ISSUE 4
NYOTA
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NYOTA Magazine was founded
by two sisters who shared a love for discovering new talent and young entrepreneurs. Nyota /niːˈoʊtə/ means star in Swahili, this magazine focuses on finding and promoting the rising stars in fashion, music and culture. So if you know a young person who is serious about their craft, please contact us! The magazine will be released quarterly, (winter, spring, summer and fall).
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@nyotamagazine
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Cont
012
020
004 006 007
Contributors Editor’s Letter Editor’s Picks
010 Summer Playlist 011 90’s Playlist 012 Austin Crute 018 Artists on Tour 019 Passions
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tents 050
FASHION
024
020 Shock and Awww Interview 024 90’s Summer Editorial 034 Beautifully Flawed 035 Formation World Tour Style 038 90’s Hair & Makeup/Accessories 050 4 Men’s Summer Style Essentials
060
054 Inspiration: KD Hair Care Supply 056 Post Grad Testimonies 060 Chloe Boudames Interview 062 Photography Feature 072 Top Ten Things to do the Summer
074 096
Before College Film is NOT dead New Releases & Gift Ideas
CULTURE NYOTA
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Contrib TEAM
CAROL WRIGHT Co-Editor in Chief, Photographer NIARA WRIGHT Co-Editor in chief JOCELYN NAARDEN Graphic Designer
MODELS
JESS PIETRAK Model ALEXANDRA MORROW Model NEHA RAMAN Model & CEO of Rungh CHANTAE BELGRAVE Model
WRITERS
Cosmetics
BRETT GORDON CEO of Skysite Media JOSHUA TULL aka Dreamkid, Music Producer TARYN FARRIOR Blogger of Fashion with a Curve AFRAH BOATENG Freshman at Wesleyan ARIEL BONNEAU Freshman at University of New Haven CAROL WRIGHT Co-Editor in Chief of Nyota
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butors PHOTOGRAPHERS
EMMA SALERNO Sophomore at Solebury School KRYSTAL HU Senior at Solebury School CAROL WRIGHT Co-Editor in Chief of Nyota
FEATURES
AUSTIN CRUTE Music SHOCK AND AWWW’S CLAIRE AND SHAWN BUITEDORP Fashion and TV Personalities KD HAIR CARE SUPPLY Culture Inspirational feature CHLOE BOUDAMES culture feature
BRANDS
SHOCK AND AWWW Clothing RUNGH COSMETICS Nails HOUSE OF FLAIR Jewelry
NYOTA
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R E T T E L S ’ R O DIT
E
Here we are welcoming you guys to the fourth issue of Nyota! This issue is full of amazing content. We have a musician from Atlanta who is slowly taking over the New York music scene, twins who work together to create amazing clothing for their company Shock and Awww, a young photographer from California who at the age of seventeen has already worked with companies such as Urban Outfitters and Brandy Melville and a sister duo who have their own hair care store. We’ve put so much work and love into this issue and we hope you enjoy it. Thanks for reading Nyota and following us on this journey! Instagram: @nyotamagazine Twitter: @NYOTAMagazine Youtube: Nyota Magazine Love your Co-EICs, Carol and Niara Wright
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EDITORS’ TOP PICKS CAROL’S PICKS SONGS: Juke Jam by Chance The Rapper,
Yes I’m Changing by Tame Impala
CLOTHING: Off the shoulder tops, button up skirts, striped tops LAST READ: Valley of the dolls by Jacqueline Susann MOST EXCITED FOR: College
NIARA’S PICKS SONGS: How Me Love (Skrillex Remix) by Hundred Waters ft. Chance the Rapper, Moses Sumney, and Robin Hannibal CLOTHING: Overalls, Coulottes, DIY Denim, white low top sneakers LAST READ: Started reading Girl Boss by Sophia Amoruso
NYOTA
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#NYOTAMUSIC
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NYOTA
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#NYOTAMUSIC
LA
PA IM E M TA / ER TT BE E TH W O KN I 1.THE LESS 2. ONE DANCE/ DRAKE
3. KEEP HER CLOSE/ ODESZA 4. ONE NIGHT/ LIL YACHT
5. FAMOUS/
Y KANYE WEST
6. SWEET LIFE/ FRANK OC
EAN
7. TIME TO PRETEND/ MGMT 8. JUKE JAM/ CHANCE THE
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RAPPER
s 0’
9
t
lis y a l P
NO SCRUBS/ TLC EARS BABY ONE MORE TIME/ BRITNEY SP FUGEES E TH / G N SO IS H H IT W LY FT SO E M KILLING VOGUE/ MADONNA 1979/ THE SMASHING PUMPKINS A SMELLS LIKE TEEN SPIRIT/ NIRVAN DA FUNK/ DAFT PUNK JUICY/ THE NOTORIOUS B.I.G
NYOTA
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#NYOTAMUSIC
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Aus C
stin Crute
by: Niara Wright
At the ripe age of 20, Austin Crute has accomplished more than most of us could ever dream to. Born and raised in
ATL but currently attending NYU, you can tell he’s a big city kind of guy with the skills to make it anywhere. The plug that connected us with Crute was our grandfathers, who happen to be bestfriends! (What are the odds?) In the midst of performing off broadway, the quadruple threat (that’s acting, singing, songwriting and producing) somehow found the time to have a chat with us here at NYOTA to tell us what’s next to come.
I loved creating, moving, conducting
2) HOW DID YOUR LOVE FOR MUSIC COME ABOUT? ACTING?
new energy. Music was and is the best
My love for music came about at a very
and easiest way for me to do that. I re-
1)FIRST OFF, CAN I SAY WOW! WHAT IGNITED ALL OF THIS TALENT?
young age. I would listen to artists like
member when my mom and aunt would
Destiny’s Child and N*Sync and look up
break cardboard hangers in half so I
Thank you! I grew up in ATL, GA in
to producers like Timbaland and Rodney
could use the cardboard as drumsticks
the church where I was exposed to
“Darkchild” Jerkins. My sister and brother
to drum around the house. I would cre-
many aspects of the performing arts.
brought so much music into the house
ate impromptu songs in the backseat of
As it pertains to the spark of said tal-
that I could absorb. It inspired me and
the family Suburban to and from point
ent in my DNA, it’s all God-given.
spoke to me in a way other things didn’t.
A and point B, beating on binders and NYOTA
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#NYOTAMUSIC seats with my family as my audience. As
that looks like in my body. From there,
can play the field, play your role, play
for acting, I loved running around the
it’s easier to dissect who they are. I think
with your imagination. To Play is to be
house pretending I was a spy or a secret
it may have something to do with how I
and to be free. Everyone will be able to
agent. I had imaginary friends. I played
see people too. Body language and fa-
hear that in this tape and in my work in
with action figures. I’ve always been fas-
cial expression are a big thing for me in
the future.
cinated with the art of becoming some-
terms of getting to know a person. I’m so
one else. With acting, I can do that as a
receptive to subtle things like that.
