Julia Bowman, a Belizean children’s book author, is on a mission to rewrite the narrative for single parents and their children. Drawing inspiration from her own journey as a divorced single mom, Julia weaves the rich tapestry of Belizean beauty into her works, infusing her children’s book and her blog, Memoirs of a Healing Woman, with authenticity and heart. Through her writing, she reveals the evolving dynamics of modern families, destigmatizing the nontraditional new normal for households worldwide.
What inspired your interest in becoming a children’s book author?
Being an author was always something that tugged at my heart. Long before society labeled me as a registered nurse and a divorced single mom, I dreamed in words. Life led me down unexpected paths and I briefly set aside my dream of writing when I chose to pursue nursing. But the universe had other plans. The birth of my daughter ignited a spark within me. She became my muse, inspiring me to embrace my authentic self and share that journey with others.
Through the challenges of divorce and single parenthood, I sought solace in literature, only to find a gap that needed filling. I yearned for stories that mirrored my experiences and offered healing. In that pursuit, I found my purpose — to be a voice for those navigating similar paths. Thus, fueled by love for my daughter and a desire to connect with kindred spirits, I embarked on the journey of writing a children’s book, sharing my story through Memoirs of a Healing Woman, and more recently getting enrolled as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. It’s a journey of self discovery, healing and connection.
What are some of the shifts you see coming that will affect how you deliver for the audience you serve?
As a Caribbean-raised woman and author, I foresee seismic shifts in family dynamics that challenge traditional norms. Growing up, I witnessed the evolution of family structures and I believe we’re entering an era of heightened societal awareness. In this evolving landscape, connecting with kindred spirits becomes crucial. The proverbial ‘it takes a village’ rings true as we collectively raise awareness and support one another. By addressing mental health issues and embracing diverse family dynamics we can start fostering a more inclusive and supportive society for the generations to come.
How do you advise others to develop their career strengths? How do you compensate for the areas where you are not as strong in your own career?
Developing career strengths? I say instead of just finding ourselves, let’s create who we want to be. Discovering purpose within our own abilities is truly beautiful. Stepping off the path of expectation allowed me to nurture the unique parts of me. I recall moments of doubt while writing this book and sharing on my blog. Who was I to offer advice? But then I realized, life experiences are just as valuable as anything. It’s about showing up with authenticity and courage that truly matters.
Who was the most influential or inspiring person in your life and why?
My daughter. She’s the mentor that crashed into me and transformed me completely. Children have this incredible way of reflecting back to us. Coming from a divorced home myself, I witnessed the devastation it can bring. As a woman and mother to a girl, I was determined to teach her the power of walking away from anything or anyone that no longer brings joy. And I wanted her to understand that letting go can lead to a new and brighter chapter, both in our lives and in our minds.
What are you most grateful for in your life?
I am immensely grateful for my capacity for gratitude. It’s like a switch that transforms how we perceive the world. Once you’re in that mindset, it becomes nearly impossible to be pulled away from it too long. Gratitude has the power to shape our outlook and enrich our lives.
What is your favorite Caribbean tradition?
Carnival, without a doubt. There’s simply nothing else like it. Beyond the costumes and rhythms, I find it’s so empowering, especially as a woman. Carnival has a unique way of elevating my spirit and connecting me to my inner vibration.
Are there any important upcoming projects or developments you’re looking forward to executing in the near future?
I’m so excited to even be able to share this with you! Currently I’ve been focused on expanding my children’s book series and eager to create a platform where I can actively engage with the Caribbean women’s community.
How can our readers follow you online?
I would be honored to have you journey with me on my blog, Memoirs of a Healing Woman, and explore my children’s book, “The Best of Both Worlds,” available on Amazon.
Fedleine Jerome, an emerging Haitian American actress, writer, director, and mother of two, recently showcased her acclaimed short film, “The Therapist,” at the prestigious 2024 Pan African Film Festival, marking another milestone in her creative journey.
Hailing from Haiti, Fedleine and her family relocated to South Florida when she was just two years old. Despite the challenges of growing up in poverty, Fedleine’s unyielding determination propelled her to pursue theater and dance studies at the University of Florida on a full scholarship. Following graduation, she pursued a career as an elementary school teacher before discovering her true passion for filmmaking.
Fedleine’s narrative work delves into self-discovery, motherhood, and transcendence themes, often imbued with humor and poignant dialogue. Her journey from graduating with a theater degree to directing commercials and exploring various roles on set has been inspiring.
“The Therapist” serves as a personal testament to Fedleine’s journey. The film’s protagonists, Brooke and Elisa, embody different aspects of her experiences, from navigating marital dissatisfaction to embracing her identity as an artist. Fedleine found solace in her healing journey after facing adversity, drawing parallels to the characters’ pursuit of self-acceptance and creative fulfillment.
