This Time with Anwen O’Driscoll and Jennifer Gibson

The new queer film “This Time” is in many ways the more serious current version of “But I’m a Cheerleader” as a young girl runs away from her family who is trying to send her to a conversion camp, to go on a world wind adventure searching for the secrets of her recently deceased elusive father. You will celebrate and cry with Grace as she comes to understand and accept herself and make real friends a long the way. Please read on to learn more about the film, our star Anwen O’Driscoll (Grace), and Jennifer Gibson (Producer and Anne) as they walk us through the importance of “This Time”.

Art, Editor's Pick, zIssue 54, zissue 54.1Kira BuccaMarch 29, 2024film, LGBTQ, LGBTQ+, LGBTQ youth, LGBTQ rights, actress, ArtComment

COVER - Shanti Lowry Embodies Peace

With her talents spanning acting, dancing, and singing, Shanti Lowry seems capable of almost anything. Beyond the spotlight, she is also producing the upcoming thriller PERSONA while concurrently collaborating with Amnesty International and Women for Women International to provide educational support to women affected by war. Engaging in numerous endeavors and initiatives, Shanti Lowry actively addresses the challenges faced by war-torn countries and contributes to humanitarian efforts, demonstrating the power of determination and the ability to achieve anything when one sets their mind to it. To learn more about Shanti Lowry, please read on.

Bees Elephant Sanctuary - Love At First Elephant

When you go to Thailand one of the first things you will notice is the depiction of elephants everywhere! They are on temples, flags, shirts, pants, and adorable statues around the country. They are clearly part of the Thai identity, but for as much as they are a symbol of Thailand the treatment of the actual animals in Thailand isn’t spectacular. Luckily for me, and the elephants, I was able to find and visit BEES Elephant Sanctuary, which holds nothing but love for the animals. Click here to read more!

Traveling Vegan - Thailand - Harder Than I Thought

So, I went into this trip thinking that this article would not be necessary, assuming that Thailand is a vegan heaven. This was not the case… Chiang Mai is awesome for vegans, but it seems that the rest of the country isn’t so sure what we are…

Editor's Pick, Articles, zIssue 53Kira BuccaMarch 5, 2024travel, traveling vegan, Vegan, travel tips, vegan travel, Thailand, eat healthyComment

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