Feature

Solange and Dawn Richard Collab Lit

Why a Solange x Dawn Richard Collabs Would Be Beyond Lit!

, ,

After coming across a photo of Solange and Dawn Richard in my Instagram feed, I immediately thought to myself, “Wow, that would be a dope ass collab!” Of course I made sure to write comment along with several other fans following Dawn’s page.

Solange and Dawn Richard should collab on a track or album because we the fans want it!

Solange and Dawn Always Come with Them Visuals

These two woman are confident in their shit. They are not afraid to take creative risks. There are layers to how Solange and Dawn create an album.
They think so far beyond just the songs, and for me, this provides a certain depth that is reminiscent to the time when people read CD inserts. (Yes, I am old enough to have experienced that.) I am always excited to see the visuals that follow the release of an album or track.

They take listeners to another place

Discovering some of the nuances, or how they use fashion, color schemes, etc. makes Solange and Dawn’s music that much enjoyable. That’s what I appreciate from them both; you are emerged into another world more often than not. For instance Dawn’s latest release “New Breed” is fire and all that we love about Dawn is in this project. I also really appreciate that this is an album grounded in her Native American heritage. She’s doing the work for the culture.

They both know how to put on a damn good live show.

They do what they want and they can do it together on a track!

Solange and Dawn exemplify what it means to be an unapologetic creator. They both push limits and any expectations of women, particularly woman of color. For example Solange new album “When I get home,” though most of it made me uncomfortable, it’s honestly not my favorite, but I can appreciate her artistry. I love that she has the audacity to just create and release wtf she wants, this is inspiring. As for Dawn, her entire come up has embodied the same as she has been creating on her own terms since becoming an independent artist beyond Danity Cane.

Let me know what you think. Do you think a collab with Solange and Dawn Richard would be dope or nah?

As usual ladies, #justdekit! #beacreator

Apreciative Regards,

Stephanie

just dekit hoodie
StyleMeister Cocoky Lyn-3

Dekit x StyleMeister’s Limited Edition NYC Streetwear is On Sale!

,

Dekit is now an exclusive seller of StyleMeister ‘s Limited Edition Label Parody Collection. This is the collection that its found, Nazya Ayaz, launched her StyleMeister brand with in 2016. Based in NYC, it has all of the markings of the big city with each design cleverly crafted representing edgy, bold, and ‘Badassery’ that can be expected from its founder.

Wheat and Wangs

StyleMeisters's Wheat and Wangs sweatshirt Photo by Stephanie Harris
StyleMeisters’s Wheat and Wangs sweatshirt Photo by Stephanie Harris

Fashion Advisory Explicit Style

Swagify

StyleMeister’s Swagify sweatshirt Photo by Stephanie Harris

Queen of the Street

Cocky

StyleMeister’s Cocky Sweatshirt by Stephanie Harris
Taken from StyleMeister.nyc

If you are a woc business or artist and would like to know more about how we can collaborate, feel free to email us at info@justdekit.com

As always, #justdekit! Be a creator and create your world!

Stephanie Harris

just dekit hoodie
pexels-photo-923229

5 Actions to Get Back Behind the Wheel & on Track to Reaching Your New Year Goals

, , , , , , ,

Photo by Godisable Jacob from Pexels

Many of us started the new year with overwhelming positivity and every intention of introducing new life habits like, working out more and becoming more productive. You know, those new year goals. However, many of us struggle to see our goals through for the year. In my own experience, it boils down to two reasons – which I’ll explain in detail – one, falling into a backseat mindset and two, having a limited view on life. There are five actions that have helped me get back on track to achieving my new year goals and I’ll share them with you here!

A backseat mindset will eventually lead to a crash – facts!

First, what’s a backseat mindset? It’s when you are no longer participating in the direction of your life in a way that is active. When I’ve gone into a backseat mind mode, I become complacent and the goals I had set out to accomplish are no longer at the forefront of my mind. Let me say, if you’ve found yourself off track well before Jan 31st, just know you are not alone, but also know that it’s never too late to get back on yo shit!

Now, to get back on track we have to become aware of things causing us to get derailed. Awareness is key! The reality of it all is that each of us will be challenged by different things that can throw us off, such as relationship drama, a family member passing on, some day job bull-shit and just being overwhelmed by all of our responsibilities as creative women in general. Pin point what those things are for you. I have noticed, that I can be easily distracted. I have moments when I lose faith in my ability to make things happen or some real life shit happens and it takes my mind off what my goals are. Yeah, there will be those days or circumstances that take you off track, but you do not have to stay in ‘Defeatedville’ beating yourself up. Success is measured by how fast you bounce back. So dust off and keep it moving. The world does not stop spinning.

