Jenny Huang is an award-winning concert pianist, brand marketer, DEI leader, and public speaker. She has been recognized as one of the most “Inspiring Women” by Campaign US. With a trailblazing career in marketing and communications, Jenny has worked extensively with Fortune 500 clients. She currently leads brand marketing and communications at Energy BBDO while also serving as the Global Culture Lead for Omnicom’s Asian Leaders Circle. Throughout her career, Jenny has distinguished herself through her unique combination of creativity, strategic thinking, and empathy.

FWM: Share your background. 

Thank you for having me! My name is Jenny Huang. For the past decade, I dedicated countless hours to mastering the piano and performing internationally as a concert pianist. Music has been and will always be my passion, teaching me discipline, creativity, and emotional connection with audiences.

However, my journey as a successful chess player in my earlier years sparked a desire for business in my heart and honed my exceptional analytical skills.  In the past few years, I made the transition into the marketing world and discovered that, like music, it’s about creating meaningful connections and evoking emotions. Brand marketing became the perfect platform for me to express creativity and strategic thinking.

With a background in music and a strong desire to innovate and connect with people, I bring a unique perspective to the marketing industry. I believe that the intersection of art and marketing allows me to deliver impactful campaigns. Additionally, I feel fortunate to have found a different stage to share my stories as a public speaker, connecting with and inspiring others along the way.

FWM: What excites you the most about advertising?

The aspect of advertising that excites me the most is the combination of creativity and strategy, the opportunity to tell compelling stories and create experiences that resonate with people. Through creative campaigns, we have the ability to shape perceptions, change behaviors, and even make a positive impact on society. It’s truly amazing to see how an idea can come to life and capture the hearts and minds of consumers.

At Energy BBDO, we strive to push the boundaries of creativity and create work that stands out. Whether it’s through breakthrough cultural activations, compelling content, or immersive brand experiences, our goal is to connect with people on a deeper level, leave a lasting impression, and generate business impact for our clients.

FWM: You are one of the best brand marketers in the business. Share a few of your successful campaigns with Energy BBDO.

I’ve worked on several successful and meaningful campaigns during my time at Energy BBDO. I am always driven by making authentic connections with target consumers, and creating a positive impact on the world by leveraging my superpower: strategic thinking, creativity, and empathy. With a background in different countries and languages, I understand diverse consumer identities and craft resonating campaigns. 

One campaign that stands out is our collaboration with Kerrygold Butter, addressing the desire of millennial parents to involve their children in the kitchen. We designed an immersive experience called The Magical Pantry, seamlessly integrating kid-friendly recipes into children’s stories. With unique character customization, nearly 40 specially designed recipes, and 4 original fables, the Magical Pantry brings a multitude of recipe-story combinations to life.

Another notable campaign was our work with Bayer’s Claritin, combating botanical sexism in pollen reduction through the DiversiTree Project. We launched a campaign to counter decades-old practices of planting excessive male trees, which release pollen and cause allergies. By educating people about the importance of planting female trees that absorb pollen and promoting diverse tree planting and hosting female tree-planting events, we aim to reduce pollen levels. Without female trees to absorb it, pollen spreads widely and triggers allergies.

There are many more campaigns I am proud to be part of, such as work for Extra Gum, The General Insurance, Bayer Asprin, Sodastream, and Brown-Forman. You can learn more at my website. 

FWM: As the Global Culture Lead for Asian Leaders Circle ERG with the Omnicom Group, what are your goals? 

As the Global Culture Lead for Omnicom’s Asian Leaders Circle, my primary goal is to foster a supportive and inclusive environment for Asian professionals within the Omnicom Group. We provide growth opportunities, mentorship, and networking to help them excel in their careers. 

One of our key objectives is to promote diversity and representation within the industry. I believe that diverse perspectives lead to more innovative and impactful work. By advocating for greater inclusion of Asian talent, I hope to break down barriers and ensure that their voices are heard and valued in the workplace.

Additionally, I strive to create initiatives that celebrate Asian culture and heritage by bridging my background and expertise in art and music. By organizing cultural celebrations, art shows, music salons, workshops, panels, and educational programs, we foster a sense of pride and belonging among our Asian employees, while also raising awareness and understanding among the broader Omnicom network.

FWM: How have you broken boundaries? 

I moved from China to the US at the age of 17 by myself, becoming the first person from my hometown to be admitted to top music schools in the US. After a decade as a concert pianist, I transitioned to the advertising/marketing/media industry, constantly breaking boundaries and challenging conventional thinking.

Most recently, I blend creativity and music expertise into corporate and client-centric work, championing diverse thinking and representation for a more inclusive and equitable work environment and advertising industry. As a brand marketer, I push the limits of advertising/marketing by embracing emerging technologies and cultural shifts, delivering innovative and impactful campaigns for our clients. As the Global Culture Lead for Omnicom’s Asian Leaders Circle, I have worked to break down barriers and advocate for diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for people from underrepresented communities to succeed and thrive.

FWM: You were recognized as one of the most “Inspiring Women” by Campaign US. What inspires you? 

I find inspiration in many different aspects of life. 

Firstly, the people around me – my team, friends, and even strangers I just met. Their uniqueness and collaboration inspire innovation and growth. 

Secondly, the power of creativity and compelling storytelling. Marketing and communications offer opportunities to inspire and uplift people, spark conversations, and bring positive change. 

Lastly, diversity and representation’s transformative power drive me to advocate for change and create opportunities for underrepresented voices.

Instagram: @thejennyhuang 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennyhuangmusic/

Photo Credit: T. Anna

Have you ever met someone that somewhat does it all? That’s Lady T’Mil Curtis for sure! She is a well-rounded expert in the areas of marketing, coaching, ministry, public speaking, event production, promotion, and the list goes on.

