Rising performer/playwright ERIC LOCKLEY is quickly becoming a leader among a new generation of artists, bringing stories about the African-American community to the stage. Lockley starred in the Denver Center Theatre Company’s world premiere of Marcus Gardley’s new play “BLACK ODYSSEY,” which ran through January 17 through February 16, 2014.  He is now teaming up with MPAACT Theater Company in Chicago for the premiere of his original play, “WITHOUT TRACE,” at the Greenhouse Theater which launched in April.

This Randallstown, Maryland native is a graduate of NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts with a BFA and a double major in Africana Studies. He is aperformer, playwright and producer within The Movement Theatre Company and the producing collective, Harlem 9. As a Performer his Stage credits include “CATO” (The Flea), “Holes” (Atlantic Thtr Co.), “The Winter’s Tale” (NYU), “Black Terror” (NYU), “SPUNK” (Penobscot) and “CHAINS,” performed in South Africa. Lockley also appeared on MTV’s television pilot “Failosophy,” a half-hour, studio-based panel show featuring the internet’s biggest fails.

Lockley’s talents have earned him the Theatre Hall of Fame Fellowship Grant 2012, National Theatre Conference Emerging Professional Award 2012, Harlem Stage Fund for New Work Grant 2011, Mabou Mines Resident Artist 2009-2010 and Poets & Writers Grant 2009.

Let’s get to know Eric a little better…

You’ve recently starred in the hit play “Black Odyssey” at the Denver Center Theatre, what motivated to step into the world of acting?

 Being an young actor you are constantly juggling responsibilities that can sometimes be a bit overwhelming. How do you regroup and motivate yourself when you’re feeling a little defeated?

We tend to pull characteristics from others in our lives or from people we admire, who inspires you and why?

We’re excited to see you continue to achieve all your goals! What projects can we expect from you in the near future?

In April, a play I’ve written entitled “Without Trace” will have its world premiere in Chicago as a part of MPAACT Theater’s season. The
play is a conspiracy theory drama that takes place in the future and follows an inner-city family in the midst of a crumbling America. When
a lost son returns home with a case of amnesia, his family is left to wonder, “What happened to Trace?”

If any readers live in the Chicago area please check the play out. For more info visit: www.mpaact.org And, to stay up to date with what I’m
doing readers can visit my website: www.ericlockley.com

What advice would you give teens who want to follow their dreams and passions?

I’d say don’t worry about fitting in with everyone. What makes you a “nerd” or “weirdo” or “different” today, may very well be the same thing that makes you a star in years to come. Embrace the things you love regardless of whether they’re popular. There is only one YOU in this world and if you waste your time trying to be like everyone else, the world will miss out on who you really are. And finally, I’d advise teens not to give up on their dreams and to commit to working hard. Some things take time so continue to pursue your passion and work to be the best.

 We are all about teen empowerment. What does EMPOWERMENT mean to you & what advice would you give teens to be comfortable in their skin?

Empowerment means trusting yourself and your abilities. I’d advise teens to be open to learning as much as possible about what they love, and then trying it for themselves. Learning is important, but trying, failing and trying again is the MOST important. Know that you can do whatever you put your mind, heart and focus into.

Time for the Faves! Celeb Crush? Artist? Food? Movie?

I can’t pick just 1, so my 2 favorite movies are “The Matrix” and “Do the Right Thing.” In their own unique way they are
both epic journeys that speak to the human condition on physical and metaphysical level. They both moved me to wonder what I can do to open
people’s eyes. Films and stories like these are a big reason why I am an actor.

Check out more Eric here

Eric Lockley

Twitter

Name: Isis Jo

Age: 14

City: New York, NY

Grade: 8

What is your dream job and why?

I want to be a filmmaker. I want to capture moments in people’s lives. There’s so many stories waiting to be told!

Which hobbies do you enjoy?

Make-up, watching Vine videos, doing my nails, and thinking.

Who is your biggest crush?

Michael B. Jordan

What’s your fav song to jam out to right now?

Electric Lady by Janelle Monae

If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?

Every child in the world could get a good education and that nobody dies of hunger.

What does empowerment mean to you?

When you accomplish your biggest obstacle.

What are your plans after high school?

My plans are go to college and make films.

How have you helped someone in your life lately?

I recently helped pick up a woman’s change on the street. I just felt like being nice.

Who is your role model and why?

Azealia Banks and Julie Andrews. They are such beautiful people and know what they want to do in their lives!