7) WHICH GENRE DO YOU CONSIDER YOURSELF grown up. UNDER? YOUR SINGLE ‘KNOCKED OUT’ HAS A 5) WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOUR MUSIC? WE KNOW HIP-HOP/TRAP KINDA VIBE. (SERIOUSLY ONE 3) YOU JUST RECENTLY GOT A STARRING YOU HAVE A NEW SINGLE COMING OUT, CARE OF MY JAMS RIGHT NOW) ROLE IN THE FAMOUS MUSICAL, HAIRSPRAY, TO GIVE US SOME DETAILS? Hahaha thanks. I’d consider myself a THROUGH YOUR SCHOOL’S ACTING CLUB. HOW My single “Play (Run It)” releases Friday, pop artist and songwriter, simply beHAS THAT BEEN GOING? April 22nd on Apple Music, Tidal, Spotify cause I love big hooks, I love mainstream
DON’T RUSH. EVERYBODY WANTS TO BE THE CHILD STAR. EVERYBODY WANTS TO BE A MILLIONAIRE BY 18. EVERYBODY FEELS THEY HAVE TO BLOW UP RIGHT NOW OR THEY’VE MISSED THEIR MOMENT. PHARRELL IS 40 BRUH. YOU HAVE TIME. It has been incredible! Tisch New The-
and Soundcloud! Bump it in your car, at
pop music, and I oftentimes write those
atre is an incredible, completely stu-
your house, at your school. This track is
kinds of tracks when I’m writing for
dent-run program that puts on Broad-
mad fun to listen to and it’s good for all
other artists. The world would probably
way-ready performances every Spring in
ages, so turn it up!
classify me as an R&B artist with Pop or
NYU’s Skirball Center. We’ve closed the show, but it was an amazing experience.
Hip-Hop tendencies, but I think I’m a pop
6) WILL WE EVER SEE AN ALBUM FROM YOU?
artist.
I made so many great new friends and
Oh yes, you surely will. My full mixtape
learned so much from this cast. There
named “PLAY” comes out May 1, 2016.
is truly nothing like being on stage and
I’m so excited for people to hear small
8) THE FUTURE’S LOOKING BRIGHT FOR YOU, WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF AFTER COLLEGE?
absorbing all the fantastic energy from
pieces of who I am in this tape. It is all
I see myself performing as an artist,
your audience and your fellow cast
written, produced, and performed by
getting song-writing and production
members. It gives me so much life!
yours truly. I have an animated person-
credits on A-list artists, and juggling be-
ality, so I tried to show many facets of
tween Broadway/musical theatre and
4) YOU ALSO PLAYED THE LEADING ROLE IN THE WIZ IN 2013. HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR A LEADING ROLE IN A PLAY?
that in this tape from the God-fearing
touring.
I usually get the physical component
man to the wild spirit just trying to have
9) WHO ARE SOME OF YOUR INSPIRATIONS? IN ENTERTAINMENT? IN GENERAL?
of the character down first: how they
fun in this crazy world. The word “PLAY”
I have a lot so I’m going to try and keep
walk, talk, act, their in-public personality
in general means so much in itself. You
the list short. My production inspirations
vs. their in-private personality and what
can play a track, you can play a girl, you
include Timbaland, Pharrell, will.i.am, Dr.
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MAGAZINE
young boy maintaining his faith in the industry to the kid transitioning to a young
Luke, Max Martin, Metro Boomin, Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins, and Diplo. Songwriting: Max Martin, Ryan Tedder, TC, Rae Sremmurd, Ester Dean, and Stacey Barthe amongst others. Artists include Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, Michael Jackson, Chris Brown, and Brandy. As for acting, I could name a few great actors that inspire me like Jennifer Lawrence, James Franco, Viola Davis, Will Smith, and Eddie Redmayne, but I think I draw less from actors and more from scenes that move me, regardless of the actor. I try to note choices the actor made in the moment and put it in my proverbial toolbox to use later. If the scene in the movie or TV show’s movement was so good that I forgot who was in it, and I only remember how it made me feel, I consider that golden. There are so many great working actors and I draw from all of them. In general, Jesus is my #1 inspiration, and I aspire to be like him in everything.
10) WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU WERE EVER GIVEN? Once I asked Pharrell, “What advice would you give to a pop songwriter/producer on how to place a hit record that’s unique and creative enough to raise eyebrows, but commercial enough to sound like it belongs in the Hot 100?” And he said “Don’t.” He said it doesn’t matter if your music sounds like a “hit”. If it’s hot to you and your 100 friends, you’ve done your job. Because at the end of the day, it’s you who has to be at peace when you go to sleep at night. Many past mentors have told me variations of this same thing, but I needed to hear that from him. I used to only feel the most confident and free in song-writing when I was writing for other artists. As a result, I feel NYOTA
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#NYOTAMUSIC
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I’ve made a majority of my best work for
jump the gun and sign a deal. Don’t feel
other people rather than myself. College
anxious because you’re enjoying your
continues to be a time of self-discovery,
childhood or adolescence or even adult-
self-exploration, and the cultivation of
hood. Live your life in peace, and your
self-love where I can be myself and not
talent and professionalism will make a
give a flying flip about what anybody
way for you. Also, evaluate your dreams.
thinks of me and my art. For example,
They have to be realistic. Don’t chase a
I use to be hesitant to rap on songs,
dream of being a singer, and you low-
because I thought that after hearing it,
key objectively know you can’t sing.
white people would label me a rapper.
Know yourself, be honest with yourself.
While there’s a chance that’s true, I’ve
Seek out people that love you enough to
grown to say “Who cares?!” Let people
tell you the truth. Also seek out people
think what they want. I make what I
whose love for you does not blind them
make, and I love it.
from seeing your blatant flaws. If your parents are always cheering you on and
11) WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHERS ASPIRING TO BE IN ENTERTAINMENT?
not criticizing those iffy notes and off-
Don’t rush. Everybody wants to be the
when you know you were bad, some-
child star. Everybody wants to be a mil-
thing may be off. Your dreams and your
lionaire by 18. Everybody feels they have
abilities must be in line with each other.
moments from time to time, especially
to blow up right now or they’ve missed their moment. Pharrell is 40 bruh. You
12) DO YOU HAVE ANY OTHER TALENTS?
have time. Now, granted he had his hand
Not many people know that I am really
in many other things before he reached
good at drawing. My drawing game is on
this point, which is why you do have to
point. I can’t draw portraits of existing
grind and follow your dreams as soon as
people, but just give me a pencil and a
possible. But know that while time is of
blank piece of paper, and I’ll surprise you…
the essence, as long as you are doing all you can do to grow yourself and progress in your respective branch of the entertainment industry, God will give you your time when your times comes. Don’t
Learn more about Austin Crute at
AustinCrute.com NYOTA
MAGAZINE // 17
#NYOTAMUSIC
ALUNA GEORGE DISCLOSURE BEACH HOUSE
FLUME
ALESSIA CARA
THE 1975
TWO DOOR CINEMA CLUB TAME IMPALA 18 //
NYOTA
MAGAZINE
BEYONCE
PASSIONS by: Joshua Tull
There are two sides of me that my friends and family know very well, one
not wait because I know in my bones my
cool to know once you get a basic un-
music will resonate with people.
