Category: Events & Travel

A Safe Space For Students: 15 Years of No Place for Hate in Houston
I believe the children are our future and I’m sure you do as well. Since children spend the majority of their day in school, a school’s curriculum and environment influences their development and our future. With the increase in school’s security, state testing, and in some subjects or activities reduced funding, I sometimes wonder if school’s are heading in the right direction. Thankfully, there are programs that enhance our children’s school experience. I had the pleasure of interviewing Susan Shaw, the education director at the Anti-Defamation League’s Houston office, about their No Place for Hate initiative. The program promotes respect for individual and group differences and challenges prejudice and bigotry in schools K – 12. This year marks the program’s 15 year anniversary in Houston. We talked about the program’s progress in Houston, the upcoming 15 year celebration, and how you can get involved with this wonderful initiative.

Provided by ADL No Place for Hate Houston

The No Place for Hate program was launched in Houston in 2001. This was the first time such an initiative was used in schools. Initially, in 1999, the program started in Boston for townships and municipalities. The regional director of the Houston office at the time “made a visit to the Boston office and sort of fell in love with the whole concept,” said Susan Shaw. “Our office along with the Philadelphia office started to recreate the materials and we built an education committee.”

The program is implemented in schools by forming a coalition, which includes students, administrators, faculty, staff, and parents, to come together to do an assessment of the issues that need to be addressed on campus. All members of the coalition sign the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) resolution of respect and participate in at least 3 anti-bias or diversity activities throughout the school year. For those interested in getting your school to participate in this initiative, this is the application process:
1. Submit a proposal for the school activities by October;
2. The review committee determines if the proposed activities are appropriate and whether they address the issues on campus;
3. Once approved, school proceeds to create and implement the activities;
4. In May, school submits a report to go over challenges, progress, and how ADL can continue to help in the future;
5. New schools get a personalized banner with 5 blank stars; for every year they earn a designation, they get a star with the school year to place on the banner.
Students at No Place for Hate Youth Summit at South Texas College of Law (source: ADL No Place for Hate Houston)

The combination of school proposed activities and ADL lesson plans provide creative and innovative ideas. For example, one of their most popular activities is known as “mix it up.” At lunch, the students get to sit with students other than their friends and are given questions to ask each other. This encourages students to interact with others in school. Another activity that was recently implemented is known as “buddy bench.” Lessons were done through the guidance counselor on bullying, name calling, and acceptance. Part of the activity included building a buddy bench so that no students would feel isolated or excluded.

Provided by ADL No Place for Hate Houston

Susan has worked with ADL for 18 years, after previously working as the education director at the Holocaust Museum in Houston and as a 2nd and 3rd grade teacher in Spring Branch ISD. Her work in anti-bias and diversity reaches beyond her job to her upbringing in Long Island, New York. “I’m a product of the 60s and remember very clearly when integration came to our community,” said Susan. “My parents were more about acceptance and I think I carried a little of that baggage with me. That is why ADL seemed like a perfect fit for me.”

From the beginning of No Place for Hate in Houston, Susan has directed and created this program every step of the way. During their first year, they had 9 schools participate. Due to the success of that first year and word of mouth, they doubled their numbers every year after that. They now have 21 regional offices and 1500 schools participating in the program. During the 2014 – 2015 school year, 350 public, private, and charter schools earned No Place for Hate designation. During this past school year, 2015 – 2016, more than 400 schools have applied. “It’s great to see schools not only focusing on the basic reading, writing, and arithmetic, but also respect the importance of social and emotional learning in the classroom,” said Susan.

Students at No Place for Hate Youth Summit at South Texas College of Law (source: ADL No Place for Hate Houston)

That progress is what makes the upcoming Luncheon so special. ADL’s annual luncheon will celebrate the 15th anniversary of the No Place for Hate initiative by recognizing the hundreds of schools that have achieved No Place for Hate designation and honoring three educators for their efforts to create a school atmosphere that promotes diversity. The honorees include Dr. James W. Cain, Klein ISD Superintendent, Yvonne DeLeon, Kenneth E. Little Elementary School Counselor, and Dr. Nancy Simpson, Kinkaid Lower School Counselor. The Luncheon will also feature keynote speaker Dr. Jennifer Arnold, M.D. of Texas Children’s Hospital and TLC’s “The Little Couple.” This special event will be on May 4th at noon at the Hilton Houston Post Oak. For more information and tickets, contact Alexis Tahara at alexis@integrateagency.com or Dena Marks at dmarks@adl.org.

