Mai Whelan - Number 287

Many of us are familiar with and fond of the Netflix sensation, Squid Game. However, were you aware that this beloved series has been adapted into a television game competition called Squid Game: The Challenge? If not, you're in for a treat, as Mai Whelan, the victorious contestant from the show, is here to share her winning strategies. Mai Whelan's remarkable journey from conquering challenges like Red Light, Green Light to fearlessly crossing the treacherous Glass Bridge game exemplifies her unwavering persistence and the transformative power of courage, regardless of one's background. Following her triumph in the Squid Game: The Challenge, Mai has continued her inspiring journey by extending a helping hand to those less fortunate through her ongoing philanthropic endeavors. Read on to learn more about Mai Whelan.

Editor's Pick, SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 54, zissue 54.1Chelsea ChanApril 5, 2024squid games, television show, women, vietnam, animals, philanthropyComment

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2024 - Christina Henderson, Council of the District of Columbia, At-large

Christina Henderson (she/her) is one of four At-large members of the Council of the District of Columbia. The Council comprises a representative from each of DC’s 8 wards, as well as a chairperson and four representatives who represent the whole city, including Christina. A political independent, Christina identifies herself as a “pragmatic progressive,” championing causes such as reproductive and maternal health (she chairs the Health Committee of the Council), early childhood education, transportation equity and safety, and higher education access and student loan forgiveness.

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2024 - Sabrina Bousbar, Florida's 13th Congressional District

Today we have the fourth installment in our profiles of our favorite Progressive candidates who are running to represent their communities at the state and federal levels, and move the country forward to ensure that all Americans are equally represented in government. Sabrina Bousbar (she/her) is a Gen Z Colombian Moroccan with a background in political organizing, as well as in emergency management and natural disaster response, which is a particularly useful background in her Florida district, which was devastated in 2022 by Hurricane Ian. Sabrina has a Bachelor’s degree from Florida State University and a Master’s degree from Georgetown University, and is passionate about women’s rights, the climate crisis, social security, and the affordability crisis.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 54, zissue 54.1Andrew FMarch 27, 2024gen-z, woman, brown, politician, election, politics, Politics, political, emergency, HurricaneComment

Catherine Harrison - You Have To Walk Before You Run

Catherine Harrison will have you rocking out to her songs about love as she revives the sounds of the 70s with her music in a current new vibe. But there is more to this rock star than meets the eye. Catherine is a passionate advocate for mental health, especially within the music community, working with the Unison Fund. She is even donating all the proceeds of her new song, Love is not a Game, to them! Please read on to learn more about Catherine, her music, and how she gives back to the world.

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2024 - Sam Bell, Rhode Island Senate District 5

This week we continue our profiles of progressive candidates running for office in 2024! Today we are featuring Sam Bell, who is a Democratic Socialist Rhode Island State Senator. Sam (he/him) is a geologist with a Masters and PhD both from Brown University in Providence, the city of Sam’s district. He is most passionate about healthcare, housing, and fighting poverty. Sam and his wife Samantha are both openly bisexual and are proud parents to their 2-year-old son Jacob.

Leah Rampy - Writing for the Future of our Planet

Once teeming with diverse plant and animal species, the Earth was a vibrant ecosystem. However, as we navigate the year 2024, we find ourselves grappling to safeguard the remaining creatures from extinction, often unaware of the harm inflicted upon our planet. By listening to Leah Rampy, the author of Earth & Soul: Reconnecting Amid Climate Chaos, individuals can gain insights into the necessary steps to reestablish a meaningful connection with the Earth. Through compelling narratives, Rampy deeply resonates with readers, urging them to embrace the Earth and appreciate its magnificence. To read on and learn more about Leah Rampy, continue reading.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 53Chelsea ChanMarch 15, 2024earth, ecosystems, biodiversity, organisms, climate change, climate crises, books, AuthorComment

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2024 - DeShanna Neal, Delaware House of Representatives District 13

This week we are profiling DeShanna Neal (she/they), a single mother of four who is an LGBTQ+ rights activist and Democratic Socialist Delaware State Representative. Elected in 2022, they ran on a platform focusing on mental health, the environment, and the legalization of marijuana; this year their focus is on Accessibility for all, Maternal Healthcare for Incarcerated Women, and LGBTQ+ rights. DeShanna is the author of the children’s book My Rainbow, about their transgender daughter, and they are the co-organizer and creator of New Castle County's first ever LGBTQ Youth Pride Festival, as well as, Delaware's first Drag Queen Story Hour. They have a bachelor’s degree from the University of Phoenix (UoPX), and just recently graduated with a master’s degree from Wilmington University (WilmU).

Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2024 - Rachel Ventura, Illinois Senate District 43

This week we kick off the 2024 election season with Rachel Ventura (she/her), who is a Democratic Socialist state senator from Illinois’ 43rd district, the part of the state in and around the city of Joliet. This single mother of twin daughters has degrees in Mathematics and Biology and has worked as an actuary and naturalist before joining a gaming company, Legendary Games. Rachel is passionate about taxing the rich, universal healthcare, campaign finance reform, and investing in the middle class.

Bo Yokely - Shining On and Off the Screen

Introducing Bo Yokely, the actor set to star in the upcoming series "Blue Ridge," who has not only delved into the entertainment industry but has also collaborated with the "Not Alone Foundation" to raise awareness about renal disease and kidney health. His efforts have not only garnered recognition from philanthropists, earning him the prestigious Diamond Award, but also endeared him to audiences. To discover more about Bo Yokely and gain insights from his advice, keep on reading.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 53Chelsea ChanFebruary 29, 2024kidney, Actor, movies, television show, health, disease, AwarenessComment

Morgan Richard Olivier - Writing From the Soul

Embarking on a literary journey that began in the familiar Notes app, Morgan Richard Olivier has magnificently woven a tapestry of raw emotions in her latest literary masterpiece, "The Strength That Stays." In this profound work, Olivier delves into the complexities of self-acceptance, inviting readers to explore the labyrinth of human emotions. Through her stories, she navigates the turbulent waters of mental health, shedding light on these pressing issues with empathy and understanding. When she isn’t writing she is on the board of the Iberia Homelessness Shelter. To learn more about Morgan Richard Olivier, read on.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 53Chelsea ChanFebruary 27, 2024books, Author, writer, homelessness, self loveComment

Ami McKay - Behind the Mind of the Designs

Ami McKay is on a roll! From crafting distinctive and healthy eco-friendly residences using sustainable materials to managing three enterprise businesses, Ami McKay effortlessly juggles her multiple endeavors. Now, viewers can witness her distinctive and innovative designs showcased on her very own show, "Vancouver Reno," which has recently made its debut on Magnolia Network. Beyond her professional endeavors, Ami commits her time to mentorship programs for women entrepreneurs and engages in various philanthropic initiatives. Read on to learn more about Ami McKay.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 53Chelsea ChanFebruary 20, 2024#interiordesign, television, television show, women, refugee, philanthropy, homes, renovationComment

Osprey Orielle Lake - Ink and Advocacy

While many of us carry on with our daily routines, the urgency of climate change often escapes notice. However, as Osprey Orielle Lake emphasizes, "We are in a climate emergency." In her newest book, The Story is in Our Bone: How Worldviews and Climate Justice Can Remake a World in Crisis, Osprey Orielle Lake delves into the question of whether we are willing to take action and rise to the challenge. This book serves as a doorway into the realm of justice surrounding this pressing social issue. To learn more about The Story is in Our Bone: HowWorldviews and Climate Justice Can Remake a World in Crisis, and Osprey Orielle Lake, read on.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 53Chelsea ChanFebruary 15, 2024women, activism, climate change, climate crises, earth, book, Author, natureComment

Niro Knox - Rock, Metal, Home, and Cherry Tomatoes

Do you ever yearn for the days of 90s Rock/Metal? Love you some Guns N’ Roses, AC/DC, or Bon Jovi? Well, boy are you in for a treat with Niro Knox! Niro will rock your socks off into the 2024 and beyond with his new album and song “Save Me”. What’s more is Niro is a really nice guy! He is very passionate about giving back, particularly to mental health and homeless causes, as he has struggled with these in the past. In fact, all of the proceeds from his new single “Save Me” are going to the mental health charity, SANE. When he isn’t creating new work or rifting on a guitar he can be found helping homeless nonprofits like Meir Panim and Kilburn Streets Kitchen/OKT (Our Kilburn Table). To learn more about this Israeli Rock Star, his music, his thoughts on Israel, and how he is giving back, please read on!