derstanding of it. Along with the body,
being my love for music and one my
But like I said earlier I do not only dab-
like anything else, there is wear and tear
passion for medicine. They give me an
ble in music. As a kid I remember taking
and that is where physicians come in to
equal balance of what I need and I am
frequent trips to the hospital because of
determine the necessary cause of action
grateful that God has placed these de-
my own condition, but instead of being
in response to such changes that occur
sires in me. Music is my go to for any-
scared I was more intrigued about how
in the body. My goal is to become a suc-
thing. When I am having a really good
doctors knew what needed to be done
cessful medical physician who contrib-
day I make a beat, and when I have a re-
to make sure I was ok. The human body
utes not only through medicine but by
ally off day I also make beats. My beats
is a beautifully complicated system that
giving excellent patient care. That makes
are an extension of who I am which
requires so much understanding, and I
the difference whether or not a patient
makes them so powerful. I like sharing
find that amazing. Everything builds off
wants to see you again. Humanity and
my music because to me it is just an-
of each other in the body, meaning that
compassion is needed in this field be-
other method of connecting to people’s
specific cells in the body have a unique
cause just as in music, it gives people
hearts. Everyone has a song that they go
purpose contributing to a type of tissue.
something to relate to.
to depending on how they feel, so I try to
The tissue meshes together and forms
capture all emotions when I make mu-
an organ whereas the organ has an ex-
sic because it gives someone something
tensive function designed to carry out
HUMANITY AND COMPASSION IS NEEDED IN THIS FIELD BECAUSE JUST AS IN MUSIC, IT GIVES PEOPLE SOMETHING TO RELATE TO. that they can relate to. I can say I have
daily operations that allow a person to
definitely come a long way from when I
eat without their stomach dissolving or
first started making beats. I remember
carry out gas exchange between O2 and
using a PSP game system to make beats
CO2 lung interior and phasing through a
using a game designed by the producer
membrane filling areolar sacs that carry
Timbaland. Now I use a real program
oxygenated blood back to the heart via
called Logic and with it my own setup.
the pulmonary veins allowing blood to
Soon I will be in the process of selling my
circulate through the body again by go-
music because I believe now I am in a
ing through the aorta. My point being,
place where I am marketable, and can-
everything is connected and it is pretty NYOTA
MAGAZINE // 19
#NYOTAFASHION
by: Carol Wright When people say #Twinning is #Winning, they must be referring to the awe-
also very different, which only makes
some twin sister duo, Claire and Shawn
us stronger. I’m more outspoken and
Buitendorp. Being founders of a bangin’
drawn to edgier styles, while Claire is
heard the phrase ‘Shock and Awe’ - it’s
clothing company, Shock and Awww,
more detail-oriented and loves more
actually a military term that means a
and the winners of VH1’s show #Twin-
feminine, flowing looks. With that com-
quick overthrow in battle. When we
ning, I guess you can agree that twin-
bination, we knew we could be a success
heard the term we immediately knew
ning is winning, right?
at whatever we set our minds to, wheth-
it’d be the perfect way to describe our
er it was competing on VH1’s Twinning
goal - dominating the fashion industry. It
SO, HOW LONG HAVE YOU TWO KNOWN
or working to create new looks for Katy
was only later that we realized that each
EACH OTHER? JK, JK. BUT SERIOUSLY, DID
Perry. Plus, who better to trust as a busi-
word represented us as individuals:
YOU EVER THINK YOU GUYS WOULD CRE-
ness partner than your twin sister?
Shawn is the shock - she loves powerful, ground-breaking, bold looks and isn’t
ATE SUCH SUCCESS TOGETHER?
Shawn: Claire and I have always known we would be working together
HOW DID SHOCK AND AWWW COME TO BE?
afraid to take risks or stand out; I’m the
( AND WHAT’S UP WITH THE THIRD “W”?)
awww, in the sense that I’m more com-
because we share the same interests,
Claire: In college we studied fashion
fortable in delicate, flirty dresses and
passions and are drawn to the same
technology. For one of our classes we
skirts that make me feel glamorous. We
aesthetics. Growing up, Claire and I
were required to build our own fashion
added the third ‘w’ because it’s different.
were inseparable so it was natural for
business and conduct a market analy-
Shock and Awww is all about embracing
us to build a business together. We’re
sis. One night we were watching tv and
your individuality, standing out and be-
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For us, the fun part is getting to inject some Shock and Awww into their looks while remaining true to each person’s individual brand ing true to yourself. The musicians, ac-
WHAT MADE YOU GUYS DECIDE TO COM-
people in the Rose Garden. We’re always
tors and trend-setters we dress are all
PETE ON THE SHOW “#TWINNING” ?
surprised by how supportive and pas-
confident people who aren’t defined by
Shawn: A representative from VH1 ac-
sionate our fans are - recently a set of
labels or the norm and the third ‘w’ rep-
tually found us online and contacted us
twins took photos of themselves sport-
resents that.
about being in the show because we had
ing our signature hairstyles and tagged
dressed so many people in the enter-
us - we loved it!
TWINS ARE ALWAYS KNOWN TO BE STUCK
tainment industry. Although
TOGETHER, BUT YOU GUYS DON’T SEEM
we never thought about be-
TO MIND IT. HAVE YOU ALWAYS WORKED
ing on reality-tv before, we
SO WELL TOGETHER?
knew it’d be a great opportu-
Shawn: Definitely! We’re not just
nity to showcase our brand
twins, we’re best friends. We do pretty
and introduce ourselves to
much everything together and because
VH1’s viewers. We’re working
our personalities are so different we re-
on building a flagship store
ally never get tired of each other.
in NYC and expanding to in-
HOW DID YOU GUYS DEVELOP YOUR LOVE
clude a men’s collection so
FOR FASHION?
we figured the extra capital
Claire: We’ve never had to develop a love of fashion because it’s always been
could only help as we moved forward.
there. Our grandmother lived with us when we were younger and she was
HOW WAS THE EXPERIENCE?
obsessed with style. She wasn’t your
HAVE YOU EVER MET ANY FANS
typical grandmother; she’d dye her hair
OF YOURS?
all kinds of different colors, constantly
Claire: The experience was great - while
EVEN THOUGH YOU GUYS ARE TWINS, YOU
wore crazy, bright-colored jewelry and
the challenges were hard, the biggest
HAVE SUCH COOL AND UNIQUE STYLES.
wasn’t afraid to push the boundaries
obstacle we faced was being apart from
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE
when it came to what to wear. She re-
each other for so long. We also made a
PERSONALITIES AND HOW THEY WORK TO-
ally inspired us and taught us how to be
lot of twin friends, which was incredible
GETHER FOR YOUR BRAND?
comfortable in our own skin. Today so
since we had never been surrounded
Shawn: Thank you! Shock and Awww
many of the designs we create are in-
by so many twins before. In NYC, we
is all about duality; regardless of wheth-
spired by her love of bright colors and
get recognized all the time! In fact, we
er you love jeans and bomber jackets
unique prints.
were just at Coachella and got to meet
or are drawn to long, beautiful, elegant
and take pictures with so many amazing
skirts, we have something you’ll love. My NYOTA
MAGAZINE // 21
#NYOTAFASHION
style personality is all about bold choic-
can you really choose between Katy
to be wild, tons of fun and completely
es. I love faded boyfriend jeans, leather
Perry, Little Mix, Nervo, Lindsey Stirling
outrageous. We also have a tv project
jackets and statement pieces that make
and Ricky Jarman? You can’t, which is
in the pipeline, so stay tuned!
me feel fierce.
why we’re so lucky to be where we are today. The great thing about dressing
WHERE CAN WE FIND YOU ON SOCIAL
Claire: I’m someone who adores clas-
entertainment professionals is that ev-
MEDIA?
sic silhouettes, ruffles and flowers. For
eryone who comes to us has their own
Shawn: You can check out Shock and
me, fashion is all about feeling glamor-
personal style and knows who they are
Awwww on Twitter at @shockandaw-
ous.
and what inspires them. For us, the fun
ww, Facebook at Shock and Awww and
part is getting to inject some Shock and
on Instagram @shockandawww. You
Shawn: We want to show people you
Awww into their looks while remaining
can also follow us on Instagram at @
can combine my bomber-jacket look
true to each person’s individual brand.
claireandshawn and on Facebook at
with Claire’s elegance to create a domi-
It’s great to grow with young artists too -
Shawn Claire Buitendorp. You can also
nant look that demands attention.
collaborating with someone who hasn’t
visit our Facebook fan page at Claire
yet found their look is one of the best
and Shawn Buitendorp Fan.
