Name- Saneit

School Name- Howard University 

Class of- 2018 graduated 2019 BA Public Relations minor Graphic Design

Hometown- Chicago

What inspired you to get started with music

I’ve always had a passion for music. My family always blasted music around the house. My first step into music was joining the children’s gospel choir at the of five. My vocal coach found me at church during my first solo and I began taking vocal lessons at 10 years old. I continued to grow in my art by being involved in extra curricular activities. I started writing my own songs at 13 without beats. I would just hear it in my head. While attending a performing arts high school, Lincoln Park I later met one of my producers, Rico Rich. I began recording songs at 16 and released my first EP at 18. By then I was a freshman at Howard. Entering Howard I majored in Jazz voice and changed my major to Public Relations the following year. 

Most rewarding thing for you as an artist 

The most rewarding thing for me as an artist is the honest feedback. When people I don’t know tag me in videos and singing my songs that makes me feel really good. I know that I’m doing something right. I always wanted my music to connect people.

If you could describe your style of music in three words, what would they be and why?

Three words to describe my style of music is soul, passion, and energy. When I sing I sing from the soul. My dad would always say “That girl got soul.” Passion, because you can hear how passionate I am about what I’m singing in my songs. I’m not singing just because I can. Lastly, the energy is always there. I’m a vibrant person with a lot of personality. Without a visual you can feel it. If you only heard my music and never seen my face that is what you’ll get.

How did your HBCU experience impact you as an artist ?

My HBCU experience impacted me so much. I walked in one way and came out another. I was good, but it made me better. The lessons that I learned outside classes were the most impactful. I’m so glad I went to Howard University and people will always know that. So many of the greats came out of Howard, and as the saying goes ‘if you can make it out of Howard you can make it anywhere.’ I’ll never take no for an answer, and ’ll never make excuses for myself.

Who are some of your musical influences?

My musical influences are Whitney Houston, Lauryn Hill, Monica, and Missy Elliot. Honestly, the list goes on. Those are definitely some of my favorites. If we’re talking about writers that’s another conversation.

Where do you see yourself musically in the next 12 months?

In the next 12 months I can hear my music in constant rotation on radio stations. I see myself performing for larger crowds. I can also, see myself having songs written for other artist. I have a great pen.

To learn more about Saneit and stay updated on her upcoming music releases, Follow her social media profile below

https://www.instagram.com/p/CH37ePJJNwg/?igshid=migtpl1c9w2r

What inspired you to get started with music 

It all started off with the way beats an instruments sounded to me. I started off as a heavy producer. Then I eventually found a talent in rapping. I love to use words to paint a picture over a nice beautiful beat

Most rewarding thing for you as an artist 

The most rewarding thing for me as an artist would be gaining trust from listeners so that I can help them feel better through my music, while at the same time helping them have a good time. Gain a substantial amount of income from it as well. I want to be better than great and be one of the best ever.

 If you could describe your style of music in three words, what would they be and why ?

Unpredictable-  because the way that I write my music, you’re never gonna know what I’m going to say or how I am going to say it. That also keeps the listeners from being  bored and intrigued throughout the entire song.

Fulfilling-  Because of the sound of my voice is soothing along with my nice beat selections. I believe that I have a natural talent in knowing just want to say for all listeners ears to provide them with satisfaction on any topic of my choice 

My music is powerfully,nonchalantly confident. 

Disruptive – Disruptive in regards to doing things that the norm is not doing. The combination of my lyrics in the way that I write in between stanzas without having to yell speaks volumes. 

Who are some of your musical influences 

Kanye West, MF Doom, House Music, Jay Electronica, Common, Chance The Rapper, Instrumentals & almost ALL of the music from 70s 80s and 80s

Where do you see yourself musically in the next 12 months ?

I see myself 10 times bigger than what I am right now. I see my name being known in different states across the country. I see myself being very successful and working with some of my favorite artists in the industry 

What are some of the obstacles you’ve had to endure and overcome we an independent artist ? 

Some of the obstacles I guess would be doing a lot on my own. But, that’s initially mentally expected for me anyway because I understand that nobody’s going to do anything for me. It all starts with me. I can’t do anything without myself. 

What is your take on the current state of hip hop music ?

