Stylist. Creative. Leader. Berry the Fashionizer is more than a name she’s a movement. From the runway to the classroom, from styling celebrities to mentoring the next generation, her mission is clear: inspire, elevate, and leave a lasting impact. Does your outfit today reflect the energy and message I want to project? Yes, clothing is a visual shorthand for my brand, confidence and respect for the audience. How can you use fashion as a tool to inspire others rather than just look good? By showing that style is about self expression, confidence, and storytelling, not just expensive trend. Are you balancing comfort and authenticity with high-fashion aesthetics? True style feels like a second skin, allowing me to move and speak without distraction. Are you listening to the needs of your students as much as you are speaking to them? Great Teachers Observe individual struggles and adapt their curriculum to unlock each student's potential. Are you practicing the exact mindset and discipline that you preach? Integrity means my backstage habits match my front stage message perfectly. Fashion has always been Berry's language. "It's more than clothing, it's storytelling," she says. "I use style to express emotion, culture, confidence, and purpose." With an eye for detail and a heart for people, Berry has styled for high-profile clients, walked in top shows, and built a brand that's rooted in authenticity and excellence. But beyond the glam, Berry leads with impact. As a teacher and mentor, she is committed to pouring into her students, listening to their struggles, and adapting her knowledge to unlock their potential. "Great teachers don't just teach," she shares. "We see the person behind the pain and help them rise anyway." As a motivational speaker and leader, Berry walks the talk. Her discipline, integrity, and purpose are more than words, they're her lifestyle. "Integrity means my backstage habits match my front stage message perfectly." she says. In a world that constantly tries to put people in one lane, Berry the Fashionizer is proving you can be many things and do them all with purpose.

From bridal glam to bold editorial masterpieces, Chavoynne Artistry is more than makeup, it's a movement built on confidence, authenticity, and artistic excellence. We sat down with New Jersey's powerhouse makeup artist, Chavoynne, to talk about her journey, her artistry, and the legacy she's building for the next generation. YOUR WORK CONSISTENTLY ENHANCES NATURAL BEAUTY WHILE EMBRACING BOLD CREATIVITY. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE ARTISTIC IDENTITY BEHIND CHAVOYNNE ARTISTRY? Honestly At the heart of Chavoynne Artistry, my goal is to encourage my clients to remember that makeup should never hide who you are, it should reveal your confidence. My style is in enhancing each person's natural beauty and reinforcing what is already there while creating looks that feel bold and timeless. Whether it's a soft bridal glam or a bold editorial moment, I want every client to still recognize themselves, just with a little extra magic. My artistry is about balance, creativity and authenticity. AS A MAKEUP ARTIST REPRESENTING NEW JERSEY, WHAT HAS YOUR JOURNEY BEEN LIKE BUILDING YOUR BRAND. AND WHAT LESSONS HAVE SHAPED YOUR CAREER THE MOST? Building my brand has been a journey of ups and down . through it all it was important to me that I kept my faith and drive to achieve all of the things that I wanted. New Jersey has given me the opportunity to work with an amazing diverse clientele, working with different skin tones, facial features..which has helped me grow both technically and creatively. One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that your reputation is built long before your portfolio. No matter how talented or good your work may be. People remember how you make them feel just as much as they remember your work. Staying professional, continuing to learn, and showing up even during slow seasons has been key to building a brand that people trust. Makeup is transformational, but the real transformation is how someone carries themselves afterward. BEAUTY TRENDS COME AND 60. BUT TIMELESS ARTISTRY REMAINS. HOW DO YOU BALANCE STAYING CURRENT WITH CREATING LOOKS THAT FEEL AUTHENTIC TO EACH CLIENT? While I pay attention to trends because they inspire creativity as well as something fresh, I never let trends define my work or change my personal style as an artist, Every face tells a different story, so I approach each client individually, and each time it may be different. listen to their vision, consider their own personal style, facial features, personality, and comfort level while still maintaining my style as an artist..then blend both to create the beauty behind Chavoynne Artistry. My goal is for clients to love their photos years from now, not just because they followed a trend, but because they looked like the best version of themselves. WHETHER YOU'RE WORKING ON A BRIDE, A CELEBRITY, OR AN EDITORIAL SHOOT, WHAT DO YOU HOPE PEOPLE FEEL WHEN THEY LOOK IN THE MIRROR AFTER SITTING IN YOUR CHAIR? I want them to feel confident first and foremost, Beautiful, of course, but even more than that, I want them to feel like Themselves. I've done my job. That feeling lasts much longer than the makeup itself. WHAT'S NEXT FOR CHAVOYNNE ARTISTRY, AND WHAT LEGACY DO YOU HOPE TO LEAVE IN THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF MAKEUP ARTISTS? I'm excited to continue expanding Chavoynne Artistry beyond makeup services through education, mentorship, and larger creative collaborations. This is my passion and I want years of success to come..l I want to also create opportunities for aspiring artists to learn not only the artistry but also the business behind building a sustainable career. My legacy isn't just about beautiful makeup, it's about inspiring confidence, setting a standard of excellence, and showing that success comes from talent. integrity, consistency, and genuine care for people. If the next generation remembers me as someone who opened doors and elevated others while pursuing excellence,

It’s Not About How You Start, But How You Finish There are actors who land a role. Then there are actors who grow alongside it. For nearly five seasons, audiences have watched Ahmad Ferguson transform Bakari from one of The Chi's most polarizing young characters into one of its most emotionally layered. It wasn't a performance built on perfection, it was built on possibility. Words & Styling: Angel Neal Photography: Xavier " Invisionary " Edward Through grief, redemption, mentorship, and self discovery, Bakari became proof that growth isn't linear, but it's always possible. Ironically, Ferguson's own story mirrors that same truth. Long before cameras rolled in Chicago, before audiences knew his name, there was a teenager from Gary, Indiana chasing an opportunity that almost slipped away. "I auditioned for another character first," Coogie, Ferguson recalls. "I got so close that it really built the foundation of my drive. That's actually how I got my agent. Then an opportunity came back around my senior year when Bakari came into the picture. It just let me know that it was ordained, that it was meant." It wasn't just another callback. It was confirmation. Even more remarkable, Ferguson reveals that before joining the series, someone at his church spoke a prophetic word over his life. "She told me God was going to use me as a template for gang members, for people who wanted to reform their lives. That happened a year before I got The Chi. So when everything unfolded, I knew