WHAT WAS IT LIKE WORKING WITH BETSEY
parts about being a fashion designer be-
JOHNSON? ( I LOVE HER!)
cause it gives us the freedom to come
Shawn: We do too! In so many ways
up with a variety of looks and see what
we consider Betsey our style-godmoth-
makes the artist feel most unstoppable.
er. From her use of bright colors to her iconic prints and unique designs,
WHERE DO YOU DRAW INSPIRATION FROM
Betsey has found a way to stand out in
WHEN DESIGNING?
this industry, which is often hard to do.
Shawn: From everywhere!
She’s also given us the confidence to set
When you live in NYC, it’s so
trends in motion and be ourselves. Like
hard not to be inspired.
Betsey, we love making people feel pow-
much of what we do is based
erful, regardless of their style. From sexy
off of what’s all around us -
vixen to flirty party-girl Betsey has some-
artwork, nature, architecture.
thing for everyone and we really try to
Even the pulse of the city is con-
do that too. We hope to collaborate with
tagious. We really try to incor-
Betsey on future projects, especially as
porate the energy of Manhattan
we’re showing this upcoming Septem-
into everything we create.
So
ber during New York Fashion Week. WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU GUYS? ANY YOU GUYS HAVE WORKED WITH SOME
COOL NEW PROJECTS THAT YOU
AMAZING NAMES IN ENTERTAINMENT AND
CAN SHARE WITH US?
FASHION. WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE PERSON
Claire: We’re launching our de-
SHOCK AND AWWW HAS EVER COLLABO-
but collection during New York
RATED WITH?
Fashion Week this upcoming Sep-
Claire: Because we’ve worked with so
tember at a magnificent location
many incredibly talented people it’s so
we have to keep secret for now.
hard to choose just one! I mean, how
We’re doing something no other brand has done before but it’s going
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Our
collection
is
available
www.shockandawww.com
at
NYOTA
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#NYOTAFASHION
Denim Choker $30, houseofflair.co Vava Voom; Boots
s ’ 0 9
Earrings $30, atomik3.com; Vava Voom Muscle Tank, shockandawww.com
S
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ial
ditor E r e m um
Vote for Pedro tee; Sunset Strip jeans $650,shockandawww.com; Hightop Converse
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#NYOTAFASHION
“Aint Laurent with out Yves” Beanie $40, urbanoutfitters.com; Hollywood and Vine Bomber $2500, shockandawww.com; Forever 21 Bodycon Dress; Converse
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Black crop top $29, urbanoutfitters.com; Stardom Jeans $650,shockandawww.com
o , sh 2500 e $ r vers ombe ne B ess; Con i V d d an ycon Dr d ywoo Holl r 21 Bo e v e For
om;
ww.c
daw ckan
NYOTA
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#NYOTAFASHION
Choker $25, houseofflair.com; Hollywood and Vine Bomber $2500, shockandawww.com; denim skirt 28 //
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MAGAZINE
Necklace, model’s own; Black cropped top $29, urbanoutfitters.com; Joggers, shockandawww.com; Adidas Original Superstar Shelltop Sneakers $80, adidas.com NYOTA
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White cropped top $24, urbanoutfitters.com; Glitterati Jeans $750, shockandawww.com
#NYOTAFASHION
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NYOTA
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Earrings $30, atomik3.com; Black cropped top $29, urbanoutfitters.com
#NYOTAFASHION
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Earrings $30, atomik3.com; Stardom Jeans $650, Knock out Bomber $850 , shockandawww. com; Black crop top $29, urbanoutfitters.com
NYOTA
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#NYOTAFASHION
BEAUTIFULLY by: Taryn Farrior
E
FLAWED
VERY FASHION PUBLICA-
that fit. Don’t be afraid to go up a size, it’s
high and a bright smile. Mesh can be the
TION SHOULD HAVE EQUAL
all about you being comfortable in what
sole style of the outfit, or even woven
representation. I remember
you wear. Confidence glows from the in-
into where the cut-outs are to create a
reading one of my favorite magazines
side. When you feel beautiful, you look
sexy illusion [Always leave them want-
and noticing the absence of a plus
beautiful and a smile is the best acces-
ing more]. Crop tops are best worn with
size section. A demographic that is
sory that you can strut. It sounds cliché
high-waist bottoms, whether it is skirts,
growing everyday should be included
but it is so true. Confidence is something
shorts, skorts, or pants, so to create a
just as much as any other. Now more
that you have to exude even though you
smooth and neat silhouette, you should
than ever, the plus-sized community is
may not feel it all the way. You may think
always opt to accentuate your waist.
standing up and speaking out on the
that you have all of these insecurities
Honestly this year is all about embrac-
under-representation. Every woman
and that every other woman is perfect,
ing you, your authentic self. No one
deserves to be acknowledged of their
but honey let me tell you something, we
else can be you, so you may as well kill
beauty; plus-sized, thin, short, tall, eb-
all have something about us that makes
it. Wear the clothes that you want, the
ony and porcelain skinned, all women
us feel insecure. However, that insecu-
makeup that you love, and be happy.
are beautiful and it is time that the
rity does not cancel out all of the things
Don’t worry about the people who aren’t
media admit it. I remember as a child,
that make us beautiful, we’re beautifully
happy for you, they probably aren’t hap-
when my confidence was nonexistent
flawed, all of us.
py for themselves either.
and I looked to others and the media
All summer sixteen is a season of pas-
to tell me that I was beautiful, however
tels, cut-outs, mesh, crop-tops, floppy
now, through hard work and patience,
hats, bold stripes and deep hues, hon-
I can tell myself that I am beautiful and
estly anything that suits your style and
believe it wholeheartedly. Similar to
makes you feel the best you that you can
my younger self, there are many girls,
be. As a woman of a larger size, I’d nor-
young women, and adult women who
mally look at that list and cringe. How-
aren’t quite fully in love with them-
ever, remember what I said before? – it’s
selves. It is time for the media to stop
not about what you wear but how you
telling women of a larger size what they
wear it. When it comes to pastels, it is al-
shouldn’t wear and that a particular
ways good to neutralize it with a “toned-
trend is not for them. What I’ve learned
down” color such as grey, taupe, white,
throughout the years is that size only
thyme, and a beautiful frosted almond.
dictates how you wear certain trends.