Fedleine’s short film “The Therapist” has garnered widespread acclaim, earning accolades such as selection for the Aspire TV Filmmakers Competition, Best Local Short, and Most Watched at the Mom’s Film Festival. Her work champions women’s empowerment and addresses significant issues within the black community through comedy and heartfelt storytelling.
In addition to her filmmaking endeavors, Fedleine’s photography will be featured in the Women’s History Month Exhibition, “Resilience Through A Woman’s Lens,” at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex on March 3rd, further amplifying the voices of female photographers in the community.
Beyond her artistic pursuits, Fedleine finds joy in dancing with her local Haitian folklore dance team, performing on theater and improv stages, expressing herself through painting, and nurturing her two children, Dj and Jojo, who are constant inspirations in her artistic journey.
“The Therapist” Synopsis
In “The Therapist,” a therapist becomes entangled in her clients’ unconventional love life, leading to unexpected twists and turns. The film follows Brooke and Jason as they return to therapy after a hiatus, grappling with grief and a desire for intimacy. Meanwhile, struggling artist Elisa unlocks the secret to her newfound creativity, only for unexpected guests to disrupt a heated session, exposing everyone’s secrets.
The four-day culinary event features programming and exclusive meals curated by world-renowned guest chefs, sponsored by U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism and HexClad
Lovango Resort & Beach Club, the family-owned private island resort overlooking USVI’s Caneel Bay, unveils the second annual Taste of Lovango Festival, taking place between Wednesday, May 29-Saturday, June 1, 2024. The esteemed culinary event features exclusive meals curated by world-renowned guest chefs, creative cocktails from local partners, and an invigorating schedule of activities.
Spanning four days, the festival is filled with culinary delights, including a vibrant Street Fair celebration, two six-course prix fixe dinners, and a Caribbean lobster bake, each sponsored by USVI Department of Tourism. Festivities kick off on opening night with the Street Fair, featuring acclaimed guest chefs such as Sam Choy, Allen Susser, Vinny Alterio, Ryan O’Sullivan, and the talented Lovango culinary team.
The following two nights, both sponsored by HexClad, promise extraordinary dining experiences with a pair of six-course meals. The first showcases the culinary expertise of chefs Robbie Felice, Brian Arruda, and Brad Kilgore, while the second features the talents of chefs Alex Belew, Gerald Sombright, and Alessandra Ciuffo.
The culinary extravaganza concludes with a grand Caribbean lobster bake, led by the renowned Tiffani Faison and Lovango’s executive chef, Stephen Belie.
Guests can join the immersive experience by opting for Lovango’s overnight accommodations, featuring a selection of Luxury Treehouses, charming Cottages, cozy Glamping Tents, and an exquisite Luxury Villa. Alternatively, visitors from neighboring St. John and St. Thomas can partake in the festivities by booking individual tickets to each event.
Full access tickets for Taste of Lovango start at $1100 pp and include daily continental breakfast, exclusive resort daytime demos, and access to the four main evening events. In between events, participants can unwind at Lovango’s exclusive Beach Club, with curated retail pop-ups, an infinity pool, beach games, and a special Taste of Lovango menu.
This year’s Taste of Lovango will benefit Love City Strong, a 501(c)(3) organization committed to rebuilding St John through disaster preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation.
The full line-up of chefs, include:
STEPHEN BELIE
Chef Belie’s culinary approach is rooted in using the freshest regional ingredients and teaching and mentoring staff on consistently producing high-quality food. Prior to joining Lovango as food & beverage director and executive chef, he was executive chef at Noble House’s Little Palm Island Resort & Spa and Gateway Canyons Resort.
BRIAN ARRUDA
Brian Arruda is the Founder & CEO of premier chef-placement agency Executive Chefs at Home. Prior to this, he traveled the country working for acclaimed chefs including José Andrés, Thomas Keller and Daniel Boulud, working his way from prep cook to Executive Chef.
ROBBIE FELICE
James Beard Rising Star semifinalist Robbie Felice is the co-founder and chef-partner of the exclusive pop-up pastaRAMEN, as well as Viaggio Ristorante and Osteria Crescendo in New Jersey.
TIFFANI FAISON
Chef, Restaurateur, TV personality, and Top Chef winner Tiffani Faison has made a name for herself nationwide for her dynamic personality, culinary prowess and fierce work ethic. Marking her many culinary achievements, James Beard has nominated Tiffani as “Best Chef: Northeast” four times for Tiger Mama and Orfano.
SAM CHOY
Chef Sam Choy has been creating cuisine with fresh, local island ingredients since he was a boy learning to cook alongside his parents. Before the words “Farm-to-Table” ever came together, sourcing and cooking with the traditional foods of Hawai‘i was a way of life for Sam. In 2004, Choy was awarded the James Beard Foundation Award America’s Classics Award for Sam Choy’s Kaloko in Kailua-Kona, on the Big Island of Hawai‘i. The award recognizes “beloved regional restaurants” that reflect the character of their communities.
