kids issue 2018 Double Cover Glo Twinz

T he Kids Issue
ayo & teo
Pg. 26

drenched up
with the glo twinz
Pg.40
model watch
pg.5
project harmony
pg.20
kidraq pg.32
afro art
pg. 18

The Level21 team
Publisher & Chief Executive Officer
Tempestt Harris (CEO)
Chief Operating Officer/ Editor In Chief
Maresa Scott (COO)
Chief Financial Officer
Anitra Scott (CFO)
Creative Director
Michael Lopez
Administrative Staff
Sales Executive
Anitra Scott
Sales
Michelle Mitchell
PR Int ern
Caneisha Smith
Contributor
Contributor/ Correspondent
Shartiera Wilkerson
Graphic Design
Layout Designer
Antoine Boderick
Fashion
Stylist
Jerry Thompson
Style and Wardrobe Contributor
Jekia Benson
Makeup Artist
Alexis Washington
April Hill
Writers
Writer
Desi Helm
Contributing writer
Marage Blakeney
Contributing writer
Chris Pointe
Co-Editor Intern
Shannon Rawley
Writer Intern
Chris Lewis
Blogger/ Journalist Intern
Kaitlin Booe
Victoria Calamusa
Photography
Antoinne Duan Jones
Laurence Logan-The T.Z Studio
Todd Youngblood
Glen Byrd- Photo X Words
Videography
Toussaint Studios-Emmanuel Toussaint
Corporate Public Relations
Pac Public Relations
Digital
Level21 Media LLC.
Yumpu
Wribits

5

M odel
w a t ch
Ka t hr y n ma r in o
@Kathryn.marino
Photographer Laurence Logan (The.TZ.Studio)

Ta y l or
Ken er son
Our Model spotlight this issue is
Taylor Kenerson. Taylor is a 17
years old Entrepreneur in the
making. The bright star moved
from Texas to North Carolina and
has aspirations to have her own
Beauty and Spa business. She is
a true talent, lending her makeup
skill set to her friends, and of
course herself!
8

Photography by Todd Youngblood

DJ's Amira
& Kayla
10

The
Soundtrack
O f The
Future
By Kaitlin Booe
If the focus of this issue hasn?t yet convinced you that kids can do
anything, then these girls will make you think again. After all, performing at
Madison Square Garden is no small task, and DJs Amira and Kayla Wells
were up to it before they hit double digits. Music is in Amira?s and Kayla?s
blood. Having a father who preceded them in the industry certainly helped
foster their interest, but the drive and commitment both girls have shown
in making their mark on the music world is all their own. The twins recently
sat down with Level21 Magazine to talk about their experiences, while
allowing us in on how they balance school ,work and play.
www.website.com

The
Interview
When did you girls st art DJ-ing?
Our dad was a music producer and
constantly played music around the
house. We would play around with his
music equipment and DJ set like toys.
When we were nine years-old, we
started to train with turntables and
really practice the various techniques
needed to be a good DJ.
When did you know you had real
t alent ?
We knew we had talent as DJs when
The Real Daytime
we played our first party at school for
500 kids and all the kids went crazy!
How do you balance w ork and
school?
School is our number one priority.
Both my sister and I study hard and
have constantly been on the honor roll
and top in classes. Our parents
schedule our events around our
school schedule. When we do miss
school, our teachers are great at
getting us the work we have to make
up.
You bot h have done so m uch in your
career already. What 's next ?
We have been blessed to do many
things in our career at a young age.
Some of those things include TV
appearances onThe Tonight Show,The
Wendy Williams Show, ESPN,The
Real,Harry,Cake Boss,Show Time at the
Apollo, and Telemundo.
We have deejayed high profile events
for NYC Fashion Week, The New York
Knicks, and Nike, to name a few.
Recently, we appeared in two national
Target commercials.
Although we have accomplished a lot,
we feel like we are just getting started.
We would love to do more TV
appearances, DJ around the world,
create fashion projects, and have our
own cartoon.
What ot her t hings do you like t o do?