Allison Barnes was born in Birmingham, Alabama. She trained in ballet and jazz from The Alabama School of Fine Arts where she was the recipient of the Excellence in Dance award. Allison continued her education at the University of Alabama where she was a member of Alabama Repertory Dance Theatre, Dance Alabama, Crimson Cabaret and Rip Tide dance team. At the University, Allison also became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. where she served as step team captain/choreographer for one semester.

Hailing from Indianapolis,IN  Domonick Sultzer is  making his name known in  the music industry! The focused 17 year old  displays his numerous talents through rapping, singing, dancing and producing music! Being first introduced to music at the tender age of 5, Domonick has used his drive to overcome personal trials in his life. Losing a close sister at the age of 12 and him being in an intense car accident himself at 14, Domonick shows strength by continuing to pursue his dreams and passions.   Being inspired by artists like Kanye West & J.Cole, Domonick is creating his own lane to the top.

Let’s get to know Domonick Sultzer a little better!

You have a new vid and song called “I Wanna Know” starring Princess Nauwisa, what motivated to step into the music world?

My mom motivated me to step into the music world along with me motivating myself.

Being an young musician you are constantly juggling responsibilities that can sometimes be a bit overwhelming. How do you stay creative and motivate yourself when you’re feeling a little defeated?

I stay creative by thinking about my older sister who passed away when I was twelve. She always motivated me when she was alive and even though she’s not with us today she still motivates me. When I feel defeated I just pray and talk to her in prayers and every time pray she ends up giving me strength to keep striding and keep going.

We tend to pull characteristics from others in our lives or from people we admire, who inspires you and why?

It’s a lot of people that inspires me such as my mom and my younger siblings. They motivate me to keep going and to keep striding for my dream. There’s also people in the music industry that inspires me too. Kanye West, J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, and Drake are all big inspirations in my life and music.

We’re excited to see you continue to achieve all your goals! What projects can we expect from you in the near future?

Well I’m working on my EP right now with a couple producers such as, Megaman Productions, Young Chop, and myself. Im just focused on the EP because I want my first work of art to be a masterpiece creation. So be looking out for it around the summer time.

What advice would you give teens who want to follow their dreams and passions?

My advice to those kids and teens that want to follow their dreams and passions is to never let anyone tell them they can’t. You can be or do anything you want as long as you believe in yourself because at the end of the day, all you got is yourself.

Time for the Faves! Celeb Crush? Artist? Food? Movie?

My Celeb Crush…Gosh that’s a hard one, I gotta go with Honey Cocaine. My favorite artist right now is J. Cole, I feel like he’s the best in the game right now. My favorite food is Steak & my favorite movie is the best movie of all time hands down. Love & Basketball

Check out his new vid with Princess Nauwisa-I Wanna Know

Check out more Domonick here

Soundcloud

Twitter

Hailing from New Jersey, Bianaca Bethune is a rising actress on her way to the top and not looking back! This talented actress  is currently featured on  the ABC Family smash-hit, “Switched at Birth.”

The fan-favorite drama tells the story of two families struggling to learn how to join together for the sake of their teenage girls who were accidentally switched at birth. Introduced during the Season 3 premiere, Bethune can be seen in on-going story arc as Sharee Gifford, a misfit teen, who is one of the hearing students forced to enroll at Carlton when her previous high school closes down. After Sharee goes up against Daphne (Katie Leclerc) in a series of incidents, she faces a few unforeseen consequences and ultimately realizes that things may not be so bad after all.

Bethune was raised in Keyport and attended Rutgers Preparatory School. This ambitious beauty landed her big break in the blockbuster sequel, “Bad Boys II,” appearing opposite Will Smith and Martin Lawrence. Since then, Bethune made her way to Hollywood and has added several network television shows to her resume, including “Criminal Minds,” “Everybody Hates Chris” and “Zoey 101.”

Let’s get to  know Bianca a little better!

SWITCHED AT BIRTH – “Fountain” – A false accusation tests Daphne’s already tenuous relationship with Sharee in an all new episode of “Switched at Birth,” airing Monday, January 27, 2014, at 8:00PM ET/PT on ABC Family. (ABC FAMILY/Kelsey McNeal)
BIANCA BETHUNE

You’ve recently joined the hit ABC Family drama “Switched At Birth” and have appeared in “Bad Boys II,” “Criminal Minds,” “Everybody Hates Chris” and “Zoey 101! What made you want to step into the acting world?

