Merging her love of fashion, children &  her business savvy mind, Shade Newkirk launched Autographed in Pink Ink!  Only at age 19, this young entrepreneur  started her own company to  create images for young talent, fashionistas, and future moguls across New York City. Exposing the children to some of the hottest designers, Autographed in Pink Ink builds custom looks that will turn heads for editorials, photo shoots, birthday parties, music videos, red carpet appearances, commercials and more.

Shade’ wants it to be clear that solely working on the outer appearance doesn’t complete the package. “Giving back and building up all youth is a huge priority. Yes, we want to provide looks that will speak volumes but we also understand that we need to create a generation of children that know who they are inside the clothes. We give back by mentoring, motivational speaking and helping build the future moguls of the next generation.”

Already having sights set on making headlines throughout the entertainment industry Autographed In Pink Ink doesn’t just want to stop there. They are laying the groundwork to launch into other areas such as apparel, boutiques, books, cosmetics and more.

Let’s get to know Shade Newkirk a little better…

 

 

You make it clear that working on the outer appearance doesn’t complete the package, how do you inspire youth on improving their full selves?

“And because GOD is the greatest power, I shall not be defeated” I never speak defeat or embody that feeling.However, when things get a little overwhelming I simply pray,travel and have me time.

EMPOWERMENT to me means uplifting,encouragement and selflessness.When someone takes the time out to empower someone its simply heroic. If you can take down from your self to pour into someone else’s life to help better them in a way that changes their life forever you are a hero.

We all love showing our outfit of the day and who doesn’t heart a good selfie?? We all do! Take a quick peek  at looks from actress Keke Palmer’s Instagram!

It is 2013 and everything, everywhere is sexually charged. ABC, CBS, NBC, major networks which you think would have some censorship, seem to have no holds barred. Society has evolved to encourage sexual activity. As such, we unknowingly associate sex with a lot different objects and emotions. We think sex will generate money, fame, happiness, and success.  And to add insult to injury, we’re constantly exposed to sexual innuendos- Miley Cyrus poses naked on a wrecking ball, Lil Wayne has children by four (4) different women, and Kim Kardashian achieved her fame when a sex video went viral. Sex generates a lot of things but it is highly unlikely sex will bring you long lasting money, fame, happiness or success. We’re exposed to sexual behavior under the impression it is a topic of light discussion, however, it is quite the opposite. Sex is complicated and can lead to a whirlwind. So, it is important you protect yourself from the sexual complications society has imposed.  The best and most ideal way to do so is to practice abstinence. Abstain from premarital sex and guard yourself from sexually transmitted diseases, teenage pregnancy, and quite frankly, unnecessary heart ache. Understand, being a virgin and saving yourself until marriage is not a trendy topic, but it is highly important we recognize the value in practicing abstinence.  According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 20 million people contract a sexually transmitted disease or infection each year. While STDs and STIs affect men and women of all backgrounds and economic levels, it is estimated that over half of those infected are between the ages of 15 and 24.

Sexually transmitted diseases often times go unnoticed as many come without warning or symptoms. The most common STDs are HIV/AIDS, Bacterial Vaginosis, Chancroid, Chlamydia, and Genital Herpes/HSV. While a majority of STDs can be cured with antibiotics and intense treatments, there are STDs that are incurable. Out of the top five (5) most common STDs two (2) are permanent- HIV/AIDS and Genital Herpes/HSV. Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) was first reported in the United States during the summer of 1981 and is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Since the first report, AIDS has infected approximately 1.7 million people and HIV places its heaviest burden on the African American community. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, the African American community contributed to 46% of the AIDS population in 2008.  While this should raise concern, it’s even more alarming to know that 20% of Americans unknowingly live with HIV/AIDS. The same goes for the most common sexually transmitted disease, Genital Herpes. When it comes to Genital Herpes, many people have no idea they are infected. A sexual partner can transmit the Herpes disease without any symptom, especially men.  Therefore, it is easier for women to contract Herpes. Studies released by the CDC state that 1 out of every 5 women, ages 14-49, live with Herpes. The disease is extremely painful and uncomfortable as it can produce blister sores around the genitalia, mouth, and/or even parts of your body like your arms or hands. When a non infected person comes in contact with a Herpes blister or sore, all it takes is for the fluid of that sore to touch the non infected person’s body and the disease is theirs for a lifetime.  An irreversible disease will forever have an effect on your overall health, sex life, and relationships. Care enough about your life and your body to protect yourself from these harmful diseases. Always, always, always know your status and get tested frequently. If you get tested and find out you are a carrier of any STD/STI be aware and make others aware. You might be ashamed and embarrassed to embrace your diagnosis, but in reality, the rest of America relies on you to keep the masses healthy and informed.