“This is my favorite event of the year,” said Susan. “Not only is it an opportunity for ADL to showcase the great work we do in education, but it is also an opportunity to honor and recognize the educators that are doing the work. We get to say thank you for the their support, creativity, compassion, and collaborative efforts.”

Provided by ADL No Place for Hate Houston

I think the influence of an initiative like No Place for Hate is really important. In addition to creative activities, this can impact a student’s performance and development in and out of the classroom. A school atmosphere that is truly free of hatred is more secure. Students would have more of an incentive to attend school and perform well in an atmosphere where they feel safe and appreciated.

“The No Place for Hate program has become a safe haven for those who may not traditionally engage in after school activities,” said Susan. “We consistently think of what resources and support educators need to feel comfortable addressing these issues [such as Ferguson and transgender identity] in the classroom.”

If you would like to learn more about the No Place for Hate initiative in Houston, visit http://www.adl.org/noplaceforhatehouston and houston.adl.org/noplaceforhate

Have you participated in a No Place for Hate activity? What do you think of the initiative? How do you think we can improve our children’s experience at school?
April 25, 2016
The Root and Black Excellence in Houston: Young, Fabulous and Female Event Recap

Aspiring to achieve success comes with an interesting tool box. The majority of your journey includes filtering through what you can work with and what you need to let go. One of the essential tools to success is connecting with the right people. This past Thursday, I had the pleasure of attending The Root’s Young, Fabulous & Female event, sponsored by Toyota, at the House of Deréon Media Center. The theme was “Getting Across the Line” asking how black women cross that line to achievement and success, how we bring others with us, and what obstacles are in our path. The panel discussion included a number of gems, positive energy, and motivation. Now, let’s get into my recap of the event and suggestions to improve the discussion.

(L-R) My new friends! Shimeka, fashion designer, and Mickayla, non-profit director & radio promoter

The panel included Joy Sewing, fashion and beauty editor for the Houston Chronicle, Dr. Camille Cash, plastic surgeon in Houston, Denise Hamilton, CEO and founder of WatchHerWork.com and co-founder of JONES Magazine, Tera Roberson, Special Projects Producer for Houston’s NBC affiliate KPRC, and Suzette Turner-Caldwell, former engineer and current associate pastor for Windsor Village United Methodist Church. Devi Dev, music director for 93.7 The Beat and TV pop culture correspondent for CBS affiliate KHOU11, moderated the panel. First, I think Donna Byrd and her The Root team did an excellent job gathering local brilliant women to enhance this discussion with diverse experiences and views.

One of the big topics that was touched on a number of times was the struggle with obtaining opportunities. I loved how Denise set the tone by saying “it’s more about us opting out then us being kept out.” The analogy she gave is one that I think all of us can relate to – a job application lists requirements A, B, C, D. A woman would read that application and tell herself “I can do A, B, C, D, E, and F, but I don’t know…let me call my Mom and talk about it…maybe call my best friend…maybe I’m not qualified. A man would read that application and tell himself “I can do C…I can do that job. Submit.” Regardless if you fit this scenario or not, I think we all have been guilty of doubting ourselves. I have been diligently working on myself to recognize how my talents can apply to any job and switch my mindset to view my skills as abundant rather than lacking.

With Devi Dev, 93.7 The Beat

Speaking about mindset, getting cross the line to opportunity also involves checking your attitude towards your worth. Tera shared her life motto – “Live your own. Have your own. Be your own.” In some circumstances it is easier said than done, but it is so important to stay true to yourself while aspiring and achieving success. The challenges, competition, and disappointments will make you question what you stand for and why you are working so hard. Don’t let that make you forget who you are. This is why I loved when Devi said “find beauty in your struggle.” So much growth happens during personal struggle. When I look back at where I was 5 years ago compared to what I am doing now, I am humbled. I still have a lot of work and ground to cover, but I can see the progress and I can note what I gained from every challenge I pushed through.

With Donna Byrd, publisher of The Root

There was also a lot of wisdom shared about what excellence should look like. Sharing advice on how to focus your life and career, Suzette said, “Be prepared. Be very good at what you do. Be humble.” She also added that to be confident in yourself, you should always be prepared. I totally agree with that sentiment. Have you noticed a pattern among most success stories that opportunities do not usually appear as planned? That is why you always have to be ready to do your best because you never know who or what will open the next door for you. Excellence also involves constant change. I could totally relate to Devi when she said, “never get comfortable. Look for constant evolution.” This does not mean you should be selfish in always being unsatisfied, but you should always try to do better. I am constantly seeking knowledge and inspiration to expand and enhance my passions and my purpose. Constant evolution in yourself can include reading a book a day to mastering meditation to joining a community group to contributing to a new cause. It all depends on what you need and how you define your journey.

