community at the International Pizza Expo held in Las Vegas. Then a few days later he gave
speeches at the Mid-West Food Service Expo in Milwaukee, one speech on community
involvement, while the other was on how to get noticed on social media.

Weavel has flourished tremendously on the social media front. Six years ago he was just
beginning to learn how to send emails, now he is all over the social media platforms.
By reaching out as he does, Weavel has caught the eyes of many, which consequentially
landed him on the list of "38 Underrepresented World Wide Talents That You Need to
Know". The list was compiled by award winning author and publisher Calynn M Lawrence
for the Fresh Faces Project 2019.

The Fresh Faces Project 2019 is a not-for-profit campaign that provides a platform for the
artists, entrepreneurs and do-gooders who are underrepresented and don't get the fame and
acknowledgment that their talents merit. Lawrence, based in Chicago, provides free exposure
and promotion for many aspiring talents and entrepreneurs, predominately those from the
fashion industry. Which makes it unusual that a restaurant owner from a small Mid-western
town would make the list. A client of hers had recommended Weavel. Lawrence checked out
his social media presence and decided he deserved a place on her list.
While the list includes people in various backgrounds, aesthetics, and industries (from
fashion to art to music to film to literature and beyond), it includes only one restaurant owner,
that being Brian Weavel.

The Fresh Faces Project is a beautiful showcase for many! It is very diverse in nature and
opens us up to different worlds! I am so proud to have been selected to be a part of it stated
Weavel when asked about the project.

Even though Weavel has gained, not only national, but also international, recognition, his
business goals remain simple; increase sales and continue to make a difference.
To see the list its entirety, and read about the individuals go to the article here: http://fashionthunderclap.blogspot.com/2019/01/38-underrepresented-world-wide-talents.html

Errica M Avila Talks To Us About Her Life and Career In Plus Sized Fashion!

Ericca Marie Avila started Plus Size Modeling Since December 2018 and has continued to work in Sales to support herself financially since 1998. She is optimistic and passionate about the work that she does. You can always count on her to encourage you to be a go getter! She is strong minded, independent and she’s got the Gift of Gab. Growing up, she was raised by a single mother with her two sisters in an all female home. Her mom was a bit of a party animal she recalls sleepless nights and witnessed people in her house drinking and doing drugs. It seemed their house was the after set since her mom was the bartender and they lived right down the street. In 2003, she became a single mother herself due to an abusive marriage She divorced and found herself repeating history by working as a bartender and hanging out in the night Life. She wasn’t proud but with no high school diploma or any degree she found it was the best way to be financially independent. 

"For years, I wanted to go back to school and get a degree in Business or Hospitality Management. I knew I was good at being a leader and was capable of earning more income, however, since I juggled 2-3 part time jobs it seemed impossible or it was never the right time. I always felt judged or as if I was being criticized this carrying on from childhood, We heard others talk about my mother for being in the bars and soon people did the same to me. I would prove them wrong! I had dreams I was eager and I didn’t have any addictions. 

Not settling motivated me I don’t want my life story to end with what if, and if only. I am determined to break the cycle and create my own path and way to succeed and really try at least give it a shot! I encourage anyone to be strong Don’t let any past mistakes or circumstances define you as a person or critique your whole life. We can change our outcomes and situations but we have to try and believe that we are worthy and capable 

My definition of a win is learning something or getting one step closer towards your goal. A loss to me Is not trying at all just giving up is a loss! The one thing I’d change about my past is to stop being a people pleaser, I used to live and make decisions based on other people’s opinions. I no longer seek their approval or guidance, I’m the only person that can determine what is really good for me and I’m the only person in charge of my happiness.

 My Personal goal is to spread Positivity and Motivation so that people can no longer be so self critical and highly believe in themselves. My career goal is to become an entrepreneur and to succeed in the modeling industry as well as in any other area of work that I take on such as Sales Rep, and Business owner. I want to build something solid so that my children can have something to fall back on.

My best failure was depending on someone else for financial support and happiness I realized that I am not meant to settle. "

Ericca Marie Avila

219-802-0962

IG @ericcaavilanofiltermommy

Facebook Ericca M Avila 

Tony Vincente Gives Us Career Updates!

Born and raised in New York, Tony Vincente, CEO and President of Rossario George, developed a love for all things couture at an early age thanks to his mother and sister. Tony dreamed of being a designer and showing his passion for design to the world. In 2017 this dream was realized with the unveiling of the Seattle- based Fashion House Rossario George Fashion.

Describe yourself in three sentences. I am fashion designer and CEO of lifestyle brand Rossario George as well as a social media influencer know as the Fashionable Foodie!  I am extremely hard working and in addition to running my own business, I am a small business consultant, helping other small businesses grow using marketing and social media strategies tested and used by Fortune 500 companies that I worked with over the years.

Tell us about your childhood. I had a good childhood. My mother and sister were supportive of creativity and encouraged me to be who I wanted to be.
How would you describe your upbringing in a few sentences? How did this
effect your adulthood? I was introduced to high-fashion at a young age and it stuck with me to this very day. I knew I wanted to be in the fashion industry but didn't know were to even begin, I am grateful for Shop Vida who asked me to be a designer for them in 2017. It helped me gain the understanding I needed to step into the industry and was the catalyst for the creation of Rossario George.

What motivates you to succeed? My partner, my pup kids and the memory of my Mother.
Advice for others seeking inspiration? Don't let anyone stop you from achieving what you feel you want to achieve. Success is not often easy but if you have belief in yourself there is no barrier strong enough to hold you back.