Photo by Thaís Rocha from Pexels
Photo by Thaís Rocha from Pexels

Own your power and you can travel a long way

Once you’ve become aware of the very things that can take you off your game, you have to face them and work out ways to lessen their power to offset your plans. This will require a bit of introspection, which involves asking the hard question: Why? Why does this bother me? Why do I react in such a way? Each time that you are faced with something that sets you off emotionally, mentally or physically, acknowledge it and address the cause of your distraction. Ask yourself why, to understand and adjust your mindset. Then get back to handling your business. Do not stay in a backseat mind wallowing in stress or depression. How? Just choose not to. Just Dekit! It will get easier each time you do this. Be patient and compassionate towards yourself in this process. Sooner or later you’ll find yourself less bothered with a shorter detour and a faster bounce back. The goal isn’t to give up on our goals, right? So push through and keep at it. NO MATTER WHAT!

Now it will be difficult to change up your lifestyle because your behaviors and habits make up who you are. However, becoming aware of how you are affected by situations, along with your reactions is powerful. For example, if you know that you stress eat at your job, bringing your favorite healthy snacks to work, will make it easier for you to reach your weight loss goal. Doing these sort of things allows you to play offensively, meaning you will be proactive instead of reactive. Something that has been helping me, which I’ve learned through my meditating practice, is deep breathing. I do this when I feel stress or overwhelmed. It allows me to take a brief pause to collect myself and get back to work. Know that when you take the wheel, not only do you steer your life where you want to go, but you own your power and the pace at which you can go. At every turn, you move on your own terms and will reap the benefits of accomplishing your goals.

Background Photo by Clem Onojeghuo from Pexels

A backseat mind can drive itself into a wall it never saw

Being behind the wheel of your life is always best no matter the outcome. Why is this? This is because life is about experiences and experience, so do not limit yourself. The more experiences you have, the more insight and wisdom you’ll have at your disposal to know better. To avoid a backseat mind set, you want to have the knowledge or experience to be able to pivot when needed, making you limitless. This is why the person who never started is worse off than the person who has tried and failed. Live it to tell it, and keep living.

Here are the 5 actions that helped me get back on track.

They may or may not help you. Each of the 5 actions mentioned has made a huge positive impact on my mindset and my productivity. I hope it helps you as well.

1. Start with your meals.

This was a wake up call for me. I thought because I am plant-based and I eat my greens that I was good. Nah. I was also eating a ton of junk, not enough whole foods and therefore lacking in vitamins and minerals. Believe it or not, if you are lacking in any vitamins or minerals it can affect your mood, motivation and can cause depression. So eating whole foods and supplementing if needed is very powerful. How do I know? I did it…I lived it, to tell it. Particularly it was vitamin D, B12 and sea vegetables that really helped me. Listen to your body, it will tell you what works and what you need (or see your doctor).

2. Read or listen to motivating books/music to support a productive mind shift.

You also have to be particular about what your mind consumes. Talk positively to yourself and make yourself a priority. I am talking about high vibrating music. You know if it’s high vibrating from how it makes you feel. Do you feel like you can take on the day or do you feel like you want to rob a hoe? lol Seriously, we all know that music can set the tone for our day or a party, etc. Look out for a JustDekit Spotify playlist.

3. Create very small micro goals from the larger goal.

This means take smaller bites of the pie and before you know it, it’s all gone. Maybe pie isn’t a great example since I mentioned the significance of food. So yeah, um…replace pie with a delicious salad. Breaking down the task to something smaller not only makes it more manageable, but it becomes less intimidating as well. For instance, one of my goals is to get in shape for 2019, so I did like many people and I got a gym membership. Now, I know people that go to the gym for 1 hour or even 2 hours at a time. Knowing who I am and that I hate going to gym because I find it to be boring (among other things), I decided that I would only go for 30 minutes a day. Every time I make it to the gym I mark an X on my calendar. With that said, I also want to mention that your overall goal has to be somewhere visible and easily reviewed; which is why many people start the year by creating a vision board. However, putting reminders in your phone or post-it notes on your mirror or a screen saver on your computer are other ways to keep goals on the forefront of your mind. Sometimes it takes just seeing it everywhere like advertisements. So yeah, spam yourself.

4. Set yourself up to win by removing or limiting the distractions and adding more avenues of support for yourself.

For me, it required that I set boundaries and limits with people in my life. When you make yourself a priority and take care of you first, your time becomes more important and therefore the time spent with others is of more quality. This means it’s scheduled time and you need to be selective with whom you spend your time. To add to this, meditating really helps to calm your mind and allow you to become less distracted and focused. It also allows you to have that internal time for self, you are your best friend any day. It also helps with becoming comfortable with being still while surrounded by noise, which starts out with your thoughts. It’s definitely something to try if you haven’t yet. Start with 5 minutes a day and work your way up.

