Mai Khoi - Bad Activist?

I went into Mai Khoi and the Dissidents' show “Bad Activist” only knowing that she had a crazy back story, was a refugee from Vietnam, and that she was very talented (like everyone Joe’s Pub has!). What I didn’t expect to experience was an incredibly educational, cultural, and art explosion! Mai Khoi walks us through her story, and the story of many Vietnamese who criticize their government, through spoken word, music (most that was sung in Vietnamese with translations on a video above her), costume changes, and visuals.

Art, Editor's Pick, zIssue 53Jejeune MagazineFebruary 6, 2024refugee, Refugee, singer song writer, singer, Art, vietnam, activist, Joe's Pub, review, live shows, nyc, Obama, asian artist, asianComment

COVER - Bebe Wood Is So Fetch

“Mean Girls,” a timeless movie familiar to nearly every high school student since 2004, is about to receive a fresh adaptation with the upcoming release of "Mean Girls The Musical.” This upcoming production features actress Bebe Wood stepping into the iconic role of Gretchen Wieners, bringing this 2004 classic into 2024. Alongside her passion for acting, Bebe Wood actively combats the stigmas and misunderstandings surrounding AIDS through her involvement with Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness and demonstrating how supporting a cause can align with any passion. To learn more about Bebe Wood continue reading.

Cover, Editor's Pick, Editorials, zIssue 53, Most PopularChelsea ChanJanuary 9, 2024actress, acting, Acting, broadway, musical, AIDSComment

Kicking Down Barriers with Kix'ies - A Great Thigh-High Idea!

Kix’ies is the thigh-high brand for all. Breaking down size barriers and tight stereotypes, Kix’ies made their own lane for legwear. Kix'ies thigh Highs are the fun and flexible solution to looking sexy and feeling comfortable on a night out. Their collections range from funky thigh highs to cozy socks to sexy tights. All of their collections embody their motto of remaining fun and free. Freedom to be comfortably yourself and freedom to have fun without worry. Their thigh-highs include an elastic band that keeps them snug all day without slipping. Each piece is made with durable fabrics that will last without wear and tear.

Seth Glier - Saving Our Planet Lyric By Lyric

Seth Glier, known for his diverse talents ranging from mushroom foraging to music production, seamlessly weaves the wonders of the natural world into his lyrics. Whether from his recent album "Mammoth" or the eagerly awaited "EVERYTHING," this Grammy-nominated artist elevates music by addressing themes of climate change and scientific awareness. Outside the studio, Seth Glier has used his platform to spread awareness about this global issue and has collaborated with various organizations such as NRDC. Read on to learn more about Seth Glier.

Art, Editor's Pick, zIssue 52Chelsea ChanDecember 12, 2023singer song writer, science, nature, climate crises, Grammy Award, songwriter, music artist, music videoComment

Aiza - Afro Rhythm Sprinkled with Pop

Meet Aiza, the singer whose music will have you dancing on your feet. With her debut album 'Sovereignty' out now, Aiza delivers songs with addictive upbeat rhythms. Beyond the spotlight, she has participated with the Inkeraguhiga Collective working to ensure menstrual products are accessible to women in Ruyigi. Her dedication to both her musical career and humanitarian efforts serves as an inspiration, proving that artistry and activism can harmoniously coexist to create positive change in the world. Read on to learn more about Aiza.

Editor's Pick, SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 52Chelsea ChanDecember 1, 2023music artist, music industry, music video, Song, Afro-bop, women, womens rightsComment

Breath-taking Art - ALIMA USA and Six N. Five's Artistic Collaboration Improves Medical Oxygen Access in Africa

ALIMA USA's executive director, Charlie Kunzer, and the talented digital artist, Six N. Five, have come together to create the innovative artistic nonprofit campaign, "Breath for All." Through captivating 3D artwork and immersive 8D sound, this campaign aims to raise awareness and support for ALIMA USA's mission of improving medical oxygen access in sub-Saharan Africa. With stunning visuals and peaceful narration, Six N. Five's avant-garde style brings African landscapes to life, creating a backdrop for each meditation. Continue reading as Charlie Kunzer and Six N. Five discuss the inspiration behind "Breath for All" and the importance of medical oxygen access in sub-Saharan Africa. They also highlight the power of art and storytelling to drive impactful change. Through this campaign, they hope to create a world where everyone has the breath they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.

