Power Issue 2023 : simplebooklet.com

A Cup of Fish Tea and the ResilienceIn the days leading up to my first steps, my mother, brother, and I traveled to Jamaica. For my brother and I, it was the first of many trips back to our ancestral land.In Jamaica, my mother left us in the trusted care of my grandaunt, Hestriana while she finalized plans for her baby sister’s pending nuptials. Under my grand-aunt’s care, I tasted Jamaican Fish Tea for the first time and built up the courage necessary to take my first steps as a Black boy and man in this world. It is fitting that my first steps took place in the safety of a free majority-Black nation under the caring and watchful eye of one of my family’s greatest matriarchs. It is even more fitting that these first steps were taken to one of Jamaica’s most tasty yet complicated delicacies. Made out of fresh whole fish, yam, pumpkin, cassava, potatoes, thyme, pimento, scallions and green bananas cooked until very soft, Fish Tea is a silky, smooth, and rich dish packed with flavors drawn from the land and caught from the sea. As a culinary ode to Jamaica’s rich heritage and culture, and our commitment to preserving our African roots while adapting to the Caribbean environment that enslavement and colonialism brought upon us, Fish Tea represents the power of Black male resilience.With heat, pressure and time that’s critical in the soup’s preparation, this dish also requires a watchful and loving human eye. In my case, Hestriana brought that love. While overwhelming pressure and heat shaped the Black male experience, the community’s sense of love made us resilient.Whether it’s personified by March on Washington organizer Bayard Rustin, NBA great LeBron James, or a Black dad in Washington, D.C. who coaches his niece’s soccer team coach, Black male resilience influences American life and culture. Conversations about this phenomenon are necessary in a country that continues to devalue the worth of of theBlack Male SpiritBY: RICHARD A. FOWLERPOWER ISSUE / 7

Page 8

8 / THE QUINTESSENTIAL GENTLEMANBlack bodies and erase Black men’s foundational role in American history. Many folks might disagree with that notion, but their lack of outrage about Black men’s plight should be a dead giveaway on where they stand. The alarmingly low life expectancy and the abysmally high unemployment facing Black men in this country are the makings of a national emergency that should push state, local, and federal governments and nonprofits to marshall all their resources toward a solution. Regrettably, no one in power has declared a national emergency because they don’t see our contributions as a necessary ingredient for their soup. This active erasure of our experience, contribution, and commitment to this country, the likes of which we see in Florida, Texas, and South Carolina, could make us question our value. Still, our value has and will continue to come from within. That’s where we find the ingredients needed to ensure that our community is safe, our neighborhoods are thriving, and our children are afforded the best opportunities. Black men have survived enslavement, convict leasing and false prosecution of our leadership. We overcame the pressure endured as the sons of fighters and the grandsons of royalty. While the heinous killing of Tyre Nichols and George Floyd have brought tremendous pain, our outpouring of love has made their lives become part of a movement and an inflection point for change. For years, I wondered why I took my first steps in my Aunt Hestriana’s Montego Bay backyard versus the Evanston, IL basement apartment where I spent most of my formidable years. And at 34 years old, I figured it out. In my grandaunt’s eyes, I found a sense of safety thatI carry with me today. The stresses that besiege Black women in America didn’t encumber her. Her Black joy was so unrestricted it became infectious. In asking me to take my first steps to taste her homemade Fish Tea, Aunt Hestriana affirmed that my life matters; that I was worthy of good and tasty things; and though my des-tiny would be challenging, I could prevail. With every brave step I take, her watchful, loving eye would be right there. During my early teen years, Aunt Hestriana passed away from Alzheimer’s. She was 96. And, I see her spirit reflected in Black women who courageously go out of their way to instill similar beliefs in their sons, grandsons, nephews, and young Black men they encounter. That’s why we must start instilling these principles of safety, worthiness, and goodness in each other. This work is already happening. Now is the time to double down on our efforts. Black men come in all different shapes, sexualities, sexual identities and sizes. We also represent different ZIP codes, immigration statuses, and corners of the African Diaspora. Thus, bringing us together, similar to the ingredients in Jamaican Fish Tea, is challenging. Still, in the end, if we can find our resilience through all the pain and pressure, we will find our power, reclaim our community, and most importantly, create a society where Black male existence is valued for the first-rate, brilliant, beautiful and bold flavor we represent to America and the world at large.Regrettably, no one in power has declared a national emergency because they don’t see our contributions as a necessary ingredient for their soup.““Richard Fowler is Host of the Richard Fowler Show, Fox News and Forbes Contributor

Page 9

Page 10

Page 11

APOWER ISSUE / 11FentyPre-Show Glow Instant Retexturizing 10% Aha Treatment + Reusable ApplicatoremerginCTriple-ThreatPeelGlow Baby by PacicaBrightening Peel PadsBlissThat’s Incredi-PeelAre you noticing the change in temperature? If it hasn’t warmed up in your neck of the woods, no worries because what we’re soon to share will have your skincare practice ahead of the curve. The curve being a basic wash and moisturizing because let’s be honest, we don’t trust you’ve been diligent with your routine this winter[If you even had one]. The Quint-Essential is here to guide you on becoming a glowing Adonis this spring. The first thing is understanding why there’s a need to adjust to the change in the climate and its impact on your skin. Higher temps, outdoor link-ups, and sun exposure are primarily the reasons to start preparing yourself for warmer conditions. The winter weather typically leaves our skin dull, dry, and paler than usual, hence our lighter appearance in skin tone during this season. Our recommendation is simple, yet effective, for your first step towards revitalization; we suggest an advanced exfoliation experience. We’re not talking about using your local beauty department store’s facial scrubs. Fellas, it’s time to treat yourself to a chemical peel. This can be done as a self-care spa day (every 4 months) or an at-home treatment (once a month). A chemical peel is an active, two-step chemical formula applied to the skin to exfoliate, remove dead skin cells, promote collagen production, and help to even your skin complexion to bring back the glow. The importance of a chemical peel is to rejuvenate your youthful appearance and deliver anti-aging benefits.ONE STEP TO ADD TO YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINEto Transition Into SpringBY: DANE YOUNGHERE ARE OUR FAVORITE LIGHT PEELS TO START ADDING TO YOUR HOME ROUTINE AS SPRING APPROACHESAVAILABLE AT TARGET @SCOTCHPORTER SCOTCHPORTER.COM

Page 12

One global leader aims to help his followers take control of their spiritual, mental and nancial lives. 19 Keys is a leader in the Black Community with a popular podcast on the YouTube channel, Earn Your Leisure, centered on wealth creation, with a focus on educating the younger generation. Conversations include entrepreneurship, holistic wealth, metaphysics, articial intelligence and nancial literacy, which has earned him the No. 1 podcast on the YouTube channel.To even get to this status in helping people and conrming his core values, 19 Keys thanks his parents for a strong upbringing.“My parents taught principles at an early age, afrmations and things to live by. But there are some (things) I’ve just picked up off the cues of my environment because I’ve always been very observant and astute even as a young child,” 19 Keys said in an interview with The Quintessential Gentleman. “One of the greatest quotes I love to live by is ‘where there’s a will, there’s a way.’ For me, it’s a possibility at all times. If I can think it, it can be done. … And so I’ve always utilized that thought process in everything that I do. … It’s like a superpower…”This superpower allowed 19 Keys to understand what’s going on in the environment he was brought up in – Oakland and St. Louis, or what he considers “the hood.” He believes this environment has caused spiritual deprivation among those raised in these situations.BY: ROBERT MAGOBET 12 / THE QUINTESSENTIAL GENTLEMAN WWW.THEQGENTLEMAN.COM19 Keys’Advice to Black Men on Winning in AmericaBe Fearless:

Page 13

Still, in a family that includes nine siblings, he was able to overcome his circumstances despite catching a court case. 19 Keys said his family was able to give him the resources to overcome those obstacles, and his record is clean to this day.“…There’s a deep part of ourselves that we need to unlock and that’s that savior part of ourselves where we learn how to save ourselves,” 19 Keys shares. “And so, if I studied the wealth standard of everybody else’s community, they learn how to create principles that become guides that become standards towards building wealth.”After reading Revolutionary Suicide by Huey Newton, 19 Keys realized the importance of taking care of your younger siblings. The reading sparked an epiphany that the Black culture doesn’t have the habits to produce nancial wealth, and unity, among other goals. Additionally, this reading helped 19 Keys move forward despite his surrounding circumstances.One characteristic that 19 Keys said Black men in America need to have is to be fearless.“You can’t win in America if you’re fearful,” 19 Keys said. “As a Black man, you have to be educated. You cannot win in America if you’re a fool. As a Black man in America, you have to develop the characteristics of a man. As a Black man in America, you have to be in solidarity with other Black men. You cannot win in America by yourself…”The popular podcaster said it’s important to have direction. And ultimately, it’s important to create a plan to save ourselves because the numbers say that if that doesn’t happen, it will be easy to fall into the trap. But ultimately, this plan needs to be with a group of like-minded individuals.When folks come together, 19 Keys said the mentality should be to work together in unity, from a horizontal perspective, rather than the top-down approach. For instance, instead of disrespecting someone’s abilities, it’s all about bowing down to that other person and recognizing that this person can do something that you can’t – and vice versa. It’s about tribalism, not individualism, which Western society glorifies.One way to get folks to switch to this mentality, 19 Keys said, is to have lyric reform. According to 19 Keys, “beats put people in a suggestive state, and when folks hear those beats and it’s about sex, drugs, murder, death, violence and revenge, the subconscious puts folks in a triggering state, which can be detrimental to one’s focus, eliminating emotional resilience.”POWER ISSUE / 13“…Understanding the awareness of what the music is putting us into, the state of the music is actually training our brains into. So that you can understand where you’re at. And by that awareness, you’re not allowing your brain to sleep,” 19 Keys said.The renaissance man isn’t big on any kind of standstill. In a recent tweet from him, he alluded to the notion that it is better to find work ethic than it is to find your purpose.In a tweet that was posted in response to seeing too many traditional quotes, 19 Keys said folks who always speak on purpose are often too lazy and use purpose as an excuse to hinder development, which is what it’s all about.“Work is how you develop your purpose. Purpose is not found, it is developed,” 19 Keys said, “…So your purpose can develop, it can change as your functions develop and change. So focus on the function of who you are, what you do and purpose will follow, but you can’t do anything without working.”Photo Credit: T Evans

Page 14

Page 15

The 2023 Corporate Counsel Men of Color Conference is coming to the National Harbor this fall.The popular conference that comprises the career life strategies and power networking conference will take place September 26 at the luxurious Gaylord Hotel and Conference Center in Washington, DC.The Corporate Counsel Men of Color is a dynamic organization with a focus on bringing key resources and tools for advancement in growing professions. Its mission is to provide a support network to men of color in the workplace. The organization is intentional about fostering diversity and inclusion.Speaking as the keynote speaker will be American boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard. Leonard will bring his business acumen and wealth of knowledge as a best-selling author, Olympic champion and television commentator.There will be a bevy of other speakers as well. Dr. George C. Frasier, the founder of FraserNet, a 32-year-old global leadership network of 91,000 Black professionals, business owners, and community leaders, is set to speak. The minority business Hall of Famer is a game changer in the wealth-building space. The Cleveland-based author, entrepreneur and speaker focus on improving networking skills and improving diversity and inclusion.Also speaking will be Reuben Gonzales, who is a four-time Olympian, a professional keynote speaker, and a bestselling author of books. His books focus on business and principles for sports.Also on deck is Laz Alonzo, who is an inspiring actor and director known for pivotal roles in The Boys, and Power Book II: Ghost. The Howard University graduate started his career as an investment banker at Merrill Lynch before starring on the silver screen in blockbusters such as Avatar and Fast & Furious.Also starring in this event will be Kevin Durant’s mother, Wanda Durant, who is known as Mama Durant and “The Real MVP.” Wanda is a strong leader, advocate, entrepreneur and philanthropist.And last but not least, Attorney Ben Crump will be on tap to speak on his nationally recognized civil rights attorney career. Crump believes in justice for all, especially for those without a voice who need help. Crump’s claim to fame was from notable cases such as Trayvon Martin, Ahmaud Arbery, Martin Lee Anderson and Breonna Taylor.For more information and to get tickets to attend, go to www.ccmenofcolor.org.POWER ISSUE / 15

Page 16

16 / THE QUINTESSENTIAL GENTLEMAN WWW.THEQGENTLEMAN.COMEJ Reed, Clint Gray and Derrick Moore in North Nashville founded Slim & Husky’s, a hip-hop-inspired pizza company that just expanded to deliver nationally. The pizza chain is ranked 5 out of 101 in The Daily Meal’s 101 Best Pizzas in America. But the close friends didn’t hit the ground running in the pizza industry initially. Nashville-born and bred, Reed, Gray and Moore met around high school before attending HBCU, Tennessee State University, together. They would go on to graduate and secure jobs to establish a working platform.Having an interest in starting a business for years, the three started a move-in company. The brothers rolled up their sleeves, put $3,000 in the pot between the three of them, started a website and marketed via word of mouth. The three grinded and turned three stacks into a much larger profit before selling the business for seven figures. That money helped start the Black-owned pizza empire today. “…It was a journey to get to the pizza shop,“ Reed, the CEO said. “…We just used our hard work and efforts to build something that will get us to that point.”While some folks say that starting a business with friends isn’t a good idea, the brothers think that it depends on what kind of friends you have in your corner.“One of the unique things about us is the type of friendship that we have. You know, built on trust, built on accountability, and built on everyone wanted to hold their own weight,” Reed said. “…For myself, I’m waking up, going at it with two people going just as hard as me so that I know where they’re coming BY: ROBERT MAGOBETWWW.THEQGENTLEMAN.COM16 / THE QUINTESSENTIAL GENTLEMANHip-Hop-Inspired Pizza ConceptSLIM & HUSKY’S Founders Banded Together to CreateThree friends growing up always saw the bigger picture. Today they are taking over the pizza industry.Photo Credit: Slim + Husky’s

Page 17

It is true that their relationship holds down the fort for their current business. But when the trio started the move-in company, it wasn’t all peaches and cream. In fact, two weeks into moving items from full-fledged farms and other places, the brothers questioned if being in the business was for the three of them. But after sticking to it for a year or so, the three decided that being in business was the best thing that has happened to them in their lives.Additionally, the move-in business taught the brothers how to manage accordingly in the pizza industry. When business was picking up, the brothers, who hold MBAs and experience in law, had the task of managing several trucks with several different crew members going out on different move-in jobs.Because of this scenario, the businessmen learned how to manage several different tasks and businesses at one time.“So it really gave us, what I consider a Ph.D. in operating a business. No matter what type of business it was, issues were coming at us daily, that we had to figure out fast solutions that were going to continue the business and keep us going,” Reed added. “And see, we were able to transition all those lessons into a new concept that has most people walk in your doors (and) now they’re happy…”The name of the business started from a joke. The brothers always joked about wearing husky clothes back in the day. And one day, they agreed that Slim & Husky’s was the perfect name for the business.Once the name was agreed upon, the business’ inception was based on art, culture, music, and of course pizza. The first store was built in North Nashville, where the three are from. Gray is the chief marketing officer, while Moore is the chief development officer. A store opening in this neck of the woods was very symbiotic in telling the story of Black culture at its highest level. And it is no surprise the area is home to HBCU Tennessee State University.Overall, there are 12 locations in Tennessee, California and Georgia, and folks looking to make their own pizza have come to the right place. There are also take-out options, catering services, among many other options. The three have also expanded to have their very own music series called Slim Huskies Unplugged, which is designed to give emerging artists across the country a platform so they can be heard by local record labels.It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to have a thriving business. And the three brothers have advice for those who want to follow in their entrepreneurial footsteps.“Don’t be so hard on yourself,” Reed said. “Mistakes are going to happen. It’s inevitable that you’re going to drop the ball from time to time. Pick yourself up, dust off, admit your wrongs and keep it moving. Keep it rolling.”To keep things rolling, the former HBCU football players host community events, participating in speaking engagements at local schools, nonprofits, small businesses and organizations.POWER ISSUE / 17Don’t be so hard on yourself... Mistakes are going to happen.““

Page 18

9 Ways to Improve Your Mental Health and Emotional WellbeingBY: MACHEL L. HUNTHow you feel can affect your ability to carry out everyday activities, affect your relationships and your overall mental health. How you react to your experiences and feelings can also change as situational factors and circumstances evolve. Emotional wellness is the ability to successfully handle life’s stresses and adapt to change and difficult times. As a Black man and a mental health clinician, I see how Black men are at a disadvantage and I wanted to provide some accessible ways you can improve your mental health and emotional well-being. Everyone feels anxious and stressed from time to time. Stress can give you a rush of energy when it’s needed most. But if stress becomes pervasive (a condition known as chronic stress) those “high-alert” changes become harmful rather than helpful. Learning healthy ways to cope with stress can also boost your resilience. This can be a great kickstart to your lifelong goals toward a healthy mind, body and soul. At Therapy For You, it is our goal to encourage positive mental health and well-being as we highlight the important benefits of counseling and therapy for Black men.According to the US HHS Office of Minority Health: • Adult Black/African Americans are 20% more likely to report serious psychological distress than adult whites.• Black/African Americans living below poverty are three times more likely toreport serious psychological distress thanthose living above poverty.• Adult Black/African Americans are morelikely to have feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness than adult whites.• And while Black/African Americans are lesslikely than white people to die fromsuicide as teenagers, Black/African American teenagers are more likely to attempt suicide than are white teenagers (8.3% v.6.2%).Here are nine ways to help improve your mental health and emotional well-being:1 . Value Yourself: Treat yourself with kindness and respect, and avoid self-defeating thoughts.2. Take Care of Your Body: Pay attention to what your body needs (exercise, diet,nutrition, rest). 3. Surround yourself with people who contribute positively to your life. 4. Be patient with yourself, every day won’t be your best day. 5. Develop healthy strategies for coping with stress, disappointment and changes.How to Find the Right Therapist For YouTherapy works best when the client is able to connect with the therapist and form a healthy therapeutic alliance. Once you’ve acknowledged that therapy can be helpful for you, then it’s time to find the right therapist.• Ask about a specific experience • Ask about their clinical philosophy• Identify a connection with him/her• Ensure you are comfortable and able to ask questions about the process• Representation matters – do you feel that he she understands you and your concerns?About the author:Machel L. Hunt is a clinical therapist based in Atlanta. He specializes in Relationship Counseling and Psychosexual Therapy for individuals and couples. SexTherapyForYou.comLearning healthy ways to cope with stress can boost your resillience.““6. Learn new ways of self-maintenance and practice self-care as a routine. 7. Set Realistic goals: If your goals are unrealistic, you can never meet your expectations. 8. Break Unhealthy Cycles and/or Patterns: Just because it’s how it’s always been doesn’t mean it has to continue being that way. 9. Find Someone to Talk to About Your Thoughts, Feelings and Behaviors: Once you are able to have objective feedback, you can begin the pro-cess towards change. 18 / THE QUINTESSENTIAL GENTLEMAN