From the inner city of Chicago, born and raised, she is cultured and comes fashioned with impressive knowledge and education about a variety of things. She attended an Episcopalian Grammar School that started cultivating her entrepreneurial spirit at an early age. Being a fast learner and always loving a challenge, she graduated early at age 16 with a 3.5 GPA after dropping out her senior year. “School was boring, and I couldn’t express my creativity like I wanted, so I dropped out. But that was even more boring, so enrolling in an accelerated session proved to be the spark I needed to finish.”

Basically, you bring me what you’ve created, and I help navigate how that creation goes from concept to launch. 

Be it in ministry or the mainstream marketplace, Lady T’Mil uses her dominant spiritual gifts of administration and teaching to propel individuals to higher levels in their respective arenas. On top of all the hands-on work that she does in these arenas, she’s also a marketing strategist, author, content creator, digital distribution specialist, public speaker, blogger, and a virtual operations trainer. Her writings provoke people to not only think, but to think at a higher level and from a fresher perspective, while her intellect ignites conversations that are significant and memorable.

She just launched her latest venture, The Ministry GPS, created to help churches, leaders and non-profits better navigate the virtual space. With so many areas and fields of interest under her belt, she enjoys coaching off the radar. Her ability to counsel and encourage clients is uncanny because she does it without you knowing what she’s doing. And she’s a unique coach because she’s able to combine her expertise along with her experience that helps Entrepreneurs, ARTrepreneurs and creatives reach their goals.

FWM: You are known as a well-rounded expert in marketing, coaching, ministry, and public speaking. Share your background.

There are so many facets to me, and it comes from my mom actually. She encouraged me to not just be good at one thing but to be good at being T’Mil. This means every gift that I’ve been blessed with is valuable. Every talent and skill I have is worth using. I’m a church baby, if you will, so, ministry is my foundation and I’m grateful I’ve learned how to marry it with the secular side of who I am. 

FWM: Tell us about The Itsladytmil Agency and how you are helping entrepreneurs, ARTrepreneurs and Creatives.

The Itsladytmil Agency started as an answer. So many are gifted and talented but lack administration and/or accountability. I help to bring strategy to life in a comprehensive way that doesn’t make people feel like their creativity is being hindered when handling the business side of things. Basically, you bring me what you’ve created, and I help navigate how that creation goes from concept to launch. 

FWM: How have you utilized your spiritual gifts of administration and teaching to propel individuals to higher levels?

I’m a bottom-line kind of person so I always want to know what your end goal and or purpose is. I then help organize and create strategies that someone can follow to achieve said goals. When it comes to teaching, that’s my first love. I enjoy expanding and edifying minds to see beyond what’s in front of them. I’m of the mind that when people leave my presence, they should be impacted for the better.

FWM: What has God taught you?

One thing I needed to understand was that as we try to find God, He is actively looking to find us. If you can’t find God, start to worship and He will find you. Hebrews 11:6 says it is impossible to please God without faith; we must believe that He exists and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” Another key thing God taught me was every blessing and His favor is attached to who He created me to be. Being my authentic self; even when I’m unsure yet I trust Him, can and has opened so many doors for me. Lastly, I will highlight He has taught me the importance of community. He never created us to be an island of one so finding your tribe if you will and being intentionally about building relationships is success to me.

FWM: At the heart of every endeavor is your desire to serve and see people win! Explain.

I believe in servanthood. I think that’s one of the greatest ways we can show God in the earth. Using my gifts and callings to serve others is what yields success in my eys. So, it’s not about the “thank you” even though that’s good lol it’s more so sowing good seeds through my actions that keeps me going. 

Rave Reviews from clients:

Lady T’Mil Curtis is a serial, gifted, and accomplished entrepreneur. A mentor to creatives, she is passionate about galvanizing others to operate at their highest level. She possesses an uncanny wealth of knowledge, providing you with advice and counsel that produces tangible results. Lady T’Mil has motivated me to keep moving forward even when the odds seem stacked against you. I highly recommend her services. If you are looking to take your business, ministry, brand, or creative endeavor to the next level, Lady T’Mil is the one for you.

Tia W. Cooke Cooke Consulting & Creations Brand Strategist

Lady T’Mil is an EXCEPTIONAL woman who is very knowledgeable of the ins and outs of her industry, and is a PIT BULL who continually breaks down barriers and barricades! Watching her continually shows me that if you do your part, God will take care of the rest! I remember when I was at one of the lowest points in my life, T’Mil gathered all of her friends to send videos to me which created an all out FB concert and I WILL NEVER FORGET THAT! Knowing that she bounced back from sickness and is now thriving let’s me know that my time isn’t complete and that I’m just at the beginning. I love T’Mil and I count it an honor to know such a woman.

Fulks Worship Leader/Indie Artist

FWM: Tell us about your latest venture, The Ministry GPS and how you are changing the world.

The Ministry GPS was birthed at the beginning of the pandemic. I’ve been doing virtual/digital operations since 2015 so, the pivot for me was easy. I took that knowledge along with my years in ministry and started helping pastors, churches and person ministries leverage or create their digital presence. I’ve always said the virtual space wasn’t going anywhere and now more than ever, it’s necessary.

FWM: Please share your upcoming projects. 

The biggest is accepting the position of General Manager with VGNBae Music Group out of Houston, Texas. One of my goals is expanding the label and studio into television and film projects. Also looking into new collaborations that will cross various genres of music. I’m also getting back into management but with a more focused clientele than before. I have a heart for musicians and producers so working with them to help ensure their business acumen and administration is top tier like their creativity. 

Photo Credit: Joshua Simmons 

T’Mil and Vgnbae co-founders Dominique Side and Anthony Hall.

What will people notice when working with you? 

I’m real. I don’t work with anyone or on any project I don’t believe in. So, you get 100% of T’Mil. I’m a provoker; I’m going to push you outside of your comfort zone into greater. I’m an encourager; I will motivate you until times get better. And I am the solution; If you work with me on any level, you’ll have the tools needed to navigate you towards the success your life/business/ministry deserves. 