I wanted to step into the acting world mainly because of my first passion which was dance. I used to dance for the New York Knicks, New York Liberty and New Jersey Nets. I loved the audiences’ energy when dancing during half time and I thought, “Hey if I could do this with movement, maybe I can do the same with my voice.” I started doing print and commercials, which then landed me my first movie audition “Bad Boys II.” As soon as I was done filming, I came back to New York and started taking acting classes with Susan Batson at Black Nexxus. She is a beautiful soul and has helped me over the years to really find my voice.

You’ve already accomplished so much at an young age! If you had to choose, what would be the biggest highlight in your blossoming career so far?

The biggest highlight of my career so far would have to be “Switched at Birth.” I’ve never had a recurring role on a one hour drama. The creator of the show Lizzy Weiss allows me to explore this character thoroughly and trusts my decisions as the character arc develops. I love the story and the message we are trying to portray to someone of a young age: you aren’t alone and you can always ask for help.

Being young and having responsibilities can sometimes get to be a bit overwhelming, how do you regroup and motivate yourself when you’re feeling a little defeated?

It’s true, sometimes I do feel overwhelmed. But to motivate myself, I read my daily scriptures. It keeps me aligned to my overall purpose and that these hard times are only temporary. I also take yoga and hike, it keeps my body toned while clearing my mind of the negative so that throughout the day I only attract the positive.

We tend to pull characteristics from others in our lives or from people we admire, who inspires you and why?

My inspiration comes from my family. I moved to California from New Jersey with my mother when I was 15 and it was hard to leave the life that I knew so well. I love to get calls from my cousins who are aspiring in their careers and hear all the great things that are happening in their lives. I’m so grateful for social media, it keeps us up to date and close when we live so far.

What advice would you give girls who want to follow their dreams and passions?

A dream is a thought, a thought if manifested long enough becomes an action. An action is the first step, so don’t be afraid to walk in purpose because no one can live your dream like you.

We are all about empowerment, What does EMPOWERMENT mean to you?

Empowerment to me means, the power of oneself to strengthen another which helps strengthen the world.

Time for the Faves! Celeb Crush? Artist? Food? Movie?

Ahahaha !! I love it. Celebrity crush would have to be Idris Elba. He is a chameleon with his work and I hope to one day work with him so I can learn a thing or two! My favorite artist would have to Mali Music. He is an amazing musician who speaks of trials that we can all relate to but being able to overcome and thrive. My favorite food would have to be sushi, I love the display and all the amazing flavors in just one bite. I don’t have a favorite movie but I love a movie
that will make me laugh.

Check out more Bianca here!

Twitter

Name: Nishanti Ridley
Age: 11
City: East Nashville
Grade: 6th

What is your dream job and why?

I want to be a doctor or nurse because if my mom got sick, I could help her.

Which hobbies do you enjoy?

Playing basketball and violin.

What’s your fav song to jam out to right now?

“Happy” by Pharrell Williams and “Brave” by Sara Bareilles.

If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?

To not have all of these chemicals.

What does empowerment mean to you?

To have power for something.

What are your plans after high school?

To go to college, get my degree, and go to school to become a doctor or nurse.

How have you helped someone in your life lately?

I help my granny every weekend by making her bath, helping get her clothes ready, and cleaning her room.

Who is your role model and why? My mom. She has done everything for me since I was little and she does a lot to take care of me.

A dash of dopeness, a sprinkle of  fly and a spoonful of  creativity is the perfect mixture that makes up Ashley Sneed and her edgy brand Urban Mondays! This ambitious and creative young lady launched her line as a way of life combining self expression, style and confidence. From weekend to work day, Urban Mondays develop products that fit your lifestyle. Understanding the importance of  looking & feeling your best her collection allows you to fearlessly floss your style!

Let’s get to know Ashley a little better!

Urban Mondays has such a dope concept behind it, what made you launch your brand?

Thanks! I’m a creative spirit at heart. I love to make things and see them come to life. I combined that along with my love of fashion and UM was born.

How has fashion and style shaped and impacted your lifestyle?

To be quite frank, fashion has contributed to me living a healthier lifestyle. I’ve been a chef for 10 years, so as you can imagine, I love to eat and find comfort in great food. Once fashion became an everyday part of my life, I realized how important it is to me that I look and feel great in clothing. It may sound vein, but being healthy is an intricate part of life, no matter how or why you do it.