Page 19

For those of us who are technologically challenged, please explain what it is you do and how it has benefited DEI initiatives across Corporate America.Currently, I am President and Chief Executive Officer of Open Technology Group, Inc. (OTG), a small business providing information technology services to federal government clients. OTG specializes in Information concepts remain the same, different regions of the world teach technicians how to approach the same problems differently. Collectively using these methodologies has allowed my team to overcome a bevy of new challenges within government entities ranging from the Department of Treasury BEP and State Department to the Food and Drug Administration. Ultimately, the expansion of our funding was based on the additional areas of need that we were able to uncover that stemmed from the unique perspectives of our diverse team.How can the community keep Corporate America’s pledge for DEI as a priority and not just social media posts and talking points? Action. Personally, I feel that diversity and inclusion are huge factors that can easily be masked in Corporate America to fill quotas and marketing agendas. The most impactful pledge falls under equity and wheth-er a company is willing to put its team mem-bers in a position of success in and outside of the workplace. The things that I’m incorporat-ing such as in-house promoting, certification funding and resume revamping do just that. Assisting team members in their pursuit of professional credentials, abiding by equity pay reviews and creating a culture that cultivates maximizing one’s potential is what makes the real difference in the fight for equality and the heightening of one’s socio-economic status.What systems can corporations put in place in order to create more diverse spaces? The best system that a corporation can put into place to create a more diverse space is to either designate a team that’s dedicated to ensuring a diverse workspace or hire an outside organization to hold the corporation accountable. In order to commit to diversity, the first step is to acknowledge unconscious bias, that being said it is essential for companies to realize that there are always things that can be done better to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for people from all walks of life.How Technology is Pushing DEI Initiatives in GovernmentTechnology helping to increase diversity, inclusion and equity in Corporate America seems like a given. Still, there are those who would rather ignore data that shows the benefits of practicing equality when hiring. For Hampton University alum, Leon Burns, implementing data modules has allowed him and his team to successfully help prove variation strategies for government contract bids. What does this all mean? We caught up with the tech savvy entrepreneur to find out. POWER ISSUE / 19BY: JUSTIN D. JENKINSTechnology “IT “infrastructure support including help desk, data center, and network services as well as asset management support that includes warehousing, configuration, data migration, and deployment services.Since being named president, I have been able to provide opportunities to marginalized groups of people in a field that seldom aids people of color in reaching their goals and ascending in the field. My initiatives begin with covering entrylevel IT certification costs and covering 75% of other IT certifications related to the project. I am also committed to promoting from within, and offering monetary incentives for diverseprofessional development achievements. You have entered into a space that not many Black men know even existed, talk about your upbringing and how you saw this technology field as an opportunity to benefit your careers as well as your community.Throughout my childhood, I watched my dad troubleshoot machines and programs at a high level. These initial observations heightened my attraction to technology and made me eager to explore the field independently. Being raised with technology in the home benefits me immensely. As I progressed through K-12 schools, I was amazed by how many peers and instructors who were not afforded the same opportunity were hesitant to utilize computers to their highest capacity. Simple things to me whether it was ad-justing settings to minor programming computers, seemed to be a mystery to a large part of my community. As I grew older, I knew there would always be a niche in the market for technologically sound people and if I were to become a manager in IT, I would be able to help guide and mentor others within my community on the best ways to further their career in the field.You became a big brother during your tiat the university, why was that important to you and what would you say for other Black men, and why should they get involved in such mentorship opportunities? Growing up as an only child forced me to experience many of life’s hard lessons firsthand. I often envied the wisdom that my peers had that was passed to them by their older siblings. I promised myself that if I were ever to have a younger sibling, I would do everything in my power to not only share wisdom but give them a safe space to grow. Remaining an only child that didn’t stop me from wanting to be an example and mentor to others. It is important for Black men to be involved in such mentorship opportunities because we’re able to reach our youth in ways that other communities are not. I believe that Black men can share life’s perspective uniquely on a multitude of levels. Ranging from career advice, office politics, health, and wellness to family matters. I believe these entities from the eyes of a Black man are invaluable. Now you believe that collective efforts by diverse populations can make more of a difference in affecting lives than government funding.. how so? Absolutely. Working with people from all different backgrounds, whether that be from Korea, Afghanistan, Ethiopia or Bolivia has taught me a vast number of ways that one can approach any feat within the workplace from a technical standpoint. Like medicine, while the core Photo Credits: J. Monroe of Monroe Media

Page 20

The Gathering Spot is a members-only Black-owned club with co-working space, a full restaurant and event space. The Gathering Spot is a hub for entrepreneurs, creatives, lmmakers, executives, politicians, lawyers, musicians, venture capitalists, and artists, designed to bring people together to help them build. With additional clubs located in Washington, D.C. and Los Angeles, members receive complimentary breakfast on weekdays and complimentary parking in a well-designed modern space that operates 24/7. The space also offers members a host of concierge services, fresh coffee, copy and printing equipment, and integrated technology with reliable Wi-Fi and soundproofed rooms. Lastly, your membership includes development-centered workshops, keynote conversations, networking opportunities, social experiences and more. To join, you’ll have to request an invitation on their website.Location: 384 Northyards Blvd NW Building 100, Suite 190, Atlanta, GA, 30313Website: thegatheringspot.clubTOP COLLABORATIVEWORKSPACES IN ATLANTAA good co-working space can be a lifesaver for a new or small business owner. However, these companies are taking shared workspace to the next level creating communities of creatives that can support and share services. No longer just a place to work, co-working spaces have become hubs for collaboration, innovation and fellowship. They’ve cultivated a culture of collaboration and members are realizing they can share more than just space. Check out these ve Atlanta co-working spaces that have elevated their offerings and benets making them more than just a place to work. BY: DIONA ROBERSON20 / THE QUINTESSENTIAL GENTLEMANTHE GATHERING SPOT

Page 21

TOP COLLABORATIVEWORKSPACES IN ATLANTAXC is a Black-owned co-work and creative space for entrepreneurs, remote workers, non-prot leaders and artists. It was founded by missional artists who create businesses, programs, books, schools, and all sorts of communities to make the world more beautiful. The owners describe the space as if you’re going into Starbucks and grinding but in an intentional and creative environment where we provide a space for leaders, artists and entrepreneurs to work, create and collaborate. The space offers co-work memberships, event space, and production services in a beautifully modern vibrant space. Open Monday-Saturday 7 am to 7 pm. Location: 439 Edgewood Ave, Ste 103, Atlanta, GA, 30312Website: xcreativespaces.comPOWER ISSUE / 21RICE is not just a co-working space, it helps support Black entrepreneurs to overcome barriers they face when building a successful business. It’s the largest center of its kind in the U.S., with 54,000 square feet of space to co-work, collaborate and network. The space has a podcast room, Zoom room, boardroom, photo studio, think tank and symposium. It’s part business generator, innovation lab, and museum with a full investment in Black entrepreneurs, business support and community creation.Location: 504 Fair St SW, Atlanta, GA, 30313Website: russellcenter.orgWith nine locations in Atlanta, Industrious has changed where people work. With its accessible and stylish facilities located across the city and access to the BeltLine, professionals are nding Industrious to be an easy place to work. There are common areas, and private ofces making it great for creatives, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who are always on the move but need a place to stop in and get some work done. Location: 999 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309Website: www.industriousofce.com/m/atlantaThe Business Owner’s Emporium is Black-owned and one of the rst-of-its-kind corporate business solutions center in Atlanta. TBOE has everything an entrepreneur needs in its over 7,000 square foot modernly designed space. Members can enjoy ofce, co-work, podcast, and content-creation spaces, along with conference rooms, a Zen and café space to recharge and refocus.Location: 56 Perimeter Ctr East Suite 150 Atlanta, GA, 30346Website: bizownemporium.comXCRICEINDUSTRIOUSTHE BUSINESSOWNER’SEMPORIUM