Wendy Williams
When we are not working, we love
to draw. We are very good artist. We
love to hang out with friends, go to
the movies, and discover new apps.
What advice w ould you give
ot her kids in t he indust ry?
Always have fun. Enjoy what you do
and constantly work to get better!
Keep up with them!
Instagram: djsamiraandkayla
Facebook:djsamiraandkayla
Website:www.djamiraandkayla.com

14
Walk Fashion Show
Designer: Jaylani's Boutique

Society Fashion Week
Designer: Jaylani's Boutique
Walk Fashion Show
Designer: Jaylani's Boutique
Walk Fashion Show
Designer: Jaylani's Boutique
New Yo r k
Fashio n Week
Photography by: :SleekStyle Fashion Photography
2017
Plitz New York City Fashion Week
Designer: Emmaomo Inc.
Society Fashion Week
Designer: Jaylani's Boutique
Society Fashion Week
Designer: Jaylani's Boutique

Plitz New York City Fashion Week
Designer: Emmaomo Inc.

St art your m odeling Career w it h Level21
We will connect you,critique you,publish you,
and guide you. Work with the BEST! Contact us today!
www.level21mag.com
or level21model@gmail.com

18

AFRO ART IS A SERIES OF STUNNING PORTRAITS THAT MIXES
THE STRIKING BEAUTY OF NATURAL HAIR WITH ELABORATE
CLOTHING, INSPIRED BY THE BAROQUE PERIOD.
We are all full of natural beauty, we just need to bring it out. Regis and Kahran, a husband and
wife team behind "Creative Soul" did just that, only for young black ladies. Focusing on their
hair, the duo created Afro Art, a series of gorgeous portraits that has cast a spell on everyone?s
eyes.
The stunning photos feature girls in elaborate costuming and hairstyles, from the Baroque
period (roughly, 1600-1750) to steam punk clothing and fierce high-fashion ensembles. ?We
feel that it is so important for kids of color to be able to see positive images that look like them
in the media,? Kahran told My Modern Met. ?Unfortunately the lack of diversity often plays into
the stereotypes that they are not ?good enough?and often forces kids to have low self-esteem.?
?We hope that viewers will see the beauty and versatility of afro hair and we hope that girls
around the world will be inspired to love their unique differences and beauty within.? They
have worked on the series in various states in the US, and even though the preparation was
meticulous, the duo managed to maintain a level of spontaneity.

Sponsored By:
William
Marshall/Safe
Haven ADT
c
Pr o j ec t
harlotte Symphony Orchestra and
Charlotte?s Community School for the
Arts have partnered to create a youth
program which assists children in
under-served neighborhoods in
Charlotte. The program, which assists
with teaching youth to play musical
instruments, is referred to as Project
Harmony, ?A social transformation
through music?.
Project Harmony is inspired by El
Sistema youth and community
development, a program of Venezuela.
Areas in Charlotte, such as Montclaire
and Winterfield, are currently privileged
to be the first of the 500 student goal by
the year 2020.
We had the opportunity to visit
Winterfield Elementary school and
witnessed the skills as the children
played many instruments. There were
many talent levels and instruments
which the children played. Level 21
Magazine commends and applauds this
partnership of the Charlotte Symphony
Orchestra and School for the Arts.
Winterfield Youth Orchestra has been
20
By: Anitra Scott
har mony
established since 2010. Since that time,
many students have continued their love
for playing the instruments, and have
also been accepted into auditioned
based magnet schools, such as
Northwest School for the Arts.
Neuroscience research reveals that the
impact of the arts instruction, student?s
cognitive, social and emotional
development goes ?hand and hand?.So
yes, please let?s continue to teach our
youth that the arts are certainly an
enhancement, and to take an interest in
such extracurricular activities. Visit
www.Charlottesymphony.org to learn
more about Project Harmony and how
you can help enhance this program for
our youth.
1. Kardin Nguyen Age, 11 Grade: 5th Violin
2. Anthony Amaya Age, 11 Grade:5th Violin
3. Najiz McIntyre Age, 10th Grade: 5th Cello
4. Ronald Age, 10 Grade:4th Trumpet
5. Destiny Brown Age, 9 Grade: 4th Flute
6. Nina Age, 10 Grade: 4th Trumpet
7. Luz Lemus Ortega, Age 10 Grade: 4th Clarinet

Model: Bryana Colon
Photography by: Laurence Logan
The.TZ.Studio

Photography by Todd Youngblood
Written by: Anitra Scott
Pa r is
John son
Level 21 is proud to feature Paris Johnson. This
13-year-old new artist is making her way into the
?lime light?. From the very beginning on the Apollo
a few years ago, until today, Paris is grabbing the
microphone and controlling her destiny. She has
released her latest video ?Dance until You Drop?,
from her album Big Dreamer. This song and video,
produced by J-Stylz of the group Blackstreet,will
have you moving and swaying from start to finish.
Paris Johnson, inspired by Rihanna and Mary J.
Blige, is ?pushing forward? with her career in
music. In addition, Paris recently recorded yet
another awesome song, ?Trending? written and
produced by Dajulyn Wallace and J-Stylz. Remain
on the lookout for Paris Johnson. The video is
coming soon!! Follow Paris on Instagram
@Always.Pj and YouTube: Paris J.
22

?Kids?fashion is far more edgy than it was five years ago, let alone a
decade,?said Nasiba Adilova, a fashion week regular and the Co-founder
(alongside Fashion Tech Lab?s Miroslava Duma) of the children?s e-commerce
site. The Tot.