Vegan Thanksgiving 2023

Thanksgiving was never a holiday I was very excited about until recently. There are tons of historical reasons to avoid it and, well, I’m vegan. However, over the past few years, especially during covid, I have learned how to cook and am on a mission to convince everyone that vegan food is delicious! What better day to do this than on the day of the year that is known for its gluttonous meat consumption! My goal is to have my guests happy, full, and still feeling healthy by the end of the night!

Wellness, zIssue 52, Editor's PickKira BuccaNovember 20, 2023vegan, raw vegan, Thanksgiving, recipe, eat healthy, Holidays, Food, WellnessComment

Traveling Vegan - A Taste Of Poland

In the land of pierogi and kabab one might wonder how hard it is to go vegan in Poland, but rest assured, you will do just fine!

Editor's Pick, Articles, zIssue 52Kira BuccaNovember 9, 2023traveling vegan, Vegan, travel, Poland, foodComment

Shannon Daily - Bringing Home The Gold

Many of us are excited to see Simone Biles coming back to the Olympics, but have you heard of Shannon Daily? At 61 this seven time world mentalist has over splits, an aerial, and loves dynamic pole dancing. With the Olympics coming up many other sports are buzzing about when will it be their turn to join? Pole dancing might not be in the Olympics next year, but we have yearly international competitions. And Shannon is part of Team USA! Shannon is the perfect example that age is just a number and she can kick most people half her age or younger’s butt. Please read on to learn more about this remarkable athlete, and her secrets, in our exclusive interview below.

Editor's Pick, SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 52Kira BuccaOctober 17, 2023Athlete, athletes, pole sport, pole dancing, pole camp, pole dancers, ageless, OlympicsComment

Hannah Williams - Dealing With Salaries In Reality

Every child's first question whenever an adult mentions their job is, "How much do you make?" It has long been believed that asking this question is disrespectful, but what if that stigma disappeared? Meet Hannah Williams, a social influencer who has dismantled the stereotype and transformed what it means to ask that question. Many individuals nowadays receive inadequate pay, some of whom might not be aware of the severity of their situation. Rather than avoiding the question, Hannah pushes it to the forefront to increase transparency about the subject. Read on to learn how she is leading the change.

Editor's Pick, SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 52Chelsea ChanOctober 11, 2023money, jobs, #salary, TikTok, transparency, payComment

COVER - Sue Ann Pien - Seeing Through The Veil

Sue Ann Pien has not only taken Hollywood by storm but has also used her platform to raise awareness and advocate for a greater understanding of autism and LGBTQ rights. From receiving awards and nominations for her mesmerizing performance in the groundbreaking series “As We See It” to directing “Down By the Water” by The Secret Things, she continuously demonstrates her ability to transcend the boundaries of storytelling. Beyond the screen, Sue Ann Pien has actively partnered with various organizations, directing the spotlight toward crucial topics such as sexual assault and environmental concerns. To learn more about this dazzling actress, continue reading.

Editor's Pick, Cover, Editorials, zIssue 52, Most PopularChelsea ChanOctober 6, 2023LGBTQ Support, LGBTQ rights, LGBTQ+, acting, rights, strike, television, Director, AutismComment

Did You Know That Oregon Is On Fire?

I know we don’t like to talk about climate change and how it is going to kill us all, but we need to start paying attention. I live in New York City where we are used to air pollution, but this past June was something else. We had orange skies of death and were told to avoid going outside at all costs, all because of fires in Canada. Canada! Miles and miles away! Yes, this was horrible and scary, but it got news coverage.

Emily Bhatnagar - Bringing Books With Answers To Kids With Cancer

When Emily’s dad was diagnosed with cancer, it felt like her world had turned upside down. During this time of uncertainty, she found comfort in the activity her father always encouraged her to continue — reading. Driven by a newfound purpose, she embarked on a heartwarming journey of organizing book drives, collecting tales of adventure, laughter, and wonder to bring smiles to the faces of young cancer patients. Read on to learn about Emily and her mission!

Editor's Pick, SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 51, Most PopularChelsea ChanSeptember 22, 2023cancer, children's cancer, books, charity, buttercup, readingComment

Surviving Competition Season/Working Out In General

National competition season for many sports is coming to a close, and I did it! I survived!! From July 15 through August 19 I competed in four different competitions and performed in ten different categories! I gratefully received five gold medals, one silver, and one bronze all in elite pole dancing categories. I qualified for the International Pole Sports Federation (IPSF) in three categories; so, there will be more competitions in October. But why do you care, and why do I say all this? At this point I think I have convinced you that I’m a crazy person who competes too much, yet, my body is still in junctional shape! How did this happen??