this was God ordained." Originally written as a three-episode character, Bakari became one of the defining voices of the series. Sometimes purpose simply refuses to stay small. When Ferguson first walked onto the set of The Chi, he wasn't thinking about becoming one of its breakout stars. He was simply grateful to be there. "I just told myself to make every second count," he says. "If they give you one line, mean that one line with everything in you because you never know who's watching." Someone was. Season after season, viewers witnessed Bakari wrestle with guilt, violence, forgiveness, and identity, not as a caricature, but as a young man trying to find his footing. For Ferguson, portraying that journey became deeply personal. "Self discovery resonated with me the most because I'm figuring myself out too. I've fought silent battles just like Bakari. You have highs, you have lows, but it's all about how you respond." That phrase surfaces throughout our conversation. It's all about how you respond. Not just in acting. In grief, disappointment, in success and in life we all can relate somehow. One of The Chi's greatest achievements has never simply been documenting hardship. It's been documenting healing. While television often leans into narratives centered on violence, Ferguson believes the show's most powerful contribution has been its portrayal of Black men loving, mentoring, and holding one another accountable. “We're taught to take everything to the chin," he says. "Not really feel our feelings." Instead, viewers watched characters like Emmett, Shad, Trig, and others demonstrate a different version of masculinity, one rooted in accountability, vulnerability, and grace. "I love that the show displayed that love isn't always soft," Ferguson explains. "Sometimes it's tough. But it's still love. That's important for young men to see." Off-screen, those same lessons extended beyond the script. He credits fellow cast members Michael V. Epps and Alex R. Hibbert with teaching him how longevity is built, not through ego, but humility. "They handled success so well," Ferguson says. "They never got too high or too low. They stayed humble. That's something I'll carry forever." Mention Gary, Indiana and many people think of struggle. Ferguson thinks of possibility. Growing up only six blocks from Michael Jackson's childhood home, he understood early that greatness isn't determined by geography. “It's proof that where you come from doesn't determine where you can go." Gary didn't simply produce one of the greatest entertainers in history. It also quietly shaped Ferguson. "I went to a visual and performing arts school. I did plays. My first feature film was in Gary. The city has incredible artistic roots that people don't always know about." Those roots were nurtured even further at home. His mother, a worship leader, singer, and actress, introduced both Ahmad and his sister to performing from an early age. "My mom sings all day long," he laughs. "Watching how free she was in her gift made us confident enough to be free in ours." That freedom has now evolved into another creative chapter. Acting may have introduced Ferguson to the world. Music, however, introduces audiences to Ahmad. His venture into melodic R&B and melodic rap isn't a career pivot. It's another layer. "I hear melodies all day," he says. "Music is a feeling. If I'm able to feel, then I'm able to be. "Unlike acting, where someone else's story becomes his own, music offers something far more intimate. "Joy," he says immediately when asked what he hopes listeners experience. "It makes me really happy. I want people to feel my passion, my heart... just joy." That authenticity is exactly what defines Ferguson's next chapter. "It looks like being free in my artistry," he says. "People are going to get a glimpse of the real me, the performer, the entertainer, not just one layer."Success has never distracted Ferguson from the work required to sustain it. If anything, it's sharpened his focus. He speaks candidly about navigating grief, loss, and life's inevitable distractions while remaining committed to his purpose. "My focus has been tested," he admits. "Losing people. Death. Grief. Things trying to get the best of me. But ultimately, the love I have for my career taught me discipline." Then comes one of the interview's simplest and perhaps most profound observations. "When you want to be the best, you already understand what you've got to do. It's all about disciplining yourself enough to do it." Later, he offers another lesson that feels equally timeless. "Success requires obedience. "Not luck, not shortcuts, Obedience. Throughout our conversation, Ferguson rarely separates success from spirituality. Prayer isn't simply something he practices. It's the foundation beneath everything else. "Prayer changes things," he says. "It builds the foundation of your walk with God. It's very important."His advice for young dreamers watching from cities like Gary isn't built around fame either. It's built around faith."Be confident. Trust yourself. Know what God has for you, no man can take away. The odds are always going to be stacked against us because of where we're from, but it's all about how you respond. "Then he offers perhaps the most reassuring words of all, not just to aspiring actors, but to anyone waiting on their moment. "Your time is coming. Nothing is given. Everything is earned. Be okay with taking baby steps because God will give it to you bit by bit, but you have to keep showing yourself and becoming." When asked what being a disruptor means, Ferguson doesn't hesitate. "Somebody who takes up space and doesn't take no for an answer when they know they're meant to be in that space. "It's an answer that feels remarkably fitting. Because Ahmad Ferguson has never been interested in simply landing roles. He's interested in leaving something behind. As The Chi closes one chapter, another begins. One with more music. More artistry. More freedom. And if Ferguson has his way, a legacy that reaches far beyond television screens. "I want people to see all my layers," he says with quiet confidence. "You're going to see somebody who's going to be here forever... one of those names people talk about for a long time. "After spending time with Ahmad Ferguson, one thing becomes abundantly clear: He isn't chasing the spotlight. He's becoming the kind of artist whose light was never meant to fade. To see the full editorial grab the print edition of the Summer issue here; SUMMER 2026. 📸 Photographer: @i.v.yphotography Creative Direction • Wardrobe Stylist • Editor-in-Chief • Words By: @angel_stylistbehavior Wardrobe Support: @estherlamour Barber: @reg_guwoo