Urban Mondays’ No New Friends hoodie

Being a free spirit is gratifying but sometimes can get draining, how do you get your creative juices flowing?

My mood board! Any creative mind needs one. It has things that inspire me–not only eclectic and original fashion statements, but also things I want to create, people I find fascinating and images that remind me of my trips overseas.

What are 3 pieces of advice you would give to girls who wanted to pursue their dreams but are too nervous to start?

1. Get over those nerves!

2. You’ll work the majority of your God-given life. You’ll spend more time at the office than at home. Don’t settle. You’ll look back and have too many regrets.

3. DO WHAT YOU LOVE. Find a passion and make it into a career. If it doesn’t exist, well, then, you’ve got some inventing to do.

Urban Mondays’ Basquiat t-shirt design

We tend to pull characteristics from others in our lives or from people we admire, who inspires you and why?

There are many people in the fashion world who inspire me, but I draw my greatest inspiration from my mother. She is strong, independent, diligent, beautiful, successful, loving and nurturing. People are drawn to her. I am inspired to not only be like her, but also to be able to support her in every way possible.

We are all about empowerment, What does EMPOWERMENT mean to you?

Being proud, taking risks, making moves!

Urban Mondays’ Custom snapbacks for a Pacers blogger

Time for the Faves! Celeb Crush? Artist? Food? Movie?

Celeb Crush: Wow, I have so many! Rihanna, because she’s so goddamned sexy and her style is out of control. Russell Westbrook because he takes risks and doesn’t look back. A$AP Rocky because he’s original and Paul Walker because, I mean, look at the man (R.I.P).

Favorite Artist: Jay-Z. Best rapper alive!

Favorite Food: I’m a chef. I cannot and will not answer that.

Favorite Movie: I’m also a movie fanatic. Let’s go with…Training Day. Denzel is

incredible.

Check out more  of Ashley & Urban Mondays here…

Urban Mondays!

Facebook

The dynamic combination of talent, beauty &  faith are just a couple of the  powerful  characteristics the  Taylor sisters possess! Marvel & Amair Taylor launched their amazing acting career  which has led  them to numerous opportunities including working with major names in  both the music and acting world. These two humble sisters are on their way to the top and inspiring others on their journey!

Let’s get to know the Taylor sisters better…

Ladies, you are making some incredible moves in the modeling/acting world, the latest being in the Macklemore & Ryan Lewis ‘White Wall’ video. How did you ladies dive into your amazing career of acting and modeling?

A couple years ago we decided to commit to pursuing our acting career. We started taking commercial and acting classes regularly to gain technique and build confidence in the audition room and on camera. God blessed us to book commercials right away and placed people in our lives which landed us more acting roles in film.

Ladies, you’ve already accomplished so much at your age! If you had to choose, what would be the biggest highlight in your blossoming career so far?

It’s hard to pinpoint the biggest highlight this far, because every project that we’ve been fortunate to be a part of has been so rewarding and a fun experience. For instance, we were able to work with Elton Jon in the Pepsi SuperBowl Commercial, Michael Cera on Arrested Development, and traveled with Macklemore for the ‘White Walls’ music video. We were able to learn from veterans in the entertainment business and soak everything in like a sponge.

Being young and having responsibilities can sometimes get to be a bit overwhelming, how do you ladies regroup and motivate yourselves when you’re feeling a little defeated?

We are always working on different projects at a time, so it’s hard to feel defeated about an audition or not getting a part. We enjoy the process of filmmaking and that motivates us to keep going from one project to the next. This journey is different for everyone. We have learned to just keep moving forward to accomplish our goals and not compare our career path with others.

Your futures are shining extremely bright! What projects can we expect from Marvel and Amair in the near future?

We are co-producing a feature film at this time. This is the first project that we’ve produced and we are excited for everyone to see it. Also, we are currently preparing to star in an independent film. Unfortunately, we can’t disclose any other details. Additionally, we have a Domino’s commercial airing now on Latino Networks.

We tend to pull characteristics from others in our lives or from people we admire, who inspires Marvel and Amair and why?

The ultimate person who inspires us is Jesus Christ. Our faith in Him is everything and we try to treat people the way we want to be treated.

Creatively, one person we admire is Meryl Streep. We absolutely love her vulnerability and versatility to play a wide range of characters and not limit herself to one particular type.

What are 3 pieces of advice you would give to girls who want to pursue their dreams in modeling/acting?

