YOUNG FILMMAKERS PRODUCE BARACK OBAMA VIDEOS WITH NOTHING BUT "HOPE"
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, April 11, 2008
New York, New York-- The unending inspiration of Barack Obama propels film
Director Qasim A. Basir to partner up with fellow colleagues in a bi-coastal
effort, pull together their resources to produce three videos in support of
the campaign, all done completely through donations from friends.
Director Qasim A. Basir, who recently won the Drama category in Link TV's
"One Nation, Many Voices" film competition, judged by Danny Glover, Kareem
Abdul-Jabar and Marianne Pearl and others, had been thinking for several
months about how he could help the Barack Obama Presidential Campaign. "I
couldn't send them a million dollars, so I wanted to do something that could
potentially make a significant difference," says Basir. So late one night,
sitting in his NY apartment, he received a call from Michael Lynch, a long
time schoolmate who's also a filmmaker in Los Angeles. Coincidentally, Mike
had also been thinking the same thing. With that inspiration, the fire was
lit. Basir stayed up the whole night constructing different concepts that
all go in line with the theme of "Yes We Can."
The next morning, he called Mike to tell him of the concept. Mike liked
them, so they began working. There was one problem though, they had no money
for production, and Mike was in LA while Qasim in NY. Determined, Qasim got
on his computer, and emailed a number of friends asking for donations to
help with the Obama video project. With small contributions and a modest
budget developed by Producer James Yi, they were able to raise the necessary
funds to start the project. Days later, Qasim was in LA casting for the
characters.
"The way everything came together was just amazing because of the amount of
people willing to help just because it was for Barack," says Basir. From
the initial phone call to casting to shooting, everything was donated.
Cameras, equipment, catering, make-up, locations, music, editorial and
services were all provided for free. They shot for two days, edited for a
week and a half and a product was made.
The initial release of the videos is on youtube.com, but the group hopes
that the Obama campaign takes notice and starts to use them for broadcast.
"The inspiration we had to come together and do this is very significant
because its reflective of Obama's ability to bring together a Nation."
All three of these "Yes You Can" videos—Immigration, Housing and College, as
well as the behind the scenes video can be watched at these links:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fbIAwYMYPGo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yf0S_Pb_TKA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zbOUHM8pd34
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAImJdNUzoc
For further information call 313-622-9972 or visit www.myspace.com/qasi
Tell me a little about yourself? Where are you from, Brothers/Sisters,
Children, Affiliations, Marital Status or anything else?
I am from East New York, Brooklyn. I have two sisters and a brother - Caprice, Valerie and John.
My little sister, Valerie, prefers to be addressed as Mrs. Moss - she's a huge Bow Wow fan! Lol!
How did you get started? Have you always wanted to do this? Where did the inspiration and passion come from?
I’ve been doing this all my life. When I was in elementary school, I was always in school plays and picked for solos. In church, I was always doing the lead for any of the youth activities. Then, I started performing with various theater companies.
What jobs did you hold before you became successful?
Well, I’m Jamaican so I’ve had a ton of jobs - most of them at the same time. I worked at a library once. There was a point where I was working two jobs at two different libraries plus working the grave-yard shift full time, taking inbound phone orders for a catalog clothing company. Well, it was a bit much, I must confess. I was exhausted all of the time and late all of the time. So, I quit the first library job. Then, a few days later, I got fired from the other library job (walking in late), then went to work later that night for the clothing catalog company and got fired (for walking in late a week before). By the time I started working for a corporate car service taking phone orders, I was a little hip to this whole firing game. So, when I got word that they were going to fire me after two months, I quit.
Who influenced you the most in your career/life when you were starting out? Is there anyone's path that you particularly admire and would like to emulate? Though he had passed by the time I began working professionally, my Uncle Neville still remains my biggest influence. I admire many people in this industry for many different reasons. I admire Halle Berry not only because she is a brilliant actress but because she fights against the grain and produces quality films about the black experience.
What are you currently working on?
I’m currently working on the feature film, PUSH, directed by the great Lee Daniels. PUSH is based on the bestseller novel by Sapphire. I play a young Jamaican teen named Rhonda. Rhonda is one of Precious’ best friends who is, also, an incest survivor. She’s a very fun, loving character who is the backbone of the group.