Being comfortable with yourself and in your own head-space is great, but another thing that can help is having an accountability friend. This person is either seeking to accomplish the same goals or some one you know you that you absolutely cannot bull-shit.

5. Lastly, you must keep a calendar or journal of sorts.

Yes, track your progress. Tracking the progress of a project and your mindset helps you win. Now, different things work for different people. For instances, putting X’s on a calendar or next to a completed task works for some. Writing in a journal nightly or once a week can be beneficial for your mindset. A gratitude journal is like the best kind of journal that you can add to your nightly routine. Or you can record your thoughts on your phone and post it to Instagram or Facebook, whatever works. Some of theses methods like Instagram and Facebook might keep you more accountable and on your game, but the goal is to be self sufficient. The motivation and drive should come from within. What is working right now for me are X’s and some quick journal time. Also, do not think you have to write a novel every day. Right now, I am writing 1 to 2 sentences. But again, do what works for you.


In Conclusion…

Everything I’ve mentioned here isn’t anything new or magical. Sometimes we over complicate things or the answer is right in front of us. All of the 5 actions can be done by anyone, maybe not all once but that’s okay.

I am a woman just working towards my best life. Basically, when I fall off, I make every attempt to get back up. I don’t claim to be an expert and I am not wildly successful yet, but I am relentless. And you should be too. This life is amazing no matter how you look at it. Everyday, people are turning tragedies into triumphs. Why can’t we do the same? We can! Just Dekit!

The very best to you and yours this new year! Let’s fuck it up, y’all! Make it happen and as usual Just Dekit!

Appreciative Regards,

Stephanie

PS: Thanks so much for reading. I hope it helps! Let me know in the comments if it does. Or, if you have a bounce back story or technique let me know in the comments as well.

just dekit hoodie
accessories-afro-beautiful-935985

7 Tips for Black and Brown Women to Elevate as Creators

,

Hey! So, I know we haven’t spoken in a while, but I am back and here with 7 Tips for Women of Color to Elevate. A large part of the reason why I’ve been away is because I launched a new leg of Dekit and that’s Afro Rhythm and Beats. With Afro R&B I host dance/fitness classes. It took a while to get off the ground, but I am back and have some lessons to share that I picked up along the way.

I launched the 1st Afrobeat dance class in Stamford, CT and it’s steadily growing. There have been some ups and downs and a moment when I thought I should throw in the towel, but I pushed through and am still pushing.

1. Authenticity is your new leverage, use it!

Authenticity is the new black! The best thing that any of us can do is be true to who we are. There is a mindset that you must have to create in a manner that is impactful. This is what I realized sets me apart from some of my peers. I have a can-do attitude and if I do not know how, I will figure that shit out. By staying true to myself and listening to my gut, I ran with an idea to launch Afrobeat dance classes. I had to listen to my inner voice. This comes from years of not listening to my inner voice.

Whether it’s a good idea or bad idea or someone thinks it’s not the best time to launch, do you! You won’t know if you do not try. You are not learning if you are not making mistakes.

This leads to the next tip. You are going to have to be uncomfortable to grow and oftentimes that included being stressed, scared, unsure of yourself.

2.Yes, growth is uncomfortable, but comfort keeps you stagnate. Choose growth.

I started the classes because I saw an opportunity to bring something to my city that didn’t exist. I also knew that it wouldn’t happen if I didn’t do it.  First of all, I knew nothing about hosting dance classes, didn’t know any instructors or where to find them and I had no idea how much it would cost.

My 1st call to a studio was awkward. I didn’t know what to expect or how I’d be received, but if the classes were going to be manifested I was going to have to go through the unknown and be uncomfortable.

When I came across a studio that I really wanted I was faced with resistance and more feelings of discomfort. This studio was beautiful and at a great location, but they had a complicated process around renting their space. Yes, it was stressful going back and forth with this studio. I mean I was trying to make it work, but all in all, it wasn’t meant to be.

In retrospect, I gained an education and learned something new about myself from that experience. I learned the power of walking away and persistence. It’s a good thing I did because I then found the Connecticut Ballet Center and they are amazing people.

Growth is going to be uncomfortable. Had I given up when faced with these obstacles there wouldn’t be an Afro Rhythm and Beats!

There will be obstacles, but I can’t stop because of the unknown. And neither should you!

3.Show up to reach your goals

Sometimes all it takes is getting up and out of bed. It takes simply sitting in front of the computer. Just showing up and getting to the spot changes things. The 1st night I was late getting to the studio, so the class got off to a bit of a late start. There were also administrative things to take care of for the studio before we could start. Given all this the 1st class sold out! What if I didn’t show up? What if Tamara didn’t show up? If the students didn’t show up to class to reach their goal of getting fit or trying something new?