Celestina Harris - A Rising Star Capturing Hearts From Afar

Meet Celestina Harris, a child actress taking on the entertainment industry in shows such as “Dr. Death.” Despite her youth, Celestina is making waves in the industry with her big dreams and an even bigger heart. Beyond her roles on screen, she embodies the spirit of Christmas during the holidays, spreading holiday cheer by providing gifts to families in need. Balancing school and screen life with grace, Celestina proves that age is no barrier to making a big impact. To learn more about Celestina, continue reading.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 53Chelsea ChanFebruary 8, 2024school, actress, child actor, Give back, christmas, TV SeriesComment

Cybr - Melodies of Remembrance

It all started with a brief 15-second TikTok video featuring Basia Mallet’s (known as Cybr) late grandfather, Charles Mallet. Together, Cybr and Charles defied the prevailing notion that technology merely created divisions between the older and younger generations, crafting heartwarming videos that gathered admiration from millions of viewers. Beyond TikTok, Cybr launched her debut song, "Life Without You" after the recent passing of her grandfather, and made her directorial debut with the documentary "The Questions I Ask Dementia," featuring her grandfather in a prominent role. To learn more about Cybr, continue reading.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 53Chelsea ChanFebruary 1, 2024alzheimer's, dementia, music, TikTok, film, documentaries, grandfather, elderlyComment

Mayte Garcia - Love, Life, and Legacy

Mayte Garcia's foundation, Live 4 Love Charities, embodies the essence of love, life, and legacy. From supporting aspiring musicians facing challenges to revitalizing music programs in educational institutions, Garcia and her foundation have been instrumental in nurturing the dreams of numerous upcoming artists. By carrying forward the musical and philanthropic legacy of the iconic American singer, and her ex-husband, Prince, she demonstrates the significance of assistance across various domains and the profound impact of music. To learn more about Mayate Garcia and Live 4 Love Charities, read on.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 53Chelsea ChanJanuary 30, 2024Community, charity, giveback, music, love, kids, PrinceComment

Getting Raw With Nikki Gal About Mental Health

Model Nikki Gal wants the world to see women for more than their looks. While she might be a pretty face, there is a lot more behind those eyes, and she is working hard to make a difference. As a passionate women’s mental health advocate, Nikki has started two different podcasts addressing the issue — Raw Talk and The Model Memo (both with Nikki Gal). In addition to her speaking out about mental health she has also recently become an ambassador for The Big Yellow Force, an organization that helps help raise awareness for women suffering from endometriosis. To learn more about Nikki, her modeling, art, and activism, please read on!

Unleashing the Power of Queer Art: Beautiful Forms Break Free with Bia Ferreira and Lama El Homaïssi

The Beautiful Forms: Queer Art Unbound festival was presented by the Artistic Freedom Initiative in October. The festival showcased the talents of international artists who have faced persecution or censorship due to their queer identities. Two of the featured artists were Bia Ferreira, a Brazilian singer and composer known for addressing important social issues, and Lama El Homaïssi, an actor, singer, and writer whose work often focuses on the LGBTQIA+ community. In this interview, Lama discusses their experiences engaging with the diaspora and highlighting injustices in Egypt and Lebanon, while Bia talks about their upcoming international tour and their approach to different music genres. Continue reading and discover how this festival provided an important platform for queer artists to express themselves and address pressing issues.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 53Jessica MoraJanuary 18, 2024Art, LGBTQ+, Artists, singer, Actor, festivalComment

Karen Cliche - The Haunting of Thanksgiving

Among the multitude of horror films typically tied to Halloween, there's been a noticeable absence of Thanksgiving-themed ones—until now. The tradition of horror films set around Halloween has shifted course with the arrival of the movie "Thanksgiving." Karen Cliche, portraying Kathleen in the film, masterfully embraces themes of gratitude with horror, evoking both fear and an insatiable desire for more from audiences. Balancing her roles as a single mother and actress, Karen Cliche not only takes on challenging characters but also actively engages in humanitarian efforts, collaborating with organizations like the World Wildlife Foundation, and World Vision, and dedicating her time to volunteering at women's shelters. Keep reading to learn more about Karen Cliche’s humanitarian work and journey as an actress.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 53Chelsea ChanJanuary 11, 2024homelessness, women, sex trafficking, single mothers, Thanksgiving, actress, domestic violenceComment

Parvati Kumar - Creating Etherical Art From The Heart

Let Parvati Kumar take you on a surreal and beautiful journey with her music and art. This disabled transgender female artist taps into her Punjabi heritage and her connection with the female spirit when creating. With a background in writing and painting, all forms of creation are at her finger tips. Read on to learn more about Parvati and her art.

SWAC: Influencer, zIssue 52Jejeune MagazineJanuary 4, 2024Art, digital creator, digital art, trans woman, Transgender, PunjabiComment