What do you like about PUSH?
I love that the characters are real and honest. I commend and admire Sapphire for writing such a profound account of a black girl’s untold life and Lee for bringing it to the big screen. I am so honored to be a part of a story that is not afraid to face the truth. Incest, drugs, HIV/AIDS, neglect and abuse are epidemics that have not been cured and still considered taboo in many African-American and Caribbean homes. PUSH is a triumphant story that will inspire everyone who sees it.
What signifies a STRIVER to you?
A STRIVER is someone who pursues her dream with full throttle even when she’s told it’s impossible. The STRIVER knows that one million “no’s” will bring her closer to a “yes.”
What makes you original or sets you apart? Why are you on top of your game?
My work is versatile. I've played such a wide range of characters from a young Jamaican teen who survives incest in PUSH to a young woman on a spiritual discovery in A DEEPER LOVE to an awkward teenager who loves bugs in ALL SCREWED UP to a pregnant Jamaican woman who is HIV-positive and abused in LIFE SUPPORT to a young, struggling, single mother in SILENT CRIES OF A CHILD for which I won Best Actress in the short film category at this year's New York International and Independent Film and Video Festival. A DEEPER LOVE is a faith-based film that has touched so many lives. So many people have come up to us crying and telling us how the film has changed their lives and inspired them not to settle for less than they deserve in their relationships. Women have packed up and left their slacking boyfriends after seeing A DEEPER LOVE. To be able to make a film that is influential and life-altering is a blessing.
How do you define success? People often talk about "Making IT", but when will you consider yourself as having made it?
I think you have to really focus in on what you want in life. For many people, it’s about the destination, but for me, it’s about the journey.
I have my short-term goals and my long-term goals but ultimately, I want to make a positive difference in the world. I hope to come back to East New York, Brooklyn, and build a community center where free activities, after-school and other educational supplements will be available in a safe environment. I can’t foresee when I’ll be able to say that I “made it” but right now, I’m trying to become a part of the solution instead of the problem when it comes to the issues plaguing our culture like crime, drugs, a failing education system, HIV/AIDS, poor housing, etc. So, when we can finally say “problem solved” to these issues, even if it’s just one, maybe I can say that “we made it.” But my success will never be based on me - it will be based on my village.
Do you see any changes or patterns in the industry and what is your opinion of that? What is the insider perspective on getting ahead in your industry?
I think independent films are providing a platform for actors to explore their talent and have more opportunities to do work that they are passionate about. As we create and support more independent films of quality, especially as a black culture, then we’ll have a bigger say in Hollywood. If I knew the insider perspective on getting ahead in this business, I’d be chillin’ right now!! Lol!!
What advice would you give others attempting to make their dreams come true? What are your 3 lessons for success? Or what is your recipe for success?
Against all odds. Fall back on nothing. Pursue what you love.
Three lessons for success:
1. Always say please and thank you.
2. Study your craft.
3. Surround yourself with family and friends who truly love you and are not in your industry. And, always put God first.
What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning and what is the last thing you think of at night.
Thank you, Jesus. Thank you, Lord.
What do you know for sure?
The egg came before the chicken.
Any last overall advice?
Whatever it is, don’t do it for the money.
Courtesy of Sharra Dade
3-D Platform
email: info@3-dplatform.com
So
you may wanna be in television... Well if there is
anyone to connect with, Chris is the one. His work as
a producer allows him to travel the globe;
honing in on a passion he only picked up
after college. Chris gives us the scoop on what it
takes to strive and thrive in the
industry.
Just
About Me
My name is
Christopher Velona (CV) and I’m a motivated/hard
working cat from Boston Mass. I’m the
oldest of 3 kids. I have two beautiful
sisters… One is happily married w/two children
and my youngest is 7 years old. All of my
immediate family still lives in Beantown while I’m
the lone New Yorker and lived in NYC for a little
over 6 years, moving here right after college.
I’m not married but have a lovely lady in my
life. I’m a producer and director of
photography. I’m also “Striving” to become a
commercial and film director.