Designer. Mentor. Movement Maker. Steph Vargas, founder of THRONE and creator of Designing A Model, is redefining what it means to build a fashion brand with heart. From the classroom to the runway, her journey is rooted in resilience, purpose, and creating spaces where every woman can rise. PHOTOGRAPHY RYAN EMERSON STYLING DORIAN JIHAD THRONE is built around the idea of reclaiming your confidence and "taking back your throne." What inspired that message, and what does wearing the crown represent to you personally? THRONE was born from my own journey of rebuilding my life as a single mother. The message is about reclaiming your confidence, your voice, and your purpose-no matter what you've been through. Wearing the crown represents choosing yourself, belleving in your worth, and refusing to let life's challenges determine your future. Your transition from special education teacher to fashion designer is a unique journey. How have those experiences influenced the way you lead your brand and design for women today? Teaching shaped me beyond the classroom. It taught me patience, empathy, adaptability, and how to see potential in others. Those lessons now guide the way I lead THRONE and Designing A Model-creating opportunities, mentorship, and experiences that empower women to embrace their purpose and walk confidently in their power. THRONE has become more than a fashion label-it's a movement centered on empowerment, inclusivity, and mental health awareness. Why was it important for you to build a brand with a purpose beyond clothing? Fashion can transform how you feel about yourself. I wanted THRONE to be a reminder of strength, self love, and worth. Everyone deserves to feel represented and celebrated. If THRONE inspires someone to believe in themselves again, take a chance on a dream, or look in the mirror with more confidence, then we've accomplished something far greater than selling clothing. Many women face moments of self doubt or adversity. How do you hope someone feels the moment they put on a THRONE piece, and what message do you want them to carry with them afterward? I want them to feel powerful, confident, and unapologetically themselves. You won't find generic labels by our unique pieces or anyone else's. Our motto! Confident in all by our own faith in yourself. even on the hard days. Wear THRONE as a reminder that you already have everything you need to reclaim your confidence, own your story. and take back your throne. As THRONE continues to grow, what legacy do you hope the brand leaves within the fashion industry, and how do you envision empowering the next generation of women through your work? I want THRONE to be remembered as a brand that proved fashion can be a tool for empowerment, self expression, and potitive change. Through THRONE and Designing A Model, I'm committed to creating opportunities for real people to lead, leam, and thrive. I want the next generation to know they don't have to fit into anyone else's definition of success they can create their own path, own their voice, and lead with authenticity.

Fashion has always been about more than clothing for Gregory DeAnda. For the founder and creative director of MANNISH, every stitch, fabric choice, and silhouette carries a story, one rooted in family, immigration, craftsmanship, and the people whose work often goes unseen. By Angel Neal | Disrupshion Magazine Photography Courtesy of MANNISH His debut collection, artists+immigrants, doesn't chase trends or fleeting moments. Instead, it honors the laborers, artists, immigrants, and tradespeople whose resilience quietly helped shape America. It's workwear through a contemporary lens, designed not simply to be worn, but to be lived in. For DeAnda, that intention was never negotiable. "I knew that I had something to say," he tells Disrupshion Magazine. "I struggled for a long time trying to find my voice. I didn't want to chase trends. I wanted to create something timeless. That requires patience and a lot of due diligence." That patience has become the foundation of MANNISH. Long before sketchbooks and pattern makers entered the picture, Gregory's understanding of fashion was formed inside thrift stores. Raised by missionary parents who helped immigrant families establish new lives in America, he watched clothing become more than personal style,it became protection, dignity, and opportunity. "We had one shot at finding people a good jacket for winter," he recalls. "We had to find clothes that could protect them because they didn't have many resources." Those early experiences continue to influence every decision he makes as a designer. His appreciation for quality is equally personal. Gregory credits much of his curiosity to his stepfather, a championship belt buckle designer for the PBR circuit. "One of the greatest gifts he gave me was curiosity," Gregory says. "Always be listening. Always be paying attention. There's a game all around you if you're willing to learn." Today, that curiosity comes through travel, conversations, and observing different cultures, elements that quietly shape the DNA of every MANNISH collection. Named after Mannish Boy, the brand carries a message of confidence and self-belief. Gregory was deeply moved by the song's lyrics, particularly the affirmation spoken by Muddy Waters' mother. "My mom poured that same confidence into me growing up," he says. "That gave me a different kind of confidence moving through this world." That same spirit fuels MANNISH, not loud bravado, but quiet conviction. It's also why Gregory believes clothing should outlive trends. "When I'm creating something, I'm asking myself, 'Can this be passed down?'" he explains. "That's another way of passing down tradition, stories, and culture." Rather than designing disposable fashion, he envisions garments becoming heirlooms, pieces that absorb memories before beginning new ones with someone else. While luxury fashion often celebrates glamour, MANNISH celebrates those working behind the scenes. Cowboys. Artists. Immigrants. Tradespeople. Workers whose stories rarely occupy the center of fashion campaigns. "Those are the people keeping this country alive," Gregory says. "If an article or a piece of clothing can help shift that narrative, then that's my responsibility." That philosophy extends beyond the runway. Gregory hopes to collaborate directly with immigrant-owned businesses throughout Los Angeles, photographing street vendors and local entrepreneurs while using MANNISH as a platform to amplify their work. For him, fashion isn't just commerce. It's a community. Before launching MANNISH, Gregory worked as a model, creative, bartender, dishwasher, and in the oil fields. Each experience taught him something about leadership. "If you're going to be creative, it's valuable to be a Swiss Army knife," he says. "No job on set is too small. You have to understand everyone's role because creating is always a team effort." That collaborative mindset has already helped the young label gain attention from artists including Bipolar Sunshine and Princeton Perez. Seeing musicians create while wearing MANNISH remains one of Gregory's greatest rewards."MANNISH is armor for artists," he says. "Seeing someone create magic while wearing my clothes, that's the chef's kiss moment." For Gregory, disruption isn't about making noise. It's about trusting your own voice. "Following that voice inside your heart, that's disruption," he says. "We need new perspectives because if we keep the status quo, everything becomes stale." Today, social media often rewards imitation over originality, Gregory believes creativity should challenge people to think differently. Art should invite conversation. Fashion should preserve history. Design should have depth. Perhaps the most powerful moment in our conversation came when Gregory reflected on his own journey. Like many entrepreneurs, he questioned whether pursuing his dream was practical. After years of working ordinary jobs, he realized something profound."Wherever you're starting, just start," he says. "There's no perfect timing. There's no cavalry coming, you are the cavalry. On the other side of hard is everything you want." For Gregory DeAnda, MANNISH isn't simply a clothing brand. It's proof that purpose can be stitched into every seam.That heritage can become modern. And that the most meaningful fashion isn't just built to wear, it's built to last. Stay up to date with all things Gregory and Mannish @mannishboyco .