Now if you decide to sport cut-outs,
The key to staying fabulous as a curvy
don’t be shy when you put on that outfit,
or plus-sized women is to wear clothes
wear it confidently, with your head held
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FORMATION WORLD TOUR STYLE NYOTA
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#NYOTAFASHION
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’ 0 9
#NYOTAFASHION
HAIR AND MAKEUP/ ACCESSORIES SHOOT 38 //
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’
s NYOTA
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Chantea is wearing Necklace,$30, Bracelet, $15, houseofflair.co;Glasses, Vintage Tom Ford, Stylist’s own; Rings, Model’s Own. Alexandra is wearing Bracelets, $30 for the set, houseofflair.co
#NYOTAFASHION
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Chantea is wearing Rings, Model’s Own; Nail Polish, runghcosmetics.com
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#NYOTAFASHION
Alexandra is wearing Bracelets(from left to right): Bangles, $15 each, Beaded Bracelet,$15, Fabric Bracelet, $30, Beaded Bracelet set, $30, House of Flair; Nails, runghcosmetics.com; Midi rings, $16 each, houseofflair.co ; Necktie, Brandy Melville USA. 42 //
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Sunglasses, YSL, stylist’s own; Chanel per set, houseofflair.co ; Necktie,Bran
l Hair Pins, $30 ndy Melville USA. NYOTA
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Chantea is wearing Rings, Model’s Own; Nail Polish, runghcosmetics.com
#NYOTAFASHION
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Neha is wearing Hair pins $10 each, Ring $16, houseofflair.co , Nails, runghcosmetics.com NYOTA
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Jess is wearing Hair pins $40 each, Denim Choker $50, Assorted Bracelets $15 each, Rings $16, houseofflair. co ; Phone case $10, Nordstrom’s Rack; Chantea is wearing Necklace $30, Bracelet $15, houseofflair.co;Glasses Vintage Tom Ford, Stylist’s own; Rings, Model’s Own; Phone case,$15 fashionnova.com.
#NYOTAFASHION
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Neha is wearing Bracelets $10 each, Ring $16, houseofflair.co
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#NYOTAFASHION
Jess is wearing Nails, runghcosmetics.com; Bracelet $10, Ring $16, houseofflair.co 48 //
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Jess is wearing Demin Choker $30, houseofflair.co
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#NYOTAFASHION
FOUR MEN’S SUMMER STYLE ESSENTIALS by: Jacob Hill
If you’re trying to be fashionable and trendy while staying comfortable in the heat, this is an easy guide on what to wear this summer.
1
FITTED SHORTS If there’s one thing that you must have this summer, this is it. The look for the summer has switched from baggy cargo shorts to slimmer and higher shorts over the last couple years. These shorts are more fitted to the leg and should be either right at the knee cap or an inch or two higher. These can either be sweat pant material for a casual look or khaki material for a slightly dressier look. The Black or Grey sweat pant material shorts have become a well known trend because not only are they comfortable, but they also can be worn with many things. As far as the dressier shorts, these are bought in a large array of colors.
2
EXTENDED T’S Even though we’ve moved from the big and baggy look many years ago, the long T has made a comeback. Unlike the big T’s years ago, these ones are long, but still fitted to the body a little more. You can either wear these extended T’s under a shorter shirt or as the main shirt. When wearing these they go well with the fitted shorts and also skinny jeans. Long sleeve extended T’s are also a thing but some stay away from it because of the heat. If you’re going to do a long sleeve its best that the material is light. 50 //
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3
“GO TO” SHOES Everyone needs that pair of shoes that are considered their “Go to.” When you can’t really figure out what shoes to wear, these are the ones that you turn to. The shell toe Adidas Originals have made a huge comeback and are a great example of “Go to” shoes. They have a lot versatility, making them able to go with just about everything. The Sk8-Hi Vans are another trending shoe that also have the ability to go with many different outfits. These also come in a low style which have the same affect as the highs. If not both, it is a must to have one of these shoes.
4
WRIST ACCESSORIES The accessories always add a little more style to every outfit you put on. Of course the watch is the most popular, but one of the new trends is wearing a little more along with the watch. A lot of places that sell wrist accessories sell them in packs, following the new trend. Other than the watch, wrist accessories that go well with every outfit are beaded bracelets, faux leather and cord packs, and gold or silver bangles. Last summer the faux leather and cord packs were big, but this summer the bangle bracelets seem to be one of the favorites.
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#NYOTACULTURE
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#NYOTACULTURE
KD HAIR CARE SUPPLY STORE IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY TO START YOUR
Inspirational Feature
OWN BUSINESS AND IF YOU’RE AFRAID TO GO AT IT ALONE, WHY NOT DO IT WITH YOUR SISTER? KEONNA AND KAYLA ARE TWO CALI NATIVES WHO WERE BRAVE ENOUGH TO OPEN THEIR OWN BRICK AND MORTAR HAIR SUPPLY STORE. WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL? THEY HAVE ACCOMPLISHED THIS AT JUST 21 AND 19 YEARS OLD! IMPRESSED YET? CONTINUE READING TO SEE HOW THEY MADE IT ALL HAPPEN.
by: Carol & Niara Wright
it was a long and hard process but we ended up doing it. 4.)I ALSO WORK WITH MY SISTER, WE ARE 22 AND 17. HOW DO YOU GUYS LIKE WORKING TOGETHER?
It’s comfortable, we both know each 1.) THE TWO OF YOU ARE INCREDIBLY
people to travel too far or get lost trying
other well. We know how we work and
YOUNG TO HAVE STARTED YOUR OWN
to find us.
how we’re feeling at certain days so we’re not to hard on each other. But also
BUSINESS. (PERSONALLY I THINK THAT’S AWESOME) WAS THERE EVER ANYONE
3.) HOW DID THE IDEA COME ABOUT FOR
we trust each other, we both wouldn’t
WHO TRIED TO DETER YOU FROM OPEN-
YOU TWO TO START THE SHOP TOGETHER?
purposely hurt each other or do any-
ING A HAIR CARE SHOP BECAUSE OF YOUR
Well it came about when Keonna just
thing out of spite.
graduated High School and Kayla was
AGES?
Well Personally, there wasn’t anyone
in her Senior year. We were looking for
5.) WHAT STRENGTHS DO EACH OF YOU
who tried to stop us from opening our
jobs endlessly each and everyday, 24/7
BRING?
own business, but there have been
constant searching all day and night. So
Well, Keonna is stronger at getting our
people who didn’t think we were seri-
we ended up complaining to our mom
inventory out on time and getting it into
ous about opening our own store. And
about not having jobs and no money for
the system pretty quick. And Kayla is
some others who thought we were jok-
the things we want etc. And our mom
better at engaging the customers, talk-
ing about having our own store.
ended up giving us a lecture and en-
ing to them and getting what they need.
couraging words to work for ourselves!
So it’s a Fair balance.
2.) WHAT WERE YOUR BIGGEST OBSTACLES
So we decided to put our heads together
WHEN TRYING TO OPEN UP THE SHOP?
and figure out what we can do, by this
6.) WHO DO YOU HOPE TO INSPIRE WITH
I think for us our biggest obstacle was
time we had our website we just wanted
THIS SHOP? HOW DO YOU HOPE TO USE
researching which products that people
to see what else can we do to take it fur-
THE SHOP AS A WAY TO MAKE CHANGE IN
use and a great location. We didn’t want
ther. So we thought about a store front,
YOUR COMMUNITY?