After the third class the number of students dropped. Now, this has been stressful, but was to be expected I was told by one of the instructors. Like, it happens. But, damn ya’ll it does hurt. No matter how many students show up the instructor and the studio still need to be paid. I had already invested money and time in t-shirts, fliers, marketing, social media, etc. So, it was in these moments when I was thinking I should stop this and refocus my attention on Just Dekit. Despite all the fun I’ve been having I was also losing money. I thought, how long can I keep this going?

These thoughts do not go away, but I do not tend to give up easily. Now, there was a time when that was who I was; the quitter. Today, I’m more stubborn! I’m much more resilient.

I kept showing up and attendance has gradually increased. I haven’t reach my goal yet, so I must keep showing up until that happens. It’s either that or give up. There nothing wrong with having to throw in the towel, but that can only occur after exhausting all options and doing everything within your power.

4.Do not let others cloud your vision because they don’t see the big picture.

I had a conversation with a co-worker about the classes and she questioned if the instructors are African and spoke on how I am not African, how can I host these classes?  A bit of context, she is from Ghana, born there and grew up there. So that’s where she’s coming from.

Aside from me responding with I am descendant of American slaves, period.  I also made a point to basically say because I can, and I want to!

I have the guts, foresight and vision to create something that is not already being provided in my city. She wasn’t privy to the overall vision and that’s fine, it wasn’t meant for her anyway. She doesn’t have to know what it’s about or why I decided to do the class.

For me it’s bigger than dance class. Afro R&B dance classes are about serving a community of women who are like me and are looking for ways to add fitness to their lives and celebrate culture.

Now, instead of her highlighting her perceived short comings of me, why couldn’t she instead offer support being that she is a real African. That would have been amazing. More about this mentality in an upcoming post.

5.Make the attempts to become an expert

Now, to become an expert takes time and it doesn’t happen from only reading books. It takes action.  Because of the actions I took, I now know how to start and launch dance classes. Why? It’s because I went for it. There’s still more I could learn, but I know more than the Stephanie from a few months back. If I had not made the efforts to create Afro R&B, I wouldn’t have gained so much. I gained another level of education in business. I gained a small, but growing tribe. I learned more about people. I learned a hell of a lot more about myself, as far as what I am capable of. The Afro R&B dance classes are also another example of my ability to manifest my ideas.

The next step is the experience of making it a successful Afro R&B!

There’s a long way to go. Who knows how far things will go? One thing I do know is that you won’t know, if you don’t try.

6.To elevate, you gotta walk with change

Okay so, “To elevate, you gotta walk with change,” does not mean keep them coins on you. What I mean is do not walk away from what it takes to create your life, that masterpiece, your business, your impact. Change as we all know it can be difficult, but you better become comfortable with it.

A Creator creates change, period. That’s what we are pressed to do, that’s what the nagging thoughts at night are and the painting that keeps you up is about; it’s about changing something and as a result creating an impact.

This change can be personal or a vehicle for others to experience. In my experience with Afro R&B it was a very clear dose of both. On a personal level I became more comfortable with believing in what I am capable of, pushing through discomforts, and listening to my voice.

Launching the Afrobeat classes caused a ripple of changes. In the process, through the obstacles and setbacks I grew by learning what I did not know. I met people I wouldn’t otherwise have connected with had I not started the class, such as extremely talented instructors Tamara Jones and Margaret Meghie.

Walking with change isn’t always comfortable, but it is usually necessary for growth, it helps build character and allows for us to be able to experience the thrills of life.

7.Make your habits matter for your success.

Once the numbers started to drop I knew I had to pivot. I had to adjust. I learned the more consistent and strategic I was at promoting and speaking with people about the classes the number of students each class would get better. I know it sounds like a no brainer, and don’t get me wrong it’s not that I didn’t know this, but it was putting it to practice. This has always been a weakness of mine. The dance class has made the consequence of not being consistent more tangible.

I’m down to play the long game. I do not have a problem with that, but why play long with small increments of success when you can have a steady amount of growth by doing what works.

Conclusion:

To elevate takes time, yes. We all have time and some have more than others, but what you do with your time and how you allocate your time can be a powerful way to elevate. We all can do our part to lift each other up, but it is also most important that we take the time and our efforts to lift ourselves up.

  1. Be true to yourself
  2. Take consistent action
  3. Embrace change as your friend
  4. Do not let people shade your vision
  5. Develop your success habits
  6. Show up
  7. Comfort is your enemy

 

Lastly and as always, #justdekit!