Bat hing Ape
w w w.BAPE.COM

26
"The mask are a part of us."
- Ayo & Teo

Beyond Movement
Written by: Desi Helm
F
Wardrobe: Ayo Pants Teo Jacket-Maurice Brown
rom the latest music videos, to TRL
on MTV, it?s hard to talk about the
latest dance trends without
mentioning the names of two of hip
hop's youngest stars, Ayo and Teo.
With every wrist pop and isolation, as
they move across the screen, they are
not just masters of musicality, but
experts in translating lyrics into
movement and voice of a generation
into song.
The ?Reverse Brothers? are much
more than hip-hop dancers. Ayo and
Teo have successfully translated their
love for dance into a blooming rap
career as they make moves across
the entertainment industry. With
over 2 million social media followers,
they have "Rollied" their way into the
hearts of music fans everywhere.
During our time with them, we found
that the reason they wear stylized
surgical masks in their videos and on
stage was after an Instagram follower
asked why they scrunch up their
mouths when they danced. Ayo, 20,
prefers masks with a shark graphic,
while 18-year-old Teo sports a panda
graphic. The mask craze have begun
and will not end anytime soon
amongst teens. The mask derive
from the Japanese brand Bathing
Ape. Teo will have it hanging on his
ear through out the day, even during
our interview.
Born and raised in Michigan, the
dynamic duo were stars way before
their chart topping hit ?Rolex? began
taking the Internet by storm peeking
at Number 20 on the Billboard
charts. The pair have been dancing
for as long as they can remember,
and it is their love for melody and
movement that have launched them
into stardom.The brothers have
danced alongside of Usher in his
video for the song ?No Limit? and
even graced the stage with him
performing at the Barclay Center and
the BET Awards. The two have also
danced for Chris Brown in his video
for ?Party? and in Gucci Mane's video
for the song ?Icy?.
How long have you all been dancing?
Teo: I am pretty sure I started dancing
when I was about 1 years old. I even
taught my brother some moves. We
have been dancing forever, but really
got inspired when we started watching
Les Twins from Paris.
Where did you get your names from?
Ayo: My real name is Ayelo and his is
Mateo. Our little sister actually gave us
our names. When she was little she
couldn?t say our full names so she
called us Ayo and Teo. It stuck from
there.
Only 3 years apart in age, the
brothers are very close. They have
managed to maintain their
relationship and remain humble
despite their rising popularity.
You guys have become pretty big
stars, but it hasn?t gone to your
heads. How do you stay level headed
to be so young, do you still live with
your parents?
Teo: Actually, we just moved out on our
own. {laughing} We have our own space
now. Its good to be in business with
your family. We argue sometimes, but
its about brother stuff nothing major.
Ayo: Working with family is the best.
Our parents may not be around all the
time, but they are still in our lives.
Growing up they taught us to always be
respectful, especially to our elders and
to treat others well. We try to stay
grounded. Fame hasn?t changed us, but
it has changed our lives.

