Happy Mother’s Day
Mom, a cute throwback on this special day. You were giving your model pose while I was cheesing for the camera. I wish I could squeeze you in person. Can’t wait until we can take another picture. While we are social distancing, I’m sending you a cyber hug and wishing you a Happy Mother’s Day!
Niya Brown Matthews - COVID-19 Survivor
"I take it very personal...I see people out with no mask, no gloves and I can't believe it."
43-year-old Niya Brown Matthews says she almost died after contracting COVID-19.
The wife and mother who lives in Georgia says it is very disturbing to see people outdoors without the proper protection and not social distancing.
And she has a message for those who think they could not be seriously affected.
Black Women and COVID-19
I interviewed Chilah Harper, a nurse at Veterans’ Hospital in my hometown of Detroit, Michigan. She almost lost her life after contracting the coronavirus. I wanted to talk to her because black women are the underrepresented face of COVID-19 and more of their stories need to be told.
Supporting our Immune System
Sharing with you some of the things I do to stay healthy and try to support my immune system.
Jigsaw Puzzle
Everyone is going a little stir crazy right now. Here is an Old Skool remedy that can help you and your family pass the time and take your mind off of what is happening in the world right now. I haven’t put together a jigsaw puzzle in years and it was so much fun. It takes so much concentration that it takes your mind off the news. Thank you to my Spelman Sister Shauna Bain for including this in my gift bag!
In a Perfect World
This past weekend, I attended my dear friend Manuela Testolini’s “In a Perfect World” luncheon celebrating some phenomenal women. Luncheon honoree Misty Copeland spoke about her journey to becoming the first African American female lead dancer of the American Ballet Theater. Very empowering afternoon with women who are changing the world!
In a Perfect World Founder (left); Misty Copeland (center)
(left to right) Emma Grede of ‘Good American’ clothing, Misty Copeland, Deborah Santana, and Noora Raj Brown of Goop.
(left to right) D’Angela Procter, Tanika Ray, me and Marilyn Booker - all my Spelman Sisters.
Emma Grede of Good American
My friend Simone Smith
LaTanya Richardson
Big Sister Tonya Winfield
Friend Tammy Warren
Manuela’s mom, her little daughter Luna and Gina Loring
Maya Henry and Towalame Austin
Forbes Magazine
Los Angeles County Commendation
I was very honored to receive this Commendation from the County of Los Angeles presented to me by Supervisor Mark Ridley Thomas. It reads, “In recognition of dedicated service to the affairs of the community and for the civic pride demonstrated by numerous contributions for the benefit of all the residents of Los Angeles County.” Thank you to MLK Community Health Foundation for honoring me with the Game Changer Award.
Realscreen
I spent the day in New Orleans to join TLC Network and Sharp Entertainment at the Realscreen television conference to talk about the phenomenal success of the “90 Day Fiance” franchise. I have been hosting the Tell All reunion shows for several years. When I was first asked to host the Tell All’s, I had no idea that it would become as popular as it is. It has been super fun being a part of the show.
Mike Schnieder, Variety Magazine, Howard Lee, TLC, myself, Matt Sharp, Sharp Entertainment
My Memories of Kobe Bryant
I remember this moment as though it were yesterday. August 2008. I interviewed Kobe Bryant at the Beijing Olympics. You can look at his face and see how excited he was to represent the United States in the games. Thank you for bringing home the gold, Kobe. Thank you for all the memories. RIP.
Dr. King’s Big Sister
I meant to share this picture on the official holiday for Dr. Martin Luther King as a tribute. But, here is it! This is one of one of my FAVORITE teachers from my alma mater Spelman College - Dr. Christine Farris, sister of Dr.King. As students, we use to ask her questions in class about her younger brother, Martin, and she would tell us beautiful and heart-warming stories about him. She said Martin was a regular kid, playing outside with his friends, playing pranks (like pulling her hair) and getting into mischief. It wasn’t until his family faced a stark instance of racism that Martin declared, “I’m going to turn this world upside down” and make it right, fair and just for all. Dr. Farris taught us, as students that we could all be Game Changers like Martin if we have a great concern for humanity.
Dr. Farris and I at a Spelman College reunion event in 2016
Lights, Camera, Action!
The S.H.A.U.N. Foundation for Girls is in production on a major new project that I am very excited about. Last weekend, the house was full of some amazing young women who are participating in the project and they are ROCK STARS! Can’t wait to share more details about our vision!
Ready for their closeup.
Speaking her truth
Hey Beautiful!
Camera equipment was hauled in at 6AM
My amazing partners Kelley and Capella
New friends!