All the best,

Stephanie

 

 

 

just dekit hoodie
JULLY BLACK

Your feelings? Not responsible for your feelings says Jully Black

, ,

This snap shot of Jully Black setting Jeanne Beker straight in regards to her feelings and the experience of indigenous Canadians is so real.

“I’m not the one responsible for your feelings” -Jully Black

The fact is that when she says, ” …I’m not the one that’s responsible for your feelings.” This may sound harsh for some people, but it’s so real. At the end of the day you are responsible for your feelings, your reality and your space. Some people can’t take hard truths and the immediate response is to get in their feelings. This can be distracting and debilitating for a creator. I was one of those people and at times I still am, but at the end of the day when you are faced with adversity or challenges it doesn’t serve you to live in your feelings. I’m not saying to ignore how you feel all together, but find a way to acknowledge how you feel, think on it, and ultimately take action to address the situation and keep moving.

Don’t get stuck in the emo fog

That moment when people get stuck in there feelings, I call it the emotional fog aka emo fog. You can’t see clearly, your moving slower or if at all and you’re so focused on the negative that you can’t even consider the upside. This doesn’t help when you have things to do, a vision to manifest or in Jully’s case people she’s advocating for.

Jully Black was speaking on what actionable steps are they going to make for the indigenous Canadians to address their circumstances. Thank you Jully for being a bomb as creator! A strong example of what it means to #justdekit In this space there’s little time to consider people feelings while there are things to be done to address your quality of life or that of others.

A little tid bit, but more to come! #justdekit #beacreator

ALL the best,

Stephanie

just dekit hoodie
Artwork by Blake @blakesart

Issa Rae is Right, New York’s Creator Tribes are Not More Valid than Where I Stay

, ,

​My experience last night gave me another perspective on what Issa Rae said about “networking across,” vs. networking up. It also applies if you don’t live in or near a city like New York. Not all of us do and yes, the internet has made that less of an issue, but what takes it to the next level are the creatives who build  on or create their own vibes and tribe in their local city.

 

Issa Rae portrait by William Blake via Instagram @blakesart

 

Last night, I met an amazing woman creator, who goes by Mufasa, surrounded by amazing people at the launch of her new podcast The Lionz Den, bringing it like New York in Bridgeport, CT. It was there that I found a tribe and that New York vibe closer to home. Sometimes your tribe is closer than you think and sometimes there are people waiting for you to create a platform to come together right where you are.

 

Mufasa Bastet at The Lionz Den Bridgeport CT
Mufasa Bastet@mufsabastet at The Lionz Den Photography by Stephanie Harris

 

Connecticut vs New York, and…so?

I live in southern Connecticut; aka Fairfield County and I literally have the privilege of taking a forty-five-minute train in to New York City, of which I take full advantage of.

I am the CT head that goes to Harlem, Brooklyn and Queens for the arts and culture (food!), to find inspiration and reclaim that motivation to keep pushing towards my dreams. It’s that real for me.

New York energy is unique

Anyone who moves to New York or just travels there you know what I am talking about. The energy, it is in the air the moment you arrive and when you get to vibe with people there you have no choice but to be inspired. Everyone is grinding, everyone has a hustle and often you find people living on their own terms as creative entrepreneurs.  Now I know that what I describe isn’t exclusive to New York (and not the only vibe there either) but, this is just where I have habitually gone to meet other creators and vibe with like minded souls.

The Lionz Den on the map

At The Lionz Den launch event, I thankful had the opportunity to experience that same vibe in Bridgeport, CT. Now to be frank, I knew and know Bridgeport has a popping art cultural scene. In comparison to my city they really have a vibrant community of artist, but when I think about the history, opportunities and the vibes I’ve experience in New York, it’s just not on the forefront of my mind.

Mufasa is also a creative that travels to New York and meets other dope creatives. In fact, she  had a few artist come through to add to the vibes.

Marcus Jade

Marcus Jade at The Lion's Den Bridgeport CT
Marcus Jade @marcusjademusic Photography by Stephanie Harris

 

Indigo General

Indigo General @indigogeneral Photograph by Stephanie Harris

 

Travis Little

Travis Little at The Lion's Den Brigeport CTTravis Little @travislittlenyc Photograph by Stephanie Harris

 

With New York in the building, it was absolutely a space that also acknowledged and brought light to the dope creatives in Bridgeport, CT.

Phenix

Phenix at The Lion's Den Brigeport CT
Phenix @phenixtheartist Photograph by Stephanie Harris

 

Marty

Marriell "Marty" Watson at The Lion's Den Bridgeport CTMarriell “Marty” Watson @mar_ri_ell   Photograph by Stephanie Harris

 

The reality is it is not New York, but it’s not supposed to be

Now Bridgeport, CT is not like Brooklyn or Harlem. It’s likely that it may never be, in fact it doesn’t have to be, but what it does have is a handful of people like Mufasa who are doing the damn thing, honing their own dope energy and gifts and supporting each other’s creative endeavors. I am so grateful to have experienced and be charged by this energy. By the way, an energy that has been there long before I acknowledged it. I do however think, I witnessed a spark before the glow up and it’s invigorating.