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We hope to inspire other young kids
be green the next week it could be blue.
out there, so they know that they can
For Kayla it could be long, short, wavy
own their own business and do what
or curly. We like to experiment with our
they please. You can do whatever you
hair to switch up our appearance. So
want and build your own empire on
why not go to business for it?
your own. But we do hope to inspire other young kids out there to do what
10.)WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR
they have passion for, regardless of
OTHER YOUNG GIRLS WANTING TO START
what others might say.
THEIR OWN BUSINESS?
Just Do it! Regardless of what people 7.) HOW DO YOU KNOW WHICH PROD-
may say or do to bring you down, just go
UCTS TO BUY?
for it. It’ll be scary at first for sure, but as
It’s mostly us asking the community on social media, and in person each
long as you hold your passion you can do it.
day. Moreover, it’s more of us going out and doing research on what products
11.)WHAT ARE THE NATURAL HAIR TRENDS
people use, what’s the new hot topic,
FOR THIS SUMMER?
etc.
From what we’ve seen, the crotchet twist. Or just crochet hair in general,
8.)WHAT’S IT LIKE BEING YOUR OWN
even braids!
BOSS?
It’s a lot of work, but overall it’s so amazing being able to do what you
12.)WHERE DO YOU SEE YOUR BUSINESS IN 5 YEARS?
want when you want. We can choose
We see us with another store front
what to do with our own shop and how
possibly on the east coast. That’s our
we want it ran. It’s a humbling feeling
next step definitely.
knowing this business is yours, not a lot of people have that opportunity.
13.)WHERE CAN OUR READERS FIND YOU ON SOCIAL MEDIA?
9.)HAS HAIR ALWAYS BEEN YOUR PASSION?
For both of us yes in way. Keonna is
Our instagram is: KDHAIRCARELLC our twitter: @KDHAIRCARELLC our facebook: KD Haircare Supply LLC
always dying her hair, one day it could NYOTA
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#NYOTACULTURE
What I Learned During My Educational Journey POST GRAD TESTIMONIES
WHAT I LEARNED IN HIGHSCHOOL
by: Afrah Boateng
11:30 on Friday September 7, 2012
environment where people were willing
more and often gaining new skills. I am
marks the debut of a series of anxiety
to help others. However, I guess I didn’t
fortunate to have been in a community
inducing meals; it was my first lunch as
know quite the extent of their altruism.
where everyone I came across was be-
a Solebury freshman. In the beginning,
One thing about high school is, everyone
nevolent enough to share their most
I would sit with any other freshman
goes through the same thing. Every se-
precious asset--their time.
girls, but as the year winded down and
nior was once a freshman and, chances
I hadn’t made friends who were loyal
are, they too had their share of awkward
in getting the confidence to go to lunch
enough to wait until I finished eating
lunch room experiences. Most make it
was to have faith. I didn’t expect to learn
my yogurt to leave the table, I reduced
through this phase and are more than
in high school--a place where one skill
myself to having lunch in my dorm. Al-
willing to share any advice on how to get
obtained is calculated decision making--
most 7 months of solitary lunches had
through it. I also learned that it’s ok to sit
that sometimes you just have to take a
passed before, in May 2013, I tried to
with older students--or anyone, for that
risk and go into something completely
reintroduce the dining hall to my life. It
matter. Even after my awkward lunch
unsure of the outcome and leave the
was hard to get used to having meals in
phase, I continued to ask for help from
rest to fate. At the core I learned that if
there again. But here are 3 things that
various people for a variety of reasons.
I was afraid of something for irrational
I learned in the process that made high
I met with my math teacher after school
reasons, the best thing for me to do is,
school, and life overall, an exciting ex-
to talk about what I didn’t understand
as Nike says, “Just do it.” After mastering
perience.
in class. I asked my co-leaders to help
“doing” lunch, I found myself “just doing”
The first thing I learned in mustering
me organize events and meetings for
in so many other ways. When I was afraid
the courage to go to lunch--without
the Black Student Affinity club. I asked
of turning in a paper on time because I
any guarantee that someone would
several language teachers to help me
though it wasn’t perfect enough I took a
sit with me--was to ask for help when
construct the essays that got me into
deep breath and told myself to “just do
I needed it. I knew--ever since my first
college. Asking for help could some-
it.” When my team of social entrepre-
day of classes, when a senior seeing
times be scary because it means you’ve
neurs and I wanted to alleviate hunger
my puzzled expression as I stared at
recognized that there is something that
in our county--without knowing exactly
my schedule, walked me to the math
you cannot do on your own. But it is re-
how--we took a leap of faith and ended
and science building-- that I was in an
warding because you end up learning
up raising thousands of pounds of food
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The second major key I learned
POST-COLLEGE
“Asking for help could sometimes be scary because it means you’ve recognized that there is something that you cannot do on your own. But it is rewarding because you end up learning more and often gaining new skills.” for our local community, all because
and it is meant to be enjoyed. So I decid-
we “just did it.” I went into making my
ed to have a more positive outlook and
first film without any film experience by
just enjoy myself, the food, the weather,
having a goal and telling myself to “just
or the company. I started to enjoy so
by: Brett Gordon
do it”. I’ve won a chicken wing eating
much more. One thing that to this day
I graduate college in less than a month
competition, gotten best film in a fes-
surprises me about myself is my ability
and have zero clue what I want to do
tival, and have been awarded twice for
to enjoy such wide variety of things. I’m
with my career. From an early age we
community service all because I “just
often that friend who’s “down for what-
are asked what job we want when we
did it.” I never thought thought making
ever” because I manage to have fun no
grow up, but I have realized that finding
it to the cafeteria could teach me that.
matter what I’m doing. When I’m strug-
what I do not want is more important. I
Third, I learned to have fun. It’s just
gling to get through Calculus class, I still
don’t want to live in a cubicle, I’m in no
lunch. On my second day as a fresh-
enjoy being in a room full of familiar
rush to go work for a huge corporation
man I called home in tears complaining
faces with my superb teacher, even if I
and be a little fish in a big pond. Come
to my family about how much I didn’t
don’t completely understand what he’s
May, I am going to pursue my newest
like my school. And I continued to share
writing on the board. After losing a bas-
venture, droning. I recently began a full
my tale of woe when I’d go home for
ketball game, my team and I still have
service aerial drone business where I
breaks. But at the same time, I did not
fun grabbing a bite at the nearest food
take care of everything from flight op-
feel entitled to complain. When I went
store. Despite the hardships in certain
erations to back end post production.
home, I often wouldn’t see my mom
situations, I learned to stay positive and
Recognizing that the industry is growing
for most of the day because she was
have fun, like my family taught me. And
and that personally I am ready to give
at work. My sister was working on get-
lunch did become fun.
it my all, the potential is only limited to
ting into college. My older brother was
Now, lunch is just another regular part
my desire. Summer is a time for doing
studying in Maryland, farther from his
of my day. I seldom know what’s for
what you enjoy, which is why in addi-
family than I was. My youngest broth-
lunch or, sometimes, who’s gonna be
tion to my drone business I will be at
ers were both entering adolescence,
there. But I tend to have a good time.
the beach, playing basketball and baby-
which is always difficult. And I was just
Lunch is now just another meal, but in
sitting. I won’t stop enjoying what I do
worrying about lunch. I felt happy with
my freshman year, it taught me valu-
because I know my passions will lead
my family because we could always
able lessons that I can use for the rest
me to success. This is also why I am not
laugh, even though things weren’t al-
of my life. I will always need to ask for
afraid to graduate without a job when
ways easy. They reminded me to not
help when I need it, have faith, and have
thousands of other students are. I can-
take something as trivial as lunch so se-
fun. These major keys have guided me
not and will not settle and am excited
riously and to just enjoy it. High school
through 4 fulfilling years and will contin-
to begin my life and career post-college.
is such a fundamental time in one’s life,
ue to guide me in times to come. NYOTA
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WHAT I LEARNED THROUGH HIGHSCHOOL by: Ariel Bonneau
Dear Ariel,
can proudly look back on your four
only will my meticulous and detail ori-
“So in Diane’s class we have been
years of high school and you are able
ented tendencies do me well in Forensic
talking about time capsules. I never
to comfortably say that you are proud.