Well hip-hop is about rap and soul to a nice beat. I consider today’s music to be filled with entertainers instead of hip-hop artists. There’s only a select few hip hoppers. There is an extreme lack of value in the content of today’s music

What can you your fans expect from you next ?

You can expect greatness. You can expect nonstop music. I won’t let up. More creative videos and music

To learn more about TMH High Chief visit his social media page below

https://www.instagram.com/p/CHMQ4zJA0-R/?igshid=1n7czsj5fqceg

Deeply Rooted is a lifestyle clothing brand created by Chicago, IL native Monique Atkins. Her unique character based clothing line has reached an audience worldwide and has been featured on a number of celebrities throughout the country. We had the opportunity to speak with Monique and learn more about the Deeply Rooted movement and the message behind the brand.

Tell us how Deeply Rooted came about 

Deeply Rooted came about in 2007 when I was starting my love for drawing and painting.  The inspiration came about after I realized what all races had in common which was BARING, STRUGGLE & PAIN. This slogan help me form my brand into what it is today. We all share the same similarities because we all go through pain and we all struggle and while we going through that we baring it we overcoming it.  

Talk to us about the initial startup stages with your business career
The initial startup stage of the my business was in 2007 at the kitchen table with my brother and sisters  as well as my illustrator  and one other person.  We came together with design concepts and how the brand was going to reach the people. We thought by using the slogan mentioned in the first question and using the characters to represent us as a people. Each character has a characteristic that reaches some individuals.

What is the most rewarding part for you about what you do? 
The most rewarding part about what I do is to see my customers wear the clothing and post pictures without me asking them to post and them just showing me love thats the most rewarding thing. 

What has been the biggest lesson about overcoming obstacles and failure that you have learned throughout your business journey? 
The biggest lesson about overcoming obstacles and failure that I learned throughout my business journey is to plan things out and I learned how to break things into collections it make things much easier and keep me organized with everything. I also learned how to stay focus on the mission and not try to follow the trends just stick to my brand and what it represents and I can win

Tell us about upcoming projects you are working on
Deeply Rooted upcoming projects is us working on our new collection called The Warfare Collection: Checkmate, attending the first annual soul music awards and keeping our store up and going. We just opened a clothing store Oct. 10th in Chicago area. 7000 southwest hwy Chicago Ridge, IL 60415   

Leave us with some words of advice you can offer to aspiring and current entrepreneurs 
Words of advice I can leave current entrepreneurs is one of our slogans “Don’t ask the struggle what it did to you ;ask what it has done for you”   Also to trust the process and to lead by example. 

What are 3 fun facts that most people don’t know about you 
Three fun facts that most people know about me is i have a sense of humor, I love making people laugh and smile and I am ambitious.       

To learn more about Monique and the Deeply Rooted brand, visit WWW.DR07CLOTHING.COM andIG: @Deeplyrooted07 

Born and raised in Orangeburg, South Carolina, Alan M. Brooks is a 2011 graduate of Claflin University where he obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Mass Communications degree. It was after the completion of his senior project entitled “Struggles”, that he knew that film was what he wanted to pursue for the rest of his life. Before graduating, Alan entered his film into the Claflin University Great Work by Blacks student competition, where he was awarded for his work.

After graduation, Alan wanted to further his knowledge in film and television so he applied to the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), where he would go on to obtain a Master of Fine Arts in Film and Television degree in the spring of 2015. During his matriculation at SCAD, Alan entered the 100 Words Film Festival where his film “Peer Pressure” won the award for Best Student Film. Additionally, in 2016 his film “Wounded” starring the late Tommy Ford from the hit show “Martin” won the Audience Choice Award at the South Carolina Underground Film Festival and received rave reviews. Alan has had the opportunity to hone essential skills while at the Savannah College of Art and Design and has also picked up on some acting skills. He said in an interview, “I feel that a director should know how it feels to be on the other side of the camera.” He went on to say, “I want to do it all, from the creative process to the business process of filmmaking.”