For more information or to contact Lady T’Mil, please visit www.itsladytmil.agency
Social Media – Facebook: T’Mil Curtis, IG, Twitter, LinkedIn, Clubhouse & Wisdom: @itsladytmil

About VGNBae Music Group

VGNBae Music Group is a multi-genre label and the brainchild of two multi-talented creatives, Anthony Hall, and Dominique Side. With artists in gospel, pop, Latin and jazz who have seen billboard and radio success, their projects have industry appeal and has placed them on some of the hottest digital platform playlists like New Gospel Friday on Spotify, Hot Latin Tracks on Pandora, and major holiday playlists with the second release from The Collective; A VGNBAE Christmas.

Cover Girl Lisa Edelstein is an American actress and playwright. Edelstein is known for playing Dr. Lisa Cuddy on the Fox medical drama series House. Between 2014 and 2018, she starred as Abby McCarthy in the Bravo series Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce.

BEHIND THE WOMAN

FWM: You are known all over the world. People often confuse what we do with who we are. What is it that really makes you a formidable woman?

LE: I don’t think there is a woman in my business that hasn’t had to overcome an enormous amount of rejection and pressure and dismissive or abusive treatment. That includes me. And that, alone, makes one formidable. No matter what business a person is in, following one’s dreams is terrifying to most. Knowing what you want and going for it despite a million things that could or should work against you, that makes a woman formidable and I am that woman, too, to be sure. I am not, however, the ex-head of Princeton Plainsboro Hospital, nor am I a divorcee who writes inspirational books. I’m not an ex-hooker, I’m not a trans-woman, and I’m not the drug-addled daughter of a powerful agent, but I tend to get credit for all these things when I’m out and about, which is pretty hilarious. And maybe that makes me formidable as well.

My mind is always wanting to tell stories, even when I’m not working, and it doesn’t take a day off.

FWM: People tend to see the glory but rarely know the story. Tell us about some of your pains and challenges along the way to landing your toughest roles.

LE: Any of the roles you have seen me play I landed after not getting roles that meant the world to me. It’s between the jobs that people don’t realize are the most difficult and challenging times in any creative artist’s life. For every role, there were five that didn’t happen. So the question is the wrong one, landing jobs is the victory lap. Waiting for those jobs, believing in yourself in the downtimes, insisting on having a place in this world – that is where the real glory lies. 

FWM: In your industry, what do you feel has been the hardest hurdle to jump? How has it shaped you, if at all?

LE: Learning to be patient, to wait for the right job, to believe in yourself enough that it’s worth waiting for – those are some serious life skills one needs to develop. My mind is always wanting to tell stories, even when I’m not working, and it doesn’t take a day off. I’ve found that it’s deeply important to stay creative – whether it’s acting, writing, directing or even drawing, so that my brain doesn’t, metaphorically speaking, eat itself. 

Knowing what you want and going for it despite a million things that could or should work against you, that makes a woman formidable and I am that woman, too, to be sure.

FWM: You are successful and wear many hats. What is your advice on balancing personal life and Hollywood? 

LE: “Hollywood” is just an idea. This is my job, which I love enormously and am so grateful for. This is my family, who I also love and am grateful for. These are my friends, people I work with, or my husband works with, or that we met out in the world and enjoy. There is no separation between personal life and “Hollywood.” 

FWM: What can women looking to enter your field work on now to prepare for the landscape?

LE: People should just work on themselves, on finding their own voice. This business relishes unique voices and ideas. In fact, that’s all one really has to offer, beyond an excellent work ethic, and it’s incredibly valuable. There is no one else like you, no one can bring what you bring, no one else has your brain. Learning to honor your own imagination is the best ticket you have into the world of entertainment.

FWM: If you could travel anywhere in the world where would you go and why?

LE: I miss traveling so much! I want to go back to Japan, we promised our youngest who had a zoom bar-mitzvah during Covid, that in exchange for all that work we’d take him back there. He’s been obsessed with Japanese culture since we took him when he was 9. And my dad, who will be 85 this summer, would like to go back, too. He was stationed there in the early 60’s, my brother was born there on the base. So, it would be wonderful to take my parents along, too. And I want to go back to Thailand with my husband. I went alone the first time, and want to share it with him. I want to see New Zealand and Australia, Eastern Europe, Brazil, Chile, England, Scotland, Ireland, Amsterdam, Norway….I have such wonderful memories in BC, I want to be in those beautiful forests again. There are seriously very few places I don’t want to go, so the list will get too long for this article. If I haven’t mentioned a place already, just assume I want to go there, too.

Learning to honor your own imagination is the best ticket you have into the world of entertainment.

FWM: What has been your favorite role and why?

LE: I’ve had a lot of favorite roles. It was my favorite role to be on Seinfeld, it jump-started me in the business in LA and was particularly exciting to be on. It was my favorite role to be on Relativity, telling a meaningful story about an LGBTQ+ woman and getting to break barriers with the first ever lesbian make-out scene permitted on network TV. It was my favorite job to be on the West Wing, working with such talent both on and off the screen. And then House, of course, a life-changing experience to be on a show that was such a massive success and so smartly written. And to play my beloved Abby McCarthy on Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce – that was a dream come true. To be the lead of a well written dramady, to get to act my face off and wear such gorgeous clothes, to work a solid 14-hours a day for five seasons. I was in absolute heaven. And since then, working with Alan Arkin and Michael Douglas – that’s just an arm pincher (meaning I have to pinch my arm to remind myself it’s true.) 

FWM’s Queen of Real Estate Issue (May/June print) Real Estate mogul and Covergirl Egypt Sherrod who is making serious boss moves in the real estate arena, an industry traditionally dominated by men.