"Fame hasn?t changed us, but
it has changed our lives."
Teo: We are able to help our families now.
We didn?t grow up with a silver spoon in our
mouths. We didn?t live in the projects or
anything but we weren?t rich either. We were
normal kids. I can remember playing
basketball on this little court called the Ridge
until we earned our way to the big court.
With all your fans, do you find the
fandom hard? Is it hard to be out in public
or hang out with friends?
Ayo: Not really. We like taking pictures with
fans. It hasn?t gotten to a point yet that we
don?t get to have a normal life or have fun.I
mean, sometimes we can?t go everywhere we
want to go, when we want to go, but we don?t
trip. It?s all worth it.
So what do you do when you are not
being Ayo and Teo?
Teo: We like to chill with our friends, go to
Sky Zone, play ball, video games. The usual.
Naturally talented, the pair made the
transition from dancing to rapping with
ease. Now signed with Columbia Records,
their other songs ?In Reverse? and ?Better
Off Alone? have scored over 7 million
views on Youtube alone. Combine that
with over 1 million Youtube subscribers
the pair have become a social media
phenomenon leading the way for youth
everywhere.
So where do you see yourself 5 years from
now?
Teo: I want that JayZ type of success. To be
behind the music, sold out tours, you name
it.
Ayo: How about that Drake type of success.
To make good music and get all the trophies
(he says with a grin)
Known as much for their style trends as
their dance moves. The two can be often
be seen rocking the latest fashion trends
along with their signature face masks.
You two have so much style. It exudes
your energy. Where do you get your
inspiration from?
Ayo: I like to mix streetwear with labels. I
watch other artists like Kanye and Aesop for
inspiration and make my own style from
there.
Teo: I like ordering online from apps like
Farfetch. When I was younger, I couldn?t wait
to have money, so I could buy Jordans. That
was all I thought about. Then once I had the
Jordans that I wanted, I started to look at
other things for fashion to create my own
style.
Ayo: (cutting in) You get your style from me,
you got your swag from me too.
And with that, our interview ends as the
two brothers begin to banter back and
forth as they argue on whose style is
better, and who got what taste from who.
Through jokes and teasing, it is clear from
their laughs and smiles that what sets
these two entertainers apart from other
performers is their relationship. It is their
bond that allows them to flow like water
across the dance floor together
anticipating and reacting to each other?s
moves. It is their link to each other that
allows them to finish each other?s
sentences or turn effortless lyrics into
catchy hooks.Their connection is
attractive, it draws you in. Together they
create a world, that you want to be part of.

Orange leather saddlebag
with brown and white
cowhide with silver
courtesy of KBKollections

Creative Direction: Tempestt Harris & Michael Lopez
Onset Assistant: Caneisha Smith
Photography: Antoinne Duane Jones
Stylist: Ayo&Teo
Collaborating stylist: Jerry Thompson (Jt's Kloset)
Ayo-Jacket courtesy of Score clt

32

Photography by: Marko Sovilj

Photography: Miracle Sturdivant-Atl shoot
Photography: The O.X. Project -Chicago shoot
Photographer Marko Sovilj-NYC

A Vision For The Next Big Thing
Raquel Smith?s Kidraq Eyewear
By: Chris Pointe
O
ccasionally a new idea marches onto
the scene forever revolutionizing an
industry. Could this be that tipping point?
Beyoncé stylist, Raquel Smith, and the
inspiration behind this generation?s style is
now bringing a new perspective to the
world of eyewear. She?s coining her
innovative concept KidRaq luxury
sunglasses specifically designed for
children.
Sunglasses are a $90 billion-dollar industry
and KidRaq looks to cash in on some of
that figure. The idea was heavily influenced
by her experience in the entertainment
industry. ?As a Celebrity Stylist, styling
included selecting eyewear for Beyoncé and
Blue Ivy. With all things considered, these
encounters inspired my vision to design cool
sunglasses for kids,? Raquel candidly admits.
It was also inspired by her son and niece
who would always ask to wear her shades.
?My niece would come over and fall in love
with my sunglasses and wear them home.?
As a result, the concept of KIDRAQ was
birthed.
Smith partnered with the experienced
celebrity eyewear Designer and owner of
Eye candy Creations, Tiffany Williams to
produce eyewear that is sure to be a
must have for kids everywhere. Her
designs boast a deep classical influence
with a youthful twist. ?I would research
vintage styles, and then I would begin my
designing with kids in mind by adding a cool
kiddie flavor to appeal to select age groups,?
Raquel explains.
Sunglasses not only serve an aesthetic
purpose, but the right shades can be real
confidence boosters. Creating stylish
looks and empowering kids is all a part of
KidRaq?s plans.With a launch date of
2018KidRaqnot only hopes to be a
formidable brand in eyewear but also
promises to become the standard.
A Vision For The Next Big Thing-
Instagram: @Raq1010
Email:styling.life.with.no.excuses@gmail.com
Contact Information:www.KidRaq.com

?As a Celebrity Stylist, styling included
selecting eyewear for Beyonce?and Blue
Ivy. With all things considered, these
encounters inspired my vision to design
cool sunglasses for kids,?
-Raquel Smith
Photography by: Antoinne Duane Jones