Since graduating from SCAD, Alan continues to create compelling content in hopes that his films would impact audiences worldwide. Alan has gone on to direct over 20 short films, 2 feature length films, over 10 music videos for artist such as (JD McCrary from Disney’s “The Lion King”, Silento’, Joshua Rogers from BET’s “Sunday’s Best”, and Tray Chaney from HBO’s “The Wire”/Bounce TV’s “Saints and Sinners”) to name a few. Alan has also directed 5 commercials; one in which is a Chick-fil-A commercial where he was awarded a Telly Award in Directing, and received an Honorable Mention in the Southeast EMMY’S “Excellence in My Market Awards.” In 2019 Alan’s short film “The Portrait” was selected to premiere on Magic Johnson’s National Television Network ASPIRE TV during their Urban Indie Block; and his short film “Wrong House” was selected to premiere on Sean “P. Diddy” Combs” National Television Network REVOLT TV during a special 2 hour Hip Hop Halloween episode of Short & Fresh. One of Alan’s goals is to become a member of the DGA while continuing to tell universal stories to the masses.

Tell us how you got started in your field? 

I got my start as a Film Director during my senior year of undergrad at the prestigious HBCU Claflin University. I was a Mass Communications major with a concentration in Television Production. My professor asked each student in the class, what do we want to do for our senior project, and I was the only student to say that I wanted to do a movie. I remember everyone in the class laughing at me because of my response, but I did it anyway. I shot my senior project on a mini dv tape, directed it, cast the film, and edited it all by myself. (Keep in mind that this Mass Communication program didn’t teach us how to make movies or write movie scripts, but focused more on news television production. That’s why everyone laughed at me.) That same film that everyone laughed at me got me into film school. Attending and graduating from The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), with an MFA in Film and Television was the best decision I could have ever made. I learned so much about the foundation of film, television, and directing as a whole; and I feel that SCAD really helped groom me for this industry. Graduating from film school really jumpstarted my career, after submitting many of my short films and entering them in the festival circuit. I even won Best Student film at the 100 Words Film Festival for my film, “Peer Pressure.” I continued to freelance as an independent director, and I constantly aim to become better every day.

Talk to us about the initial startup stages of your career? 

The initial startup of my career was very challenging because after graduating from film school, I had to move back home and landed a job working as a cashier at Chick-fil-A. I was so embarrassed because I had this fancy degree, but could not put it to use. I kept my spirits up and continued to research anything related to film every day. One day the franchise owner of Chick-fil-A found out I graduated from film school and asked, if I had a link to my work. Trust and believe I had a business card in my pocket. Fast forward, a few months later I was granted the opportunity to Direct a Chick-Fil-A commercial in which I won a Telly Award in Directing, and received an Honorable Mention in the Southeast Emmy Excellence in My Market Awards. After being hired to direct the commercial, I made my production company AMB Productions official and transitioned to Atlanta, GA. Since arriving in the Hollywood of the South, I have directed numerous films, commercial, and music videos. Some of the artist include, JD McCrary (“Lion King,” “Little”), Silento, Tray Chaney, Joshua Rogers (BET “Sunday’s Best”), and Jason Nelson to name a few. It wasn’t easy, but I was determined to NEVER GIVE UP!

What is the most rewarding part for you about what you do?
The most rewarding part about being a film director is the impact that my work has on audiences. Recently, I received a DM on Instagram from someone I didn’t know, and when I opened the message, it was a video attached of a woman full of tears. Her giving her testimonial after viewing my new film “Mr. & Mrs. Ellis” really touched my heart. This woman was so full and appreciative that I tackled a story that is centered around the dark issues of molestation and the effects of staying silent. Seeing and hearing how my film touched her in such an emotional way; really reminded me of how important it is to continue to use my voice and to stay true to the stories I want to tell. If my films impact at least one person, then I did my job and that is the greatest reward.

What has been one of the biggest lessons about overcoming obstacles and failure that you have learned throughout your business journey? 

The biggest lessons that I’ve learned is that failure makes you better. I know it’s easier said than done, but failure is a part of the process and it pushes out GREAT things in each of us. I remember I submitted one of my films to over 20 film festivals, and I only got into 1 festival. I was so hurt because I thought I wasn’t a good enough director; but I later learned that rejections open doors in us that push out greatness, character, fortitude, and creativity. I may have been selected in one festival, but the response of audience members from that one festival was validating enough; reminding that I’m on the right track and making an impact. That experience has helped me overall in my business journey.