Here
are some current projects I’m a part of…
Producer
for MTV’s Super Sweet 16 / MTV’s
True Life series… Director
of Photography for the LRG campaigns…
(I just
filmed my 5th campaign on Tuesday
November 28th with Coodie
& Chike) Event Producer/D.P.
for People
Magazine events... And most
notably my good friend Billy
Burke, Lou Stella & I just pitched a
documentary series about traditional tattoos to
T.L.C. that got green lit. (Coming soon in
’07)
I
started my career as an intern in MTV Networks
working with
the “Home Video” department. I feel blessed to
have had the opportunity to intern and I’ve truly
stayed hungry to learn and grow in the present as I
did when I started my journey.
My
inspiration for producing and camera work came from
picking up a camcorder for the first time when I went
on a cruise with friends after graduating
college. I felt
like I
had a knack for capturing the essence of
life and making it look
artistic.
I was
a waiter
the summer
before moving to NYC and before that I worked
ordinary jobs such as filling up gas tanks at Mobil
and working in a pharmacy. (No… I didn’t take
advantage of the prescriptions.)
First
and foremost my
parents truly inspired me to be all I can be.
I believe they were the foundation for my success.
Without their guidance, I don’t know where I would be
or even who I would be.
If
there is one person’s career I would like to emulate
and follow, it would be Jerry
Bruckheimer.
He’s one of the most influential people in Hollywood
and is known for starting trends that impact all
generations. I also respect his
longevity…
The STRIVER in
Me…
What
signifies the STRIVER in me is the drive to grow in a
positive way. I’ve grown to be a better person
by applying what I’ve learned from life's lessons.
That’s helped me in all aspects of my life from
family to friends to my career. I think
learning
from your mistakes as well as being able to adapt to
change is key.
I
think what sets myself apart from others is that I’m
truly a people person. I genuinely love to help
people without looking for a personal gain… I don’t
want to say that I’m on top of my game just yet
because God knows I still have things to learn and
work on. I think if one
feels as though “they’ve made it,” they’ve already
lost…
I
think the
best way to define “Making It” is
longevity. I think
at the
end of the day, if one feels happy with themselves
with their productivity, then you’ve “made
it.”
To Our
Readers…
I think a major
pattern in the Entertainment Industry is how
it’s everchanging and being able to adapt to
change is truly the key to success. The internet
is an example of change… My peers and I
have been trying to launch an internet-based
television network called BLVD which we believe
will be the future of television… As the saying
goes… “Don’t put all your eggs in one
basket,” I think the key to getting ahead
is trying to be as flawless as possible so
people remember you and your name sticks
out.
My
biggest advice for others in pursing their dream is
following their heart. My 3 lessons for success
are as follows… 1)
Being persistent. 2) Being humble. 3)
Being focused and hard working.
The
recipe for success lies within all of
us… Some
find out what their calling is earlier than others
and its important not to rush
things. It’s so easy to
get caught up in our fast paced / instant
gratification society and expect things to unfold
quickly.
Last
Words…
I give
thanks for all of my blessings when I rise and right
before I fall asleep as I have so much to be thankful
for.
What I
know for sure is that I can
control my destiny. Life is full of
distractions but if I put my mind to something,
positive things will unfold.
It’s
important to experience as much as possible and have
an open mind in doing so. Follow
your dreams…
Your
Guy
Chris
V.