M ILES & M ADECYN M ORRISON
38
Cooking Wit h
Shine t he Chef!
Mac&Cheese
One of the things I love most is spending time
with kids. Teaching them to cook is one of the
greatest gifts that I can pass along with life
lessons learned through experience. I?ve
developed a simple mac and cheese recipe that
is not only kid friendly, but totally for the kids.
This is not grandma?s baked mac and cheese but
it?s great for a quick meal. Have fun!!!
Tools:
- Large Pot
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Medium Pot
- Large Spoon
- Grater (For cheese)

Ingredient s:
- 1 8oz Block of Sharp Cheddar
- 12 oz Velveeta
- 1 Pint of Heavy Cream
- 1lb. Box of Elbow Macaroni
Inst ruct ions:
1. Follow instructions on box to cook
the macaroni pasta. Once done, set
aside while you make the cheese sauce.
2. Grate the block of cheese. (Set aside)
3. Pour the pint of cream into the
medium pot. Set over medium low
heat. Do not allow the mixture to boil.
4. Add the sharp cheddar cheese to
cream. Stir continuously until cheese
has melted into the cream.
5. Cut the Velveeta into small chunks
and add to the cream. (Stir
continuously until the cheese is
completely melted.)
6. Pour the sauce into your mixing
bowl.
7. Add the macaroni to the mixing
bowl. Stir until the sauce and pasta are
combined.
8. Eat up!!!
Thank you Chef ! Easy for kids and Adults!! For
service visit www.Shinethechef.com

Drenched UPwit h
The Gl o Twinz
40
Creative Direction: Tempestt Harris and Michael Lopez
Onset Assistant: Caneisha Smith
Photography: Antoinne Duane Jones
Stylist: Jerry Thompson (Jt's Kloset)

Jackets by: Aliesha Renae

L
ook closely, Can you tell them apart?
Better known for their stage name, the ?Glo Twinz?, meet Paris and Pierre
Byrdsong, identical twins from Georgia.
Josh Billings, once said that, "There are two things in life for which we are never
truly prepared: twins.? As a true testament of Billings' quote, the world was not
truly prepared for the double impact that the Glo Twinz would have on the music
and dance industry. With songs and accompanying dances like "Drenched Up" and
"It?s My Birthday", they have amassed over 1.3 million followers on their joint
Instagram account.
The Glo Twinz' social media takeover began with a simple catalyst in 2010. At the
age of ten, Paris and Pierre went on their first audition. Immediately, Paris and
Pierre knew that stardom was the path they both wanted to accomplish together.
However, the market for acting, modeling, and /or rapping was not very
competitive in the Dayton/Columbus Ohio area. In order to give their sons a

winning chance, their parents made the "almost unimaginable? ultimate sacrifice
by uprooting the family and ?moving from Ohio to Jonesboro, Georgia in 2013;
where they felt like all the action was."
The family?s decision to move to Georgia yielded a huge return on the Glo Twinz?s
musical and professional investment. They were immediately signed with a talent
agency and booked numerous acting and modeling assignments. The twins
garnered national attention when they became contestants on ?Rip The Runway?.
The judges, including Cynthia Bailey from Bravo series?The Real Housewives of
Atlanta, awarded the twins with the coveted prize of first and second place.
The Glo Twinz love of music and dance naturally gravitated to social media. The
twins created an Instagram page to display their creative dance moves. Their
internet charisma eventually led to them becoming viral sensations. After a couple
of years of putting in work, the pair are now a triple threat; famous for their acting,
dance and rap skills.
Soon to be 18, the twins fell in love with music many years ago when their brother,
artist Retta Babi, started making beats for them to dance to. The movements came
effortlessly to them, and they have been dancing ever since.
Rapping was the next evolution in their career. Seeing their popularity grow, their
brother, artist Retta Babi, began writing songs for them. Soon rapping became as
innate to them as dancing was. Their first single, ?It?s My Birthday? was a hit. They
received over 20,000 plays the first week on SoundCloud. It wasn?t long after that
they found themselves working with artist like Migos and iHeart Memphis.
Level 21 sat down with the Twins
to learn a little more about them
and their shine.