The name Egypt Sherrod speaks volumes. Speaker, author, radio personality, television host, philanthropist, wife, mother and Real Estate mogul.  She is truly a Renaissance Woman.  Known as the host of HGTV’s Property Virgins and Flipping Virgins, Egypt has come into our homes with her vibrant personality.  It is her goal to inspire women and influence them to create the life they love. Egypt has shown us that our lives are only limited by our imaginations.  

FWM: Egypt, I am so excited about this interview.  Introduce yourself and your business? 

ES: I am Egypt Sherrod, Mother, Wife, Real Estate Broker, Business Owner, TV & Radio Personality, Author and Speaker. 

FWM:  What first drew your interest to the real estate industry? 

ES:  I grew up with uncles who were in the real estate business, brokers, agents, investors. So it has been embedded in me from an early age that real estate was the foundation of wealth. My goal was never to work in real estate though. As a matter of fact, when I graduated from college, I majored in communications. That led me to a career in radio for almost two decades. But at some point, in my twenties a light bulb went off.

Once I started earning money from my radio career, I knew I had to invest it somewhere smart. Again, real estate was embedded in my brain. So, I started my real estate career as an investor, which eventually led me to becoming a licensed agent. Ultimately, I got bit by the real estate bug and became a broker, making real estate my full-time career. 

FWM: As a woman in real estate, what do you feel has been the hardest obstacle to overcome?   

ES: At this point in my career the main hurdle is balancing and juggling clients. I always want my clients to have an incredible personalized service experience, so I put alot of pressure on myself.  Early in my career, the hurdle was just about digesting all the information, laws, rules, contracts etc. But once you have that under your belt, the hurdles become more about daily management of your business.  

FWM:  As a real estate mogul, author, television personality, wife and mother you wear many hats.  What is your advice on balancing family and business? 

ES:   To be truthful, I am still figuring it out myself. LOLOL…. I have a new baby, Harper Skye, who is 3 months old. So, this will be a new lesson in balancing for me. Having a great support system, requiring my partner to be accountable as well, asking for help, and taking mental health breaks when needed, are all a part of successfully balancing my life. 

FWM:  Please tell us about the Egypt Cares Family Foundation.  

ES: It is a non-profit I founded 9 years ago to help bridge socio economical gaps in the community I serve. So, we provide free financial bootcamps, educating families on wealth building and management, credit restoration, and home ownership. We also provide fun programs for the kids.  I love it! 

It has been embedded in me from an early age that real estate was the foundation of wealth

FWM: What tools and/or strategic partnerships have you put in place to help women? And the community? 

ES: This ties back to my non-profit. The reason I founded the organization is because I wanted to have an organization that directly addressed the needs of women and men in our community on a grassroots level. So many times we donate our money or our time to organizations, but we don’t know for sure if those funds ever trickle down to the people we intend to help. This was my way of ensuring I was making a profound difference and would leave a legacy. 

FWM: What is next in the life of Egypt Sherrod? 

ES: Well right now I am taking time to enjoy my new baby. I think it’s important to stop and smell the roses, and take inventory of how far we’ve come. So that is what I am doing at the moment, just taking time to refresh and renew. I do expect to have my 2nd book out at after first quarter of 2020 though, and I am traveling often and headlining at wealth and women’s empowerment conferences nationally. So, I will be coming to a city near you soon.   

FWM: How can people connect to you outside of this interview? 

ES: You can find me on Instagram and Facebook @EgyptSherrod 

Niya Brown Matthews is a force to be reckoned with. She is a certified life coach, author, motivational speaker and so much more. It is her purpose in life to empower women through transparency and authenticity. Her “Soul Food Sessions with Niya” allow women to reconnect mind, body and soul.  Let’s meet Niya.  

FW: Good Morning Niya. I am so excited about this interview! Introduce yourself and your business? 

NBM: I am a certified life coach, author, motivational speaker, mother, wife, two-time breast cancer survivor, Ambassador for Ford’s Warriors in Pink and have retired from 20 years in real estate to begin Chapter 2 of my life which is Women’s Empowerment.  

FW:  Tell me about Soul Food Sessions with Niya.  

NBM:  Soul Food Sessions with Niya is a women’s empowerment organization that’s geared around motivating and inspiring them to become better versions of themselves-mind, body and soul. Most of the time, we as women, career women, mothers and corporate executives are always on the go doing everything for everybody.  I am concerned about our centering part, which is neglected.  I wanted to design a platform to pour back into the women who are everything to everybody.  Women’s empowerment is the core of who I am.  I wanted to create something that was God led.  God is my foundation. 

FW: How do you handle stress in your business?   

NBM:  I am a praying woman and I do know the order of my household: God, family and then success. My prayer life is on 10.  I learned to shut out all the ways of the world. I listen to inspirational music. I shut down for an hour every morning: prayer, music, worship mode and I read the Word.  

Read more of this dynamic interview with Niya in our March print issue!

Making Boss Moves

As the interview ensued for this 3.5 octave, soprano, alto AND tenor vocalist, actor and activist, Antonique Smith was in her home state of East Orange, New Jersey  preparing to speak and sing at The Confluence Gala, where corporate leaders who are in the 1% of the wealthy, gathered to hear about climate change; environmental justice, clean energy alternatives and health solutions for residents impacted by high rates of heart disease, asthma and cancer caused by neighborhood oil-drilling, corporate dumping and power plant emissions.

Smith is not some wild-child, tree-hugger in the pejorative sense. Known as the impassioned voice of the climate change movement, this Grammy-nominated vocal powerhouse is using her talents to speak for the voiceless and to chart her own path to success in film and TV, and the only way she knows how to execute it is to keep the process and delivery 100% R E A L.

SHE’S THE ONE

Most famous for her role in the 2009 hip/hop and R&B love story, Notorious, as the beloved lead female role of Faith Evans, Smith nabbed that role with a deep knowing that it was hers to begin with and a fighting determination to prove to the director and producer that she was thee perfect talent to portray Evans with grit, and sex appeal and to deliver a believable performance, where loyal fans and viewers who were holding a microscopic lense to her performance would embrace and herald her work with rave reviews.  