Page 22

Page 23

Page 24

Page 25

Jermaine Dupri is arguably one of the best collaborators to work with in the music industry. It’s hard to believe that the rapper, songwriter, producer, and music mogul was not born when hip-hop was rst invented. 50 years ago, while DJ Kool Herc and his friend were hosting a back-to-school event in the Bronx, New York, Dupri’s mother was a month away from welcoming a child into the world. There is something poetic that one of the most important musical gures was born right at the beginning of a game-changing music genre. Now, the record label Dupri founded, So So Def, is celebrating its 30th anniversary during the same time as hip hop’s 50th milestone celebration. The house that JD built — So So Def, is not an exaggeration of a statement. The Asheville, North Carolina, born icon was one of the main factors that made a generation fall in love with music, fall in love with hip-hop, and fall in love with hip-hop when it meets R&B. For those who knew Dupri, his being able to command the stage and draw the attention of the masses did not come as a surprise. This is the same man who at 9 years old was able to get on stage with the legendary Diana Ross and dance along with the Motown superstar during one of her shows in 1982. The same man who at 12 years old got his start as a dancer for the iconic hip-hop group Whodini, appearing in videos such as “Freaks Come Out at Night.” Dupri is the same man who opened the New York Fresh Festival with POWER ISSUE / 25Run-D.M.C. and GrandMaster Flash. It is safe that hip-hop is in Dupri’s blood. It was in the early 90s that the producer exed his knowledge and innovation for all that hip-hop could be when he produced his rst act, the female hip-hop trio Silk Tymes Leather. Dupri continued that success when he formed the teen duo, Kris Kross. Showing his early genius, Dupri helped the group achieve multi-platinum status by writing and producing their major hits “Jump” and “Warm it up.” It was then in 1993, the man, the myth, and the legend created So So Def. With such early success and still being an active player in hip-hop, there aren’t many who could speak about the evolution of the genre.“If you weren’t a part of it in the early days, you can’t exactly see how much it has evolved,” Dupri says of the movement. “It is constantly evolving, but it is something that changes every three months,” he continues. Dupri points out that back in the day, hip-hop used to change every “one to three years.” That constant change is no different than how fast the news cycle is now, which could be attributed to the evolution of social media. “I call hip-hop a monster because it is a weird type of animal to me,” Dupri explains. “It just transforms to one thing and then to another thing and then just sits in different cities.”I CALL HIP-HOP A MONSTER BECAUSE IT IS A WEIRD TYPE OF ANIMAL TO ME...

Page 26

26 / THE QUINTESSENTIAL GENTLEMAN WWW.THEQGENTLEMAN.COMOne city that continues to be at the forefront of hip-hop, in part thanks to Dupri, is Atlanta. “Welcome to Atlanta where the playas play,” the rapper says repeatedly in his 2002 hit. For most fans of hip-hop and music in general, Dupri is a staple of the city who helped discover the city’s sound and kept Atlanta on the map in the con-tinuous battle of music greats who come from one city. Before 2002, the songwriter had already proved his love for Atlanta by signing his first act to So So Def, the R&B queens of Atlanta, Xscape. The power of Dupri’s ear was proven yet again when he helped contribute to Xscape’s multiple platinum albums. It could be Dupri’s constant mindset as a student of life and hip-hop or the fact that he is also the son of Michael Mauldin, a Columbia record executive, as one of the reasons he has been a producer over the past 30 years with the Midas touch.“I’ve been in school for 30-35 years just learning so many different details and learning so many different aspects of hip-hop,” Dupri says. It is the education of the ground-breaking music genre that Dupri feels will help constantly change hip-hop for the better. “I am hoping in the next 50 years the youngins in hip-hop now will say that they learned as much as I learned because if not, it will not be as fun,” he says of his hope for the next 50 years of hip-hop.At one point, Dupri was placed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the youngest producer to score a number-one record. For this, the artist knows that there is no one else like him. “There is no Jermaine Dupri to compare to,” he says while acknowledging why many may have a hard time realizing just how powerful he is in the music industry. But for Dupri, not only has he recognized his power, he knows just how powerful music can be. So powerful that “music is indescribable.” Which speaks volumes of the importance and the impact of the artistry.I am hoping in the next 50 years the youngins in hip-hop now will say that they learned as much as I learned because if not, it will not beas fun.

Page 27

POWER ISSUE / 27Creating impact has been Dupri’s driving factor during the course of his career. The same impact Atlanta has had on him and the culture is the impact he strives for in music and entrepreneur-ship. As fans of his music, we see the performances and the videos. We hear the records on the ra-dio and see moguls like Dupri collect award after award, but it is easy to forget that running a label means you are an entrepreneur. It means you are in rooms where you may be one of the three Black men who are sitting at the table making the deci-sions, creating the budgets and discovering new talent. Dupri, the songwriter who has written for top music acts such as Usher, Mariah Carey, Lil’ Bow Wow, and DaBrat, is not the same version of Dupri who sits in boardrooms and makes tough decisions that go on to affect So So Def’s bottom line. Creativity meets Black businessman for an artist like Dupri. A fine line that many other creatives try their best to walk on. “You really have to own what you do,” Dupri says about entrepreneurship. “And if you are a super creative person, try to own as much of your creativity as possible.” As Dupri is celebrating the 30th anniversary of So So Def — something he said he never thought was possible — he says, “You have got to control every aspect of your creativity” if you want longevity because “30 years can hap-pen fast.” While the house that JD built has established itself as a force that will never be forgotten, the con-stant student of life has his eyes set on continuing his legacy in other areas. From taking over the ice cream industry with JD’s Vegan Ice Cream to his new liquor brand, and even new music, Dupri’s upcoming EP For Motivational Use Only, with New Orleans-based rapper Curren$y is scheduled for release on April 4th - 404 Day in Atlanta, proves that the mogul is not slowing down anytime soon. With his latest single “Essence Fest” heating up the charts, Dupri is building new levels to his house as he celebrates the past that has gotten him this far.Morris Antonio (vest & shirt)Hellon Hood (denim) Louis Vuitton (sneakers) Louis Vuitton (Sunglasses)

Page 28

Page 29

Legendary comedians such as Chris Rock and Dave Chappelle have performed at the Comedy Cellar and left their mark on the hit NBC show “Saturday Night Live”. Now, Detroit native Alex English is following in their footsteps. English, who is a stand-up comedian at New York comedy clubs like the Comedy Cellar and The Stand NYC, joined Saturday Night Live’s writing team during the 47th season and has since garnered his rst Emmy nomination for Outstanding Writing For a Variety Series.Long before becoming a writer for Saturday Night Live, he recalled staying up late as a child and watching SNL greats like Maya Rudolph, Andy Samberg and Kristen Wiig. As a stand-up comedian himself, Alex delivers a personable and relatable style when it comes to comedy. “I kind of come at it in a way of like [having] a conversation with my friends and try not to make it sound too robotic,” English shares. “So the energy that I want in the room is like they are listening to their friend crack a joke or tell a story. I’ve found that once I get comfortable enough in my writing, to let loose in that way, my writing is reective of the way that I actually speak. I think that’s what helps, and it feels no different than being at a party surrounded by people and holding down the fort in that way. Just in this case, I’m on the stage and everybody else has to be quiet,” he elaborated.With being in the eld of comedy there’s always the potential to rub people the wrong way with a joke whether it be the joke itself or the delivery. Being offended has led to “cancel culture” and attempts to have the offending party and their inuence removed from public view. English doesn’t worry about that, however. He explained that he takes liberties and draws from an inner place and his own experiences rather than joke about something he doesn’t know. “If you start going into some details about things that you may not know much about, that’s when people tend to want to correct or overcorrect, and I don’t believe in correcting or policing comedians. I think comedians should be able to say whatever they want, and the barometer should be, whether POWER ISSUE / 29or not it was funny,” English stated. “If somebody says to me, ‘Oh, what you said hurt my feelings.’ It is not hard for me to say, ‘my bad’ and because I know that I don’t have any ill-intentions with anything and I believe that when people come to see me and when they watch what I’m doing, I feel like I do a very good job at conveying that without even having to say it. I felt like my intention was very clear from the get-go,” English added.As a man who has the means to change the direction of comedy and has been doing that with his writing on SNL, English spoke about what he wants to see in the eld of comedy going forward. “I just think the cream rises to the top, and ‘the funny’ is just gonna be ‘the funny.’ I prefer comedy with more jokes and I know there’s a space for political commentary and comedy with a message, but sometimes you just want to hear a stupid joke. That’s what I would love to hear more of,” he shared. “There’s nothing better than a funny story and there’s so many. Everybody has individual stories that you haven’t heard that are excellent. So I just want more silly and I want more goofy [comedy]. I want more people taking risks, and if that means you are offending somebody just say, ‘my bad’ and keep it moving. It’s not that deep,” English added.In the meantime, while continuing to work on the current season of SNL and future seasons, Alex hopes to bring his stand-up comedy on tour and hit the stage at different comedy festivals. But he is still holding court on the stages of venues like the Comedy Cellar.I want more people taking risks, and if that meansyou are oending somebody just say, ‘my bad’ andkeep it moving.““