Science, my field of study, but I will never
thought of writing a letter to my future
I am truly proud with the person I have
feel ashamed that it is part of who I am.
self for the very simple reason that it is
become in these four years. I had a hard
I hope you find the discipline to keep
awkward and what if everything I wish
time making friends and I was terribly
trudging through the things you don’t
I would have done, I never did. Talk
shy. I often kept myself locked up in my
want to do, but you know you have to
about a huge let down. But if I remem-
dorm room. But high school taught me
in order to find the road to success. I
ber to find this when I graduate, I will
that some of my happiest moments are
hope that you are so much stronger
make it my goal to live my high school
spent surrounded by other people who
than you think you are. Like most, I was
career to the fullest so that I won’t read
make me smile.
a huge procrastinator and high school
this and think I let myself down. So here
My freshman year I was also wildly
has taught me the time management
we go. Hi Ariel Joy Bonneau. I’m Ariel
insecure and I was always in doubt with
and discipline skills that I will need to
too, and I am a 14 year old freshman at
myself. I hope by now you have learned
succeed in college. Anyway, again, with
Solebury school.”
to identify yourself and your passions.
triumph I hope you can loudly say “Ariel,
On September 22nd, 2012, I wrote a
Though I have a hard time loving myself
one day you are going to take the world
letter to myself, that should only be read
now, and figuring out who exactly I am,
by storm.” I promise one day I will.
on June 11th, 2016, otherwise known as
maybe now you will know. I can say that
the day I graduate high school. In this
this is true. I love who I am and who I
letter, my fourteen year old self had
have become and I realize that there is
written down all of my dreams, ‘hope
no point in comparing myself to other
to be’s, and goals. While my high school
people because I will always be my own
career was coming to a finish, I was
harshest critic and my own biggest com-
slightly unsettled knowing I would read
petitor.
this letter. I thought I would be hopelessly let down.
I hope you feel proud of your great dedication to things. I want you to know
Nonetheless, I read the letter and
your strengths by this time and put
I was pleasantly surprised of what I
them to use. I used to believe that my
learned about myself through my high
OCD made me weird or a bad person.
school journey. I hope that you are sat-
I was so ashamed I did not want to tell
isfied with yourself, not in a, “I never
anyone and I kept a lot of my struggles
have to work hard or improve again,”
in the dark. But I can confidently say that
type of way. But in the way where you
my OCD will do me well in college. Not
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A REFLECTION ON HIGH SCHOOL by: Carol Wright
On night drives when the sky is inky
that things are changing. Instead they
back I always wish I had been more out-
black and music is softly playing from
throw themselves into thinking about
spoken freshman year. I always wished
the radio, I look out the window and
what’s to come.
that I didn’t think I wasn’t smart enough
become suddenly nostalgic. It’s an odd
Early in the morning, when my father
to be in any of my classes and I wish I
feeling to become nostalgic of some-
is driving down the hill infested roads of
knew there were other people who were
thing that hasn’t happened yet. But
Phillip’s Mill and my eyes are un-blurring
unsure of themselves, too, but I didn’t
this year specifically I tend to only think
from sleep, is the only time I think in
and I can’t go and change the past so
ahead, never in the moment. Soon I’ll
the present. Before we pull into Sole-
I have to accept everything that I did
be moving out, soon I will not see these
bury’s driveway and I’m forced to listen
Freshman, Sophomore and Junior year
people every day, and soon all of these
to teachers try and keep sleep-deprived
that has led to where I am now.
moments will just be memories. Think-
teenagers awake with Shakespeare and
The perks of being a wallflower sums
ing in the moment only occurs when
quadratic equations. I am present. Even
up my thoughts perfectly. “I know these
I am in class, half asleep and thinking
though being present only lasts for a
will all be stories someday. And our pic-
about how much easier freshman year
moment at times, it is a good break from
tures will become old photographs. And
was, but then I go from thinking in the
the stress of thinking about what might
we’ll become somebody’s mom or dad.
present to thinking in the past.
happen in the future based off the mis-
But right now these moments are not
“I know these will all be stories someday. And our pictures will become old photographs. And we’ll become somebody’s mom or dad. But right now these moments are not stories.” It’s common this year to hear “re-
stories.”
takes of the past.
member when” come from someone’s
If my freshman year self was more se-
mouth, followed by a few laughs and
rious and hardworking then maybe my
a smile. Then that statement is accom-
current GPA wouldn’t be suffering and if
panied by, “I can’t believe we’re gradu-
my sophomore year self had been more
ating,” followed by more smiles and a
confident then maybe it would have
pause in conversation. Each person
been easier to make friends in various
takes just a moment to reflect, but it
different friend groups, and if my Junior
doesn’t last long because no one wants
year self was who I was all four years
it to. Graduating means change and
of High School I think there would have
most people tend to ignore the fact
been less bumps in the road. Looking NYOTA
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#NYOTACULTURE
Chloe Boudames
by: Carol Wright
mous” account that no one knew about, I felt like I sort of lived a double life, kind of like Hannah Montana haha. I never expected to have a large following and am still blessed to have a large group of people that enjoy seeing my work. 5. WHAT DRIVES YOU TO KEEP TAKING PHOTOS?
Besides the thrill of working with companies, I believe it’s the feeling I get during and after I have a shoot. There’s nothing I love more than going through the photos after my shoots and seeing what came of the photos. 6. WHEN DID YOU REALIZE PHOTOGRAPHY WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?
YOU MAY KNOW CHLOE BOUDAMES
Most of them are ones that I have found
I realized it was more than a hobby
BETTER BY HER INSTAGRAM NAME
through social media though. Some ma-
when I started having companies con-
@LAVIENNROSE. THIS YOUNG PHO-
jor ones that inspire me are Noel Alva-
tact me to market their product.
TOGRAPHER HAS A WHOPPING 16.2K
renga, Krissy Saleh, Bryant Eslava, and
FOLLOWERS AND AT THE AGE OF SEV-
Eunice Beck.
ENTEEN HAS ALREADY WORKED WITH
CLOTHING BRANDS, SUCH AS BRANDY
COMPANIES SUCH AS URBAN OUTFIT-
3. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TYPE OF PHO-
TERS AND BRANDY MELVILLE. IF YOU
TOGRAPHY?