BRAD KILGORE
James Beard Finalist, Chef Bradley Kilgore was born and raised in Kansas City. After relocating to work and train in Denver, Italy, and Chicago, Chef Kilgore worked at the world-renowned restaurant Alinea In Chicago before leaving to open L2o under Chef Laurent Gras. Later, both restaurants garnered the honor of 3 Michelin Stars. He has now planted his feet in the beautiful city of Miami.
GERALD SOMBRIGHT
Gerald Sombright is the first black man in America to earn a Michelin Star. With over twenty years of culinary experience in creativity and leadership. Gerald has been featured at culinary festivals in America such as Aspen, Pebble Beach, Charleston. Gerald has cooked at the James Beard house, contributing to that legacy. Gerald was the opening Chef de cuisine at Knife and Spoon earning one Michelin Star.
RYAN O’SULLIVAN
Winner of Season 21 of Hell’s Kitchen, Ryan O’Sullivan was born in the vibrant city of Cork, Ireland, in 1993, is a culinary fanatic who embarked on his gastronomic journey from a youngage. His destiny as a chef was almost preordained, following in the footsteps of his father, From the moment Ryan could peer over the kitchen counter, he was captivated by the alchemy of cooking. While other kids tuned into cartoons, he was glued to the adventures of culinary giants like Gordon Ramsay, Raymond Blanc, and Gary Rhodes on television.
ALLEN SUSSER
James Beard Award winning renowned chef Allen Susser brings extensive expertise and experience in the culinary world to assist restaurants and hospitality businesses in achieving their goals and staying ahead in a competitive market.
ALEX BELEW
Award-winning chef, entrepreneur, and podcast host Alex Belew is known for his culinary expertise.
ALESSANDRA CIUFFO
Alessandra Ciuffo is a NYC-based chef and aspiring TV personality. You may recognize her from the Food Network’s Rachael vs. Guy: Kids Cook-off. She competed and won an episode of Guy’s Grocery Games and has appeared in several episodes of the Rachael Ray Show.
VINNY ALTERIO
Vincent ‘Vinny’ Alterio was born in Chicago and began his cooking career at the Peninsula Chicago. He has worked with Graham Elliot at his flagship restaurant as the chef and on “Master Chef” (as a guest judge) alongside Gordon Ramsey and Christina Tosi. In 2015, he decided to follow the seas and his dreams to a warmer climate. He ended up sailing into Cruz Bay, St. John, where he lives and works!
Reggae artists, workshops, meditations, vegan food, yoga, kids’ activities and good vibes
The inaugural Livity Haven Mindfulness Art & Music Festival will take place on Saturday March 23, 2024, 11am-11pm at Historic Virginia Key Beach, located at 4020 Virginia Beach Dr, Miami, FL 33149. This unique event focused on human well-being will feature live mindfulness workshops, an art & music festival with live performances from top reggae artists, headlined by Grammy-nominated hitmaker, Jesse Royal, emerging reggae sensation, Yohan Marley who is also the Grandson of Bob Marley and Son of Stephen Marley, conscious rapper and “Good Energy” hitmaker Yung Wylin and multi-talented Grammy & Emmy nominated Dancehall artist/producer, Tessellated, vegan foods, mindfulness workshops, classes, yoga, kids’ zone, permaculture and more, in celebration of the Afro-Caribbean culture and to promote vibrant and conscious living.
Livity Haven is also an official event of the World Happiness Fest, a national organization featuring nine days of realizing the future of happiness all over the country. Livity Haven is built around the intention to living a holistic and sustainable life, while helping the South Florida community to regulate their emotions and body through tools such as meditation, sound healing, breathwork, movement, dance, and music.
Livity Haven will also feature a wide array of facilitators and healers. Full list HERE
As the world becomes increasingly fractured, Livity Haven, founder Yemani Mason, created this powerful family friendly experience tofoster a joyful, empowering, and transformative experience that celebrates the cultural heritage of the African Diaspora, fosters community, and promotes well-being, inclusivity and belonging for all. “Livity Haven is based around the healing of the mind, body and soul. It’s a family friendly environment with a focus on empowering both adults and children through our free workshops and classes during the day, and musical performances at night featuring some of the hottest reggae, afrobeats, and hip-hop acts in the world. Our goal is to help individuals and families live a more sustainable, mindful, and peaceful life”, stated Mason.