With Denise Hamilton, watchherwork.com and JONES magazine

Having an accomplished journalist on the panel was also a plus for me because she spoke to part of my niche. Joy shared how she visualized and spoke her dream of being a journalist into existence even at a time when the industry did not seem promising. “It’s not just about working hard,I love being a journalist,” said Joy. “If you want to do it, and it’s not about the money, then a way will be made for you.” She also noted the deeper reality black women face in having a successful career – “there is a part of you that you have to quiet to conform to what you’re working with.” There were a lot of head nods and finger snaps for that statement. Being a professional black woman is a challenging balancing act. Even though we encourage ourselves and each other to stay true to who we are, we still have to withhold some of our brilliance in certain settings but also be bold and step up in certain circumstances.

This point leads to my next overall comment on this event. I know the discussion was supposed to be 2 hours, and they did well to stick to that timeframe, but I would have loved for the conversation to continue for 4 hours. With more time, I think the panel could have taken this topic further and answered more questions. It is great to encourage attendees to clarify their goals and plan for their future, but if time permitted I think it would have been equally important to mention how to achieve this in an environment that seems to set us up for failure. Similar to what Denise touched on, “women are the keepers of culture and we need to start owning that.” I think owning that does not only include being great at what you do but also being great at taking care of yourself. We are in a troubling time now. The culture we have carried and supported throughout history is under attack. We cannot go by one day without reading, hearing, or seeing a story about our people being murdered, arrested, or suffering. I know this topic could branch out to all kinds of comments and would extend the discussion for hours. However, for next time, I think we should include one question for the panel along these lines – Regarding the troubling and tragic climate we are living in now, how do you continue to get across the line to success and opportunity? The responses might vary, but I feel they would enhance what the audience learns from the event. It is important for black women to pay attention to their well-being. I think it would be helpful if the event also provided resources for where to connect with mentors, how to find grants, how to strengthen one’s spirituality, etc. We cannot ignore the fact that what happens in our community directly affects us…it comes with the package of being a queen of black excellence.

What would my answer be, you ask? Part of the reason why I sacrifice so much, work so hard, and strive to be legit in everything I do, is to make sure my people’s pain is not in vain. I am building a legacy for those coming behind me to take notes and push further and I am hopefully making an impact so that our future is less tragic.

Overall, I enjoyed the event and am very happy The Root came to Houston. I also hope it won’t be the last time they host an event like this here. I left feeling inspired not only by what was said but also by seeing there are a lot of brilliant women in Houston doing great things to influence their community. We need more events like this here (or I need to get better at finding these events before they pass) to help facilitate these types of discussions and connections. If anyone is planning something like this here, I would love to contribute and/or help.

Also, check out The Root’s video recap. Me and my signature blazer make a few cameo appearances.

How are you getting across the line to success and opportunity? Have you attended The Root’s YFF event before?

October 19, 2015
Mensmerize: Houston Custom Clothier

As long as you have your suit and tie, you can show many people a few things. A tailored suit sharpens anyone’s persona, but do you know what goes into finding a custom suit that fits you? I had the pleasure of going behind-the-scenes with Mensmerize to bring you details about the process and tips for your style.

Mensmerize, founded by Alex Dawotola, is a new men’s custom clothier in Houston near Highway 6. As you step into Mensmerize, you are met with the soulful sounds of Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, and Otis Redding. A chill and sophisticated clothier set up to provide quality collaboration and style. I met with David Rochez, Mensmerize image consultant. He showed me the many customization options a potential client has from buttons to collars to fabrics.

“The thing that people sometimes don’t understand about bespoke is that it’s all for you, your body frame, your body structure. With bespoke it’s all customization. Whatever you want to do we can do it.” – David Rochez

Bespoke means “custom-made” or “made to order.” (Learn something new everyday) Regardless of what stye you are looking for, the options they offer can fit your needs and inspire new looks. Now, let’s get into the process of custom suiting.

First, the measurements: depending on what you are ordering, David will have you try on a button down shirt, jacket, and pants to determine the fit you are looking for. He then uses a tape measure to get your exact measurements. A conversation results discussing the length of the shirt, fit of the jacket, and other things depending on what you are looking for.

“It all depends on the fit. If it’s a business suit, you want it to be not too tight and not too loose. If you are more fashionable, you want the crop legs, show more cuff of the shirt, and be a little more fitted. We know fashion, that’s what we do. So there are always two different kinds of customers.” – David Rochez

Second, the fabric: there is no limit on color, feel, and weight plus endless combinations to make.