Let’s talk about how to take care of your body while doing any form of workout (especially high level)!

Editor's Pick, Wellness, zIssue 51Kira BuccaSeptember 8, 2023fitness, health, Health, pole, pole sport, competition, Nationals, Sport, work out, diet, Diet, WellnessComment

COVER - Yasmine Aker - Canaries In The Coal Mine

Iranian actress Yasmine Aker is capturing hearts on screen and beyond the camera's lens. Motivated by her humanitarian spirit, she uses her platform to spotlight issues near and dear to her heart. Yasmine takes on societal challenges and embraces the meaning of advocacy by spotlighting mental health awareness while standing up for LGBTQ+ rights and women's empowerment. Beyond her roles on screen, she provides a glimpse into the beauty of her Iranian heritage by taking on the role of a cultural representative in the industry and spreading a message of understanding. To learn more about Yasmine Aker, and all her activism, please read on!

Grace & Stella Makes The Perfect Spa Day!

As some of you may know, I have been in crazy competition mode. For some crazy reason all the big comps are back to back this year leaving my body crying for some self love. Other than massages and rolling my body out, I’m fairly notorious for neglecting self love. So, I was super excited when Grace & Stella reached out to me to try some of their products. Grace & Stella checks all the boxes! They are vegan, cruelty free, natural ingredients, paraben-free, and have tons of fun products that will leave your skin glowing.

SWAC: Beauty, Editor's Pick, zIssue 50Kira BuccaAugust 18, 2023self love, skin care, skin, self care, vegan make-up, veganbeauty, Vegan, stay young, youngComment

Splash Into Summer By Going Clean With Sunscreen

As warm weather arrives and beach enthusiasts flock to the shores, the significance of sunscreen takes center stage in importance. Despite tanning culture being ingrained in American society as a prevailing norm, and sunscreen often perceived as an obstruction to achieving a sun-kissed complexion, it's time to welcome a fresh approach that prioritizes prevention and cherishing your skin with the help of sunscreen.

The Olympics of Pole Sports

Tis the season… for Pole Sports! Well, really it is just starting to be the season. Let me explain. Like many sports the athletes train year round, but there are particular times when the different competitions happen. I am a US based athlete so I will be speaking more about the US, but it is much the same across the globe. The summer is when most of the national competitions happen for the athletes, then late fall and early winter is when the International competitions occur. One must first qualify on the national level, creating the US Team in our case, to go to Worlds. While we are not an Olympic sport yet, we are handled in much the same way.

Articles, zIssue 50, Editor's Pick, Most PopularKira BuccaAugust 11, 2023pole dancers, pole, sports, Athlete, female athletes, pole sport, Olympics, pole dancing, ArtComment

Kristian Ventura - The Romance Of Acting

Kristian Ventura is a sensitive artist on and off the screen. He first garnered attention for his outstanding portrayal of Richard III in Shakespeare's legendary play, which he performed while studying acting at the University of Southern California. But we are super excited about his role as Simon on the new series "School Spirits" on Paramount+, where he will quickly become your favorite character has he assists his best friend in determining who her murder is. In addition to acting, Kristian loves to write and is very active with his community in South Los Angeles and internationally. Please read on to learn more about Kristian in our exclusive interview below. I know we are excited to see what is next for him!

Editor's Pick, SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 50Jessica MoraJuly 24, 2023Actor, filipino, Author, School Spirits, HumanitarianComment

Mary Mattingly's Eco-Conscious Activism - Imagined Futures in Bloom

The innovative New York artist Mary Mattingly has emerged as a true beacon of environmental consciousness in the art world. With the recent debut of her piece Ebb of a Spring Tide at Socrates Sculpture Park in New York, Mattingly has carved a unique path that seamlessly blends art, activism, and our connection to water. As the world continues to evolve, Mattingly remains at the forefront of championing climate awareness. Her art serves as a reminder that creativity can be a force of change, transcending traditional boundaries and inspiring us to reimagine how we interact with our planet. Continue reading to learn more about Mary Mattingly.