Tell us about upcoming projects you are working on?
We just finished post-production for a Calvin Klein commercial I directed, developing scripts for an upcoming feature film, booked to direct a few music videos for national chart-topping artist, and gearing up for Season 2 of my show, “Director’s Corner: with Alan M. Brooks.”

Leave us with some words of advice you can offer to aspiring and current entrepreneurs? 

I would tell aspiring and current entrepreneurs to make sure that you have a team around you that not only respects you, but understands your vision, doesn’t mind serving, who doesn’t want to secretly take your spot, and who displays the qualities of a true ride- or-die.

William King Hollis is an international motivational speaker, author & coach. From being homeless to quickly becoming one of the top motivational speakers in the world, he has truly spoken his way to success. That same passion, authenticity and his unique gift of connecting to the hearts of people everywhere led him to accomplish something no speaker has ever done. In 2019 he made history by becoming the first and only paid motivational speaker featured at the highly prestigious “fashion week” held in milan italy. This proved to be a turning point and solidified him as being one of the greatest young speakers of our time. From every day listeners to celebrities, actors , professional athletes and leading corporations, his speeches continue to make him a household name in personal development.

Five hundred million views on youtube, the number one high school football speech,  and tens of thousands of subscribers later, he still continues to pursue his mission with a hunger for inspiring tomorrow’s leaders  within every community. Additionally, he has currently released his new book “The Best Gift Comes From The Bottom” which is quickly becoming a best seller and is now available in multiple languages through his website www.kinghollis.co

VEU Magazine had the opportunity to speak with William about his new book and his upcoming business ventures

What are some of keys to success that you used to come from the bottom to where you are now?

I had total  belief in myself and I knew that I was meant for something greater than my circumstances. It’s a feeling so deep within you and it drives you never to give up. I held on to that feeling no matter how hard things were at the time. I knew I had a message that could inspire people, transform my life and transform the lives of others.. I never lost sight of that. This is why I can honestly say I spoke my way to success.

Words of advice for anyone struggling right now, especially during these times now

No matter how hard things may seem, you must never give up. You have a gift within you that the world needs and it’s up to you to tap into that gift.. If you don’t know what that gift is use this time to focus on finding it. We all have something we do that is easy to us and extraordinary to everyone else. So, take this time to really look at yourself and your life. Determine what you want to accomplish and go after it. Never stop thinking or dreaming big.

You’re always working on a new project. What can we expect next from you ?

I’m working on several new major projects, but I am incredibly proud of my first book being released October 4th called “The Best Gifts Come From The Bottom” . It’s really special to me because I know it’s going to help educate, inspire, and empower people to transform their lives. It’s not just a story about how I spoke my way from homelessness to being the top motivational speaker in the world. They will learn the what and the why too. Also this book is not just for aspiring speakers or people looking for motivation. This book really has something for anybody that wants to tap into their full potential. This is why everyone needs to get a copy because i’ll be sharing some things in there that will help you take your life to the next level. Aside from that I have a clothing line, several motivational speaking albums in the works and I’m in talks for movie deals as well. There’s a lot going on over at Will Smiles LLC.

There are millions of sales-focused businesses operating in the market. The main aim of these businesses is to sell stuff and make money. However, many entrepreneurs want more from their brand. They want to impact their customers and the world. This is the main difference between a lifestyle brand and a normal brand. 

A lifestyle brand is offering a successful way of living to their customers. This brand must have its own soul. You need to give core principles to your brand. After that, you need to build its features and give it a voice. You also need to help it in speaking. If you are providing the right guidance, then your lifestyle brand will automatically have a unique style. In this article, we are going to share some tips that will help you in creating your own lifestyle brand.

1. Give your brand a face 

You need to first identify a market for your business. Make sure that you know about the market needs. Write down how your target audience feels and what they prefer. You need to understand the lifestyle of your target audience. This will help you in becoming a part of their local culture. 

You need to find your brand’s vision. What will your brand achieve for the community? What will be the core principles of your brand? 

It is important to define these values and principles. These values will provide a backbone to your lifestyle brand. It will help you in amplifying your message. 

Identify the colors that can represent your brand. You should use these colors for designing your logo. Work on a plan that will help you in targeting your audience. Your company logo should connect with your target audience.

2. Give your brand a voice 

The principles and personality of your brand are going to decide how it will speak. It will decide if your brand will be playful, bold, intelligent, or compassionate. These features will help you in defining the messaging channels that you can use. You can use static, social media, print, video, and dynamic channels for communicating with your target audience. 