“Since I’m the image consultant I can narrow their choices to what would work for them. I can show them the main colors for fall or cuts for suits as a starting point.” – David Rochez

Third, customization: from stitching to inner lining to felt accents, this probably would be my favorite part of the process. You can add so much personality to a suit.

The whole process takes about an hour to an hour and a half, which can be done at Mensmerize or David can travel to your office or home. It really adds a more intimate and wholesome side to shopping for your wardrobe.

To add to this exclusive behind-the-scenes scoop, David also shared some tips for fall men’s fashion. Since we do not usually have a cold fall season in Houston, pay attention to the weight of the fabric you choose to wear to avoid sweating. If you don’t want to wear a jacket, you can wear a vest or waist coat to accessorize your outfit.

Mensmerize is currently offering a 20% discount for all clients during October. Check out their work, make an appointment, and sharpen your wardrobe.

Have you ever ordered a bespoke or custom suit? What are you planning to add to your closet this fall?

October 11, 2015
The Royal African Experience: Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa in South Africa

As seen on Munaluchi Bridal Magazine

Continuing to indulge in the riches of Africa, this week we are visiting South Africa at the Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa. Located between the Twelve Apostles mountain range in the Table Mountain National Park and the Atlantic Ocean, this hotel and spa is home to luxury services and breathtaking views. All of the guest rooms are individually decorated to provide a unique experience. I know “Coming to America” was strictly entertainment, but some of these rooms remind me of the kingdom in that film. The different dining areas are also gorgeous and is recognized as one of South Africa’s top places to wine and dine. From every angle of this place, one can experience a romantic sunset, a fun day on the beach, or just a relaxing break.

Music Spotlight:

Mafikizolo is a South African musical group that originally formed in the late 1990s. Their music puts a unique spin on the kwaito genre. This is their latest single and I love the beat as well as the colorful video. I also love the fashion style of the female singer in the group. Enjoy.

Temi DollFace is a Nigerian singer-songwriter, composer, and producer. She coins her style of music “Drama-Soul,” which, as you can hear, is highly influenced by Afro-beat. This is her latest single and everything, from the lyrics to the music to the imagery, is worth sharing. The title also caught my eye – as some of you might know, the legendary Miriam Makeba sang a song called “Pata Pata,” and I was interested to see what she was going to do with the song. Enjoy.

October 8, 2013
Safari Honeymoon: Chongwe River House in Zambia

As seen on Munaluchi Bridal Magazine

This week we are indulging in another pearl of Africa. The Chongwe River House provides a breathtaking location to view the wonders of the Chongwe and Zambezi river. The home was created to complement its majestic surroundings without interfering with nature. The frame of the home was built with wild wood and all the furniture was carved from one fallen tree. It is almost like the best tree house you could ever imagine. They also provide a private vehicle, guides, canoes, and a boat to explore the park at your convenience. For those who really love the outdoors and talking to animals, the Chongwe River House would be the perfect honeymoon destination.

Music Spotlight

Mutinta is a Zambian singer-songwriter and guitarist. Her music blends afro-beat, jazz, reggae, and soul. I chose to share her latest single with you because of its happy vibe and peaceful imagery.

Cleo Ice Queen is a Zambian hip-hop artist. Her latest single showcases the new wave of music in Zambia.

October 1, 2013
Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica in California

As seen on Munaluchi Bridal Magazine

Picture yourself sipping on your favorite cold drink while lounging on the beach admiring your new spouse. After you finish your picnic, you two head back, holding hands, to your hotel to get ready for a romantic cocktail dinner in downtown Santa Monica. As you both finish getting dressed, signing along to the radio (just play along here), you both watch the sunset from your balcony window and have that warm feeling that everything is right in the world. Let me introduce you to the perfect place to reenact this lovely honeymoon. Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica hotel is sophisticated, relaxed, and romantic. Inspired by the waves of the ocean and the glamour of nearby Los Angeles, the decor has a breezy modern feel. Their location provides access to a variety of attractions, including the Santa Monica Pier and the Getty Villa and Venice Beach. They are also partners with the Santa Monica Museum of Art and provide complimentary access to their exhibits for all guests. With all this culture and charm, a destination honeymoon here would be no short of an enjoyable adventure.

Music Spotlight:

Angie Stone is an R&B, soul, and neo-soul singer-songwriter from South Carolina. I chose this song, off of her 2004 album “Stone Love,” because of its funky R&B rhythm and happy vibe. Also, the music video features Idris Elba…enjoy!

September 24, 2013