RENAISSANCE WOMAN

Before crowdfunding became wildly popular, in 2012 Antonique became the first African-American soloist to raise $50K, in 30 days, using Kickstarter to finance her EP project, Love is Everything. As if raising this type of capital in such a short amount of time wasn’t enough of a boss move, her single, Hold Up Wait a Minute (Woo-Woo), went on to receive a Grammy nom.  

Read the rest of the interview in our print issue here.

March, designated as National Women’s History Month since 1987, invites us to celebrate the incredible achievements of women worldwide. In the spirit of recognizing remarkable women, we delve into the inspiring story of Keisha Saunders-Waldron, a highly accomplished Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, mental health advocate, and founder of Confidential Confessions Counseling Services. Featured on renowned platforms such as Forbes, Business Insider, and Essence’s Girls United, Keisha’s expertise in counseling and holistic approaches has left an indelible mark on the mental health landscape. As a licensed professional counselor supervisor, she empowers individuals and families to enhance their quality of life. Keisha’s academic journey is marked by a Master’s degree in Science and Service Agency Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and a Bachelor’s degree in Arts and Science in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

A Conversation with Keisha: Nurturing Passions, Advocating for Mental Health

Can you tell us about your journey and what inspired you to become a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor?

Keisha: Believe it or not, my journey began in my early years, with the animated shenanigans of Bugs Bunny and Elmer Fudd. There was this one comical episode where Bugs played the therapist and oddly enough, that hilarious episode stuck with me, becoming one of my earliest memories that sparked a tiny flame of intrigue. As I marched through the halls of academia, soaking up knowledge like a sponge, I stumbled upon an extraordinary psychology teacher. I found myself captivated, eventually deciding to pursue a degree in psychology. Little did I know, this choice would set the stage for an incredible journey. The mental health field welcomed me with open arms, from the beginning. It was a fascinating and eye-opening experience, delving into the intricacies and sometimes labyrinthine politics of this realm.

One thing became crystal clear during this time, the services and support available were not always easily understood, especially in marginalized communities. This realization fueled a fire within me. It lit up my path, urging me to delve deeper into education, to become a voice for those whose voices often went unheard. And here I am today, wearing the badge of a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor with pride. Now, my mission has expanded — I’m helping mold the next generation of counselors. I guide and mentor graduate students, honing their skills and nurturing their passion.

Together, we’re working to fill the voids within our field, ensuring that more compassionate, skilled counselors emerge to serve and uplift our communities. Every day is a chance to inspire, learn, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of countless individuals.

You’ve worked with a diverse range of clients, including R&B artists, NFL players, and corporate executives. What unique challenges do high-profile clients often face when seeking counseling, and how do you address them

Keisha: One of the foremost concerns high-profile clients bring to counseling is the need for absolute confidentiality. They rightfully worry about breaches of their privacy, which can have significant repercussions for their careers and personal lives. Maintaining confidentiality and trust is paramount. Additionally, managing their public image, balancing work-life demands, and coping with high levels of stress are common issues. To address these challenges, I prioritize confidentiality, offering secure and discreet counseling environments, and tailor my approach to their specific needs, recognizing the unique pressures they face.

Techniques such as stress management, time management, and communication skills are often incorporated to help them navigate their unique circumstances effectively. In these moments, we are helping them recognize these stressors and validate their humanness while cultivating a safe space for them to just “be”.

Learn More Here: https://www.cccounsel.me/

When it comes to romantic relationships, feeling safe and secure is paramount for women. Safety plays a crucial role in establishing trust, emotional well-being, and overall satisfaction within a relationship. While each individual’s definition of safety may vary, certain universal factors contribute to creating a secure space with male partners. Understanding these safety measures can empower women to navigate their relationships with confidence and clarity.

Require Communication
Open and honest communication serves as the cornerstone of a healthy relationship. Feeling safe with a partner often begins with the ability to express thoughts, feelings, and concerns without the fear of judgment or reprisal. Men who actively listen, validate emotions, and engage in constructive dialogue foster an environment where women feel heard and understood. Effective communication promotes transparency, builds trust, and helps partners navigate challenges collaboratively. Not having this safety to communicate is a red flag.

Look for Respect
Mutual respect is another non-negotiable. Having this mutual respect for each other forms the foundation of any successful relationship. Women feel safe in the presence of men who demonstrate respect for their boundaries, opinions, and autonomy. Respectful behavior includes honoring personal space, acknowledging individual differences, and valuing each other’s perspectives. When women feel respected by their partners, they are more likely to feel secure, valued, and appreciated in the relationship.

Expect Consistency
Another safety factor is consistency. Consistency in both words and actions is essential for cultivating a sense of safety in a relationship. Women are more likely to feel secure with men who demonstrate reliability, honesty, and follow-through in their commitments. Predictable behavior and a stable emotional environment contribute to a sense of security and trust. Inconsistent or erratic behavior can trigger feelings of uncertainty and anxiety, undermining a woman’s sense of safety within the relationship.

Watch for Empathy and Emotional Support
Empathy plays a vital role in creating emotional intimacy and connection between partners. Men who demonstrate empathy by understanding and validating their partner’s emotions contribute to a safe and supportive relationship environment. This may look like providing emotional support during times of distress, offering reassurance, or showing compassion. All of these foster a sense of security and closeness. Women tend to feel safe with men who offer a listening ear, show empathy, and provide comfort in moments of vulnerability.

Monitor Boundaries and Consent
Not enough can be said for boundaries. Respecting boundaries and honoring consent are essential aspects of safety in any relationship. Women feel safe with men who prioritize their physical and emotional boundaries, seek consent in all interactions, and prioritize mutual respect in intimate situations. Clear communication about personal boundaries, consent, and mutual agreement on relationship dynamics contribute to a sense of safety, trust, and respect between partners.