What first drew you to fashion design, and when did you realize this was something you wanted to pursue seriously? At some point during my graphic design studies in Florida, something clicked. Design does not have to live behind a screen. It should break boundaries, be worn, and carry a personality. It started with observation, watching people move through the world in what they wore, and watching fashion runway shows that opened my eyes to what design could truly be. Every model that walked out showed me that everything you design has a story to tell. The color, the fabric, the structure, the way it drapes on a body. That is when fashion became more than clothing to me. It became a way of translating what I see into something another person could feel. How would you describe your design aesthetic, and what inspires the pieces you create?
My aesthetic is contemporary yet expressive. I am drawn to silhouettes, prints, and color that say something before the person wearing it even speaks. When someone walks into a room and their outfit just makes sense with who they are, that is what I am designing toward. Whether it is a print, a drape, or a color that reflects nature, every choice is deliberate. I want what I create to feel like a natural extension of the woman wearing it. What does your creative process look like, from initial idea to finished garment? 
My process starts with photographing nature. I use each photo to sketch, build a moodboard, and establish a color palette. Before I draft each piece and create prints, I decide which medium to use. Paint translates to irregularity and hand embroidery translates to precise structure. Each medium communicates differently, and I find that similar to nature itself. Nature is never perfectly aligned, and that is where beauty lives. I bring that same thinking into every garment I create. How do you balance creating pieces that feel both innovative and wearable for your audience? 
It goes back to my graphic design background. Every final piece starts with a sketch, a color palette, and a moodboard. From there, each print is placed compositionally on the garment. After multiple revisions, the balance between innovative and wearable works itself out. Boundaries are pushed with color, fabric, and print, but always toward something cohesive that feels like it belongs together. What do you want people to feel when they experience or wear your designs? My audience should feel like they are wearing a piece of art. Not art that sits still on a wall, but art that moves with them and belongs to them. There is a moment before walking out the door, when they look at themselves and something shifts. That is the moment I design for. A feeling of being expressive and sophisticated, where the confidence they carry is not something the garment is giving them. It is something the garment is confirming. They already had it. The piece just makes it visible.

After two decades of dancing beside music's biggest icons, Dnay Baptiste reflects on representation, resilience, motherhood, and the legacy she hopes to leave long after the curtain falls. Photography by Chris Fox-kelly Editor In Chief/Words Angel Neal Fashion Stylist Dorian Jihad Assistant stylist Nyhiem Hearts Hair provided by Ms Luxe beauty Nails by Ms Luxe Beauty Hair done by Thelaiddexperience Black dress- Rique Bruce PR for clothing brand Blk Thai. For audiences around the world, Dnay Baptiste is the electrifying performer commanding stages alongside artists like Beyoncé and Megan Thee Stallion. Her confidence, precision, and magnetic energy have become synonymous with excellence. But beyond the choreography and sold-out arenas is a woman whose greatest accomplishments aren't measured in standing ovations, they're measured in the lives she hopes to impact. When asked how she hopes to be remembered decades from now, Baptiste doesn't begin by listing career milestones or iconic performances. Instead, she speaks about character. "I hope people remember Dnay as someone who inspired others through both her actions and her character," she tells Disrupshion Magazine. "She pursued her goals with determination, led with kindness, and brought joy and positive energy wherever she went." For Baptiste, legacy isn't about celebrity. It's about making people feel valued. "Most of all," she says, "I hope people remember that she always showed up authentically, with a smile, a dance move, and a heart ready to make a difference." Baptiste's journey to some of the world's biggest stages wasn't without obstacles. " When I began this journey in 2005," she recalls, "there was often room for only one Black woman on a project, and more often than not, she was a lighter-skinned Black woman." Growing up, she remembers being teased for both her chocolate complexion and her creative style. Those experiences could have discouraged her, but instead they strengthened her belief that she belonged. "I never stopped believing I was beautiful," she says. "More importantly, I never stopped believing there was space for me." Faith became the foundation that carried her through every setback. She vividly remembers being selected for Beyoncé's Mrs. Carter Show World Tour, only to later lose the opportunity. But just as the dancers were preparing to leave, everything changed."I received a phone call that would change my life forever," she says. "I had been hired as the ninth female dancer on the tour."The moment carried significance beyond her own career."Suddenly, there were two dark-skinned women on that stage." Looking back, Baptiste believes that moment represented something much larger than herself. "If my presence helped even one little girl believe that her dreams were possible—that she belonged and that success was attainable for someone who looked like her, then every challenge along the way was worth it." While audiences know her as an elite performer, Baptiste has quietly expanded her creative footprint behind the scenes. She has produced music videos, created original music, and developed Black Parade Harlem, a community initiative launched during the pandemic to spotlight Black-owned businesses throughout Harlem. "Seeing that vision come to life was incredibly rewarding," she says. Teaching has become another meaningful chapter of her career. Whether she's leading masterclasses for professional dancers or helping everyday people reconnect with themselves through movement, Baptiste finds purpose in empowering others. Looking ahead, she hopes to continue growing as a producer and creative visionary. "I've learned to trust the journey," she says. "I go wherever God leads me." While social media often highlights glamorous performances and celebrity collaborations, Baptiste says audiences rarely see what happens behind the curtain. "I think one of the biggest misconceptions about being a dancer is that it's all glitz and glamour," she explains. The reality is far different. Long rehearsal