Meet Lucas Barker - From Shakespeare To Tech!

Lucas Barker may be young, but his experience as an actor started even before he could read. He is currently on the screens as Fleance, the son of Banquo on the thriller film 'The Tragedy of Macbeth,' written and directed by Joel Coen and based on the play Macbeth by William Shakespeare. However, behind the scenes, Barker is a reasonably typical teenager interested in Computer Science. He belongs to his high school's robotics club, provides IT support to his neighborhood, and volunteers at a local senior community. In addition to being the local IT guy at the senior centers, Barker has helped raise money for women's shelters and clean water programs in California, and he has actively supported Riverhouse Children's House Durango in Colorado. To learn more about this young, but promising talent, please, continue reading below.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 41Prachedes Indyra GermanoMarch 9, 2022Actor, youngactor, technology, teen starComment

Tackling Space Travel and LGBTQ Support with Avery Cyrus

Avery Cyrus is a digital content creator based in Palm Beach, Florida. She is one of the top Hispanic LGBTQ creators on social media and known for showcasing her travels, adventures with her girlfriend, and DIY creations on TikTok and Instagram. Avery recently partnered with TikTok to donate $10,000 to the Trevor Project, a nonprofit organization that provides 24/7 crisis support services to LGBTQ young people. One of their main features is the Trevor hotline, where you can reach out via call, text, or chat through their website to speak to a trained counselor. As a strong advocate for LGBTQ youth, Avery has promoted the Trevor Project on her platforms on several occasions. She has also recently teamed up with Space Hero to train like an astronaut and show that space can be accessible for all. Although space travel seems light years away, Avery is hopeful to one day find a safe way to space or even Mars! Read on in her interview with Jejune to hear more about Avery’s platform and future projects!

Shooting for the Moon with Marcelle LeBlanc

Marcelle LeBlanc is a shining star you’ll want to learn more about! This Alabama based multitalented actress developed an interest in the arts at a young age, doing readings as Shirley Temple and playing Annie in “Annie”. Since we have had the pleasure to see her in “Stranger Things”, “Cobra Kai”, and her first voiceover role Hulu’s “PEN15”. Most recently, Marcelle stars as ‘Mary Ellen’ in the CW “The Waltons: The Homecoming”. Marcelle has so much to offer, and her dedication extends beyond her work as an actress. She is an advocate for arts education, and is passionate about finding a cure for Polycystic Kidney Disease, where she has helped to raise funds for the cause. At only 14 years old she founded nonprofit “S.T.A.R.S,”. “S.T.A.R.S” is a scholarship program that works directly with the Alabama Arts Alliance to create opportunities for kids from all backgrounds who want and need access to after school arts programs. Continue reading below to learn more about the multitalented Marcelle LeBlanc!

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 41Sophie LaSalaFebruary 28, 2022kids, Kids, child actor, Actor, actress, Art, artist, kid artist, CW, Stranger Things, givebackComment

The Brave, Honest, Beautiful Sydney Morgan

Sydney Morgan is a digital creator and make-up artist based in Los Angeles, California. In 2018, she was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis, which is a chronic, inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. Sydney became home schooled and bedridden while battling this disease; so, she turned to makeup videos to distract herself. As makeup was something she could do from home, it became the creative outlet and therapy she needed. Sydney took her talent and wisdom to Instagram, and eventually TikTok and Youtube, which has now garnered a large following. Sydney takes advantage of this following by taking every opportunity she gets to bring awareness to Colitis and Crohn’s disease on her platforms. Sydney also is active in the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, where she has her own team, Sydney’s Superheroes, for the annual Take Steps event which benefits the foundation. Read on in our interview with Sydney to learn more about Colitis and Crohn’s disease and some future projects she has coming up!

The Queen of Comedy - Jiaoying Summers

Jiaoying Summers is more than a pretty face! She is a comedian, producer, CEO, and Founder of Summers Media. She does philanthropic work uniting Asia and the USA and is also a spokesperson empowering women and providing a safe space for all black, all women, all Latino, LGBTQ, and Asian to be themselves on her two open mic clubs in LA and Pasadena. Summers became a sensation on TikTok during the pandemic and talked with Jejune about giving a voice to the minority and the misrepresentation of the Asian community, and much more. Keep reading to know more about the Queen of Comedy.