Tell us your definition of a "win" and a "loss"? A win is you waking up day after day. A loss is the opposite. I guess in truth as long as you are blessed with another day there is no real losses. Every single day creates new opportunities. Acknowledge that and seize your day.

If you could change something about your past, would you? I would not change a thing. For good and bad, the actions of  my past defined who I am today and I am truly proud of the individual I am today.

Sum up your career goals, life goals, personal goals in a few sentences. My goals are very simple. I want to continue to learn and grow internally and to also  grow Rossario George into an international lifestyle brand. :-)

What is your most appreciated "failure"? 

Not being on the real housewives ... YET!

Rossario George: https://www.facebook.com/HouseofRG/

Tony Vincente: https://www.facebook.com/VincenteArt/

Storm Monroe, YouTube Comedy Sensation

Storm Monroe is a 25 year old blogger that is working on his online presence on Youtube and Instagram. Storm is relatively new to blogging but has been obsessed with celebrity news since he was a young child. As an only child that spent a lot of time alone, tv was my comfort. At the time, it sucked but now it helps me when I'm reporting on celebrity news. Storm is single and has no children, but is the proud dog-father of a dog. Storm enjoys traveling and going on new adventures but likes to chill at home too. 

Describe yourself in three sentences.

I appreciate the hustle. When I want something, I go after it. I like what I like. 

Tell us about your childhood. How would you describe your upbringing in a few sentences? How did this effect your adulthood?

My upbringing was interesting. I was raised around people who were country but bougie at the same time. My parents never sugar coated things with me and always treated me like an adult, so it explains how I am today. In one way it robbed me of being a "child" but also made me super mature. 

What motivates you to succeed? Advice for others seeking inspiration?

 Freedom is what motivates me the most. I want control over my income, schedule, life, etc. If a someone is not in control of their life (e.g. daily schedule) then that person is not truly free. For others, I would say to look at the people you don't want to be for inspiration. Figure out who you DONT want to be and work hard as hell to not be that.

Tell us your definition of a "win" and a "loss"?

The definition of a win and loss will vary from person to person. For me, a win is when you accomplish your goals. A loss is when you give up or don't give something you're all. I feel this way because a failure is just another opportunity to learn. 

If you could change something about your past, would you?

I would forego going to college. I should not have went to college because I truly did not know what I wanted to do. You don't need college to get on the internet and talk about celeb news and if Id focused on my online persona from the age of 18 to now...I would probably be earning a great living for myself. 

Sum up your career goals, life goals, personal goals in a few sentences.

I am building my online presence to have a late-night talk show one day. On my show, I want to be uncensored, interview and roast celebs. It would be like a new version of the Howard Stern show. As far life or personal goals, I want to travel to different parts of the world. I have yet to explore Africa or Europe.

What is your most appreciated "failure"?

My most appreciated failure would be the countless videos that I made before anyone started watching them. I got better and better with every video which proves that practice makes perfect. 

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Words From Yesi On Air

"After I broke into mainstream Chicago radio, I realized I could do so much more with my platform. About 5 years ago I started modeling. I didn't know how to, where this road would take me, but I just knew that I had to model. When I was younger, I was not very feminine. I only have brothers, wasn't allowed to wear makeup, could only wear baggy clothes. But I always wanted to FEEL pretty. I did not feel that way until I was about 19 years old when I started buying my own clothes and got into makeup and skin care. When I started modeling I still didn't feel 100% comfortable with my body because I have always been larger in size, but I didn't care anymore. I remember saying, "I'm done." And I was done being worried about what others thought of my body, sensuality, sexuality and I started loving myself more. It's been a great experience. I've been published in several magazines, appeared as a model on a TV commercial, and do runway shows."

Describe yourself in three sentences.

I am God's messenger. Ever since I was a little girl I knew I wanted to be a positive female influence on the radio. So here I am.

Tell us about your childhood. How would you describe your upbringing in a few sentences?

My earliest memories of a child were of me in Palestina, Durango Mexico. Although I was born in Chicago, I am very connected to the small-town, simple upbringing. The morals, values and hard work has shaped the way I am today.

How did this effect your adulthood?

I learned to live off of my resources, make the most of what I have. That's how I started modeling. I realized that besides being an on-air personality, I was also living off of my IMAGE. So I recreated myself.

What motivates you to succeed?

I expect a lot from myself. I know I am capable to do a lot so mediocrity is not something I accept.

Advice for others seeking inspiration?

Do not seek for inspiration outside of you. Ask yourself WHY you want to change your current situation.

Tell us your definition of a "win" and a "loss"?

I have no losses because every failure teaches you something.

If you could change something about your past, would you?

Nothing. Everything is meant to be for your development.

Sum up your career goals, life goals, personal goals in a few sentences.

Career: Using my platform as a radio host, model, public persona to help others.

Life: Work on my health. Not that anything is wrong now, but I definitely want to be on more of a plant-based lifestyle, do more yoga, be more athletic.

Personal: Dedicate more time to my family and friends. These people love you unconditionally, have known you throughout all of your stages in life. It's time I enjoy them more.

What is your most appreciated "failure"?

I had an interview with a Program Director for a Spanish radio station but he told me my American accent was too prominent in my Spanish so he didn't give me the job right away. Since then I dedicated myself to reading, writing, watching TV and speaking in Spanish so I can connect better with that demographic. Now I am one of the most popular public figures in Chicago amongst my black and brown people.

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