days often stretch well beyond eight hours. Performers push their bodies to exhaustion before stepping onstage for just a few moments that audiences eventually see. Then comes the emotional cost. Touring means missing birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, and countless family milestones. Even returning home presents its own challenges."Every job has an expiration date," she says. "Once it's over, you're starting again, auditioning, networking, building relationships, and now navigating social media too."Through every transition, one constant has remained. "Faith has always been my anchor." When Baptiste offers advice to aspiring dancers, she rarely begins with choreography. Instead, she talks about identity. "Build a strong foundation within yourself," she says. She encourages young artists to prioritize education, financial literacy, mental health, and personal growth alongside their artistic ambitions. "Your identity should never be tied solely to a job or a booking." It's advice rooted in experience, and in a belief that true success extends far beyond applause."Build a life that supports your career, not just a career that defines your life," she says. "My goal has always been to win in both places." Perhaps the most revealing part of Baptiste's story isn't found onstage at all. She explains that the world knows Dnay B,the fearless performer who commands attention under bright lights. But the people closest to her know Denee. "Denee is a mother first," she says. "She's nurturing, protective, deeply family-oriented, and enjoys the simple things, quiet mornings, coloring, soft music, and even taking a drive in complete silence." Over time, she's realized those two versions of herself aren't separate, they depend on one another. Dnay B exists because Denee exists," she reflects. "The performer can confidently walk into any room because the woman behind her has taken the time to nurture her spirit."It's a balance she has grown to treasure. "People may know Dnay B," she says with a smile, "but the people closest to me know Denee, and she's my favorite version of myself."

Reality television has always rewarded big personalities, but John The Don is not interested in being packaged, softened, or misunderstood into something more digestible. Born John Superior, the Detroit native, registered nurse, professor, and rising Zeus Network personality has quickly become one of the most talked about faces emerging from reality TV’s newest wave. Words By Angel Neal Photog: @pp_productions01 Designer: @influential_mm PR: @FY.Worldwide Fresh off Love Cabin and newly wrapped from filming Bad Boys Season 3, John is stepping into a moment where his name, face, and one-liners are becoming part of the digital conversation. But behind the viral clips and unapologetic delivery is someone who understands exactly what he is doing: turning authenticity into currency. “Reality is a flex,” he tells Disrupshion. “To be paid to be yourself, it’s nothing better.” For John, the man audiences see on camera is not an act. When asked who John Superior is when the cameras are off, his answer is immediate: “The same.” Reality TV, he says, gives him an outlet he cannot access in everyday life, especially as someone who works in healthcare and education. “As a registered nurse, there’s certain things I’m just not doing outside of the Zeus umbrella,” he explains. “Zeus is a protected entity. It doesn’t cross paths.”That contrast is what makes Jon compelling. On one side, he is a medical professional who understands responsibility, discipline, and empathy. On the other, he is John The Don: bold, confrontational, funny, unpredictable, and fully aware of the entertainment value he brings. He sees no contradiction between the two.“What working in healthcare taught me is that everybody has something going on,” he says. “Everybody could be more empathetic.”Still, John is clear that empathy does not mean weakness. He does not see himself as rude or mean, though he understands why viewers might get that impression. “Me being nice is not going to be good TV,” he says. “It’s not going to be a viral moment. I’m actually not rude or mean. I just don’t let nobody play me.” That refusal to be played is central to his presence. John does not believe in shrinking himself for comfort, applause, or public approval. When asked if he has ever considered toning it down, his answer is simple: no. He believes the right people see him. The executives, casting directors, and decision makers are paying attention and for Jon, that matters more than public criticism. “The fans in the world can not like me,” he says. “The right people are fond of me. The people who matter think highly of me.”With Bad Boys Season 3 on the way, John says viewers can expect more intensity, more conflict, and more of the version of him that refuses to back down. He is not afraid of being labeled the villain, either. “I don’t mind being a villain,” he says. “I’d rather have people think I did too much than go home and think, ‘Damn, I should’ve did more.’” Beyond the screen, John is thinking bigger. He sees John The Don as a business. In the next five years, he wants to expand into fashion, hosting, fitness, fragrance, and even curating his own dog breed. Hosting, especially, feels natural to him.“I love walking into a club and making my biweekly check just walking in and interacting with fans,” he says. “That’s the best thing I can do.”He is also interested in modeling, fitness influence, and more reality TV. Acting may not be his first lane, but he is open to opportunities that align with his personality and brand. At the center of it all is authenticity. John believes being yourself is enough, and more importantly, he believes being yourself can be rewarded. “Not everybody can be paid to be themselves,” he says. “I don’t have a script. I don’t have a guide. Everything is just authentic.” When asked what being a disruptor means to him, John does not hesitate. To him, disruption means leadership. It means standing out. It means refusing to follow just because the crowd demands it. “Being disruptive means you stand out,” he says. “You don’t follow societal norms. I move to the beat of my own drum.” John The Don may be polarizing, but that is also what makes him impossible to ignore. In a culture where reality television, nightlife, social media, and personal branding are increasingly intertwined, Jon represents a new kind of entertainment figure: one who does not ask to be understood before being seen. He is not trying to be perfect. He is not trying to be everyone’s favorite. He is trying to build a lane wide enough for his personality, his ambition, and his contradictions to exist without apology. “I hope they realize I’m just building a brand for myself,” he says. “You don’t have to conform to nothing or nobody you don’t want to. Being yourself is enough.” And for John The Don, that may be the entire point.