Your headlines, words, copy, and text must have energy. The words you choose will affect your brand. We are always thinking about our words and tone when we are communicating with your friends and family. Apply the same principles when you are dealing with your lifestyle brand. 

3. Choose your brand activities 

You need to find out your brand activities. Also, these activities should align with your style and mission. Choose actions that will help you in improving your relationship with your target audience.

You need to find channels that will support the personality of your business. These channels will help you in connecting with your targeted audience. 

4. Pick your friends wisely 

A simple association can also damage your brand image. However, you can also create a good brand by working with good companies. Thus, you should look for good brand partners. The best way to solve this problem is by defining your brand’s mission. This will help you in navigating through the thousands of options available. You can find the best brand partner. 

The most important key to a lifestyle brand is quality relationships. Your brand will be judged by your partners. Check the companies that are working in your target market. You need to check if they are good for your brand. These partnerships can help you in growing your brand.

Conclusion

These are some tips that will help you in creating a lifestyle brand. A lifestyle brand is not limited to selling products only. It has a voice and personality. You can impact your customer’s life by creating a lifestyle brand. Make sure that you are true to your customers.

The Jeff Knows Inc. is a Entrepreneurial podcast, hosted by Jeff Lopes.  Jeff has over 2 decades experience as a serial entrepreneur.  Building brands like Kimurawear from his home basement to a multi-million dollar global brand that has sold over a quarter million pairs of boxing gloves worldwide.  Jeff’s here to educate, guide and drive you on the process from bringing your ideas and dreams to reality, with the inspiring stories from some of the top business minds.  

Tell us how you got started off: 
 I have always been a hustler, from selling sports cards at a young age, to registering and operating my first business before the age of 17, it has always seemed becoming an entrepreneur was part of my DNA.   My businesses have always been created with as a passion project and that is why I feel, most of my ventures have always succeeded.  Don’t get me wrong, I have had my taste of failure, I take those moments as lessons that fuel me to work even harder.  My passion for branding has allowed me to build brands, that are fueled by what I love doing.  

  Talk to us about your current businesses and stages for each
 I have two main companies I have founded and currently operate.  The first is Kimurawear, which I founded in Jan 2006 as a Boxing and Martial Art Equipment Brand, by creating unique and forward thinking active training and lifestyle products.  The brand grew from a home office start up to now selling in over 1800 gyms across North America and the brand has now sold over a quarter million pairs of boxing gloves.   My second company I have founded and currently operate is True Blue Homes, which is Holding company for Real Estate and has a portfolio of commercial properties and vacation rentals properties.  The vacation rental business is one I am very passionate about. I currently own and operate 4 vacation properties in a four season resort in Blue Mountains and currently working on building a 16 acres resort in Muskoka, which is a gorgeous, popular vacation destination for Canadians.   

What is the most rewarding part for you about what you do?  
Being an entrepreneur has been hands down is the most rewarding thing for me.  The reason is the 3 “F” Bombs – Freedom, Freedom, and Freedom.

1. Freedom to wake up each day and follow your passions by creating and developing things you love.

2. Freedom to spend quality time with your family and loved ones and be able to pick up and make your own schedule.

3. Freedom to make you rich, not stuck at a 9 to 5 job, behind a desk making someone else rich.

What have been some of the biggest lessons about overcoming obstacles and failure that you have learned throughout your business journey?
The two biggest lessons I learned as an entrepreneur are: 1. Always be ready to be the hardest worker in the room, no matter how successful you become the minute you take your foot off the pedal, there is always someone in your rear view mirror trying to pass you.   I learned very early, when you taste a bit of success it’s easy to feel, you have made it.  That feeling changes, quickly when your competitors, start taking a bigger share of the pie in your space.  That feeling forced me to understand, to be on top, and stay on top, you cannot question or fear early morning and late nights and always be the hardest worker in the room, which will motivate your employees to work as hard as they can. 2. Believe in your vision and passion, there will always be doubters and individuals that will question your concepts and goals, you cannot waste energy on those individuals, focus your energy on obtaining your goals you have set.  When I started Kimurawear over 15 years ago, I had plenty of doubters, questioning my new venture, saying it was too small of an industry or too hard of a market to break into.  I find this great pleasure in proving people wrong, and the negativity and questioning, seem to fuel my passion to succeed.  Always understand the individuals that questions and try and stop you from your dreams, are doing that because they are too scared to follow their own dreams and do not want to see other succeed. 