In a nutshell, a sense of safety in relationships with men is multifaceted and encompasses various aspects of communication, respect, consistency, empathy, and boundaries. By understanding these safety triggers and advocating for their presence in their relationships, women can cultivate a sense of safety, security, and well-being with their male partners. Building a foundation of trust, respect, and emotional connection greatly enhances the quality of relationships and fosters a nurturing environment where both partners can thrive.

In celebration of Black History Month, we shine a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of Dr. Peggy Roberts, a trailblazing African American doctor who is transforming women’s healthcare in the New York tri-state area. With a profound commitment to addressing the unique needs of women, Dr. Roberts stands as a beacon of hope, empowering countless women whose voices have been overlooked for far too long. Dr. Roberts, a board-certified Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, has dedicated over a decade to providing comprehensive care for women of all ages.

As the Founder and Operator of Trust Women’s Healthcare in the heart of Brooklyn’s Bedford Stuyvesant, she has made it her life’s mission to bridge healthcare gaps and provide the highest level of medical care to her patients. Armed with a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree from SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, School of Public Health, Dr. Roberts is a pioneer in her field. Her expertise spans preventive medicine, high-risk pregnancies, and various gynecological conditions, making her a trusted figure in women’s health. Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Roberts has collaborated with Kingsborough Community College to develop a Maternal Health Certificate curriculum, aimed at enhancing maternal healthcare for new mothers.

As an Assistant Clinical Professor at Hofstra University and a proud member of the Board of LIFT-NY, she continues to inspire change and advocate for women’s health on multiple fronts. Join us in honoring Dr. Peggy Roberts during this Black History Month, recognizing her outstanding contributions to healthcare, her dedication to bridging gaps, and her commitment to empowering women across the community.

To learn more about Trust Women’s Healthcare and Dr. Roberts’ impactful work, visit the website https://trustwomenshealthcare.com

Zarya Azadi campaign ‘’Evolve Your Heritage’’ for Women’s Equality

Please select a featured image for your post

• 

FWM: You did something controversial when you were younger. You were born in the Kurdish region of Turkey in Diyarbakir and during the civil war in Turkey your family fled to Germany as refugees in 1990. Tell us about your bold move. 

I belong to an ethnic and religious minority group; I am Yazidi Kurd and immigrated to Germany with my family at the age of three as a war child. I am the first woman in my family and my entire community that decided to leave the parents’ house and to study abroad. This was very controversial at the time and still is, as the Yazidi community remains very traditional due to the terrible history of the survived genocides. After many months of debates and arguments, I convinced my parents to pursue my journey. With the love of my parents but no financial support, I moved to Oxford in England and successfully completed my Bachelor’s Degree at the Oxford Brookes University in 2013. During my studies, I was working several jobs to support myself and also working as a catwalk and fashion model.

Financial independence had been very important to me as a young person, just as it seemed very important to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry & Megan as a reason to withdraw from the royal family. I can understand this decision very well because I made this decision when I moved to England in 2008. What is making headlines since January this year and harsh criticism about the young royal couple was also with me in my community, as it had never been there before. It was unthinkable to make and implement such decisions. 

When I wanted to study in England at the age of 20 years, it was very difficult for my parents to accept this. Before me, no other Yazidi girl had dared to take a step that my parents could use as an example, so my parents needed time to accept it. In my day it was unthinkable for a young, unmarried daughter to go abroad alone because it was not only about the safety of the daughter but also about the reputation and the honor of the family.

I have definitely created new opportunities for others from my community with this path and my career. It is always difficult for those who are first to try something new. The path is then paved for the new generation of women and considerably easier. I am happy I could pave the way even if it meant that I had to endure sacrifices. 

Today I am an international Yazidi-Kurdish model, human rights activist, and entrepreneur and business woman. 

FWM: Share your experience as a fashion model and the relationships you have built. 

I started modeling at the age of 17 in Germany by participating in the Miss Germany competition but didn’t make the first round which shouldn’t have come as a shock as there has never been a German girl of color representing Germany. This too is a form of racism in my opinion and should be addressed during the recent anti-racism demonstrations worldwide caused by the brutal death of George Floyd. 

At the age of 20, I met my best friend and fashion designer Angel Sadel at the Oxford Brookes Fashion Show and became her muse for her fashion collection. I was told I had an exotic and unique look and therefore was walking for many multicultural fashion shows e.g. Alternative Hair Show at the Royal Albert Hall in London, Ethiopian Fashion Show ‘Habesha’, Pakistani Fashion Week, UNICEF Fashion Show, and the South African Fashion Show all in London. I was also walking the catwalks at the Fashion Weeks in London, Los Angeles, Berlin, Milan, and Paris. At the beginning of my career, I also participated in various competitions e.g. Miss Oxford, Top Model Worldwide, and Top Model UK. 

I was also invited to the World Fashion Week 2014 Reception & Jimmy Choo Lifetime Achievement Award in Paris. It was the launch of the World Fashion Week by Jimmy Choo. I attended the event together with my designer friend Tina Lobondi, a Congolese fashion designer based in Paris and London who is one of the Co-founders of the new ESIMBI Magazine. 

In 2014, I took a break from the fashion industry due to the genocides on the Yazidi community in Sinjar in Iraq caused by ISIS. A few years later I was contacted by my Yazidi community’s non-profit association to support them with their work. I was happy to help to raise awareness for humanitarian work such as women’s rights and education for children. I continued with the modeling and have reconnected with some old friends from the industry and designer friends like Odair Pereira- fashion designer of Dair Designs, Mary Katrisiosi – jewelry designer of Tigerbite Jewels, Carolina Riffi Ollite- handbag designer of Carat23, and Savita Kaye form the House of iKons Fashion Show in London. I have been collaborating several times over the years and I am planning to continue for this and next year for upcoming projects. 