Don’t Fit In With Fab The Duo

Talk about a power couple! Meet Fab The Duo! This interracial power couple based in LA serves Rock music with a side of Philanthropy. Their spunky yet glamorous aesthetic is worthy of admiration this Valentine’s Day! Both Greg Driscoll and Brendan Eprile are outspoken body positivity, LGBTQ+, and gender expression advocates, and they make that prominent in their musical abilities and fundraising work. Fab The Duo recently released a song called “Weird Year” with artist Lucy and La Mer, which accurately depicts the mood of 2021. “Weird Year” is a flawless send-off for 2021, and we are here for it! Jejune is delighted to share this interview! If you are interested in Fab the Duo’s music, their support for LGBTQ+ organizations, or just sheer curiosity about how they can be so amazing, please continue reading below!

Audrey Hsieh is Keeping Hope Alive

Audrey Hsieh is a young actor based out of Los Angeles, CA. Her new film “Mixtape” recently premiered on Netflix where she plays the fun-loving, fashionable friend Ellen. You may also recognize her from the film “Here Today,” starring Billy Crystal and Tiffany Haddish. In her interview with Jejune, Audrey gushes about the wholesome and supportive work environment on both films, and what she is up to now! Audrey is currently in college studying psychology, with the hopes of becoming a therapist someday. At her high school she helped kickstart Hope Squad, a nationwide peer-to-peer suicide prevention program. Although long graduated, Audrey is hoping to continue this work in her future career choice. Read on in our interview with Audrey to learn more about her current projects and future aspirations!

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 40Kaylyn WenzelFebruary 11, 2022Hope, Hope Squad, film, TV, Actor, Actress, College, Psychology, Therapy, Suicide Prevention, Career, AspiringComment

Working Through The Tough Times With Miranda Frigon

Many know Miranda Frigon from her fantastic portrayal of Paula Bowman on Syfy's Day Of the Dead, but incredible woman has more to offer. As a seasoned actress and dancer, she is a familiar face in Hollywood. Miranda currently provides insight into a recurring issue in women's reproductive health. After Miranda's encounter with failed IVF treatments, she stresses the need for patience and self-appreciation for one's body. Miranda's positivity is inspiring, and her eagerness to share her story only proves how amazing she is. Especially in times as problematic as today, Miranda reminds us that everything happens for a reason, and a strong mindset is an ultimate guide through hardships. Jejune is excited to talk to the force that is Miranda Frigon. Please continue reading below to learn more about Miranda, her experience with infertility, and her humanitarian work that is quite literally changing the world.

zIssue 40, SWAC: InfluencerSAMANTHA COLÓNFebruary 9, 2022actress, dancer, fertiility, hope, change, Mom Sense, perseverance, #bodypositivity, positivityComment

Michael & Matthew: The International Power Couple

Meet Michael and Matthew! This Portland-based travel power couple has been taking the world by storm, literally. With their remarkable and insightful blog, not only are we obsessed with this incredible relationship, but also in awe of the travel destinations they visit. As a couple that met over the internet and shared their powerful LGBTQIA+ coming out experiences, they have found empowerment by traveling and documenting trips to Juneau, Alaska, Bermuda, and more! With 2020 putting a real damper on their endeavors, their abroad life came to a halt. However, now, they are back and better than ever, eager to hit the road again. Amazingly, Michael and Matthew are also advocates for LGBTQIA+ equity through their partnership with GLAAD, an organization that aims to open dialogue surrounding LGBTQIA+ issues. Jejune is excited to interview this couple! Whether you're sitting in a beach chair in the Bahamas or on the couch like the rest of us, you're not going to want to miss this insightful and positively proud interview with Matthew and Michael! Please continue reading below!

How The Horror Genre is Growing on Tristian Eggerling

Tristian Eggerling is a young actor based out of Los Angeles, California. You may recognize him from his most recent film, Halloween Kills, where he starred opposite of Jamie Lee Curtis. In his interview with Jejune Magazine Eggerling describes what it was like working on a horror movie, the lessons he took from set, and how this experience made him a horror fan. A man of many talents, Eggerling also opens up about his parkour training and how he is giving back to the community through Caterina’s Club, a non-profit organization that works to feed, house, and educate at risk youth. For those looking to help out in their own community, he encourages others to find what they are best at and look for ways to share it with someone less fortunate. Read more on our interview below!