Page 30

From Corporate Climber to Content CreatorSelf-proclaimed corporate baddie DeAndre Brown shares how he reinvented himself through the power of social media in an interview with The Quintessential Gentleman.Chicago native DeAndre Brown’s academic career began with attending Morehouse College for his undergraduate degree. During the summer of his freshmen year, he interned at the Supreme Court in New York City. After gaining some experience in the working world, he discovered this path didn’t suit him and decided to major in business marketing and minor in sales. From there, Brown took the plunge and participated in several internships that focused on business marketing and digital marketing. In his junior year, these endeavors led to him landing a game-changing internship at Citi Bank. Upon graduating, he was offered a full-time position as a consumer banker and ultimately began his career in Corporate America. Like countless others, Brown worked from home during the pandemic before transitioning to a hybrid work environment. He traveled to New York, occasionally, to work on projects with his team that were based there. With a team in New York and Brown based in Dallas, he mainly worked remotely from home. DEANDRE BROWN SHARES HIS JOURNEY TO TIKTOK FAME30 / THE QUINTESSENTIAL GENTLEMAN WWW.THEQGENTLEMAN.COMBeing isolated in a new city caused Brown to miss interacting with others.After having opportunities to meet new people and share advice on how to become successful in Corporate America, Brown reects on what would be the start of something greater. “I have released a whole article about how I did it,” DeAndre said on navigating Corporate America. “Because so many people always inquire about it. Well, I can probably start to prot and monetize off of that.”Speaking to a few close friends on Instagram caused Brown to rethink the course of his corporate career and consider new possibilities. Feeling inspired, he decided to start sharing content about his experiences working in Corporate America on social media. When his TikTok videos garnered praise from past employers of college internships and company colleagues, the positive feedback reafrmed that Brown was on the right path. Despite creating videos featuring the ups and downs of Corporate America, he conrms that there weren’t any restrictions on the content displayed on his social media platform. “There wasn’t really anyone saying you can’t post anything or stuff like that,” DeAndre stated about if his current employer minded what he posted. “But I was very cognizant of the social media guidelines and posts while at work and things of that nature. However, I think the issue was when I was leaving Corporate America, and I was ready to put in my two weeks and stuff like that. It became a whole conversation with HR.” Balancing two demanding careers left Brown with little personal time. Financial stability wasn’t an issue, so he was able to leave his job at Citi Bank and focus BY: MONIQUE HOWARD

Page 31

on being a full-time social media inuencer. Unique challenges arise when one has an occupation that involves being in the public eye, and for Brown, this has proven to be true. “I’m realizing from social media, specically, that everyone doesn’t want to see you happy,” DeAndre admits. “And with that comes a lot of haters and a lot of people that have negative comments and are going to pick at every little thing about your life.” Despite this, he continues to see the upside and acknowledges that coming to terms with every aspect of being a social media inuencer is a process. For Brown having a work-life balance has never been a problem. He stands apart from others in his eld by not creating content based on the day-to-day events of his life and focusing on corporate work culture. He admits that no longer being a part of Corporate America can be a challenge when developing content for videos. “I don’t stay in touch, but I use LinkedIn,” DeAndre shares on staying up to date on what’s happening in Corporate America. “I look at it as a very valuable source because you get to see what other people are doing, what other people are talking about and the conversations that are around the corporate workspace. Also reading articles about trends within Corporate America keeps you up to date. And just looking at other TikToks of people who work in these corporate spaces that are sharing their experience.”The videos posted on Brown’s platform feature themes such as quiet ring and how the older generation’s perspectives differ from Gen Z. Although internships helped prepare Brown for the corporate world, he still wishes he was more knowledgeable about working with people. He believes there are communication barriers between the younger and older generations. As a social media inuencer and former corporate employee, he embraces a sense of responsibility when offering advice to those who might pursue either of these paths as a career option. “Even when I worked in corporate, I felt a responsibility to help people, specically minorities, to get access to spaces because it’s so hard for us to, and we don’t have the same resources that a lot of others are gifted with,” he said. Even with so much accomplished, Brown still has new projects on the horizon. “I’m working on a lot of fun and exciting projects that are going to take some time,” he stated. “Not only am I working on a book but I’m also working on merchandise. And just a lot of other things as well, really stepping into several different roles, like more consulting, which I wanted to do all along.”POWER ISSUE / 31I’m realizing from social media, specically, that everyone doesn’t want to see you happy... And with that comes a lot of haters and a lot of people that have negative comments and are going to pick at every little thing about your life.““Photographer: Darnell BrownStylist: Christina Corso

Page 32

Page 33

POWER ISSUE / 33Company: GooglePosition: Sr. Content StrategistInstagram: @Adriant.coTwitter: @Adriant_coWhat does power mean to you as a Black man?When I think of power, I think of physical strength, determination and independence. Being powerful means putting your health and longevity rst, following your own path and not being swayed by others, and designing and striving for a life that is fullling.How did you reclaim your power after facing obstacles in your personal life and your career?I reclaimed my power by believing in myself and my ability to succeed. I did not and do not let closed doors stop me from continuing to move forward, and I set realistic goals and create a plan to achieve them.What is one thing you want Black men to know that they can use as fuel to keep their heads held high?When in doubt, trust yourself and know that you haven’t come this far by accident. You can, and will succeed, but you have to believe in yourself rst.How are you using your Power to “Fight the Power”?In my professional life, I use my position within Google to uplift and shine a light on Black voices and Black storytellers. In my personal life, I donate time, money, and material to various groups focused on supporting families, youth, and criminal justice reform. At the end of the day, I’m rooting for everybody Black!What does “Power to the People” mean to you?“Power to the people’’ means empowering the people. When people feel in control of their lives and destiny, when they feel free to live and be their fullest selves, and when they have the power to change or design the life they want; that is truly powerful.ADRIAN RICHARDSONCompany: Paramount (MTV, MTV News, Vh1, Smithsonian Channel) & Pongo Strategy GroupPosition: Correspondent / Consultant, Executive ProducerInstagram/Twitter: @dometi_What does power mean to you as a Black man?For a Black man, power is liberation. Freedom. While some may be misled by the appearance of power or by mere proximity to it, true power is tethered to freedom… the freedom to manifest our true selves and to pursue our goals with intention.How did you reclaim your power after facing obstacles in your personal life and your career?When I face obstacles, I re-orient myself by remembering that my power ultimately comes from God. That reminder gives me the condence to know that I can overcome any challenge. As long as we stay connected to the source, our power never leaves us, and obstacles just become an aspect of our journey.What is one thing you want Black men to know that they can use as fuel to keep their heads held high?Hold your head high knowing that there is nothing you will experience that your ancestors have not prepared you for.How are you using your Power to “Fight the Power”?I use the power of my platform to ensure that Black and marginalized communities are covered with dignity. I amplify the stories of people who demand accountability, work to upend oppressive systems and challenge the status quo. Even covering Black joy — during activations such as Grammys & VMAs red carpets — is a revolutionary act when the mic is in my hand.What does “Power to the People” mean to you?Power to the People to me means leveraging our collective strength as the global majority. Unication across Black and Brown diasporas will ultimately lead to the freedom I alluded to earlier…the true manifestation of our power.DOMETI PONGOPhoto Credit: Justin GilbertPhoto Credit: Jacques Morel