 

The Lion's Den Bridgeport CTPhotograph by Stephanie Harris

 

Closing Remarks

Yes, Issa Rae is right. There are many people who don’t live in major cities like New York, but that shouldn’t stop you from finding or building your tribe. Don’t get me wrong sometimes you have to travel, and that experience gives you the perspective on how it’s done somewhere else but, like going away to school or going to sit at the feet of an elder to learn something, you have the choice to apply what you learn. Sometimes it takes a person to say, ” that’s dope, how can we have that where I live?” And you know what, if you are in a city looking for like minds there’s a chance that there are like minds looking for the same thing. So, #justdekit look for them folks and if you can’t find them create an event like Mufasa’s  for The Lionz Den podcast.

Be a creator, sis!  #justdekit

Stephanie

just dekit hoodie
shes-gotta-have-it-netflix-second-season

Spike Lee’s “She’s Gotta Have it,” We Gotta Have A Season 2 of Nola Darling

, ,

Can I tell you how much I enjoyed Spike Lee’s  remake of “She’s Gotta Have it,” showing on Netflix? I watched it in one sitting, despite having tons of other things I should have been doing. Nola Darling played by Dewanda Wise is my new favorite person, hands down! If you haven’t seen it, find it on Netflix and make it a fun day Sunday.  Let me tell you what I love about it, the few things that had my head titled and some takeaways.

First, the  4 things that had my head tilted

1. The style

The style of the show, which I later found is similar to the movie, was off putting at first. I wasn’t feeling how all the characters spoke to me, the audience. Aside from reality TV, usually there is one character, the lead, speaking to the audience. They all had access to us, even the therapist. However, it grew on me and as a component of the entire creative piece I understand it more after watching the whole season. Basically, everyone in her life thought they knew her and compartmentalized their version of Nola Darling. How true is this in life? Right?

2. Music

At times, the music seemed out of place and random, but what I loved was the display of the single cover and the variety of music. I can tell that it was important that the audience was fed some history, while at times it seemed force fed, I wouldn’t be surprised if it was Spike Lee’s personal playlist of his favorites. There were several songs I remember hearing while growing up. There were many songs that I thought were dope, but the “Set it off” by Strafe, when it came on… I wished it played longer. Sidenote : Listening to “Set it off” as I write this blog post.

3. Random ass dance

Okay, the dance scene wtf was that? Like really? That just looked a hot mess. None of these dudes could really dance and Mars was trying to make it Hip Hop while channeling all the Prince vibes. That was one part I would have dropped or a least made it a much shorter. I didn’t get it and damn sure didn’t like it.  I guess that was as close to a threesome we were going to get. Which I’m glad they didn’t take it there, a threesome would have been cheap, tasteless.

 

4. Remixing of Characters

At first, I was like “Oh, no why is Mars a Puerto Rican dude.” Now, when I watch this series, I hadn’t yet seen the original movie, but I am familiar with Spike Lee and his likeness from “Do the Right Thing.” So I was expecting a skinny little black guy playing the Mars character. Nonetheless, the new Mars is dope. In fact, he killed it.

Anthony Ramos as Mars Blackman vs Spike Lee as Mars Blackman
Anthony Ramos as Mars Blackman vs Spike Lee as Mars Blackman Image source

 

That being said I love Nola Darling!

Nola, played by Dewanda Wise is yet another breath of fresh-air. She is a working artist, strong minded, passionate, and very determined to live life on her own terms. The number one thing I appreciate about this character is her raw authenticity, whether it’s her outburst or her brutal honesty at all times, she doesn’t feel the need to compromise her identity. She exemplifies the black girl magic.

 

DeWanda Wise as Nola Darling. Photo: David Lee/Netflix Image source

The art artwork!! If you didn’t know Nola’s paintings were painted by Brooklyn’s Tatyana Fazlalizadeh.

Rightfully, Nola is not the Issa Rae’s character of “Insecure,” Jessica James of “The Incredible Life of Jessica James” and Samantha White of “Dear White People,” but fundamentally all these women are very much alike, they’re all striving for more in their pursuits, trying to balance relationships, owning their identity and each demonstrate the complexities of being a millennial woman, particularly black women. Like with all of these women, many of us might be privy to know a person like Nola in our lives- hell you might even be her, but we have not seen her on screen.

I also really liked when Nola visited the cemetery. We got visit the grave stones of many great creators, which I didn’t even know or thought was an option. That was so cool.