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 40Kaylyn WenzelFebruary 2, 2022Horror, Movie, Film, Actor, Genre, Los Angeles, Halloween, Parkour, community, non-profit, youthComment

Majoring in Mom Sense With Kanika Chadda-Gupta

Kanika Chadda-Gupta is a mom of three (twins plus one!), journalist, and entrepreneur with a knack for storytelling. All of these aspects were recently brought together to create her podcast, That’s Total Mom Sense. In her interview with Jejune, Kanika defines ‘Mom Sense’ and ‘Dad Sense’ as a parent’s built in sixth sense, or, “…our very own superpower of intuition.” The podcast invites some influential guests to share their own stories and parenting advice, as Kanika has found that storytelling is the best way to connect and grow with her audience. Kanika was born in Bombay, India and is a founding member of RISE100 by Sundara, which is a program that works towards providing mentorship and resources to female entrepreneurs in low to middle income countries. Read on in our interview with Kanika to learn more about That’s Total Mom Sense, her parenting advice, and how she is giving back.

Niki Koss: The Future Of Film

Niki Koss is the future of the film industry. This accredited producer, director, and actress is not new to the game. You can spot Niki on Freeform's "Famous In Love," and now, she has more to offer under her production company K Factor Films. Niki has produced numerous movies, and one of her latest films,
Night Night, directed by the one and only Koss, dropped last November. Jejune is super excited to gain insight into her productions and experience behind the camera. Niki's talents are undeniable. She has also been featured in 2021's Forbes 30 Under 30 for acting, directing, and producing. In addition to her achievements in the film industry, she is a diligent spokesperson for "Open Door Media," a non-profit education program centered around global culture and issues. Niki's brilliance does not stop there, and Jejune is eager to share! Please continue reading for Niki's origin story, her work at K Factor films, and her efforts to assist the homeless.

Jennifer Lauren Is Spreading Kindness Everywhere She Goes

Jennifer Lauren is as much of a dichotomy as her band Diamonds and Whiskey. She can be a bit rough around the edges, coming from of life of “hard knocks”, but has a beautiful heart of gold, which spreads love of kindness everywhere it goes. Diamonds and Whiskey recently released their fierce new single “Walk Hard”. In her interview with Jejune Magazine, Jennifer discusses the development of Diamonds and Whiskey, and the support she hopes to provide through music. She and the band are very passionate about playing at benefits, and most recently played at ‘Vet Fest’ and ‘Jessie’s Rally of Hope’. Read on to learn more about Jennifer Lauren and her devotion to giving back!

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 39Sophie LaSalaJanuary 19, 2022Music, Musican, Singer, artist, Kindness, giveback, Give back, lyme disease, health, health care, Country, country pop, countryComment

Dreaming Big with Tara Moayedi

Tara Moayedi is definitely one to watch! This 8-year-old is a natural performer which lead her to working in commercials and modeling. Recently she has made her debut on television, where she stars as Sarah Malik in the Apple TV+ sci-fi drama series, Invasion. In addition to her devotion to acting, she is committed to philanthropic work. Tara is involved with the Child Foundation, helping underprivileged kids succeed. Continue reading below to learn more about incredible young actress.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 39Sophie LaSalaJanuary 18, 2022actress, Apple TV+, TV Series, philanthropyComment

Shaun Johnson + Big Band Experience on the Big Band Sound

Shaun Johnson, front man of Shaun Johnson + Big Band Experience, is mixing the passionate sound of the big band era with his charity work to give fans an experience they won’t forget. Shaun Johnson + Big Band Experience is compiled of some of the best instrumentalists and arrangers in the Midwest. When asked about the band’s sound, Johnson described it as standing on the shoulders of greats while adding the genres of today. Their new album ‘Made for Her,’ recently came out, and is dedicated to all the strong women in Johnson’s life, including his wife, sister, and three daughters. On their tour stops, The Big Band Experience raises money for local charities. Some of the charities they have worked with include: Children's hospitals, Wishes & More, Lunch is Served, Little Kids Rock, Susan G Komen, and community building in Rwanda. Read on in our interview to learn more about his musical career, the band’s mission, and how they are giving back.