Firstly, know your God given purpose for your life. If a modeling/acting career is it, then great.

Secondly, commit whole heartedly and take action to seeing your goals through to get to where you want to be. Never give up.

Thirdly, just be yourself. Know what makes you unique. People will try to change you in the entertainment business, but always remain true to who God created you to be and the purpose He designed for you.

We are all about EMPOWERMENT at C.O.R.E mag, What does empowerment mean to you?

To us empowerment is inspiring and encouraging yourself and others to be the best that you all can be spiritually, mentally, physically, and in your careers.

Fun Faves!

Fave Food?
We try to eat healthy daily. However, our guilty foods can be ice cream and pasta.

Artist? Michael Jackson! Coincidentally, we have the same birthday!

Song? We don’t have a favorite song actually, just love great music.

Celeb Crush? We have always had a crush on Shemar Moore! He was our first celeb crush!

Name: Mya Walker

What’s your ultimate dream job?

I want to become a pediatrician.

What are some of your favorite hobbies?

I like to draw and cook desserts. I plan on making white chocolate bars for Christmas

Who is your celebrity crush?

Jayden Smith

What is your favorite song?

“23” Miley Cyrus

If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?

I would stop violence overall.

What does empowerment mean to you?

It means to encourage others to do better.

What are your plans after you graduate high school?

I want to go to college

How have you helped someone in your life lately?

I helped my great grandmother around the house with things she needed

Who is your role model and why?

My Mom, because she takes care of me and my family

What’s your favorite color?

Pink

What do you get when you mix ambition, intelligence and determination?  Sonya Madison is the woman that should come to mind! Not only has she devoted her life to law but is also the creator  of Conscious Loopholes! This platform uses the law and consciousness to balance extremities in news, government, music, television, and sports. Conscious Loopholes has a video broadcast on ustreamtv.com, hosted by Sonya Madison, to discuss the week’s top stories and the underlying consciousness.

Let’s get to know Sonya Madison a little better…

You are a doing awesome things as a young female attorney, what made you want to dive into the career of law?
Thank you. I decided to pursue a legal career at a young age because I enjoyed debating issues.

Share with our readers about Conscious Loopholes: Finding Balance within the Sensationalism and the meaning behind this development?

Conscious Loopholes is about using the law to balance the sensationalism in news and entertainment. With reality television, an uncompromising government, and news coverage that is often one-sided and politically subjective, our lives can become consumed with negativity or a false sense of reality. However as long as sex, fights, and prejudices drive ratings, I don’t expect the media to stop giving people what they want. Therefore I wanted to use my expertise in the law to provide a forum for thought provoking discussion on what is presented on television and in the media. If people are going to continue watching, hopefully by providing legal implications to the story they add a little consciousness to their entertainment.

Where do you see your career as an attorney taking you in the next 5 years?

In five years I see myself either continuing to provide legal counseling to corporations or analyzing the law in the news as a legal correspondent.

We tend to pull characteristics from others in our lives or from people we admire, who inspires you and why?

Many people inspire me for many different reasons. My mother inspires me as a woman because she is successful in her career and giving in her community. Legal analysts like Sunny Hostin and Megyn Kelly inspire me because they have a career I aspire to and their knowledge as well as presentation on camera make them good models to follow. I am also inspired by people pursuing their goals. Successful people often convey the difficulties and setbacks they experienced trying to achieve a dream. I am also sometimes frustrated in my pursuits. Therefore observing other people articulate their passion and refuse to give up inspires me.

What are 3 pieces of advice you would give to girls who want to pursue their dreams in law?

1) Do research. The law comes in many forms and is constantly changing. If she wants to be a lawyer, she should know what that entails beyond what is heard or seen on television. A lawyer carries many hats and one size does not always fit all. Furthermore, there are careers in law outside of being an attorney. Research enables her to focus on which area complements her interests.

2) Seek a mentor. A mentor should not only provide advise on your legal journey, but also provide resources to ensure you’re on the right path.

3) Stay empowered. Everyone can dream, but the pursuit takes more than a vision. Be focused, surround yourself with encouragement, and stay empowered. Maintaining our faith in ourselves is part of the journey.

We are all about EMPOWERMENT at C.O.R.E mag, What does empowerment mean to you?

Empowerment means strength to me.

Fun Faves!Fave Food? Artist? Song?

I enjoy stir fry dishes and 90s music.

Check out more of Sonya…

Conscious Loopholes

Twitter