Tell us about any new or upcoming projects you are working on

 I have been doing business consulting, for the past three years, not as a business, but more of passion, giving back to young entrepreneurs and passing on my knowledge I have obtained over the last 24 years.  Recently I turned that passion in to a fun project, The Jeff Knows Inc. Show, an entrepreneurial podcast.  The podcast is driven around; successful entrepreneurs true life stories from around the globe. Never in a million years had I ever thought the podcast would grow so rapidly, it’s quickly turned from a passion project to now a longer term goal of mine, as an outlet to pass on knowledge and lessons to entrepreneurs around the globe.  The amount of quality guests we have had on and have lined up to appear is extraordinary.  Just having down to earth business and life conversations with these guests,  is so awarding, I feel I am constantly learning and growing as an entrepreneur myself.  

  Leave us with some words of advice you can offer to aspiring and current entrepreneurs?

 The three things I tell all entrepreneurs is:
1. Find a passion and turn it into a business, the greatest gift of entrepreneurship is waking up each day and doing what you love.

2.  Set Goals on a personal level and your business and write them down.  I like setting quarterly goals every three months, as that period is short enough not to get bored, but long enough to achieve something special.  Once you have created your goals, now create a process to achieve those goals.   Each goal should have a step by step process to reaching that goal and I truly mean a step by step process.  

How have you used social media to help leverage your brand?
We live in an age of technology, everyone now a day has a smart device around them at all times, and as a business if you do not leverage that, you are going to fail.  Social media is a massive part of our marketing budget and we utilize social media to help continually growing all of the brands, from Kimurawear to all the way to the Jeff Knows Inc. Show. 

What are 3 fun facts most people don’t know about you?
1. I have an obsession over buying watches and sneakers. I currently have over 20 plus watches and seem to buy new sneakers ever few months.  This all stems from years back, I had an entrepreneur I looked up to, that never dressed up, put on a pair of jeans, nice watch and some new sneakers and was able to walk into a room with suited up CEO’s and still control the room.   He always said, as long as you have a nice watch, new clean sneakers and confidence in who you are, that will resonate and others will want to surround themselves around you.

2. I have a passion for fast older American Muscle cars. A few years back I took a 1979 Camaro which was parked in my parent’s garage for over 20 years and did a full bumper to bumper restoration and did ,most of the work myself.

3. I enjoy getting my hands dirty, and building and creating on my own.  I am a strong believer in sweat equity and a big portion of my rental businesses I have personally done most of the full renovations myself.   I love creating and I always start with a vision in my mind and find joy in seeing the step by step process in the creation of my vision.

To learn more about Jeff and listen to the podcast, visit www.JeffKnowsInc.com

Music artist, film director, and entrepreneur Rahim Brazil, just celebrated the screening of his new film “When Love Takes Over,” in Atlanta, Ga . We had the chance to speak to Rahim on the new film, and what it takes to be an independent film director and music artist in this era.  

Interviewed by Adrena Martin

First let me tell you how proud I am of you. I remember you from the beginning when you were just a music artist, now you’ve evolved into so much more. Where did the inspiration come from to get into films?

Thank you, this is definitely been a journey for me as a music artist turned into a film director. The inspiration from getting into the filming industry has come from me being a part of a film project in 2016. After being on set, I really liked the whole vibe of the behind the scenes work and felt a need to dive into film creation. I always strive to enhance my brand, but also enhance my gifts. I used to act  in middle school and I wrote my first script in the eight grade, so I always had that passion, but when I jumped into film in 2016, it sparked up that passion and a new desire for me to direct and create my own content.

“When Love Takes Over” is your latest project. Is this inspired by true events or how did you come up with the storyline?

I would not say this is inspired by true events, but it is inspired by true situations. I actually wrote this one because I wanted to work with a particular Actor and really wanted to mold a different type of story for the community within itself. So I created this story to tackle different issues within this movie and within the script. It really dives into the different things that people face like suicide, therapy, alcoholism, relationships etc. So it is really a layered story that I believe people can really relate to. I really feel that it is a story that needed to be told in a way that people can understand from a perspective of realism. 