• 

FWM: Tell us about your initiatives to change the world including #evolveyourheritage and #redribbon

I have launched my new campaign ‘’Evolve Your Heritage’’ at the last House of iKons Fashion Show in February 2020 to represent and support women’s equality and trying to form a new foundation to help others. For the last 12 years, I have been active as a human rights activist, never afraid of speaking my mind and supporting others in need. 

There are more conversations regarding women’s rights that have not been discussed by the public yet. Uncomfortable topics which are considered to be taboos within many cultures around the world. I have been speaking about them in my community for many years and I am now ready to be more public about it with my new campaign ‘’Evolve Your Heritage’’ and the ‘’Red Ribbon’’ photoshoot to highlight and visualize women’s oppression today. The Red Ribbon symbolizes the virginity of a woman at the wedding ceremony and has to be worn around her waist to be shown to the community. Now we all know how humiliating this must be, especially if a woman doesn’t bleed in her honeymoon for whatever reason. That’s when it is considered that the family’s honor has been damaged. The honor of a family needs to be re-defined in the 21st century in my opinion. Therefore, my plea to ‘’Evolve Your Heritage’’ to maintain your culture but change ancient traditions for the sake of humanity. 

Today, I am an ambassador and collaborating partner with the NGO Mundo Cooperante from Spain who fight against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Kenya and Tanzania. I have connected with Mundo Cooperante as FGM is also practiced in the Muslim Kurdish community in Iraq. 

I represented the organization at the House of iKons Fashion Show in February 2020 at my stand in the exhibition showroom. I purchased 200 Maasai Bracelets against FGM from Mundo Cooperante and cooperated them in my campaign ‘’Evolve Your Heritage’’ and ‘’Red Ribbon’’ to raise awareness against child marriage, forced marriage, women oppression, the humiliation of proof of their virginity, domestic violence, and female genital mutilation (FGM). 

As a sponsor of the House of iKons February’s Show this year, I filled the goody bags with my own Red Ribbon Pins, the Maasai Bracelets, and Flyers about the campaign and the organization. I am the first international Yazidi Kurd to run the catwalk at the House of iKons and am dedicated to supporting other Kurdish and Yazidi artists to achieve the same. 

• 

FWM: What do you want the world to know about your rich culture and heritage?

Being home with the family and spending more time within my own community has made me realize how colorful and rich my culture and heritage is. I fell in love again with my own culture. I personally am from a very artistic family. Music was a huge part in my house hold, my father being a popular folk singer and my uncle and cousins being famous pop-singer in the community. I’ve inherited my father’s vocals but didn’t pursue my dream of singing and took my father’s advice in studying a more secure profession and graduated in BSc Real Estate Management as the first Yazidi woman at Oxford Brookes University in England, UK. Within my own family and relatives, there are talented painters, writers, tailors, singers, musicians, photographers, and many more who fill the community and its culture with rich art.

Our food, music, traditional clothes, language, and the script is my identity – my footprint. All these years I suffered from an identity crisis and after a few years of making an effort by spending quality time with my family and community to understand more, I have realized I have to be more active to show the world this colorful, rich and artistic side of us. There is more to us than a warzone. However, being disenfranchised from our homeland for so many years has slowed down our process in evolving in some of our ancient traditions. I believe we are in need of some reformation living in a modern western world. I do understand the fear of losing our identity as Yazidi Kurds but I believe adjusting is more beneficial and a better way of advancement than the current situations we are facing. We are facing an ethnical cleansing by the terror group ISIS who have been released again due to the betrayal of President Trump on the Kurdish troops in Syria last year. Allowing Turkey to attack the Kurds – former allies of America, was the biggest scandal and betrayal. This is the reason I have joined a few NGO’s to not only support our Yazidi community but also all Kurdish communities in Germany to unite and simultaneously to support fighting for women equality within our own communities. Without equality for us women in our community, it is very difficult to fight for an independent country. As Nelson Mandela once said: ‘’Freedom cannot be achieved unless the women have been emancipated from all forms of oppression.’’

We are the largest nation on this planet without a country. We need to evolve our heritage if we want to see progress and establish human rights within our own communities first and for everyone – for women, the LGBTQ community, and atheists. We Kurds also need to unite as a nation regardless of our different religious backgrounds.

I want the world to see our beautiful culture but also highlight issues inside and outside our communities and the best way for me doing it is through art in forms of fashion and music.  

What would people be surprised to know about you? 

That I am a Yazidi Kurd (laugh). I have heard the phrase ‘I’ve never met a Yazidi Kurd before.’’ and ‘’You are so different than the rest,’’ so many times in my life. People describe me as a very open-minded person and being from a culture like mine does surprise a lot of people. I have definitely broken a lot of stereotypes by simply being me. All my life I have been told to integrate to the western society which I believe I did well but never agreed to assimilate. I have never abandoned my culture completely and always kept in touch with my family and relatives during my stay in the UK. I have tried to educate them by introducing them to other cultures. I’ve given parties and BBQ’s inviting everyone I knew including my family when they visited. I loved the exchange of different people and culture my entire life. My mom also told me that I liked to decorate my room with posters and sculptures from other cultures. That is maybe one of the reasons why I love traveling so much. 

I believe the sacrifices, the struggles and the fights that I had to fight on many fronts at the same time in order to live a simple modern life is a surprise because not many women survive that. The fact that I have never given up on my family and community despite the conflicts and no support that I was facing, does surprise a lot of people. Most women usually run away or elope. I did not do that. I understood my parents’ struggle and their point of view and why they have the mind-set, most of it is caused by the wars and genocides my ancestors were suffering. So I tried to educate them and show them a different way of living by being the example. 