Page 34

34 / THE QUINTESSENTIAL GENTLEMAN WWW.THEQGENTLEMAN.COM34 / THE QUINTESSENTIAL GENTLEMAN WWW.THEQGENTLEMAN.COMCompany: The Huffington PostPosition: Senior EditorInstagram: @Phil.LewisTwitter: @Phil_Lewis_What does power mean to you as a Black man?Using your power, influence, or authority to help others achieve all they can is real power, in my opinion. Mentoring young journalists and helping them find roles and flourishing careers is important to me.How did you reclaim your power after facing obstacles in your personal life and your career?Overcoming impostor syndrome played a large role in the advancement of my career. I quickly realized that a substantial number of my white counterparts were just winging it, or not qualified for certain roles. However, you’d never know that as a result of their unbridled confidence. I saw that I belonged in the field of journalism, and now I’m here to stay.What is one thing you want Black men to know that they can use as fuel to keep their heads held high?As Black men, we have a unique voice and perspective to offer the world. Silencing yourself not only does you a disservice but those around you as well.How are you using your Power to “Fight the Power”?I use my platform to highlight stories that generally would go unnoticed by traditional news outlets and journalists. In a media landscape that has become overwhelmed with misinformation and disinformation, I do my best to bring attention to stories that people should know about.What does “Power to the People” mean to you?“Power to the People” means to fight back against oppression, and take back the power that has been hoarded by the ruling class.PHILLIP LEWISCompany: Emerging 100 of Atlanta / Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro AtlantaPosition: President / Senior Director of Institutional GivingInstagram: @KyWallyWhat does power mean to you as a Black man?To me, power means understanding your duty, responsibility, and opportunity as a Black man to demonstrate strength, character, influence, and excellence that positively represents our community and all that we stand for!How did you reclaim your power after facing obstacles in your personal life and your career?After facing obstacles in my personal life and career, I’ve reclaimed and maintained my power by believing in God’s overwhelming ability to not allow anything formed against me to prosper. No matter what I’ve been through, I’ve always been able to come out of a situation stronger and wiser than before. Overall, I’ve learned how to be kind to myself, remind myself of my gifts, and challenge myself to continue pressing on to make a difference in the lives of others.What is one thing you want Black men to know that they can use as fuel to keep their heads held high?I want Black men to understand how to turn their pain into passion and to utilize any past experiences that have shaped them, whether it be negatively or positively, to showcase our ability to be resilient and powerful beyond measure.How are you using your Power to “Fight the Power”?I’m using my power to advocate for the voiceless and those who are often marginalized by the powers of the government, society and other structures. By speaking for those who are often unheard, I hope to shine a light on the disparities we face in order to emphasize the need for tangible change.What does “Power to the People” mean to you?“Power to the People” means a movement that is centrally focused on cultivating a sense of power within our community and reminding the people that their voices, talents and desires can be heard. We must remind our people that they don’t ever have to let others dim their light so we must let our power reverberate across neighborhoods, different settings and everywhere that it possibly can.KYLE WALCOTTPhoto Credit: Cyrus Tetteh/HuffPostPhoto Credit: Kyle Walcott

Page 35

POWER ISSUE / 35Company: FreelancerPosition: TV Producer | EntrepreneurInstagram/Twitter: @GarrickApprovedWhat does power mean to you as a Black man?What I have come to experience as power for me is freedom, peace, inuence and control of self.How did you reclaim your power after facing obstacles in your personal life and your career?I can’t say I’ve ever lost my power but it was a long journey for me to nd it due to the obstacles and pitfalls in my personal life and the uncertainty of career direction. I have been in the entrepreneurial space since the start of my career and that alone is a struggle for anyone who’s building something from nothing with little to no capital and only your name and reputation to stand on. It’s been a journey but once I discovered what I was really working towards I’ve been only UP.What is one thing you want Black men to know that they can use as fuel to keep their heads held high?Remember there was a time that you prayed to be exactly where you are now. It’s a marathon, not a race. And the greatest achievers in the world still have moments when they feel they haven’t done enough. You’re GOOD!How are you using your Power to “Fight the Power”?I’m ghting the power through telling Black stories, creating space for other Black creators and helping our community achieve home ownership and other real estate investments. The equity in our community has made a lot of people wealthy. It’s time for us to unlearn and restructure our thinking about wealth.What does “Power to the People” mean to you?Power to the people to me means access to equal education, health, and wealth opportunities for all people. For there to be an even playing eld with access to the resources and institutions that have been withheld from Black people specically.Photo Credit: Keilan ScottGARRICK WA D ECompany: STARZ Position Role: Director of PublicityInstagram/Twitter: @IAmJoeCarnellWhat does power mean to you as a Black man?When I think of “Power,” I think of influence. Of course, it is subjective, but the ability to influence your peers, family, and friends, and control yourself and your profession is what I think of when I think of the word “Power.”I think we are also responsible for handling “power” with great care and consideration. The power to impact our lives is something we cannot disregard.How did you reclaim your power after facing obstacles in your personal life and your career?Reclaiming my power meant that I needed to be responsible for myself. There was a time when I gave away that power to other people (relationships, jobs, and acquaintances). I am thankful for the therapists, my family, and my tribe for helping me find my way back and reminding me to own my power.What is one thing you want Black men to know that they can use as fuel to keep their heads held high?Black men can use mental health care, community, honesty and integrity as fuel.Mental health is essential to us being our best/ better versions. A community (tribe) can be an additive that cannot be discounted. The right people in your life can change your life. Honesty and integrity empower you and provide you with more blessings and grace.How are you using your Power to “Fight the Power”?I use my power to “Fight the Power” by speaking up and telling the truth. That means I speak up and tell the truth even when scared. That means providing a perspective that may not be represented in my rooms and speaking up for ALL marginalized groups. I do so without apologies. Using my Power also includes lifting those up and advocating for my peers who are working hard.What does “Power to the People” mean to you?“Power to the People” means supporting each other, reaching across and reaching down to people working hard. It means standing up together for the collective and for one another. “Power to the People” is love for each other.JOSEPH WILLIAMSPhoto Credit: Vivien Killilea/Getty Images

Page 36

Company: BET / REVOLT / Associated Press / Baller Alert / IOne Digital / MashablePosition: Entertainment Reporter / Producer + Social Media ManagerInstagram: @TyColeTVTwitter: @IAmTyColeWhat does power mean to you as a Black man?It means to always recognize it within you and never let someone dim it. To walk into a room and never let anyone make you feel like you don’t belong. To understand how to control it and not power trip. To share the wealth and blessings with others when you’re in control. To uplift others at all times!How did you reclaim your power after facing obstacles in your personal life and your career?I talk to God. He is the only person that can get me back on track because He always puts me in position. I disconnect and I evaluate my surroundings. I try to understand what He is trying to tell me and follow suit because whatever is happening to me is for a reason and is to elevate me.What is one thing you want Black men to know that they can use as fuel to keep their heads held high?Understand that you don’t have to portray these macho stereotypes to be a “man.” Understand that men come with all emotions and to not limit yourself due to other perceptions. The Black man has no limitations and once you recognize that nobody is in control of your life but YOU, you’ll be fine!How are you using your Power to “Fight the Power”?By telling amazing, authentic Black stories through my passion for reporting to show people that Black people are not a monolith.What does “Power to the People” mean to you?We have the power and we work stronger TOGETHER. So once we lock arms, we can be unstoppable. There’s more power in people than in a person.TY COLEMARION SKINNERCompany: Texas Advancement CenterPosition: CEO/FounderInstagram: @TtheKingOfEducationWhat does power mean to you as a Black man?Power means to me as a Black man, the ability to help lead generations to become better than the last—spiritually, emotionally and financially. The power of the Black man is all about creating and building legacy and making an impact in our culture.How did you reclaim your power after facing obstacles in your personal life and your career?I reclaimed my power after facing obstacles in my personal life and career by embracing the freedom of pivoting. Throughout my career, I have mastered the art of the pivot and become successful in multiple industries, which has helped me to overcome many obstacles that have come my way—I have learned that I don’t look for a seat at the table, I build the table.What is one thing you want Black men to know that they can use as fuel to keep their heads held high?I want Black men to know that they are capable, invisible and worthy.How are you using your Power to “Fight the Power”?I am using my power to fight the power by paying it forward and giving back to my community by sharing my tools and resources.What does “Power to the People” mean to you?“Power to the People” means being Black and proud.36 / THE QUINTESSENTIAL GENTLEMANPhoto Credit: RARI FilmsPhoto Credit: Sean Howard

Page 37

Company: NetflixPosition: Director, Midsized Film GroupInstagram: @PuffDoddyWhat does power mean to you as a Black man?Power exists in many areas - it can be mechanical, economic, physical, etc. Professionally, I think of power in the context of my ability to influence culture through storytelling. How did you reclaim your power after facing obstacles in your personal life and your career?Power doesn’t evaporate, it is merely forgotten. I reconnect with it by reflecting on what I’ve accomplished so far; I look at my movie credits, professional relationships and, occasionally, my LinkedIn profile. There are also certain movies I watch or songs I listen to that remind me why I do what I do. Those always help. My partner is also my personal cheerleader and hype man.What is one thing you want Black men to know that they can use as fuel to keep their heads held high?In film and television, Black culture is culture. Black queer culture sets the trend. Black women are the foundation. We are more than a vibe, we are a movement. Remember that your first-hand experience and your perspective are priceless and unique. And it should be paid for.How are you using your Power to “Fight the Power”?I choose content and only work with artists I believe in who have a message I’d like to see on the screen. This business is not for the faint of heart. We get rejected constantly. So I have to believe in the project and the artist deeply to take on the fight. What does “Power to the People” mean to you?It means returning power to the masses. I think of it in terms of storytelling; if we support stories about the Black/Brown experience and with those characters front and center, there will be a dramatic shift in the color, shape, and even language we see on screen. I can’t wait to see it.PETER DODDCompany: TikTok/Rowan UniversityPosition: Global Music Communications/Music Business ProfessorInstagram: @MFJONETwitter: @MFJRONEWhat does power mean to you as a Black man?Power is the ability to command your respective space where you, in turn, create opportunities for your community. Often, Power is considered individually, but possessing Power as a Black Man allows me to show other Black men their dreams are attainable.How did you reclaim your power after facing obstacles in your personal life and your career?I always think about “walking by faith, not by sight” through every obstacle. Things often appear worse than they are in the heat of the moment, but trouble never lasts forever. So I believe in preparing for the moment trouble pasts - that’s how you not only push past but push THROUGH the obstacle.What is one thing you want Black men to know that they can use as fuel to keep their heads held high?In the age of instant gratification, it has become very common for people to compare themselves to those they see on social media. We must remember we all possess something special, and there is no other version of you out there. So we can chart our paths. It’s encouraging that we find inspiration from each other but never out of spite. How are you using your Power to “Fight the Power”?Transparency is so important right now, especially in the conversation of mobility. I aim to alleviate gatekeeping, and I genuinely believe sharing knowledge with others helps us move forward, collectively. You can change someone’s trajectory by sharing a few gems that could save them time and energy. Through my work in entertainment and academia, I always leave the door open behind me, fostering a network of emerging and established professionals.What does “Power to the People” mean to you?Power is always within us - sometimes we must be reminded but trust me, it’s there!MICHAEL FALLIGAN JR.Photo Credit: Bernard David JonesPhoto Credit: Theodore CartyPOWER ISSUE / 37