Shirts by: Score Bar CLT

What m ade you get int o m usic and dancing?
When we were younger we used to watch the
Disney Channel a lot. We just like the rhythm of
the beat and how it made us feel. Our brother
started making us music and we just ran with it. I
have been dancing for eight years and my
brother has been dancing for five years.
How do you balance your school and m usic
business life?
It is hard. We are home schooled and we have a
tutor. The tutor helps us online, which it makes
easier for us to complete our assignments. Our
mom makes sure to stay on us about our
education.
Since you are bot h so busy, w hat do you do
for fun in your dow nt im e?
We enjoy playing video games such as Call of
Duty. In our downtime, we love playing XBox
games and listening to music.
Who are your favorit e hip hop art ist s?
We love Young Thug, Future, Migos, Cardi B, and
Blac Youngsta.
Describe your fashion st yle and w ho inspires
your sw ag.
We usually dress alike. We like Bombers and the
?old school?trends. We really like the fashion
style and swag of Jay Z and Future. Their style is
a good mixture and blend of ?boss? and
streetwear.
What is your biggest accom plishm ent ?
represents their energy and flare for life.
It?s a real exciting time for the boys. The twins are
fond of how far they have come. They?ve put in a lot
of work to get as far as they have, and appreciate
the fans and support they receive. The boys are
home schooled, and that makes it a little easier to
balance their personal life and careers. Sometimes
you can find them playing Xbox or chilling with
friends, and sometimes you can find them putting in
work to practice their moves on the dance floor.
However, no matter what they are doing they do
their best to have a good time and enjoy the ride.
Faith is important to the Glo.Twinz. They remember
to always thank God and to ask him to bless their
lives, and he has. The Glo. Twinz shine brighter and
brighter each day.
To Learn more about the Glo. Twinz,you can follow them
onSnapchat @realglotwinzorInstagram @glo.twinz.
Written by: Desi Helm in Collaboration with Marage
Blakeney
Our biggest accomplishment is having our hard
work being recognized. We have the right team
in place and we are working it out with our
family. It is great being recognized by you (Level
21, a national magazine).
Paris and Pierre may be identical twins, but they
stand apart with a swag all their own. Although
they often dress alike, they pride themselves on
creating looks that stand out from the crowd.
They love to pair old school favorites like
Reeboks and Bomber jackets with new trends.
It?s important to them that their brand always

For truly I say to you, if you
have faith the size of a
mustard seed, you will say
to this mountain, 'Move
from here to there,' and it
will move; and nothing will
be impossible to you.
- Matthew 17:20
Happy Holidays!
From Team Level21

amidst the thunderous stomps and
combustive movements of traditional
African dance you?ll find the infectious
smile of Colby Christina. Simonides once
said, ?Dancing is silent poetry,? but Colby
is both poet and rhythmic drum. This
16-year-old protégé is more like a
seasoned artist rather than your average
teen. She?s an actress, advocate, model,
dancer/choreographer, mentor and host
of her own talk show. What?s her secret
to success? It may surprise you. It?s not
trying to become the next Beyonce' or
Oprah. Her recipe for achieving
greatness is striving to be exactly who
she is!
Colby, who grew up in a musically
inclined family, has been dancing since
she was 2 years old. Dancing for her was
inherited. After noticing her love for
music her mother enrolled her in the
same dance academy where she was
trained. ?She took me there because she
had all these boys and never thought
she?d be able to put any of them in a
dance class,? Christina gleefully explains.
?When I was 2 years old I cried so much
in those dance classes. When I got home
you?d think I knew everything about
dance. Those classes helped bring out
another side of Christina. They were also
just the spark she needed to help ignite
all of her other talents. From there she
Written By: Chris Pointe
branched off into singing, modeling and
even off-Broadway theater.
In all, Christina has won over 150
awards. She?s been the National Black
Theater Teen Chair for 2 consecutive
terms and she?s also been the recipient
of numerous other accolades. She was
even a special guest of Oprah Winfrey at
the premier of the television series
Greenleaf. Colby has admittedly had a
lot of support from various people in her
life.
She giggles when asked who is her
greatest influence. It?s the only time she
honestly seems perplexed. ?I have so
many,? she gasps! There are so many
voices in the chorus of her life that have
contributed to her success. All of her
accomplishments are partially the result
of her long list of mentors upon whose
shoulders she stands on. The late
Tommy Ford, former actor of the show
Martin, was a great source of inspiration
and advice for the young starlet.
Having received such mentoring, she?s
become a mentor herself. ?You get to
see another side of the person that you
didn?t get to see when they walked in the
door, Colby expounds when asked why
she loves being a mentor. It?s her way of
giving back. ?I like to think of them as
seeds who come out as fruit.?