Actor Michael K. Williams will resume his signature role of "Omar" in the fourth season of HBO's critically- acclaimed series "The Wire" this fall. "No one who saw Williams' performance on "The Wire" could fail to appreciate it," wrote Robert Bianco in USA Today's cover story, "10 Reasons We Still Love TV," "In Omar, a gay drug dealer who turns government witness to avenge his murdered boyfriend, Williams brought to life a character who is unlike any we've ever seen before." Citing Michael K. Williams among a list of extraordinary television personalities, including Kelsey Grammer and Sarah Jessica Parker, the critic praised Michael's ability to "imbue the character with wit and humour." The Brooklyn-born actor was awarded Entertainment Weekly's"Great Performance of the Year" for 2002. In addition to The Wire, Williams will showcase his comedic talent in the new Chris Rock Comedy “I Think I Love My Wife” with Rock and actress Kerry Washington. Michael will then appear opposite Ed Harris and his Idol Oscar-Winning actor Morgan Freeman in the highly anticipated Ben Affleck directorial debt film “Gone Baby Gone”. Michael states “this is an honor and a dream comes true to work along side Mr. Freeman, whom I have much respect for in this industry.”Martin Scorcese chose Williams to appear opposite Nicolas Cage in "Bringing Out the Dead," following his film debut opposite TuPac Shakur in "Bullet." Michael's films include: HBO's "Lackawanna Blues," "Doing Hard Time," "The Orphan King," "Broke Even" and "Mug Shot." His television credits: included multiple episodes of "The Sopranos," "Law and Order, "Third Watch" a three-episode arc of "Alias" and an episode of "CSI” and Boston Legal" This fall he will add a lead guest starring role in the Law & Order SVU franchise. A professional dancer at age 22, the innovative choreographer appeared in numerous music videos before deciding to study acting. He was part of several productions of the renowned Greenwich Village La MaMa Theater Company and the distinguished National Black Theatre Company. Powerful, sensitive, and engaging Michael K. Williams many faceted talents promise and increasingly brilliant career on stage, film and television.
INTERVIEW: Strive recently had the opportunity to sit with Michael and get the real scoop on how he became such a player in the industry.
STRIVE: Tell me a little about yourself? Where are you from, Brothers/Sisters, Children, Affiliations, Marital Status or anything else?
MKWilliams: I was born and raised in Vandervere, East Flatbush, Brooklyn. I am the last of 10 children. I am of Bohemian decent. I hate those little questions when people say tell me a little bit about yourself. Just ask me what you want to know. LOL!, no children, not that I know of. lol.. Very single and always looking!!!!
STRIVE: How did you get started? Have you always wanted to do this? Where did the inspiration and passion come from?
MKWilliams: I didn't know I always wanted to be an actor. I started off as a dancer, choreographer, modeling, doing music videos. It wasn't until I got the scar on my face, that I really started getting a lot more work in the music video world. That is where I learned my way around the set. It was there I started studying acting and the theater world, which is where a lot of my inspiration comes from.
STRIVE: What jobs did you hold before you became successful?
MKWilliams: The question should be, what job didn't I hold before I became an entertainer?
STRIVE: Who influenced you the most in your career/life when you were starting out? Is there anyone's path that you particularly admire and would like to emulate?
MKWilliams: My moms. I admire a lot of people like, Martin Luther King Jr, Malcolm X, Nelson Mendela, and Ali. They say the grass is always greener, I think I am going to stay in my own backyard and not emulate anyone. That’s the path I will follow!
STRIVE: What signifies a STRIVER to you?
MKWilliams: Resiliency
STRIVE: What makes you original or sets you apart? Why are you on top of your game?
MKWilliams: What makes me original is my heart - I love people and I think that comes across in my work, which makes it successful.
What makes me unique? Top of game? I am a perfectionist.
I love, I love, I love my job!!!!!!!!
STRIVE: How do you define success? People often talk about "Making IT", but when will you consider yourself as having made it?
MKWilliams: Happiness... When will I know? When I have made it, successful... I will let you know when I get there... LOL!
To Our Readers
STRIVE: Do you see any changes or patterns in the industry and what is your opinion of that? What is the insider perspective on getting ahead in your industry?
MKWilliams: For me art is ever changing so it imitates life. As long as art is going it will always evolve. How do I feel about it? It is what it is. Art is life, so it is always going to change. My perspective for this industry to get ahead is ". Study your craft in whatever it is you do". And pray always helps, cause it works.lol
STRIVE: What advice would you give others attempting to make their dreams come true? What are your 3 lessons for success? Or what is your recipe for success?
MKWilliams: My advice is to Follow your dreams, follow your heart.
The beautiful Halle Berry, once told me these 3 lessons that I have incorporated within my day to day for success:
Be on time,
Know your lines
Never, ever, ever give up
STRIVE: What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning and what is the last thing you think of at night.
MKWilliams: I just thank God for another day. When it is time to go to bed, I try not to think at all.
STRIVE: What do you know for sure?
MKWilliams: I know that I am a part of something much greater than myself.
STRIVE: Any last overall advice?