Page 38

Page 39

seems to expand outside of tourism and marks an overt symbiosis within the diaspora that doesn’t seem to overtly exist in the United States or Europe. My partner and I have a very small taxi and transportation business in Accra that created a modest passive income. This allows us to work on our most demanding business, Afropolitan.shop, an online store combining both Black American and African fashion aesthetics as a representation of the beauty and uidity of and within the diaspora. Both businesses allow us to work towards a dream while working closely with Ghanaians in the most mutually benecial ways. We’ve just begun but we are succeeding together and that alone is enough to validate my being here, which all began with a visit in October 2021.Cultural irony suggests that while Ghana can overtly pain my soul with heavy resentment of colonization, and the visible consequences of no post-colonial infrastructure, it also celebrates this kind of cyclical return from the land of the colonizers. Every Black American could benet from this kind of exposure with impact ranging from new enlightened perspectives around Ghana and other African countries to a decision to leave the United States to live as an expat in Ghana.Akwaaba.Occupyingspaces where Africans were enslaved and endured unspeakable treatment by colonizers shook the le side of my chest.““As a child, my community of Black American women instilled a realization of our ancestry beyond slavery. That realization became interest, and that interest became an adult infatuation that led to travel addiction. 18 countries later; ve I have visited have been African countries and two I have experienced living in Tanzania and Ghana. I currently live in Accra, Ghana with my partner who is Nigerian. While we have completely separate and broadly varied Ghanaian experiences that I cannot fully express for him, our shared experiences are what seem to mirror the most common and current perceived cultural value related to visiting Ghana. In 2020, I tested my DNA through 23andMe and found that I am 79% Sub-Saharan West African. The realization felt familiar to those Black American women, especially my late mother who was infatuated with African countries and cultures. Although her dreams of visiting an African country never materialized, the importance was not lost on me. South Africa, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Ghana have all captivated me in multiple culturally poignant ways but, Ghana has had a different and ferociously curious cultural pull on me. Occupying spaces where Africans were enslaved and endured unspeakable treatment by colonizers shook the left side of my chest. Visiting El Mina, and Cape Coast Slave Castles had more of a transformative effect on me than the decades of literature consumed around the trans-Atlantic Slave Trade. And though I am shaken by the former, I am also calmed by aspects of peace I have never felt. There is something to seriously consider about the absence of mass shootings, crippling fear of the police and minority culture within the United States. Ironically, that common global perception strongly suggests African countries are less safe or not safe at all. Nevertheless, Ghana’s popularity helps challenge those perceptions. Ghana also edies the spirit through the intersectionality of Black enterprise and cultural immersion. Touring of some of the most popular sites in Ghana is harmoniously shared by business owners who are Ghanaian, Black American and Ghanaian American. That business culture POWER ISSUE / 39

Page 40

Page 41

The last time The Quintessential Gentleman caught up with actor Adrian Holmes, we witnessed firsthand the charm he exhibits and the charm that has made him a main staple as a leading man in Hollywood. It was during the 26th annual American Black Film Festival (ABFF). The cast of Peacock’s “Bel Air” was the talk of the town as the first season of the hit show continued the legacy of “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”. We were covering multiple screenings and events with one event, in particular, standing out. It was the opening night ceremony. Spectators and Hollywood insiders danced the night away as Holmes and his co-star Cassandra Freeman worked the room, flocked with fans wanting to take photos. Anyone would have grown tired from being constantly hounded, but Holmes kept a smile on his face and engaged with many adoring fans. The attention he showed made those around him feel as though they were old friends catching up as Black Hollywood was celebrated. Holmes proved that he took a genuine interest in living in the moment when he, alongside his “Bel-Air” cast, showed up to our Culture issue release party held at Soho Beach House in Miami. The same winning charm and excitement Holmes had the night before were ever so present during our event. Now with Bel-Air Season 2 streaming, Holmes is ready to cement his legacy in Hollywood. Born in the UK, the 48-year-old actor already had over 100 film and television credits to his name before taking on the iconic role of Uncle Phil. Fans did not know what to expect from the dramatic iteration of the 90’s beloved comedy, “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”. Yes, Morgan Cooper’s trailer of his vision for “Bel-Air” was such a viral sensation that it caught the attention of Hollywood legend and the original fresh prince himself, Will Smith. Still, with the sitcom in syndication and on streaming services, new fans consistently emerged. Critics waited to see how the writers would be able to pull off and build on a new series with such a die-hard fan base.The first season worked. In the summer of 2022, it was announced that “Bel-Air” was crowned as Peacock’s most streamed original series, reaching 8 million accounts. With so many eyes watching, it is no wonder why life has forever changed for Holmes. “I’m definitely a little more recogniz-able now,” Holmes says in an exclusive interview with The Quintessential Gentleman. The star explains that he is getting used to hearing fans call out for Uncle Phil while he shops at Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s. Fans are not just saying hi and looking for a photo opportunity, they are ex-pressing their love for the show and appreciation for Holmes’ version of Uncle Phil, first portrayed by the legendary James Avery. “I love that and I feel so proud… I feel so blessed to be a part of the narrative,” Holmes says regarding the positive im-pact Bel-Air continues to have on the culture. “I look at our show like medicine for the community.” The healing for the community comes by way of the storylines that the Banks family goes through. What fans see is a Black family who talks through their obstacles and faces the consequences of their actions in ways that are rarely seen in Hollywood. It is not lost on Holmes the opportunity that comes with WINNING INHOLLYWOODADRIAN HOLMES’ STRATEGY FORBY: JUSTIN D. JENKINS

Page 42

Page 43

Page 44

playing a Black male figure such as Uncle Phil. For an actor, it is easy to become pigeonholed into what people believe your limit is. Although Holmes acknowledges the importance of shows like Bel-Air and breaking down barriers with his character, he understands that other roles may take him in different directions. “It’s about the story itself,” Holmes explains. “If I have to play an antagonist to tell a story, I will gladly play that role. As an actor, it is good to show different layers so you won’t be placed in a box.”Holmes is up for the challenge against what has happened to so many actors before him who were praised for their portrayal of iconic characters but never had the chance to prove themselves outside of what Hollywood executives saw them as. “You have to be strategic in the choices of the roles you play… I want to find projects that align with me and my brand, whether it is film, television or broadway,” Holmes says.For Season 2 of Bel-Air, Holmes says that the show has created its own identity outside of the original show. What makes the actor’s experience unique is that he is also learning from the show. His marriage to Vivian Banks, played by Freeman, has heightened certain qualities he displays in his real-life marriage to actress Caroline Chikezie. The Black love shown on screen is refreshing to see, even through the hardships the Banks family faces. “I am soaking it all in and trying to be a better person every day from being on the show,” Holmes explains. Holmes’ curiosity for life and constant student to his craft is why he has been able to last in Hollywood since 1991. He knows all too well how easily Black actors can vanish. Yes, the Hollywood charm, the talent, and the never-give-up attitude all contribute to his longevity, but it’s also his determination to tell our stories. With the debate over how to address Black actors and the film and shows created for us, Holmes knows that it is important that if we are telling our stories they should be told “by us,” the 6 foot 1 actor says. “I want to be seen as an actor, and I want to be respected by my peers.” Actress Nia Long once came under fire for saying terms like “black movies” and “black famous” only “hold us back.” She later clarified on The Daily Show saying, “This thing called ‘art’ should be representative of all of us.” Actor Idris Elba also found himself on the radar of Black Twitter when in an interview he said that he stopped calling himself a “Black actor” because it created limitations for his career. Many were quick to point out it is those who are giving projects the greenlight who are putting actors such as Elba and Long in boxes, the same boxes that Holmes is strategically not trying to find himself in. “We all need to open up and people need to see us as artists. We are artists,” he says.Holmes’ strategy is working in Hollywood. He is heading back to film Season 3 of Star Trek Strange New Worlds, and with the success of Bel-Air and its two-season order, a third one is likely. For his perseverance, style, and charm, Adrian Holmes is our latest Turned Gentleman. 44 / THE QUINTESSENTIAL GENTLEMANI AM SOAKINg IT All INANd TRYINg TO BE ABETTER PERSONEvERY dAY FROMBEINg ON THE SHOW““Suit: GrayscaleWatch: Bell & RossShoes: Marc Nolan