The stars were out at the 2024 edition of Jazz in the Gardens as fans enjoyed two packed days of music, food and community. Superstars like Summer Walker, Davido and Jazmine Sullivan took to the main stage while local acts entertained on a second stage. Besides the headliners, the event’s 17th year boasted an electrifying lineup featuring performances by T.I., Kirk Franklin, Omarion, Babyface, Scarface, Jaheim, Tamia, and a special edition of DJ Cassidy’s Pass the Mic Live!, just to name a few standouts. This year’s collaboration with the Black Promoters Collective helped promote a diverse festival experience representative of the culture of South Florida.
Missed the festival? Relive the magic with our gallery, capturing all the unforgettable moments you wish you were there for!
Building a modern Caribbean-inspired home is a dream for many who are drawn to the laid-back yet vibrant lifestyle of the Caribbean islands. This architectural style harmonizes with the natural beauty of the Caribbean environment, incorporating outdoor living spaces, bright colors and sustainable materials. If your dream is to build a Caribbean-inspired home with a modern twist, then read on to learn how to do so.
Plan Where You Want To Build
The first step in bringing your Caribbean dream home to life is choosing the right location. Florida is a great option, perhaps for the obvious reasons of warm weather, oceanfront views and tropical foliage. However, don’t feel like you have to restrict your build’s location to somewhere near the actual Caribbean. You can build your home anywhere, but you’ll probably enjoy it more if it’s in a sunny area.
Incorporate Natural Materials and Bright Colors
To truly capture the essence of Caribbean architecture, integrate natural materials and bright colors into your home’s design. Use locally sourced wood, stone, and bamboo to add warmth and texture. Likewise, bright, bold colors can bring your interior and exterior spaces to life, mimicking the vibrant flora and culture of the Caribbean. By making your home bright and naturally sourced, you pay homage to traditional Caribbean aesthetics and promote sustainability.
Design for Open, Airy Spaces
One of the hallmarks of a Caribbean-inspired home is the seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces. Design your home with large windows, open verandas and expansive patios that encourage natural ventilation and ample sunlight. This creates a breezy, comfortable living environment and blurs the lines between the indoors and the lush outdoors, allowing you to fully enjoy the paradise-like setting of your home.
Work With Builders Who Understand Your Vision
Finding the right builder is crucial in realizing the vision of your modern Caribbean-inspired home. Work with professionals who have experience with custom architecture and can guide you in merging traditional elements with modern design principles. A system-built home designer will respect your vision, offering innovative solutions that enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your home while ensuring it is in harmony with its natural surroundings.
Now that you know how, we wish you the best of luck designing a home that reflects the beauty, culture and laid-back lifestyle of the Caribbean.
Miami Museum of Contemporary Art of the African Diaspora Continues to Set the Stage for A New Era in Exploration of Contemporary Art from the Global African Diaspora
Miami Museum of Contemporary Art of the African Diaspora (Miami MoCAAD) remains at the forefront, pioneering a new chapter in the exploration of contemporary art from the diverse reaches of the Global African Diaspora. Following the success of Miami MoCAAD’s inaugural virtual reality art exhibition, “This Life: Black Life in the Time of Now,” which premiered during Art Basel 2023, Miami MoCAAD will unveil new work of artist Marielle Plaisir entitled, “The Day I Heard the Sounds of the World” and present its second virtual reality art exhibition and accompanying documentary, at the Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater on March 21, 2024, at 7pm.
Plaisir’s work delves into the intricate tapestry of community connections through art. Flowing from narratives of Overtown and Coral Gables, this endeavor and documentary titled, “The Day I Heard the Sounds of the World: ARt Connecting Communities-Overtown and Coral Gables,” shed light on the divergent yet intersecting paths these communities traversed, particularly amidst the backdrop of the Jim Crow era in the urban South.
Miami MoCAAD was awarded a Knight New Work grant from the Knight Foundation to commission new art by Marielle Plaisir (French Caribbean) and incorporate augmented reality. With support from Miami-Dade County, Miami MoCAAD expanded the project to include the virtual reality art exhibition and documentary. The virtual reality art exhibition will include eight works from Plaisir’s exhibition, “Strange Fruits,” currently on exhibit at the Coral Gables Museum through April 28, 2024. After the Miami MoCAAD premiere, Plaisir’s new work will join her exhibition at the Coral Gables Museum, 285 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables.
The Doll
The commissioned installation incorporates interactive technology and will be accompanied by a virtual art exhibit and documentary. A fireside chat with Marielle, and Miami MoCAAD co-founder Marilyn Holifield, moderated by Donnamarie Baptiste, Arts and Culture Leader will take place after the screening of the documentary. Attendees will also be provided with an augmented reality (AR) experience that will enable them to learn about Marielle while providing a view of her immersive artworks through a virtual reality portal. RSVP for free at https://miamimocaad.eventbrite.com.
This project is made possible with the support of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners.
Community screening of the premiere is made possible with the support provided by The Jorge M. Pérez Family Foundation at The Miami Foundation.