DIDN’T KNOW HER BEFORE YOU ARE SURELY GOING TO KNOW HER NOW.
7. HOW DID YOU START WORKING WITH
My favorites are fashion and lifestyle photography.
MELVILLE AND URBAN OUTFITTERS?
I first started with smaller brands or startup online stores contacting me to promote their business. They would send me something free or I could pick
1. WHEN DID YOUR INTEREST IN PHOTOG-
4. WHAT CAUSED YOU TO MAKE A BLOG
out a couple items that I liked that they
RAPHY BEGIN?
ON INSTAGRAM? DID YOU EXPECT TO GET
would send for me to model in or take
SUCH A LARGE FOLLOWING?
pictures of. The better my photography
My interest started when I was around six or seven. My parents brought home a
I originally created another Instagram,
got and the bigger the following I got,
Fujifilm Polaroid from Japan for my older
separate from my personal, to get away
the bigger the companies were that
brother and it fascinated me so much. I
from a mean group of girls at school. I
contacted me. Of course if there was a
loved taking Polaroids of my stuffed ani-
wanted an account where I didn’t have
brand that I wanted to work with I would
mals, and from then on my interest grew
to follow or be followed by anyone at
reach out to them as well. However, for
and grew.
school and where I could freely express
Brandy Melville and Urban Outfitters,
myself without being judged. I started
they were the ones that contacted me.
posting my photography and 10 months
I was quite surprised, but excited, be-
later had over 10k. With my “instafa-
cause these are some of my favorite
2. WHAT PHOTOGRAPHERS INSPIRE YOU?
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brands and they’re extremely popular as well. One day the Brandy Melville offices
11. DO YOU HAVE ANY SECRET TALENTS?
contacted me and said they wanted to
I can hula hoop for an ex-
start sending me clothes to model and
tremely long time; I’ve got-
post on my Instagram. Within a week or
ten up to over an hour. And
two I received a huge box from Brandy
I guess this isn’t really secre-
Melville and it had so many different
tive, but I’m pretty decent at
pieces, I was so overwhelmed with joy.
drawing and painting.
My parents were still new to what I was doing and were really surprised and did
12. DOES LIVING IN CALIFOR-
not believe that a company was sending
NIA INFLUENCE THE LOOK OF
me a huge box of clothes for free.
YOUR PHOTOS IN ANYWAY?
Yes, a lot of my Instagram 8. WHO ARE SOME OF YOUR FASHION
feed and photos have palm
ICONS/ INSPIRATIONS?
trees coincidentally in them.
My fashion icons are currently Sophia
It definitely gives my pho-
Amoruso, Kristina Bazan, and Chiara
tography a west coast, teen
Ferragni.
spirit kind of vibe.
9. WHAT IS SOME ADVICE YOU HAVE FOR
13. HAS INSTAGRAM OPENED
ASPIRING PHOTOGRAPHERS?
UP DOORS FOR YOU? HAS IT AL-
Be true to who you are. Don’t try and
LOWED YOU TO MEET PEOPLE
mimic someone else’s style or try to at-
YOU WOULDN’T HAVE OTHER-
tain perfection. Take pictures of what
WISE?
you like to take pictures of and you’ll
Yes, it has allowed me to work with
I am a person who has been blessed
eventually keep getting better and bet-
over sixty different brands and enter-
to always have the opportunity to travel
ter. Don’t be afraid to have pictures you
prises. And I did put that on my college
with my family. But if I had to pick some-
don’t like. There are pictures from even
applications recently and I feel as though
where I haven’t been, I would pick Peru
sixth months ago that I took that I feel
it made me stand out from the crowd,
and I would photograph Machu Picchu.
look bad, so just know that you’ll only al-
because not many other teens my age
ways keep improving.
do that. I feel as though that experience helped me get into some of my dream
10. WHERE DO YOU HOPE PHOTOGRAPHY
schools. Instagram has also allowed me
WILL TAKE YOU? WHERE DO YOU HOPE TO
to meet new people, for example, Miss
SEE YOUR BLOG IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS
California Teen, Athenna Crosby. I found
OR SO?
out she lived twenty minutes from me
I hope my photography will take me to new places and to make new friends. I
and she liked my account so we decided to have a shoot and now we’re friends!
am also hoping that I will keep on getting better and can keep on working
14. IF YOU COULD TRAVEL ANYWHERE IN
with the brands I love. I hope to see my
THE WORLD WHERE WOULD IT BE AND
blog growing and staying active. I also
WHAT IS ONE THING YOU WOULD HAVE TO
hope that it can be a productive side job
PHOTOGRAPH WHILE THERE?
and can continue to make me happy. NYOTA
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Chloe Photography Feature
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TOP TEN THINGS TO DO THE SUMM The summer after high school is rumored to be the most freeing. Not only are you done with high school summer work but you are getting ready to start the next chapter of your life. Nyota has come up with the top ten things you have to do after you graduate high school!
1) WATCH MOVIES Spend an entire day at the movies
2) SPEND TIME WITH FRIENDS
Once you begin college you and your friends are in a long distan ce relationship. Spend as much time as you can with them before it’s too late.
3) GO ON A ROAD TRIP
over the all over your state or even all Create new memories by driving
country
4) GO TO THE BEACH As much as you can!
5) TRAVEL to numerous new
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places
MER BEFORE COLLEGE By: Carol Wright
6) READ
e been m
oks you’v
e bo Read all th
school
hout high
throug eaning to
7) GO ON A PIC Go on a pic
NIC
nic with frie
nds
8) SPEND TIME WITH FAMILY no longer college you’re leaving home and Everyone knows once you start r loved your best to spend time with you seeing your family every day. Try es.
ones and soak up those good tim
W E N G N I H T 9) DO SOME era and tak
Grab a cam
10) SLEEP
high school was not the time to
catch up on all those Z’s but the
us
g spontaneo
o somethin e a day to d
summer
sure is!
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Film is
not dead
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Featuring: Krystal Hu Emma Salerno Carol Wright
NYOTA
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Emma Salerno
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Carol Wright
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Krystal Hu
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New Releases By: Carol Wright
Movies FINDING DORY (JUNE 17T H) We get to travel back do wn under in this seque l to the Disney favorite Finding Nemo. Except thi s time we’re not looking for a little clown fish who lost his way. Ellen Degeneres is reprising he r role as everyone’s favorite Blue Tang Fish, Dory who is on a search for her estranged family. I’m sure this mo vie will have the norm al amount of humor and tears so get your tiss ues ready.
INDEPENDENCE DAY: RES URGENCE (JUNE 24TH) America can never jus t have a calm fourth of July. In this upcoming flick we see a few familia r faces (Jeff Goldblum, Bill Pullman, Vivica A. Fox) and are introduce d to a few new ones (Lia m Hemsworth, Jessie Usher, Maika Monroe) The storyline is simple, the aliens are back and a few brave women an d men need to stand up and save our planet from extinction.
THE SHALLOWS (JUNE 29TH) This new movie starrin g Blake Lively could eas ily be this generation’s Jaws. The story follows a woman Nancy (Blake Lively) who is surfing alone on a secluded be ach when she is attack ed by a Great White Shark and stranded a short ways from shore. Getting back to the shore proves to be mo re difficult than it seems , and Nancy has to count on her own surviv al skills to get back aliv e.
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Books
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