MKWilliams: Love yourself because if you don't, nobody else will.
article by Nook@strivemagazine.com
article made possible by Ulysses Carter Management to the Greatest (Whitney Houston Enterprises/Nippy)
Darrin Henson
A
Star That Continues to Strive
Darrin
Henson is not just another handsome face. He is
a multi-talented type of guy whose acting skills are
incredible as well as his dance moves. Being
known for his no-nonsense character Lem on the Soul
Food series has gotten him rave reviews but he also
choreographed dance moves for some of
America’s
hottest talent today like NSYNC and Brittany
Spears. We love his strength and tenacity and
we’re looking forward to more from him coming
real soon.
STRIVE:
Tell me a little about yourself? Where are you
from, Brothers/Sisters, Children, Affiliations,
Marital Status or anything else?
Darrin:
My name is Darrin Henson and I was born
May 5th
1973 in the Bronx. I have five brothers and two
sisters. I belong to the NAACP and I am on board for
the hospital directors for University of Medicine
& Dentistry of New Jersey.
STRIVE:How
did you get started? Have you always wanted to do
this? Where did the inspiration and passion
come from?
Darrin:
I started started dancing at the age of 5 and I
always wanted to and knew I had the
talent.
Later
on I was motivated by Theatre Workshop classes
throughout school in high school and received my big
break at a talent show where I met Scott Sterling
a.k.a. D.J. Scott LaRock. He became my first
manager.
Then
Lionel Martin the classic concepts producer became
the first director to work with me as a dancer and
choreographer.
STRIVE:
What jobs did you hold before you became
successful?
Darrin:
Some of them were McDonalds, Parks Dept. &
Recreation, I packed bags in supermarkets and I also
shoveled snow.
STRIVE:
Who influenced you the most in your career/life when
you were starting out? Is there anyone's path that
you particularly admire and would like to
emulate?
Darrin:
Michael Jackson has been a lifelong inspiration
to me. You can see me on the 1995 MTV Music
Awards with him. Then Johny Wright hired me to
work with Nsync the rest is
history.
Then
Soul food came along.. and acting was born. Now
I have 4 movies coming out starting in September.
They are The Last Stand, The Salon, The Fabric
of A Man Stage play and the Harlem Coffee Shop
.
I
went from dancing to acting by choice, acting is
about life. As far as Soul Food is concerned, I
auditioned in New York City then Los Angeles and got
the role, I beat out 200 other guys for the
part.
One day I want to take Denzel's spot in the
limelight.
STRIVE:
What signifies a STRIVER to you?
Darrin: Striver
means going for goals and checking to see if they are
happening. The Striver in me makes me work
harder than anyone else in my
field.
STRIVE:
What makes you original or sets you apart? Why
are you on top of your game?
Darrin: There
is only one Darrin Henson (smile). It makes me get up
earlier and sleep later while working on my
craft.
STRIVE:
How do you define success? People often talk about
"Making IT", butt when will you consider yourself as
having made it?
Darrin: Yes
I consider myself as having made it. Success is
knowing not believing you can, then doing!!!! I have
made it and making more.
STRIVE:
Do you see any changes or patterns in the industry
and what is your opinion of that? What is the
insider perspective on getting ahead in your
industry?
Darrin: The
Industry changes yes, but so does the world if
something does not change it and it does but always
know change is good. Furthermore hard work and talent
gets you ahead all the time.
STRIVE:
What advice would you give others attempting to make
their dreams come true? What are your 3
lessons for success? Or what is your recipe for
success?
Darrin:
Know Know Know.. Study then apply.
Ask
more of yourself then anyone else could
ask.
Dream,
apply then it's done, sit back and watch the universe
do its thing.
STRIVE:
What is the first thing you think of when you wake up
in the morning and what is the last thing you think
of at night.
Darrin:
Say thank you for waking up know that I can and I
will. Get to know you and what you are capable
of which is everything
Any
last overall advice?
Darrin: Keep
doing your thing!
Article
by: Tyshaun Bishop
(T.Mocha)
|
Big Lez
the original BET host with the most |
STRIVE: WHERE ARE YOU FROM... ALSO GIVE US A LITTLE INFO ON YOUR BACKGROUND
Lez: I AM FROM QUEENS, NYC, WITH AN OLDER SISTER, A FUTURE MOTHER TO BE- GOD WILLING AND IN A LONG TERM SERIOUS RELATIONSHIP
STRIVE:How did you get started? Have you always wanted to do this? Where did the inspiration and passion come from?