Take-away

In one episode, Nola takes the blame for graffiti in the neighborhood to protect a member of the community, a homeless veteran, friend and artist. That was hella brave, and or stupid, but also got me thinking about how there are people who stand up for someone or something other than themselves at the expense or determent to their selves. I like that she moved through fear to do what was in her mind the right thing to do and that speaks to her character, the kind of person she is in and something that anyone stifled by fear can learn from. This can be applied to anything in life, but for this site, I would like you to think of it in the context of your art, your business ideas, your goals and dreams.

This series hit on numerous important subjects, art politics, history, male & female dynamics, sexuality, treatment of our vets, our homeless, black men.

For me, obviously, “She’s Gotta Have it” is another win in the genre of content that further champions and caters to the millennial women.  And after watching the original film “She’s got to have it” we can see that Spike Lee was a head of his time with Nola Darling.

 

Let’s just say Ms. Nola is one BOLD chick!  In the end of this season there is a lesson, the over arching message for me is that, the world will bend to your authenticity.

Finally, the message

The final message is real adult communication and that comes from unapologetic authenticity. Living with authenticity means defining and living life on their own terms. So #justdekit dammit!

What did you think about Spike Lee’s remake of his original film “She’s Gotta Have?”

Be a creator,sis #justdekit

Stephanie

 

 

just dekit hoodie
Meet Stephanie1

How Do You Find Your #BLACKGIRLMAGIC as a Grown Ass Woman?

, ,

As a grown as woman, do you ever find my yourself looking for your #blackgirlmagic? I do. Growing up, the black girl magic hashtag  definitely didn’t exist and particularly, the celebration of our potential and gifts on such a wide scale wasn’t a prominent thing. And when I initially, came to know the black girl magic movement, it was hard for me to not assume that it was of the kids and for the kids, the generation after me. But what I’ve now come to understand is that it is as much of a gift for me as it maybe for the generation of young girls growing up today more aware of their of how awesome they have the right to be. However, for me to come to grips with my own black girl magic, my own potential and gifts I had to become aware of the like girl that still lives me in, the little girl that wanted to be magical, but didn’t know that she was all along.

What is black girl magic?

Black girl magic is feeling empowered and worthy to be present and shine where ever and in whatever way you are compelled to as a black girl and black woman.

As I look back on my youth and maybe some can relate, it wasn’t that I was talented or capable, in fact, I expressed multiple talents, such as writing poetry, stories, drawing, painting and music. It was that in my mind, I wasn’t suppose to shine or shine too bright. I developed an understanding that my role in the world was to dim my light for others to shine. So I grew up with the habit of only sometime letting my light peak. I would create amazing things, but would find any reason to validate why I should retreat and or be satisfied with the least or no recognition for my contributions.

Working in progress

This is something that I still struggle with today. Today, I have a list of blog post titles and ideas that I haven’t drafted. Today, I have several projects that I have not taken steps to develop and bring to fruition. This website was on the back burner for a long time.

As as a creator, a creative mind that doesn’t stop working, having ideas and unfinished work weighs my ass down, it stresses me out and I get to a point where I must release.I’m trying now to have create more balance, really more ways in my life where creating is a full-time thing, with a regular outlet. Mentally, creating and having an outlet makes me a happier person. Right now, I can hear Lil Wayne saying, “let it go, let it go, let it go” from Solange’s song “Mad.”

I think that in the past, those moments when I would let my light peak, so to speak, it was to release more than it was about shining. As a creator it becomes painful to create something and not share it because whatever we create it is meant to be giving to the world. Period. I created Dekit as a means to that end, so that I may have a reason and platform to share what I create, but more importantly to inspire others to be creators and more recently to support other women ( mainly women of color) who might have grown up with the same thinking as I had.

Awareness is KEY

I’m still trying to understand where this mindset came from. I know it has to be a combination of things stemming congruently from history and my upbringing. I do think that I have been trying to avoid being wrong or bad to this imaginary authority that told me I shouldn’t be great and I shouldn’t shine or out shine. However, black girl magic as a mantra and an understanding is that force to break the spell of this imaginary authority.  Simply put, it’s  an awareness that comes in the form of the permission to be great and to live without suppressing who you are and that can be magic if one chooses.

I came across this young girl name, Shasparay Lighteard on Youtube performing her spoken word piece, “Black Girl Magic,” it hit a cord and it sums up the sentiment of the struggle.

To reclaim your #blackgirlmagic it starts with self-awareness. The good and the bad.

So here were go, I am aware that sometimes I shun away from things that are perceived as difficult, things that have a chance of failing or anything that I feel makes me look weak or out of control. I am tackling the victim mentality, which for the record I resent that title, one because it truly exists and two because it has a tendency to be used in away that dis-empowers a person being victimized. Essentially, what I’ve come to understand is that this habit has been about protecting myself.