Another issue we face when having sex is getting pregnant. Teen pregnancy statistics show that approximately 820,000 teenage girls conceive a year. Over half of the teenage girls who conceive will get an abortion. Life can throw curve balls and sometimes abortions are warranted. However, abortions are not contraceptives and should not be used as such. There are precautionary measures we as women have to take in order to, again, do what is best for our overall health, sex life, and relationships. Be responsible for your life by protecting yourself with condoms and birth control. If you are sexually active, visit your local Health Department or Planned Parenthood facility for free or low cost examinations and contraceptives. The average cost to raise a child (through the age of 18) is $250,000.00. If you currently work at Sonic and don’t pay a single bill, I highly doubt you can afford to adequately provide for a child. There are ample resources to prevent you from exposing yourself to unwanted pregnancies. Know your options and make the best decision for you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=boUqU4YZjl0

The fact of the matter is: there are people in this world who have contracted sexually transmitted diseases, and there are women in this world who have gotten pregnant and opted for an abortion. While you can go on living if face with either scenario, both can have negative implications on your health, self esteem, and future. Respect yourself enough to protect yourself. Find a mentor, big sister, or even a friend who is willing to talk to you about the issues you face once you become sexually active.  If you’ve chosen abstinence, be prepared anyway. As a teenager with raging hormones and mounds of constant peer pressure you are liable to experience anything. Keep yourself educated and informed about your health and prevent yourself from having negative, unnecessary experiences. Remember, no one will respect you unless you first respect yourself. Don’t allow the ways of the world to automatically become your way of life. Be smart and stay safe. Remain confident in who you are and know that every decision made today will impact your tomorrow. So, protect your health and beauty by protecting yourself.

Until next time, abstinence, safe sex, awareness, health and beauty.

I have a confession to make. When I decided to go natural it wasn’t about trying to stop exposing my body to so many chemicals. Nor was it about learning to embrace the way my hair grows out of my head. It wasn’t this great spiritual journey that I wanted to embark upon to be closer to God. It was about one thing – money. One day I was looking at my budget and I was trying to figure out some places that I could save money. The $150+ per month that I was spending on visits to the salon seemed like the perfect place to start. Now, if it weren’t for this trend of Black women going natural and embracing their natural hair, I may have never considered that an option, but I wasn’t getting into it for any of the profound reasons that a lot of people mentioned. I just needed to save some bread. Fueled by the idea of having some extra money in my pocket, I decided to begin my natural journey.

The transition period was a struggle because having hair with two completely different textures was a styling nightmare. Because I was having such a hard time, I didn’t really enjoy anything about it. Since I started with short hair and I’ve never really been afraid to cut my hair, I decided to just cut all of the permed hair off and dive right into being fully natural. That’s when everything changed. I was so surprised and impressed by the versatility of my hair that I was wondering why anyone ever got a perm in the first place. The more I got to know my hair, the more I loved it. I could swim, workout, and get caught in the rain without having to worry about it. Discovering something about myself and just loving it more and more as I got to know it has been an incredible experience. Because I am so happy with my hair, I want to nurture it and watch it become better and better.

I’ve had a similar experience with my writing. It’s something that I just recently started doing, but when I saw that I enjoyed it and that it’s a way for me to touch people, I began to love it even more. I want to do it more often and nurture the skill so that I can realize my full potential as a writer. As women, we often spend so much time fretting about the things that we don’t like about ourselves. We need to take a moment to find something that we do like and strive to make it better. The process can make you fall in love with yourself and who you have the potential to become. Every woman should know what it feels like to fall in love. Who better to start with than yourself?