For over two decades, Dnay Baptiste has built a career in motion. The Harlem-born performer has electrified some of the world’s biggest stages alongside global superstars like Beyoncé and Megan Thee Stallion. Yet behind the lights, choreography, and sold-out arenas lies a story rooted in faith, family, and relentless preparation. Words By Amaya Capel Before the international tours, stadium crowds, and viral performances, there was simply a young girl in Harlem who knew exactly what she wanted to do. “I came out of the womb as a performer,” Dnay laughs. “My family is full of performers. We had talent shows in the house all the time.” Growing up in a small apartment with her mother, older sister, and cousin, entertainment became a way of life. With limited space but endless imagination, the living room became her stage. Church choirs, community talent shows, and block party performances filled her early years. Eventually, those performances evolved into something bigger when she joined the competitive underground dance group Untouchable Shorties, which traveled throughout the tri-state area. “We practiced outside,” she recalls. “At the park or on the sidewalk, using an outlet on the side of a church. That was my training.” Those unconventional beginnings shaped the philosophy that still guides her career today. “No matter where you are or what room you’re in, you give 150 percent.” “Talent will get you in the room, but your heart and authenticity will keep you there.” Throughout her career, Dnay has performed alongside some of the most influential women in music and entertainment. Each experience, she says, came with lessons that went far beyond choreography. Working with Beyoncé taught her discipline and work ethic at the highest level.“There’s never enough hours in the day,” she says. “Every tour we audition again. Nobody’s job is secured. You have to stay ready.”Even after years of touring, she still prepares as if she’s starting over. “I remember taking ballet classes before an audition even though ballet wasn’t my strength. I wanted it that bad.” Her time working with Megan Thee Stallion opened doors she hadn’t imagined for herself. As Megan’s dance captain for five years, Dnay stepped into leadership and choreography roles, including helping choreograph the rapper’s “Cobra”video. “She believed in me before I believed in myself,” Dnay tells Disrupshion Magazine. “Sometimes people see your potential before you do.” “There’s so much talent in the room. You have to stay on your toes every single day.” One pivotal moment in Dnay’s career came early in her time performing with Beyoncé. At the time, darker-skinned dancers rarely appeared together on major pop stages. Initially booked for the tour, she was briefly replaced before being unexpectedly called back at the last minute. When she finally stepped onto the stage, something had shifted. “They already had one chocolate girl,” she explains. “Now there were two of us. It showed there was room for more than one.” For Baptiste, the moment wasn’t just personal success, it represented change within an industry that often had limited representation. “It showed that beauty and talent come in many shades,” she says. “Sometimes the biggest barriers are broken just by showing up and doing the work.” Despite 21 years as a professional dancer, Dnay admits the nerves never disappear. “I’m nervous about every single show,” she says. “Butterflies, bathroom breaks the whole thing.” But the key, she explains, is remembering why she started. “I think about the little girl dancing in the living room with her sisters before a block party.” That memory keeps her performance grounded in joy rather than pressure. “At the end of the day, I just want to have fun. The audience paid their money to escape whatever they’re going through. My job is to give them that moment.” “I’ve been doing this for 21 years and I still get nervous before every show.” Balancing Fame, Beyond the stage, Dnay has stepped into another defining role: motherhood. Her eight-year-old son has changed the way she approaches her career from performance choices to costume adjustments. “I move differently now,” she explains. “Sometimes my wardrobe is a little more covered because I know my son is watching.” While touring and performing around the world can be demanding, she prioritizes maintaining strong connections with family and friends. Daily calls with her son, weekly family check-ins, and time with lifelong friends help keep her grounded. “You can be on top today and everything can change tomorrow. Your foundation has to be strong.” Looking back on her journey, Dnay reflects on how far she has come from the young girl who once sat watching shows like Soul Train. She shared this memory during our conversation while reflecting on where her love for dance began. Now, after performances across global stages and collaborations with some of the biggest names in music, the dream has far surpassed what she once imagined. “The little girl with the dream would be so proud,” she says. From Harlem living rooms to international arenas, Dnay has built a career defined by resilience, humility, and joy. And through it all, she never forgot why she started.“Sometimes I sit down and think… wow. You really did it.”