The Divine Comedy II, 2023
“Miami MoCAAD aims to leverage technology to establish a platform that enhances the voices of the African Diaspora, fostering discourse and connections within and beyond communities. Miami MoCAAD is excited about the path to build a hybrid museum that utilizes technology to ignite curiosity, enhance accessibility, and revolutionize both virtual and in-person museum experiences,” stated Miami MoCAAD cofounder Marilyn Holifield.
The Knight New Work program began in Miami in 2018. Open to individual artists, collectives, and art organizations, the open call celebrates artistic creation and collaboration through new modes of production, expression and communication using technology.
“Amid rapid digital transformation, artists and arts organizations are harnessing technology to expand horizons, foster connections and redefine boundaries,” said Jennifer Farah, Director/Arts for the Knight Foundation. “We are thrilled to support Miami MoCAAD in presenting Marielle’s new work, a first for the artist to incorporate digital representation, that bridges communities and leverages technology.”
Marielle Plaisir, a multimedia artist deeply immersed in the exploration of domination and supremacy, transcends the boundaries of conventional artistry. Initially rooted in painting, her journey has evolved into a realm where activism intertwines seamlessly with her creative expression. She crafts immersive narratives that resonate with the complexities of her French-Caribbean heritage within the context of Postcolonialism.
The interviews in the documentary of Marielle will center on the pieces from the show selected for the virtual museum and the digital production and follow up on contextualization of the linkages between Overtown and Coral Gables by local historian, Dr. Dorothy Fields, in light of the artist’s themes of the new work.
“The companion documentary is a tale of two diverse 20th century pioneer Miami communities: “Colored Town” (The Central Negro District) now Overtown and Coral Gables, “The City Beautiful.” It highlights the soul and parallel paths of each community mainly through stories and archival images of long-ago developers, laborers, and residents; and the majestic character of several remaining historic sites. Artist Marielle Plaisir dreams of a better world, a world without domination and supremacy. Through art she transforms ordinary real stories into captivating, ambitious and emotionally chartered masterpieces guided now by AR/VR and other emerging 21st century technologies.”
Dr. Dorothy Fields, Historian
Marielle Plaisir’s evocative art installations serve as conduits bridging past and present, employing cutting-edge technologies like AR/VR to infuse creativity into historical storytelling. Her work aims to inform, uplift, and provoke thought.
“I place love and gentleness at the heart of my practice. It’s a bit old-fashioned to talk about love, but it’s what holds humanity together. It’s this fragility. Without love, we do not build anything together; we don’t recognize the other as our equal. Love is the ultimate desire, the ultimate aspiration of humanity. “
Marille Plaisair
The Miami MoCAAD team chose Xennial Digital, a VR/AR tech startup based in Miami, as its digital partner to develop an unparalleled VR experience. Established in 2018, Xennial specializes in crafting VR/AR platforms, content, products and solutions tailored for enterprise and academic institutions. Through Augmented and Virtual Reality experiences – thanks to the work of Miami tech company Xennial – participants can now experience the new works of Marielle Plaisir in new ways.
“The beauty of the Miami MoCAAD VR Museum project, is that it continues to demonstrate how we can use immersive technologies to eliminate the boundaries of how far artists can reach their audiences. Through Virtual Reality, now anyone across the globe can experience Marielle’s artwork. It also enables great artists like Marielle to start looking at new ways to transition from creating 2D master pieces, into fully interactive 3D artwork experiences that immerse their public into their creativity.”
Douglas Fajardo, Founder | CEO, Xennial
The documentary is produced by 5x Regional Emmy Award winner Michael Anderson, founder, Diaspora Pass Story Forward, Inc.
“As the Director and Producer of this upcoming documentary film “The Day I Heard the Sounds of the World “featuring the talented artist Marielle Plaisir and the esteemed Miami historian Dr. Dorothy Fields, I must say that this project has been an absolute pleasure to work on. We have embarked on a journey of connecting art, history, and culture, and our goal is to bring this unique experience to our audience in a creative and innovative way through Virtual Reality. We believe that by immersing viewers in the world of black culture and art, we can create a powerful and transformative narrative that transcends traditional documentary storytelling. Get ready to step into a new dimension where the past meets the present and where the beauty and significance of black art and culture come to life like never before.”
Michael Anderson
About Miami MoCAAD
Miami MoCAAD is a tech-forward startup museum with a mission to discover, commission, collect and preserve the work of the most advanced contemporary artists of the Global African Diaspora and its mother continent Africa. As a museum of the future, MoCAAD will embed technology in exhibitions, programs, and practices, going beyond digital art offerings to explore ways technology can elevate experiences, educate and reach audiences around the world.