I openly speak about the issues that affected me in my life and that are currently in the news. I speak about mental health issues, sexual abuse, domestic violence, rape, racism, discrimination, and politics. However, people experience me as a very funny person; I laugh a lot and joke around, sing and dance. If you meet me for the first time, you probably never assume my life story nor that I am a Yazidi Kurd. Most people identify me as a mixed-raced person (a mix of Middle Eastern and African usually) before I tell them about my cultural background. 

Another thing most people are surprised to hear about me is that I have never traveled to Turkey, nor do I speak Turkish. The Turkish and Kurdish conflict is the reason I have never visited my homeland and it is still difficult today. 

• 

Through your tireless effort to raise awareness for women’s rights and education for children, what has struck you the most? 

What has struck me the most? This is a deep question and the answer will speak volumes. That women don’t support each other enough! Women do not support each other in difficult times, even though they suffer from oppression and knowing their daughters will suffer the same. Speaking from my personal experience but also observing issues of friends and relatives with their families has shown that the majority of the problem in a community is the community itself. Let me explain. 

Most families share a lot of love and care for one another; however, their lives are mainly directed towards the expectations and standards of the community that is out-dated. What other people think of the family is more important and relevant than the acknowledgment of their own children’s talents, abilities, dreams, and desires. No compromises are made to preserve the family’s reputation which leads to conflicts within the family. And a lot of women tolerate the abuse and oppression, yes; even some of them believe it is right. They will not help and support you to gain more freedom than them. Equal rights are irrelevant to them as they tolerate their lives according to the community. And jealousy between women has been an issue from the beginning of time. 

The issues that I have been trying to raise awareness of all these years within my own community have been very clear even before my time. So why has there not been any change yet, right? 

Well, that is simply because the women before me tolerated the traditions and did not fight for equal rights. Why? Because it would have damaged their own and their family’s reputation to fight for women’s equality. Many associate equality only with the freedom to live out their sexuality. So it is shameful to even ask for gender equality. And this is also comparable to very similar communities that I grow up with e.g. with my Pakistani/ Indian/ Arab/ Chinese/ African friends with different religious backgrounds e.g. Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism.  

It takes a lot of courage and strength to fight for equality, especially when you do not have a lot of followers. Just take the Black Lives Matter Movement as an example. Only now after so many years of protests, the entire world is now marching on the streets against racism. So it is important to make friends in other communities that suffer from the same issues to get together and raise awareness together. Finding a network that supports you and your views should be the first step to set an example. Even if it means that you are the first and only one in your family or community. Don’t let other people’s opinions diminish your own views. 

FWM: Share some of your passions

I have so many passions and interests in life, it’s really exhausting sometimes (laughs). Last year the journalist and economist Ms. Çiğdem Gül first identified me through her Intercultural Network for the Highly Gifted network as a highly intelligent person who tends to have multiple passions and interests. For the first time, I felt being in a society that was encouraging, supporting and understanding (laughs). On the one hand, I have always campaigned for equality, starting with my own life situation. I also campaigned for the equality of my friends with their ethnic minority backgrounds. During my studies many of my friends recommended that I study human rights law. Sometimes I regret not having done it. But then I look at the governments and the system we all live in and question myself if it is all in the favour of the people. One of my greatest passions is to fight the good fight and that is human rights, so activism is a good alternative. But I am also passionate about art and love to dance, sing, be creative and design passionately. During my studies I was also famous for connecting people because I was mingling with so many different people from different ethnical backgrounds. So it was justified when my friends demanded BBQ’s at my house (laughs). I am definitely a globetrotter and always been someone with an inquisitive mind. I am very passionate about dancing Salsa and Bachata but also love to dance the Kurdish folklore dances. I love listening to Latin, African, Middle Eastern and Asian music and of course R’n’B, Soul, and Reggae. I am a colorful mixture of different cultures because this has interested and fascinated me since childhood. Therefore fashion and art comes in very handy in order to express myself. 

FWM: Thank you for leaving a footprint on the world. What will your legacy be?

That I always have and still am engaged in activism related to the issues of human rights. I hope that I can reach the masses to raise awareness on this particular issue as women are suffering from cultural oppression worldwide and it usually starts by controlling and testing women’s virginity. I want to promote justice, equality, and human rights of women in conflict-affected areas around the world. 

I am trying my best to make Evolve Your Heritage a movement that people support because with this movement I would like to emphasize the oppression of women, the LGBTQ community, and against racism, freedom of speech, and religious freedom. I would like my legacy to be of someone who celebrates the differences of human kind. I believe that this makes us more interesting, especially when realizing and discovering that we have so much in common. 

FWM: Please share your upcoming projects for 2020. 

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic that has affected the entire world; I have decided to postpone some of my projects to next year. With my campaign Evolve Your Heritage and the Red Ribbon I am still focusing to publish more images in different magazines to raise awareness on the issue this year. I am still collaborating with the NGO Mundo Cooperante and will continue the work as much as possible this year. My trip to Spain to do a photoshoot with Mundo Cooperante as well as my plans to travel to Kenya to meet the Maasai Tribe and the women who make the Maasai Bracelets had to be postponed. 

I am also a member of the CDU Women’s Union of, who put me up for election as the chairman of the board and spokeswoman for the Women’s Union in my local authority. We have already spoken about projects that focus on the integration of women with migrant background in order to not only integrate within the society and get the support and help they need but also to help maintain their heritage and identity. Due to the refugee crisis in 2015, the local authorities are in need of support, especially from people of color. 

I am also planning to launch my own fashion collection as a mix of modern and traditional clothing representing women’s equality for the September’s House of iKons Fashion Show in London in 2021. 

FWM Contributing Authors

Editor-In-Chief

Have a compelling story? Interested in being featured in our publication? Visit our Submissions page on our site, and inquire about a feature!

Previous Article

Jená Emily Utley-Teaching Women to Reclaim and Restore their Temple's Greatness

Next Article

Kurdish-Yazidi (Ezidi) fashion designer Avesta Isso