What do we do? #JUSTDEKIT

But, F that! #JUSTDEKIT, bring on more perceived difficult milestones, failures and feeling vulnerable. Just dekit is meant to emphasize Dekit and most essentially, it is a call to action that was created out of necessity. Just Dekit represents an authenticity and unfiltered presence to be shared with others. I didn’t always feel comfortable to do so. It’s the unapologetic existence that I wanted growing up and even as an adult. No better time than now to #JUSTDEKIT!

If you’re reading this, let’s be accountable for our dreams and #JUSTDEKIT

Stephanie

just dekit hoodie
Photo: Billboard

Rihanna’s Wild Thoughts or Lack Thereof

, ,

​DJ Khalid’s sampling of “Maria, Maria” for his new track “Wild Thoughts,” featuring Rihanna and Bryson Tiller leaves more to desire. It’s clear that the memorable summer hit song “Maria, Maria” made by Carls Santana, Wyclef and The Product G&B had what “Wild Thoughts” lacks and that’s substance…aka soul.

In addition to Santana’s sultry guitar riff, what makes this song moving and timeless is the way that it paints a picture of young love; not just love, romance and in a way, that can speak to everyone living in place like the Spanish Harlem of that era. It does something else it engages the young people who think about, to take a line from one of the verses, “ways of making it better.”  With all of what’s going on “Maria, Maria” is more relevant today than “Wild Thoughts.”

More on “Wild Thoughts,” not only are the lyrics hyper sexual and unimaginative, but the are so above the surface in comparison to “Maria, Maria” which has dimensions. This is evident even in the way both tracks were mixed. In “Wild Thoughts” Rihanna’s voice is so loud and on top of the music that it doesn’t even sound like she is in the song…her vocals are on top of beat literally. Now you listen to “Maria, Maria” and it takes you away sonically. Everything works together like a delicious gumbo and for my vegetarian/vegan folks that amazing quinoa bowl!

DJ Khalid, Rihanna and Bryson Tiller missed an opportunity with “Wild Thoughts,” to give listeners more than the status quo sex, sex and more sex. News flash for the music industry there are real things going on in the world. The success of albums by Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole tells you that we are also looking for real shit in our music too. Something that the “All Eyes on Me” movie reminded us and that’s why Pac was and is still one of the greatest of all time.

 

just dekit hoodie
Dekit Women 1

A Powerful Personal Mantra

, , , ,

 

What’s a personal mantra?

A personal mantra is an affirmation to focus your attention to goals you are looking to achieve. It is a statement or a phrase that motivates and re-energizes you and acts as a reminder for what you want.

How does it help to have a personal mantra?

Many of us, including my self sometimes feel stagnate and even though our purpose, influence and impact are important to us we need something to keep us moving forward. “JUST DEKIT” is the mantra and can take on whatever meaning you need at the time, such as “f@*k it,” “Let’s do you!,” or “Hit them with the business!” I WON’T state the obvious. But, JUSTDEKIT™  simply means take action and do it with no excuses.

JUST DEKIT™ is particularly for the women of color who values purpose, influence and impact. She loves her some art and admires creativity. She might even be an artist or entrepreneur. By no means is she perfect and that is hella dope to her. A work in progress, she loves herself, is committed to living her best life and finds motivation from the special people in her life.

Art, expression and creativity provides us with unique opportunities to realize a life of purpose, own our influence and amplify our impact. – Stephanie Harris

So, when doubt enters your mind, JUST DEKIT! When you’re feeling stuck in your tracks, JUST DEKIT! When you feel like giving up, think about a profound creator who has lived their purpose, owned their influence and how they’ve amplified their impact in the world with their ideas and resilience. You must do it too. JUST DEKIT!

Dekit creates content aimed at provoking expansion, introspection and growth. We use art and creators as the tools to open dialogues about various topics, to explore different dimensions, perspectives and to disrupt some comfort zones.

Sounds deep, right? We will be talking a lot shit too. We are not one dimensional, right? So yeah, there are going to be levels to this sis!

JUST DEKIT ladies! Follow us on ig: @justdekit

Stephanie
Founder, Work in Progress
#justdekit

ps. I’ll be venting sometimes. One word, Trump. *sigh*

just dekit hoodie
Dekit,LLC is the media company using the power of art and creators to provide content, products and experiences for the millennial women of color who, wants to live a purposeful life, own her influence and amplify her impact. Our vision is to amplify the potential of humanity by economically and creatively supporting the voice of women of color creators.

Newsletter

I'm not ready to subscribe yet...

Instagram Feed

Load More
Something is wrong.
Instagram token error.