Miami MoCAAD is digital-first. Flexible, nimble and distributed, it is both deeply rooted in the local Miami context and global in its reach. It meets its audiences where they are, appearing in diverse digital spaces and creative venues, curating exhibitions and experiences that connect local and international audiences with the work of experienced and emerging contemporary artists of the African Diaspora and Africa. It will serve as a bridge between a constellation of different and diverse voices and art venues of Africa and the African Diaspora around the world from the Americas and Caribbean to Africa, and Europe. For more information, please visit: http://miamimocaad.org.
About Knight Foundation
We are social investors who support a more effective democracy by funding free expression and journalism, arts and culture in community, research in areas of media and democracy, and the success of American cities and towns where the Knight brothers once published newspapers. Learn more at kf.org.
In celebration of Women’s History Month, Wynwood’s Art of Hip Hop is slated to honor three staples of Miami’s airwaves, Lucy Lopez, Stichiz, and Supa Cindy, for their contributions to Miami’s music and Hip Hop culture. An awards ceremony, led by Da-Venya Armstrong, Founder and CEO of Armstrong Creative Consulting, will take place whereby the women will be presented with original works of art by 3 leading local female artists Tierra Armstrong, Nico, and Didi Contreras. Following the ceremony will be a discussion with the women of our airwaves, focusing on their journeys to the top of male-dominated media industry.
Lucy Lopez was hailed as the Voice of Miami for over 15 years. She is a trusted, award-winning media personality and beloved commentator among the diverse Latinx audience and has interviewed some of the world’s biggest names in Hip Hop from Miami’s own Rick Ross, FloRida and Pitbull to Busta Rhymes and Kanye West. In 2021, Lucy broke out of the confines of mainstream radio to embark on a new venture called the Mamacita Rica Podcast, an authentic exploration of current events and engaging topics with a diverse range of guests, including cultural icons, community leaders, experts, and friends from Miami and beyond.
The focus will also be on Stichiz, a multi-lingual, tongue twisting Hip-Hop Artist born in Ottawa, Canada to parents of Haitian descent and raised in South Florida. Stichiz is known for her talents as a Lyricist, Songwriter, Voiceover Actress, well-known Radio Personality and more. With a stylish, unique infectious appeal and unforgettable presence on stage, she flips and mixes Hip-Hop lyrics in English, Creole, French, a touch of Reggae, and rock-like vocals that will leave you with a jaw-dropping experience. As a community leader she serves as an On-Air host, known as “The Mid Day Bae” and official female voice of Miami’s Urban radio station-WMIB’s 103.5 The Beat.
Finally, the event will recognize Supa Cindy who currently hosts the morning show on 99 Jamz. When she’s not connecting with her audience or wowing a live crowd, Supa Cindy stays busy running her own company, Cin D. Media, a recording and promotional agency. At present, she’s collaborating with South Florida Rapper Trina to cut an all-female album under the label’s brand. Supa Cindy, who is of Haitian/Dominican heritage, was born in Miami and is fluent in both Spanish and English. She began her career as an intern at 99 Jamz, advancing through the ranks over the last 10 plus years with the station.
About the Art of Hip Hop From the founders of the Museum of Graffiti, the Art of Hip Hop highlights the creators behind Hip Hop’s visual identity. While rappers and DJs routinely attract the limelight, this concept focuses on the photographers, album cover artists, graffiti writers, and logo designers who helped create the Hip Hop genre as we know it today. After successful stops as pop ups in Austin, TX for SXSW and Seoul, Korea, the Art of Hip Hop has come home to Miami to stay. Follow along on Instagram at @the.art.of.hip.hop
A boy smiles gratefully in this photo from mid-February, when Fondation Saint Luc distributed 5,100 food kits from FFTP to displaced families. MannaPack rice meals from our partner Feed My Starving Children also were distributed to three hospitals caring for malnourished children. The organization is supporting about 8,000 people forced from their homes. Photo/Food For The Poor
Charity Addresses Urgent Needs and Plans for Long-Term Recovery
Food For The Poor (FFTP) is closely monitoring the rapidly changing situation in Haiti and is poised to respond to the crisis while simultaneously preparing for a comprehensive, long-term recovery strategy.
Haiti’s government said Thursday that it was extending a state of emergency and nighttime curfew to try and curb violent gang attacks that have seized the capital of Port-au-Prince, according to news reports.
An escalating humanitarian emergency follows recent violent attacks and a mass escape of more than 4,000 violent offenders from the country’s two biggest prisons over the weekend.
In this photo, people are standing in line to receive aid in mid-February when Fondation Saint Luc distributed 5,100 food kits from FFTP to displaced families. MannaPack rice meals from our partner Feed My Starving Children also were distributed to three hospitals caring for malnourished children. The organization is supporting about 8,000 people forced from their homes. Photo/Food For The Poor
The Situation in Haiti: Unprecedented Challenges
The surging violence over the last several days has driven nearly 15,000 people from their homes in Port-au-Prince, 80 percent of which is controlled by armed gangs. That’s in addition to the more than 300,000 people forced to flee their homes in recent years, according to the United Nations World Food Programme.