After more than two decades in the industry, Jennifer Sears isn’t chasing the moment,she’s finally living in it. For some, success arrives quickly. For others, it unfolds slowly, deliberately, shaped by years of unseen work. For Sears, the journey has been one of patience, faith, and unwavering commitment to her craft. Now, as a series regular on Tyler Perry’s Divorced Sistas, she’s stepping into a chapter that feels both earned and divinely timed. Words/Editor In Chief Angel Neal @angel_stylistbehavior Photographer Marie Thomas @mariethomas505 Wardrobe Stylist: Jimmy Hawkins (@CostumeJimmy) Hair Stylist: Rasheena Brooks (@rasheenabrooks) Makeup Artist: Yanick-Nikita Lunford (@yanikbeaute) Location Booker: LavishLeeStyled (@lavishleestyled) “This chapter in my life has been a long time coming,” she shares. “You work so hard and tirelessly on your career, and the progress can feel slow based on your own timelines. But God’s timing is always perfect. Now, after 20 years in the industry, I’m finally starting to see the fruits of my labor.” There’s no bitterness in her reflection, only gratitude. Every role, every “no,” every delay was, in her words, preparation. And now, the reward isn’t just visibility, it's alignment. Taking on the role of Bridgette in Divorced Sistas isn’t just another credit, it's a weight Sears carries with intention.“A lot of responsibility,” she says plainly. “You see that the success or failure of the show could rest heavily on your shoulders. I take that responsibility very seriously.” Working within the fast paced world of Tyler Perry Studios, where actors often tackle upwards of 100 pages a day has only sharpened her discipline. But speed alone isn’t the challenge. It’s maintaining truth in the performance. “You’re either going to sink or swim,” she says. “And I’m so grateful that I’m swimming.” Bridgette is bold, witty, and emotionally layered, a character that allows Sears to stretch while still pulling from her own instincts. Much of Bridgette‘s humor, she reveals, is her own.“A lot of her one liners and comebacks, they’re all improv,” she says. “I’m grateful Tyler gives me the creative liberty to do that.” But where Bridgette challenges her is deeper, especially in the character’s struggle with boundaries.“She’s bold, but when it comes to reinforcing healthy boundaries, the girl is lacking,” Sears admits. It’s a tension many women recognize and one that makes Bridgette story resonate so strongly with audiences. At its core, Divorced Sistas is about love, friendship, and the messy, often painful reality of both. And according to Sears, that’s exactly why it’s connecting.“These are human stories,” she explains. “No matter where you come from, we all can relate to struggling in love, or having fallouts with friends.”The series doesn’t shy away from conflict or complexity, it leans into it. And in doing so, it offers something rare: reflection. “A lot of the audience can see themselves in each of the women,” she says. “You start to empathize with them, you see their humanity.” Off-screen, Sears brings that same honesty to conversations around relationships and personal growth especially for women navigating transition. “I really hope women learn to choose themselves,” she says. “Know that they’re worthy of receiving love, and it starts with selflove.” Speaking from her own experience as a divorcee, she doesn’t romanticize healing, she tells the truth about it. Therapy, self reflection, and unlearning patterns all played a role in her journey. “You can’t fix someone,” she says. “They have to want to change for themselves.” It’s a message that echoes beyond the screen, one rooted in lived experience, not just performance. Sears has also used her platform to speak openly about her battle with endometriosis, a condition she describes as both invisible and often misunderstood.“It’s not spoken about enough,” she says. “By the time mine was caught, it was already stage four.” Her story is one of misdiagnosis, dismissal, and ultimately, survival. But instead of retreating, she chose to speak out to raise awareness and push for change in how women’s health is taken seriously. “Why do we have to almost lose our lives for our health to be taken seriously?” she asks. For Sears, advocacy isn’t separate from her artistry,it’s part of it. Black stories have too often been reduced to stereotypes, Sears is intentional about the narratives she helps bring to life.“Telling Black stories is extremely important to me,” she says. “We’re not monolithic.” That commitment shows up in the details from performance choices to collaborations with hair and wardrobe.“It’s about making sure we’re telling these stories truthfully,” she explains. “Even down to the small things, the nuances matter.” Because for Sears, representation isn’t just about being seen, it’s about being seen accurately. Jennifer Sears’ story isn’t one of overnight success. It’s one of endurance, evolution, and faith. Every role, every lesson, every setback has led her here, fully prepared for the moment she once prayed for.And now that she’s in it, she’s not just performing, she’s purposefully shaping the narrative. Because for Jennifer Sears, this isn’t just a breakthrough. It’s a beginning, right on time. I believe we can learn and take inspiration from her story, her time here and ladies and gentleman as a fan myself, it's well overdue.

We all know beauty trends move at the speed of a scroll, few artists understand the power of restraint, precision, and personalization quite like JaQuitta. As a celebrity eyebrow technician, she has carved out a lane rooted not in hype, but in mastery. Her work doesn’t just transform faces; it reframes confidence. Words: Editor In Chief: Angel Neal Photograph Courtesy of JaQuitta JaQuitta’s entry into the beauty space wasn’t accidental, it was intuitive. Drawn to detail and the subtle shifts that define a look, she quickly recognized the impact of brows as the anchor of the face. “Brows, in particular, stood out to me because they frame the entire face,” she explains. “Once I began working with clients and saw the confidence shift. I knew this was where I was meant to be.” What started as a skill soon revealed itself as purpose. “It became clear that this was more than beauty, it was about helping people feel like the best version of themselves.” That philosophy is evident in every client she touches. In an era dominated by fleeting trends, JaQuitta remains committed to individuality. Rather than replicating viral brow shapes, her process is deeply tailored. “I focus on bone structure, facial symmetry, and natural growth patterns rather than trends,” she says. “Every brow I create is customized and mapped specifically to enhance my client’s unique features.” The result is a look that feels effortless, yet intentionally timeless over trendy. Working with high-profile clientele requires a nuanced approach, one that balances evolution with identity. For JaQuitta, it’s about refinement, not reinvention. “My priority is preserving what makes my client recognizable while refining and elevating their look,” she shares. “Evolution doesn’t have to be dramatic it can be as subtle as softening the brow, adjusting tone, or enhancing dimension.” It’s this attention to detail that keeps her clients current without compromising what makes them them. Of course, not all brow journeys begin on the right foot. When asked about the most common mistake she sees, her answer is immediate: over-tweezing. “It disrupts the natural shape and can lead to long-term thinning that’s difficult to correct,” she notes. Her advice is simple but critical, trust the process, and more importantly, trust a professional. While beauty standards continue to evolve, JaQuitta’s work remains grounded in principles that outlast any trend cycle. “I stay informed, but I don’t allow trends to dictate my work,” she says. Instead, she leans into balance, proportion, and softness elements that ensure her artistry remains both relevant and enduring. Her definition of the “perfect brow” has also matured over time. What once centered on precision has softened into something more dimensional and real. “To me, a perfect brow is one that enhances the face without overpowering it,” she explains. “It should look effortless, soft, and natural.” It’s a reflection of where beauty itself is headed away from rigidity, and toward authenticity. But beyond technique, JaQuitta’s work is deeply emotional. At its core, it’s about confidence. “Brows may seem like a small detail, but they have a powerful impact on how someone presents themselves,” she says. Whether a client wants to feel bold, refined, or understated, her role is to bring that vision to life. “It’s about enhancing not just their features, but their self expression.”For those looking to follow in her footsteps, JaQuitta is clear: excellence is the baseline. “Mastery and consistency are non-negotiable,” she says. But skill alone isn’t enough. Building a high-end clientele requires intention from professionalism to the overall experience. “A loyal, high-end clientele is built on trust, and that comes from consistently exceeding expectations.” In a world chasing the next beauty trend, JaQuitta stands firmly in her craft proving that true artistry isn’t about keeping up, but about setting a standard.