everything?. It?s how she
handles any new situation that
she might face. It?s obviously
been key to her achieving so
much. She understands that
life is a lesson and every
experience that she goes
through can serve as teachers.
It?s this attitude that positions
her for greater heights in life.
So, what?s next for this over
achiever? ?Of course,
Hollywood and television are
the ultimate goal. I want to be
a household name.? She
doesn?t, however, just want
the fame or the money. She
wants to be a positive
influence. That?s no surprise
coming from this standout
student of the arts. She?s a
rising star who has yet to
shine her brightest.
Catch up with her!
Instagram: MS_ColbyChristina
Twitter: 1ColbyChristina
www.ColbyChristina.com
Email: ColbyChristina529@gmail.com
Colby?s gifts don?t stop there. Eventually she initiated a campaign called
Think Big, Dream Big & Soar. It?s a campaign specifically for teens and
tweens who may not have had the support that she?s been privileged to
experience. It started from an encounter she had with a young dance
student that she mentors. ?I had a little girl at my dance school come up
to me and say Colby you got the Audelco Award. ?I want to be just like
you when I grow up.? The Audelco award is a prestigious award which
the likes of Kerry Washington, Sanaa Lathan and the legendary Denzel
Washington have previously received. ?I told her don?t try to be me. You
can take something I?ve done and use it as inspiration but try to be
yourself.? The campaign is designed to empower the younger generation
to follow their dreams. ?You don?t have to be perfect. Being who you are
is perfect,? Christina boldly exclaims. It?s apparent that part of her
passion is to equip other youth with the same tools that she was
given...the ability to be themselves. Being authentic is precisely what has
gotten her this far.
When asked how she handles new challenges and mastered so many
different things she explained that her mantra is to soak up every
experience like a sponge. ?I never approach any situation like I know
48

Model: Bryana Colon
Photography by: Laurence Logan
The.TZ.Studio
3 Easy Exercises to a
H ealthy Relationship
By Chris Pointe
Today, health and fitness are at the very heart of everything we do. Research proves that it
positively effects our quality of life which makes it essential. How fit are you? No, this isn?t a
random fitness exam. It is, however, a boot camp...a relationship boot camp. Truth is, the kind
of relationships we build can either add to our lives or subtract from them substantially. Yes,
they?re that important. It?s also true that the way we build these associations can affect the
quality of our relationship health and wellness. The great news is we?re completely in the
driver?s seat in maintaining our relationship fitness. Here?s 3 easy exercises to developing and
maintaining good relationships
Exercise #1 Respect
50
In relationships respect is a must. It?s the warmup to having a healthy bond with others. In his
article entitled, ?The Most Critical Factor in Any Relationship,? John Kim LMFT makes the point
that respect is the soil that healthy relationships need in order to grow. Because it?s so vital it?s
important to understand the gist of what respect really implies.

The deeper meaning of respect is to continually
look back...to always consider. It implies that both
individuals constantly consider and view one
another in the same way that they regard
themselves. It paints a picture of two people
continually extending a mutual thoughtfulness
and esteem towards each other.
Respect is preparation for every other aspect of a
relationship because it helps us to properly relate
to others. It?s the key to understanding other?s
feelings, thoughts and hearts. Respect is the first
and most impactful step in getting into good
relationship shape.
Exercise #2 Trust
Trust is a primary building block of any
relationship. It can be considered strength training
because it can help to fortify any relationship.
Unfortunately, the way we tend to think of trust
can often lead to us misunderstanding it?s
concept. Our approach is usually to jump into a
relationship and then force ourselves into trust
boot camp. That?s like attempting to run a
marathon without first conditioning ourselves to
jog a mile.
Contrary to what we?ve learned, trust isn?t people
trying to persuade us into their you?re safe with
me zone. Nor is it an emotional obstacle course
that we pressure others into navigating their way
through. Those aren?t healthy relationship habits.
According to Psychology Today cognitive trust is
based on our knowledge and evidence about
those we elect to trust. It?s what we give in
response to who the other person shows
themselves to be. It?s a self-evaluation of our own
faith and confidence that exists as a result of their
character. The responsibility is on us and not
them. Once we determine our level of faith in the
other person we can then decide on the depth of
trust we feel comfortable extending to them.
Exercise #3 Honesty
We?ve all heard how lies kill relationships but that?s
merely one side. Honesty and dishonesty have
two sides like a coin. Dishonesty is not just the
communication of lies...that?s heads. It?s also the
omission of the truth...that?s the tails. It?s not only
what we say but sometimes it?s what we fail to
say.
In a relationship withholding the truth can be
catastrophic. It?s those moments when little things
bother us but we don?t say anything in order to avoid
an argument. It?s the times when we have legitimate
concerns, but we bite our tongues in order to keep
the peace. It?s those occasions of dishonesty that can
make a relationship crumble. We think we?re keeping
the peace but because of the internal turmoil it
causes we can begin losing pieces of ourselves within
the relationship. Inevitably, enough of those moments
can cause a person to drift and become aloof.
Being honest is an opportunity to strengthen the
relationship. Expressing our concerns helps to keep
the unity and agreement within the union.
Honesty is a high intensity exercise that requires us to
push ourselves even when it feels uncomfortable. It?s
important to remember that lies hurt the other
person but withholding the truth hurts us.
Being properly trained for relationships is the key to
maintaining a strong connection. It can mean the
difference between a vibrant healthy bond and one
that?s grossly out of shape. Relationships can
sometimes seem like a workout but if we learn how to
properly exercise certain skills they can add to our
lives tremendously. By starting every association with
the right conditioning, we can find our way to fit-tastic
relationships.