FFTP’s distribution centers and partners have remained secure through the recent wave of violence.
The United Nations estimates that nearly half of Haiti’s 11 million people need immediate assistance.
Ken Michel, FFTP-Haiti Chief Operating Officer, said FFTP is the best positioned nongovernmental organization (NGO) in Haiti to respond to the immediate needs, with goods already in its Port-au-Prince warehouse, at the port, and en route to Haiti. Supplies are continually distributed and then restocked. Additional containers of aid in the charity’s Coconut Creek, Fla., warehouse are ready to be shipped.
“But we will need so much more to help the huge number of people who need help now and in the future,” Michel said.
These photos from late February shows FFTP-Haiti responding to a request from Réseau National de Défense des Droits de l’Homme, an NGO in Haiti. FFTP provided 200 cases of family food kits, 12 cases of water, 25 cases of blankets and 25 bags of rice from partner The Republic of China (Taiwan) to displaced families from Carrefour-Feuilles, Cité Soleil, Canaan, Solino, Bel-Air and La Saline. Photo/Food For The Poor
FFTP’s Unique Position and Preparedness
FFTP has been actively involved in Haiti since 1986, with offices, warehouses, and a dedicated team on the ground. With almost 400 staff members and 13 distribution centers, FFTP’s extensive network enables the charity to reach displaced families in remote areas in addition to Port-au-Prince.
In the last year, FFTP has maintained its commitment to Haiti, shipping over 800 containers of food and essential items. The charity also responded to a cholera outbreak in 2022.
FFTP is poised to launch a humanitarian aid campaign as soon as security is restored. The focus will be on areas with severe food insecurity, prioritizing families displaced by gang violence.
“The need is far greater in Haiti than we’ve ever seen,” FFTP President/CEO Ed Raine said. “With secure roadways, we will be able to respond and do everything we want in a very significant, meaningful way. We are aiming big.”
Food For The Poor (FFTP) is monitoring the escalating crisis in Haiti and is poised to respond with aid. FFTP is among the last nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) remaining in Haiti, providing much-needed food and resources. Photo/Food For The PoorIn this photo from mid-February, Fondation Saint Luc distributed 5,100 food kits from FFTP to displaced families. MannaPack rice meals from our partner Feed My Starving Children also were distributed to three hospitals caring for malnourished children. The organization is supporting about 8,000 people forced from their homes. Photo/Food For The Poor
Frequent Distributions of Aid
FFTP has continued to ship tractor-trailer loads of aid to Haiti so they can be cleared at the port in Port-au-Prince. Currently, nearly 150 containers of food, medical supplies, cleaning, hygiene, and household items are at the port, with more en route.
Despite the obstacles of recent months, FFTP continues to look for windows of opportunity to get those goods to families in need.
In late February, FFTP-Haiti responded to a request from Réseau National de Défense des Droits de l’Homme, an NGO in Haiti. FFTP provided 200 cases of family food kits, 12 cases of water, 25 cases of blankets, and 25 bags of rice from partner The Republic of China (Taiwan) to displaced families from Carrefour-Feuilles, Cité Soleil, Canaan, Solino, Bel-Air, and La Saline.
In mid-February, Fondation Saint Luc distributed 5,100 food kits from FFTP to displaced families. MannaPack rice meals from our partner Feed My Starving Children were also distributed to three hospitals caring for malnourished children. The organization is supporting about 8,000 people forced from their homes.
On Saturdays, FFTP-Haiti has opened its doors to safely distribute food to families in need. During the week, the charity provides items such as rice, beans, MannaPack rice meals, water purification tablets, hygiene products, and baby items to pregnant women and nursing mothers from the Nutritional Recovery Center.
These photos shows people lining up to receive items such as rice, beans, MannaPack rice meals, water purification tablets, hygiene products, and baby items for pregnant women and nursing mothers from the Nutritional Recovery Center. Photo/Food For The Poor
Responding to the Crisis and Beyond: FFTP’s Comprehensive Approach
In collaboration with FFTP-Haiti, the organization is developing a long-term strategy for sustainable community development post-crisis. The priorities include housing, agricultural support, education, health care, and youth engagement strategies.
Raine said FFTP remains committed to providing hope, assistance, and a path toward a brighter future for the people of Haiti.
“We have been able to restock the warehouse abundantly to have distributions when we can,” Raine said. “It’s not always predictable when we get a window of opportunity, but the point is our team has kept going ensuring the aid gets through to those that need it.”