As a creative and entrepreneur, what is one of the most challenging things for you to overcome with your projects?

One of the most challenging things for me to overcome within my projects is getting things done with minimum budget. Things like finding locations being able to pay Actor’s being able to solidify myself as a reputable creator who is able to take care of his people. For a while we were trying to Give people opportunities, but also help people to receive the compensation that they deserve for their art. So my challenge was more so centered around being able to actively create, while trying to work a 9-to-5 to support the dream. The last and final challenge would be having a solid team in place. I have really struggled to find individuals who match my level of productivity, focus and drive, but now I believe I am in a better place with the people that are standing behind me and my projects, but it definitely took some time to maintain. 

How did you go about casting for this project, and what are some things the actors had to do to really get prepared for their roles?

This casting was a little different than our other castings because I purposely selected actors that I believed would do the script some justice. I did not hold auditions or anything like that, but the actors all had to attend a table reading and a rehearsal. So doing the rehearsal process, I was able to work with them on their characters, work with them on particular scenes and also do some improv exercises in order to make this project stand out.  My goal was to make sure that whatever emotions came across the screen would touch the viewer. 

What message do you want viewers to get from the film and where can they find it?

The number one message that I want people to receive from this film is that therapy is OK. Therapy  is fine and therapy is helpful. I want people to not feel ashamed for needing help and actively asking for it when they know they need it. They can find this film on my new network www.dreamhousetvexclusive.com By subscribing for $5.99 a month and they can watch all of the shows that we have on there and will be uploading soon. Also feel free to subscribe to our YouTube page Dream House television network.

What advice do you have for other independent directors looking to get their work out? 

My advice for other filmmakers is to make sure they continue to learn, elevate, and grow. We are never too intelligent to learn and providing information to ourselves will help enhance our creative process. I will also give advice on building good connections with other creatives, from actors to crew because having a good set of people behind you will help you create better films. You are as good as your team and the people that’s walking beside you. Be hands on with direction and prioritize your filming process. 

I just really want to say thank you VEU Magazine for this interview and thank you for bringing awareness to what we have going on as creatives, I really do appreciate you for allowing us to use your platform to speak about what we have going on.

About Rahim Brazil

Rahim Brazil is a Hiphop artist/entertainer, Actor, Director and Radio personality from Baltimore, MD. It is rare that anyone comes across an artist that is self-motivated, inspirational, extremely talented, and a genuine representation of true artistry. Rahim Brazil has all of these qualities and more. His music offers an invigorating sound that captures his listeners attention. His unique music style is made of melodic harmonies, lyrical punches, energetic movements, and realism. Currently Rahim Brazil has released a new single “Superstar” off his sophomore  album entitled Closure. He shares stories of his past to where he acknowledges the ending of cycles that no longer serves us. Currently residing in Atlanta, GA, he intends to make his way through the industry performing at shows, killing stages, speaking on panels, hosting events and inspiring the upcoming generation. When Rahim is not working on music he is actively creating movies and tv programs. I’m 2017 he proudly created Dream House Television Network, an in-line streaking Platform that show movies, docu-series and various shows. He is the writer and director of the Hit series Twisted, which gained over 500k views on YouTube. 2020 will be the start of a new journey as he takes it up a notch and stepping into his star potential. Rahim Brazil is more than a star, but a trailblazer.  

Award Winning and 5x Best Selling Author, Tanisha D. Mackin was born and raised in Buffalo, NY. Tanisha is an Author, Philanthropist and Publisher. Tanisha used her tragedies to help and motivate others through their pain. Tanisha knows all too well about violence and how it can affect the lives of family members. Tanisha was inspired to not focus on the negative and focus on the positive of her heartaches. She started the Mackin Miracles, formally known as the Mackin Project to assist widows and children who’ve recently lost a spouse or parent to violence.