Shamar McCoy, known to fans as Big Marco, has never asked for permission to take up space. The Atlanta born viral sensation built his name the only way he knows how: loudly, honestly, and without compromise. What started as spontaneous videos,dancing, joking, and speaking his truth quickly evolved into a cultural presence that refuses to be boxed in. Now stepping into new territory, from viral content to music, reality television, and live performances Big Marco is proving that authenticity isn’t just a personality trait, it’s a strategy. And when Cardi B called him to the stage during her Atlanta tour stop, it wasn’t just a moment, it was confirmation. Words/Editor In Chief: Angel Neal Styled by Dorian Jihad Assisted by Nyhiem Hearts Photos by J.t.Photography (Jaelen Felton) PR - Rocki Patrice Manager/Set Assistance - Alex Huncho Outfits - Cult of individuality Because for Big Marco, every stage, every post, every opportunity carries intention even when it looks effortless. “I just want to give it my all because my fans deserve it all,” he says. “And I just want to make it count.” Raised in Atlanta’s Mechanicville neighborhood, his journey hasn’t been linear. From personal loss to homelessness, Big Marco’s story is layered with challenges that could have easily silenced him, but instead became fuel. His presence today is not just about entertainment; it’s about visibility, resilience, and showing others that imperfection can be power.“I am who I am. I can’t change that and honestly, I wouldn’t,” he shares. “My disability isn’t an inability.”That mindset has carried him from viral TikTok moments to collaborations in music, including “Clock Dat” with Fendi Da Rapper and onto platforms like Zeus Network, where his personality remains just as unfiltered as his content.The “Shamar effect,” as he calls it, is simple: be yourself at all levels. And people are watching. Not because he’s trying to fit into the industry but because he’s redefining how to exist in it. Before the Interview Shamar “Big Marco” McCoy sits down with Disrupshion Magazine to talk viral moments, real life resilience, and what it means to show up as yourself every single time. On stepping onto a major stage:“Have fun, enjoy, and don’t mess up. On every stage I touch, I just want to give it my all because my fans deserve it all, and I just want to make it count.” On being recognized by Cardi B:“It feels like I made it when she gave that spotlight. Cardi B has supported me publicly before, but that was my first time hearing it directly from her. It’s not every day that an icon celebrates you, and it was that moment that I knew more of these moments would happen.” On the “Shamar effect”:“I feel like the Shamar effect is just that being yourself at all levels. I’ve never tried to be politically correct or copy anyone else. I just be me, and that’s constantly changing because I’m constantly growing.” On his content:“The content I post is without intent, with no real purpose besides speaking my truth. I am intentional about my brand and what I stand for, like all brands. But when I’m live, it’s just the unfiltered me.” On resilience:“When things get tough, reflecting on my past and where I came from losing my mom, being homeless, thoughts of suicide but seeing that it all was for a purpose and that things can get better. I’ve created fans that love me, and they don’t play about me.” On identity and confidence:“I am who I am. I can’t change that, and honestly wouldn’t. I wouldn’t be me without the imperfections the world may see. My disability isn’t an inability.” On going viral:“I realized when I was 20 years old, my first video that went viral was when I said, ‘That b*tch said she gone punch me in my face,’ and it went crazy. That’s when I knew they was watching ya boy.” On Atlanta:“I love my city. Atlanta don’t care about no celebs everybody is somebody. To know I’m a part of the legacy of such a great city lets me know I was born for greatness.” On reality TV and Zeus Network:“I love reality TV, but I prefer to do it my way because I’m me. Nobody can script or filter me.” On music:“I’ve been doing music. ‘Clock Dat’ is a song I’m featured on with my girl Fendi Da Rapper. When we made it, I knew instantly the world was going to love it.” On what he wants people to feel:“I hope they feel that joy and happiness. Regardless of what you’re going through, it will get better.” On balance:“It’s a strict program over here, but I also like to have fun, playing the game and being with my friends.” On standing out:“Be yourself, nobody can be you better than you.” On impact:“I’m not trying to change anything besides showing others like me that if I can, so can you.” On authenticity:“I never felt pressured to be anything outside of Shamar, staying authentic does not require effort.” On what’s next:“What’s next is everything, more music, new TV shows, film, bigger stages. I want it all. Clock it, it’s Big Marco.”