Zarna Garg is Whipping Up Some Laughs

Comedian Zarna Garg, affectionally known as ‘Auntie Z,’ is a TikTok sensation. Encouraged by her son, Zarna downloaded TikTok early in the pandemic and uploaded some of her jokes to the platform. Within the first week, her jokes had garnered 3 million views. Before TikTok fame and stand-up, Zarna had passed the bar and became a lawyer before trying her hand in comedy. She encourages everyone, especially young Indians, to veer off the beaten path and try comedy, if that is where their heart is. Zarna also currently helps out with Comedy Cures and fundraises for Children's Hope India. Both are organizations near and dear to her heart where she can share her comedy to help out those in need. Continue reading our interview with Zarna Garg to learn (and laugh) some more!

The Re-Debut of the Multi-Talented Elisa Nicolas

Elisa Nicolas is a Canadian-born, Ohio-based Asian-American songwriter. For three decades, she has been observing, experimenting, and translating the human experience into song. Elisa’s musical talents extend beyond songwriting, as she is a multi-instrumentalist and singer. Since writing and recording across numerous styles including rock, jazz, country, pop, and R&B, this critically acclaimed Asian-American LGBTQ alternative artist makes her re-debut after a 12 Year hiatus. Her latest song “No Answers” is the leading single of her new album, Year of The Locust, which was released early November. In addition to her musical devotion, she is committed to giving back in her community. Elisa spends time at her local foodbank, MidOhio Foodbank, and dedicates time each year to building houses for Habitat for Humanity. Continue reading below to learn more about the multi-talented woman, Elisa Nicolas!

Xavi de Guzman Trains His Mental Fitness

Xavi de Guzman is a power house! His aptitude for sports fueled an athleticism that led him to a professional career in boxing. This beast of a man went as far as to win the 2008 lightweight championship title in Canada. Unlike most actors, Xavi received his first on-camera role without any acting experience – ABC’s “Rookie Blue” as a boxer. Since “Rookie Blue”, Xavi has appeared in numerous productions including The CW’s ‘The 100’ and ABC’s ‘Take Two’. Now you can check out his most recent project on Netflix, where he takes on the role of Ethan in the miniseries "Maid". In addition, Xavi is a huge advocate for mental health! Through his experience as a professional boxer, he learned the importance of taking care of one's mental health. He founded of the Play On foundation and created a talk titled "You Can't Be Out of Shape to Chase Your Dreams". Read on to learn more about Xavi de Guzman journey as an actor and advocate for mental health.

Emiliana Guereca on Women's Reproductive Rights and Equality for All

Emiliana Guereca is the President of the Women’s March LA Foundation, which was founded in 2016. In her interview with Jejune Magazine, Emiliana explains that the Foundation was established due to the 2016 election and the amounting threats towards Women’s Rights from both parties. Even today, their work is more prevalent then ever. Recently, the states of Texas and Mississippi have created legislation to ban abortion well before fetal viability. In response, the Women’s March Foundation is putting together a direct mail postcard campaign aimed at big brass Texas businesses asking them to support women’s reproductive rights. Over 250k postcards have already been sent to CEO’S of Texas organizations that supposedly support women. Readers can get involved by visiting their website, listed down below. Read on to learn more about the important work Emiliana Guereca and the Women’s March Foundation of LA is doing to advocate for equality.

Focus On The Good Things With Elizabeth Alderfer

Los Angeles-based actress Elizabeth Alderfer is the comic relief we have been waiting for. As a master in the comedy genre and an undying passion for entertaining she is sure to brighten your spirits. Elizabeth constantly adds emphasis to the good things in life and uses her acting skills to step into roles a such. Starting as a young dancer and introduced to acting, she quickly fell in love with the craft. Today you can see her in incredible shows like “Orange Is The New Black” and “The Good Wife”. Currently, she stars in “A.P. Bio”, a hit Peacock comedy series playing Lynette, an adorably hilarious payroll woman. So be sure to check those titles out and so much more Elizabeth has to offer. Apart from being an astounding actress who learns something different from each role she takes on, she also educates herself and aids various humanitarian organizations like No One Left Behind: an organization that fights for Afghan interpreters who have worked with our soldiers. Please continue reading below to learn more about this amazing human being, her love for acting, her fight against world hunger, and her quarantine pass time!