Written By: Anitra Scott
Boys
To Men
f o undat io n
52
If you wish to assist a non-profit
that caters to our youth and
keeps them out of trouble, Boys
to Men Foundation based in
Charlotte, North Carolina, is
certainly the organization to join
and assist.
The Founder, Christopher
Fowler, has been a pillar in his
community for over 24 years,
created this organization to
provide guidance and support
for at risk youth to certainly
promote success. These young
men develop skills to grow up as
productive young adults within
their families and their
community in every positive
way imaginable.
With afterschool programs
which assist with homework, to
community service, and even
outings to their favorite ball
club or restaurants, this
organization keeps this young
group exceedingly busy. There
is no time for mischief for these
young men who meet on a
regular basis. They are
definitely learning to deal with

INSPIRATION
life as it happens and how they
too may be a positive impact on
those around them.
Businesses, such as Hendrick
Lexus and Mercedes Benz,
professional athletes, and the
like, recognize the need to
support such a great
organization.
This Boys to Men Foundation
has ongoing enrollment for
young men who are at risk. Visit
www.BoystoMenFoundation.com
to learn more about ways which
you can assist with becoming a
mentor, donating time and or
sponsorship.

Run Banana Run!
There is nothing like words of
encouragement through a great
book.Run Banana Run as well as
Caz and the Lucky Necklace
provides a reminder that all
things are possible, as long as
you remember to do your best.
These daily reminders will keep
children in the best mindset to
complete any task, whether big
or small, which comes their way.
The author, Kitria Stewart, based
these books on her personal
experiences as a former track
competitor in AAU, the Junior
Olympics, and all through college
as a track star at UTEP (University
of Texas El Paso). Ms. Stewart
stated that words of
encouragement were always
needed in each competition, and
success was inevitable.
Kitria Stewart stated, ?I
encourage parents to talk to their
kids about daily activities, and
always test their children?s
knowledge. Sometimes parents
become too busy or have very
little time to help their children
with homework. I encourage fun
when it comes to learning.
Reading games can be played at
all ages when in transit in your
car or walking outdoors.Take
turns to read signs on the road. It can be
fun and helpful. It may also be a way to
assess your child?s needs in reading.?
Books are always wonderful gifts for
children, and also great stocking stuffers.
We encourage parents to read to their
children, and perhaps allow your child to
read to you.We are pleased to add more
books to the Kid?s Corner Book Club
annually. You can purchase these great
books online at Amazon and Barnes &
Noble websites!e"
Written By: Anitra Scott
54

Level 21 Kids
Book Corner
The message in
t he Mirror
The Message in the Mirror,By Katrina
Denise, is a tremendous book which
provides a great perspective on
boosting self-esteem for children of all
ages, and help individuals cope with
bullying.
Unfortunately, bullying has been a
major subject matter and there is a
need to have books such as,The
Message in the Mirror for recognizing
ways to cope and deal with similar
issues. The character Aria, in the book,
experiences what many children
endure daily. Yet, the ending is very
uplifting as her self-esteem and self
knowledge is recognized.
Written By: Anitra Scott
always had wings.?
This inspiring book can be purchased
on line via Amazon, Barnes and
Nobles, and the author?s own website,
www.KatrinaDenise.com!
It is important to help our youth work
through these matters. As a parent it
is not always evident to know when
your child is experiencing problems at
school. Reading this book with kids
can start a great conversation about
the occurrences for Aria, and perhaps
how individuals can relate.
The author, Katrina Denise, is a parent
and teacher who found a way to boost
the spirits of youth with her inspiring
book.Ms. Denise states, ?Some of life?s
greatest lessons show us that we have