Food For The Poor, one of the largest international relief and development organizations in the nation, does much more than feed millions of hungry children and families living in poverty primarily in 17 countries of Latin America and the Caribbean. This interdenominational Christian ministry provides emergency relief assistance, water, medicine, educational materials, homes, support for vulnerable children, care for the aged, skills training and micro-enterprise development assistance. For more information, please visit foodforthepoor.org.
Food For The Poor (FFTP) paid tribute to the late Joe Mahfood, a beloved member of the FFTP family, with the renovation and dedication ceremony for the Portland Cottage Primary School near Clarendon, Jamaica. The work was made possible through the generous support of longtime donors Chris Davitt and Craig Ruppert, along with their family members and friends. Volunteers from the Davitt-Ruppert Family and Friends Mission were among the people who participated in the renovation, along with Mahfood’s son, William, a member of the FFTP-Jamaica Board of Directors, and Mark Khouri, Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer of FFTP. Photo/Food For The Poor-Jamaica
Food For The Poor (FFTP) paid tribute to the late Joe Mahfood, a beloved member of the FFTP family, with the renovation and dedication ceremony for the Portland Cottage Primary School near Clarendon, Jamaica.
Mahfood, who died in Jamaica on April 8, 2021, at age 78, helped found FFTP under the leadership of his late brother Ferdinand “Ferdy” Mahfood. He championed new ways of thinking that expanded the charity’s mission and the service it provides to those who need it most.
Food For The Poor paid tribute to the late Joe Mahfood, a beloved member of the charity’s family, with a renovation and dedication ceremony for the Portland Cottage Primary School near Clarendon, Jamaica. The work was made possible through the generous support of longtime donors Chris Davitt and Craig Ruppert, along with their family members and friends. Photo/Food For The Poor
Known as the “Joe Mahfood Legacy Project,” the renovation included work on the school’s guidance office, resource center, and administrative block during the weekend of February 16-19. It also included repairs to buildings that currently house the school’s canteen and senior teacher’s office, both of which were previously built by Mahfood.
Volunteers from the U.S.-based Davitt-Ruppert Family and Friends Mission, and representatives from FFTP in the United States and Jamaica, participated in the project.
Mark Khouri, Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer at FFTP, traveled from the charity’s Coconut Creek, Fla., headquarters to participate in the event. He praised the donors and the volunteers for their support of Portland Cottage and its school.
“Thank you so very much for giving back to this community,” Khouri said. “The hard work you have done over the past few days will pay off for this community. The children, parents and teachers will be proud to call this school their own. You have made the educational environment better for them.”
The work was made possible through the generous support of longtime donors Chris Davitt and Craig Ruppert, along with their family members and friends. Since 2001, they have supported the construction of six schools, more than 181 housing units, and a home for the elderly. They also provided funding for a sustainable fishing village, as well as two water-related projects and two agricultural projects.
Davitt and Ruppert praised Mahfood for his integrity, drive, and compassion, and expressed their gratitude for their decades-long collaboration in support of FFTP.
“We are honored to pay homage to Joe by doing this project,” Ruppert said. “We have been working in this community for a long time, and we have much respect for him as a result. Our friends and family are coming and learning and going back wiser and more compassionate, so you may think we are helping you, but you are definitely helping us, too. We are proud to be part of this.”
Left to right: Chris Davitt, Lovelle Gordon, and Mark Khouri, Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer of Food For The Poor (FFTP), were among the people who participated in the Joe Mahfood Legacy Project. The charity paid tribute to Mahfood, a beloved member of the FFTP family, who died on April 8, 2021, at age 78, with the renovation and dedication ceremony for the Portland Cottage Primary School near Clarendon, Jamaica. The work was made possible through the generous support of Davitt and Craig Ruppert, along with their family members and friends. Photo/Food For The Poor-Jamaica
Mahfood’s son, William, a member of the FFTP-Jamaica Board of Directors, remembered his father for his love of Jamaica, the PWD Hunting and Sporting Club, and the Portland Cottage Community, while Dale Edwards, Principal of Portland Cottage Primary School, reflected on the impact of the project and Mahfood’s legacy of support.
“We not only now have a better facility for the children, but this will also attract new enrollment and thereby facilitate more parents in getting a quality education for their children,” Edwards said. “Joe Mahfood gave a lot to this community, and I am happy to see the continuation of his legacy. It wasn’t just a loss for his family when he passed, but a loss for the Portland Cottage community.”
Food For The Poor, one of the largest international relief and development organizations in the nation, does much more than feed millions of hungry children and families living in poverty primarily in 17 countries of Latin America and the Caribbean. This interdenominational Christian ministry provides emergency relief assistance, water, medicine, educational materials, homes, support for vulnerable children, care for the aged, skills training and micro-enterprise development assistance. For more information, please visit foodforthepoor.org.