-Tiffany Vicks

It’s that time again! C.O.R.E is partnering up with Creative Dreamers to host our Art of War NYC- Art Battle! Join us on October 17th at The Park Penthouse in Chelsea and enjoy a night of dope artists, live music and support a great cause. All funds raised will go to help fund our on-site programs & Creative Dreamers’ scholarship fund. Want to see what you missed last time? Check it out!

When: October 17th

Time: 6p-10p

Where: The Park Penthouse- 118 10th Avenue

Tickets: $10

http://artofwarnyc.eventbrite.com/

Drive, determination and pure talent are just a few of the amazing qualities that Gabrielle Clover displays! Taking off with the piano at age 9, Gabrielle took her instrumental ventures to a higher level by introducing herself to other musical elements like the violin, and choir. She even took on the xylophone and snare drum in her high school percussion ensemble with no prior experience! With great music teachers in piano and violin, Gabby competed in the Florida State Junior Music Convention annually, taking home state titles every year in events like sight reading, fiddling, and several duet categories as well. Aside from music performance, she took on the theoretical side of music by studying in-depth music theory as well. Although she is recently graduated from Fordham University in New York City majoring in Psychology, she still has a passion for performing and making music in her spare time.

Let’s get to know this remarkable young lady better…

Music is a powerful tool to express yourself, how has it impacted your life?

Music has been my ultimate release and therapy. I love performing for others because it’s a great way to express yourself without words. Whenever you’re having a bad day, it’s such a great release to be able to channel any stresses or frustrations by playing beautiful music.

My favorite song to cover is actually one I’m working on now, “Someone Like You” by Adele. The piano instrumental meshes so nicely with the violin I may do a couple more after this one! It took me about a week to learn completely, and right now I’m in the process of recording it so I can finally get it on YouTube.

First, I’d say embrace your true potential. I believe in the saying “you can do anything if you put your mind to it,” and that includes music as well.

Second, you have to really want to play an instrument to accomplish your goal. It doesn’t come easy, but is definitely possible if you truly work at it and are dedicated.

Third, go for it! Being a musician is such an accomplished feat, and is definitely possible for anyone who wants to do so.

I would love to perform with Alicia Keys on stage. After seeing her perform live in concert I was absolutely amazed! She’s extremely talented and I admire her musical diversity.

Empowerment, to me, means embracing your true identity to the fullest and not being afraid to be yourself. Target your inner talents and strengths, and take advantage of the beautiful woman that you are.

While I am currently in school as a psychology major, music is still a significant hobby for me. In the next 5 years, I hope to continue performing and playing beautiful music. After graduating, I would love to begin teaching and to possibly find some ensembles to perform with. Who knows, maybe one of my covers will get noticed by a celebrity!

Fave food would have to be cheez-it’s. I can eat those things all day!

Artist – it would have to be a tie between Erykah Badu and Dwele

Song – that’s a tough one…I have such a wide range of favorites because I listen to so many genres!

Celeb Crush – Will Smith is definitely a charmer!

Check out more of Gabrielle …

YOUtube

Misty Copeland is an awesome ballet dancer who C.O.R.E Mag hearts! The  soloist dances at the prestigious American Ballet Theatre &  has overcome numerous barriers in the cutthroat world of ballet.  Check out a couple of pics from her recent feature in  Italian Vogue.

This talented dancer was discovered at age 13 on a basketball court and first landed a coveted position with the American Ballet Theatre  at the age of 17!

 Take a peek at the  Misty’s Kickstarter campaign for “A Ballerina’s Tale” documentary below & more  here.

Good morning Fly Girls!

Get into your morning with Ariana Grande’s newest single—>’Baby I’

Name: Treyonta Burleson
Age: 12
City: Nashville
Grade: 6th
What is your dream job and why? Basketball player because I like sports; Nurse because I want to help people; Actress because it is fun.
Which hobbies do you enjoy? I enjoy basketball, dance and going to the mall!
If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be? My neighborhood.