Lez:I WAS BORN A DANCER TO THE CORE OF MY SOUL AND A PERFORMER BY PERSONALITY. THAT IS MY INSPIRATION, WHAT GOD INSTILLED IN ME. I WAS A MAJOR TOMBOY, VERY ACTIVE AND ATHLETIC AND I STARTED GYMNASTICS WHEN I WAS 11 AND COMPETING IN NATIONAL COMPETITION BY THE TIME I WAS 12.
LATER I RECEIVED A GYMNASTICS SCHOLARSHIP TO SPRINGFIELD COLLEGE IN MASSACHUSETTS AND MAJORED IN SPORTS MEDICINE, & EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY WITH A MINOR IN THEATER ARTS.
STRIVE:What jobs did you hold before you became successful?
Lez:AFTER COLLEGE I TOOK A JOB IN MY FIELD AND ALSO STARTED AUDITIONING ONCE I MOVED BACK TO NYC. I WAS BLESSED TO START DOING OFF BROADWAY RIGHT AWAY. I HUNG OUT IN THE CLUBS IN NYC AND WAS ASKED TO COME IN AND AUDITION FOR A MUSIC VIDEOS AND STARTED WORKING RIGHT AWAY. AFTER BEING THE LEAD IN SO MANY VIDEOS PEOPLE ASSUMED I HAD CHOREOGRAPHED THEM, SOME OF WHICH I DID, BUT I DIDN'T REALIZE THAT THE TITLE CHANGE FROM DANCER TO CHOREOGRAPHER WHOULD CHANGE MY WORLD.
I HELD DOWN ONLY JOBS I WAS INTERESTED IN, GYMNASTICS COACH, PERSONAL TRAINER, DANCE INSTRUCTOR. ETC.
STRIVE:Who influenced you the most in your career/life when you were starting out? Is there anyone's path that you particularly admire and would like to emulate?
Lez:MY MAJOR INFLUENCES IN MY LIFE WERE MY MOTHER, WHO IS MY BACK BONE AND THE MOST INTELLIGENT AND SUPPORTIVE WOMAN I KNOW AND MY FORMER GYMNASTICS COACH. SHE INSTILLED IN ME THAT THE WORDS "I CAN'T" WERE NEVER AN OPTION.
STRIVE:What signifies a STRIVER to you?
Lez:WHAT SIGNIFIES THE STRIVER IN ME, BUT WHEN I HEAR "NO", THEN I TAKE THAT NO AND FIND AN ALTERNATIVE ROUTE TO A "YES". I AM RELENTLESS AND FOCUSED AND TAKE TIME TO BE KNOWLEDGEABLE ABOUT THE INDUSTRY, I MAKE SURE I AM AT THE TOP OF MY SKILL LEVEL BY CONTINUING TO TAKE DANCE CLASSES, ACTING CLASSES, DIALECT CLASSES, PRODUCTION CLASSES, ETC. KNOWLEDGE IS POWER!!
STRIVE:How do you define success? People often talk about "Making IT", butt when will you consider yourself as having made it?
To Our Readers
Lez:SUCCESS IS BEING ABLE DO WAKE UP EVERY MORNING AND DO WHAT I LOVE AND PAY MY BILLS. THE FAME DOESN'T DEFINE MY HYPE AS I AM A "GHETTO CELEBRITY" THE INCOME AND FUTURE INCOME WILL DEFINE IT ONLY BY WHAT I CAN DO FOR MY FAMILY. HAPPINESS = SUCCESS!
STRIVE:Do you see any changes or patterns in the industry and what is your opinion of that? What is the insider perspective on getting ahead in the industry?
Lez:THE INDUSTRY WILL CHANGE ONLY WHEN PEOPLE IN IT BECOME LEADERS, AND NOT FOLLOWERS. WHEN PEOPLE STICK TO THEIR PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE BUSINESS IN A PROFESSIONAL WAY NOT A GREEDY WAY. WHEN PEOPLE STAND UP FOR THEIR RIGHTS AND NOT KEEP THEIR MOUTH SHUT AND WHEN THE INDUSTRY WILL CHANGE.NON CONFORMITY!