When asked what inspired this colon cancer survivor to work hard, Tanisha has to look no further than her two beautiful children. A recipient of the 2013 Utopian Euphoria Making A Difference, 2016 Metro Phenomenal Women, 2016 Black Women Are Award for survivorship, the 2016 IALA award for Memoir of the year for her book, My Testimony, I Don’t Look Like What I’ve Been Through, the 2016 Rising Star Award, the 2018 Best of McDonough, 2019 Business Hall of Fame (Best of McDonough) and the ACHI Magazine Award for 2019 Author of the Year. As well as gracing the cover of several magazines (Writer’s Life, Glambitious & BlaQVersity). Her experiences led Tanisha to write several books, write for several magazines, appear on radio and television shows. It also led Tanisha to help others share their stories through writing by becoming a writing coach and publisher. She has worked on several books and book tours including a book tour for Pastor Rhonda Henderson and 4x grammy award winning and reality star Stevie J. Tanisha became a #1 Best Selling Author with her eBook, What’s Next, Sis? that she released unexpectedly in September 2019 and she became #1 Best Selling Author with her book collaboration with Kim Cole (Open Your G.I.F.T.S). Tanisha became a Brand Ambassador for SwagHer Magazine in 2018. July 2018, Tanisha had the opportunity to share her testimony at the Essence Festival in New Orleans. In 2019, Tanisha founded Rebuilding After Bullsh*t, an outlet where women can get together during brunch or dinner and talk about how they are rebuilding their lives after going through bull. 

Tanisha is here to be an encouragement to others who may be going through the hardships of life. Like a butterfly, Tanisha represents the never ending cycle of life.

Interview by Abner Jackson

How long on average does it take you to write a book?

A: On Average it takes me a week to write a book.

Give us an interesting fun fact about one of your books?

A: The photoshoot for my 2nd book (Still Standing – A Widow’s Journey) was funny because my youngest was small at the time and we were in high grass, so besides me being scared of snakes, we had to hold her because we didn’t want to lose her in the grass. It was a mess…LOL

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

A: Write and do not worry about judgement. Most aspiring authors are afraid to share their stories because of judgement. But I’m here to encourage all my aspiring authors to share their stories because you never know who you are helping with your testimony.

What’s one of your proudest moments in your career?

A: One of the proudest moments of my career is when I won 2019 Author of the Year and 2016 Memoir of the Year.

What’s a random hobby you’ve always wanted to try but never have?

A: Art (painting). I have tried it but I’m nervous to showcase my work.

If you could meet any historical figure, who would you choose and why?

 A: Maya Angelou because of her passion for writing. I would have loved to sit with her and learn. 

What’s your best childhood memory?

A: So many, but the best times is when all my cousins and I would stay at my grandmother’s house. We miss those times.

What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

A: That I am a big baby….lol

Please let everyone know how you can be reached (twitter, IG, FB, websites, etc)?

Website: www.tanishamackin.com

IG: @TanishaMackin & @TanishaMackinPublishing

Twitter: @TanishaMackin

Facebook: Tanisha D. Mackin

The Virtual Book Expo | Authors In Business™

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When: Friday, June 26th & Saturday, June 27th
Time: 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm Eastern Standard Time
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About Authors In Business

Authors In Business Co. is an online community group, created by Desiree Lee, designed to provide extended solutions for aspiring and self-published authors. We have members from all over the world and host events in the areas of publishing, book marketing and advertising, media, networking, and more. We are taking our events digital providing you all with the same quality of speakers, experience, and knowledgable guests.

You will find it very rewarding to connect with readers, experts, and authors in your respected industries. A one of a kind online experience for authors to learn new ways to reach more individuals, while connecting and fostering real relationships with like-minded authors.

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About Desiree Lee

Desiree Lee shows authors how to quit the job they hate and build a business they LOVE, with just a book. AIBNATION (Authors In Business Co.) was created after Desiree realized the necessity of consistent book marketing, motivation, and training for authors who are building an online empire while still juggling a full-time job.

As an Award-Winning 5x Published Author, Online Publishing Consultant, International Speaker, and Founder of Authors In Business Co.™, Desiree teaches author entrepreneurs worldwide how to get it done, monetize themselves, and build their brand, so that they can ultimately transform their stories into a successful business.

Desiree knows the challenges of being an author-entrepreneur. After 3 years of side hustlin’ with her own online business, publishing the Bestselling Book, “Inmate 1142980: The Desiree Lee Story”, selling over 20,000 units within the first year release. All though, having the courage to share her story, it made room for her to grow financially and now showing others how to do the same.