STRIVE:What advice would you give others attempting to make their dreams come true? What are your 3 lessons for success? Or what is your recipe for success?
Lez: MY ADVICE IS:
DECIDE WHAT PERSON YOU ARE...SOMEONE WHO WAITS FOR THINGS TO HAPPEN, SOMEONE WHO WATCHES THINGS HAPPEN TO OTHER PEOPLE, SOMEONE WHO WISHES FOR THINGS TO HAPPEN OR SOMEONE WHO MAKES THINGS HAPPEN.
DON'T EXPECT HELP FROM ANYONE. GET EDUCATED, KNOWLEDGEABLE, LEARN FROM THE INFORMATION AROUND YOU. INVEST IN YOURSELF BEFORE YOU CAN EXPECT SOMEONE ELSE TO SPEND A DIME OR TIME ON YOU. BE PROFESSIONAL EVEN WHEN SOMEONE ELSE ISN'T. ALWAYS BE ON TIME. AND BE ON TOP OF YOUR SKILLZ CAUSE THERE IS ALWAYS SOMEONE BETTER LURKING IN THE BUSHES.
STRIVE:What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning and what is the last thing you think of at night.
Lez:WHEN I WAKE UP IN THE MORNING I MAKE A CONSCIOUS EFFORT TO LAY IN THE BED IN SILENCE AND SAY THANK YOU...THANK YOU TO GOD FOR BREATHING, HEALTH, FAMILY, MY HOME AND THE COURAGE TO CHALLENGE THIS BUSINESS YET ANOTHER DAY AND FOLLOW MY DREAM.
STRIVE:What do you know for sure?
Lez:WHAT DO I KNOW FOR SURE, THAT ONE DAY I WILL NOT BE HERE AND I WANT TO MAKE SURE THE LEGACY I LEAVE BEHIND IS A RESPECTABLE ONE.
STRIVE:Any last overall advice?
Lez:LAST BIT OF ADVICE IS STAY FOCUSED, STAY DETERMINED. DECIDE IF A PLAN B IS FOR YOU..SO THAT YOU CAN STILL FOLLOW YOUR DREAM AND FEED YOUR FAMILY OR YOUR DREAM HAS NO OTHER OPTIONS. BE KIND TO EVERYONE...AND DON'T CONFUSE FAME WITH SUCCESS!
THANK YOU!
LEZ
Checkout Lez at my myspace...click here
What do you get when you cross a brother and years of hard work at his craft? You get Finesse Mitchell (co-star of NBC’s Saturday Night Live). Strive took the opportunity to discuss Finesse’s recent success. As we listened, we could not help but be inspired by such a comedic genius. Read more for this week's inspiration. STRIVE: Where are you from? Tell me a little about yourself? FINESSE: From Atlanta. My Dad was a contract Administrator for Lockheed Martin. Mom’s was a teacher. They divorced and pops would come over every week and tell a story about life. I have an older brother and a younger stepsister. Never married, no kids. STRIVE: What are your 3 lessons for success? Or what is your recipe for success? FINESSE: Perseverance. Anything worth doing needs 5 years plus of hard work. I cannot expect to see progress until 5 years of effort has been introduced. Many of us are stuck because we aren’t patient. We should own more businesses. But we cannot handle losing money in the first year. STRIVE: How do you enjoy your days off when you’re not "striving"? FINESSE: I write a lot and watch a lot of dramas. No comedy. It’s a good balance. I need the seriousness. I also travel to Miami and LA. STRIVE: What signifies a Striver to you? FINESSE: Someone who gets up every day and stays focused and doesn’t stop until they hit the mark. Gotta have a list of goals and know what you are going after. Take baby steps. STRIVE: Who influenced you the most in your career/life when you were starting out? FINESSE: My friends: University of Miami frat., Kappa bros would encourage me to keep pushing. I also had some very supportive girlfriends. Thru comedy my influence came by way of Flip Wilson, Richard Pryor, Eddie Murphy. What I see in these icons is a mixture of hard work and brilliance. STRIVE: What jobs