Page 45

POWER ISSUE / 45 They say “your net worth is your network.” There are some young entrepreneurs who are still guring out the best ways to keep much-needed relationships and make them work for their bottom line and professional growth. From gatekeeping to the lack of resources, Black entrepreneurs are still underrepresented, but there are ways to build and unblock personal resistance. From not being condent, feeling too busy, and not understanding the importance of patience, the idea of networking can be yet another daunting journey to make your dreams and goals come true. Moses Carroll’s name is not widely known, but you have denitely seen his work. With a lengthy repertoire of tness philanthropy, the entrepreneur has strong roots in the City of Atlanta. As the Owner of Fitsquad Studios, and President of MC Healthcare, Inc, and Creator and Founder of Pole Dance America, Carroll has successfully incorporated his passion for health and tness into an umbrella for community wellness development and programming.1. Push your comfort zones: It makes sense to build a network of professionals within your industry and discipline, but you can gain a lot from expanding your reach. Bringing more diversity into your network gives you access to more innovative ideas. It’s about expanding.2. Create a talent pool: You will need to build a strong team. Through networking, you can nd great people directly or by referrals which expands everyone’s growth opportunities. It’s about building relationships.BY: JUSTIN D. JENKINS3. Ditch the sales pitch: It is not about closing a deal, It’s about creating relationships, helping others where you can, learning about their interests, introducing them to people you know, and nding ways to further their career or strengthen their networks. It’s about paying it forward.4. Give back to your network: It’s important to give back. You want to go into every relationship prioritizing the other person, rather than yourself. It’s about long-term partnerships.5. Network to increase: Real-time engagement: Instead of relying on industry events to catch up with your contacts, you can cut out the middleman by arranging informal gatherings for your professional network. It helps you get to know your contacts in a less formal setting, which will allow you to strengthen the relationship. It’s about communicating.6. Use social networks: Win people over with your enthusiasm for your product or service. Leave a lasting impression by telling a story about why you were inspired to create your company. Talking about what you enjoy is often contagious. When you get other people to share their passion, it creates a memorable two-way conversation. Networking is about being happy and condent.7. Smile: It’s a simple, but often overlooked rule of engagement. By smiling, you will put your nervous self at ease, and you will also come across as warm and inviting to others. Remember to smile before you enter the room, or before you start your next conversation. It’s about being you.7Tips onNetworking: RemixedSuit: GrayscaleWatch: Bell & RossShoes: Marc Nolan

Page 46

Page 47

The Epitome of Usher RaymondPowerhouse vocalist, iconic dancer, and man of distinction. These are only some of the robust attributes that describe the one and only R&B sensation Usher Raymond. Since the early 90s, 1994 to be exact, Usher has created music that has bled through our ears, giving us his smooth melodic vocals. Even in 2023, Usher is still going strong with his highly anticipated Las Vegas residency. He remains relevant with viral moments like his Tiny Desk Concert, where he had everyone saying, “watch this”. But let’s explore why Usher is who he is, and why he is still one of the true and powerful Kings of R&B. In the 80s, the great Teddy Riley introduced New Jack Swing to the music industry. This sound showed that R&B could have a Hip-Hop feel to it. In the 90s, R&B started to take more of a turn toward a Hip-Hop/R&B feel. Artists and producers began to use more bass beats and in-depth lines and lyrics. With a slight rap ow and a smooth singing voice, Usher was the right package to become someone great. Even though he had rough beginnings, such as hitting puberty and almost losing his voice and record deal, he stood the test of that time and pushed forward to release his self-titled debut album on August 30, 1994. The album Usher peaked at twenty-ve on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and produced three singles; Can U Get wit It, Think of You, and The Many Ways. That album has sold over 500,000 copies to date. At only 15 years old, this is what Usher gave to the world. One could only imagine what would happen once he graduated high school. Usher released My Way and 8701, which both topped the charts and became certied platinum.Fast forward to one of Usher’s most iconic albums, Confessions. This diamond-certied album showed us the superstar’s growth. The album speaks of indelity, heartbreak, lust, crunk, and so much more! With this album, Usher collaborated with producers who understood how to interpret R&B from a jazz standpoint, an old-school throwback standpoint, a new-school standpoint, and a traditional classic standpoint. With top ten hits such as Confessions Part II, Yeah!, Burn, and Caught Up, Usher proved to be one of the greatest male R&B singers, if not the best! In this industry, having the ability to create great music and a powerful impact is truly a gift. Usher did that with this album. He created magic, and it made him the singer he is today. From there, Usher would release several more top-ten albums, such as Here I Stand, Raymond v. Raymond, Looking 4 Myself, and Hard II Love, which all went platinum. We are often skeptical when celebrities cross into different realms of the entertainment industry. But with Usher, it was no surprise that he would get into acting. Being able to portray someone on camera is a task not for the weak. Usher did this repeatedly in lms such as The Faculty, She’s All That, Light It Up, In The Mix and so much more. Although he didn’t have many prominent roles, his ability was priceless. He was dynamic on the screen. Usher has created a lane that is simply hard to follow. He is a one-of-a-kind artist who has been nominated for over 600+ awards and won over 300, including music’s biggest awards; eight Grammys, eight American Music Awards, and 18 Billboard Music Awards! In 2023, Usher has shown us that longevity does hold POWER. When you think of him, you think of him as one of the greatest artists of all time. One of the absolute best to do it. To come from the ATL south and put the city on the map, he deserves every ower and every accolade. He is the epitome of music POWER and Black star POWER. He is U-S-H-E-R R-A-Y-M-O-N-D!POWER ISSUE / 47

Page 48

Page 49

Chickpea Chana Ingredients:- 2 Cans Chickpeas- 1 Can Coconut Milk- 1 Potato- 1 Yellow Onion- 4 Cloves Garlic- 1 Knob Ginger- 2 Tbsp Olive Oil- 3-4 Tbsp Curry Powder- 1 Cup Water- Salt- To TasteRoti Flatbread Ingredients:- 325g All-Purpose Flour- 50g Bread Flour- 1 oz Softened Butter- 5g Yeast- 10g Sugar- 12g SaltInstructions:Using a cutting board and a sharp knife, rough chop onion, ginger, and garlic and set aside. Peel your potato and cut it into large cubes ensuring you place them into a container with water to prevent oxidation. Drain two cans of chickpeas and give them a rinse under cold water and set aside. Using a medium-sized pot on medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and your chopped vegetable mixture. Sauté until the vegetables begin to sweat and become translucent. Season with a touch of salt. Drain the water from the potatoes and add the potatoes to your pot. Season generously with 3-4 tbsp of curry powder and mix everything together. Add 1 cup of water and cover with a lid. Allow the mixture to come up to a boil and remove the lid. Add your coconut milk and continue to cook for 15 minutes. Add half of the chickpeas to the mixture and adjust the flavor with a touch of salt. Once the potatoes are fork-tender, continue to cook until the liquid has reduced by half. Turn off the heat and using a hand blender, puree the mixture until nice and smooth. Add the remaining half of the chickpeas to the mixture and turn on low heat. Allow the chana to cook for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat, place into a container, and place in yourCurry Recipe:- 175g Leeks- 225g Yellow Onion- 50g Garlic- 75g Ginger- 2 Bay Leaves- 3 Sprigs Fresh Thyme - 1 Stalk Lemongrass - 3 Cans Coconut Milk - 1.5 quarts Water- 2 Sprigs Curry Leaf- 5 Kaffir Lime Leaves - 2 Cups Jamaican - Curry Spice Blend- 1 Cup Grapeseed Oil - 2 Tbsp Sesame OilInstructions:In a medium size pot on medium heat, add grape seed and sesame oil. Add your onion, leeks, ginger, and garlic, and begin to sweat the vegetables until translucent. Add your curry powder to the mixture and stir to toast the spices and incorporate it into the vegetable mix. Season with salt to begin melding the flavors together. Add your coconut milk to deglaze and dilute with water. Bring up to a simmer and reduce your heat slightly. Add your lemongrass, kaffir lime, curry leaf, bay leaf, and thyme, and allow to cook for 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat, and add the curry braise to a Vitamix blender and blend on high power in small batches (ensure not to overfill the blend-er to avoid a mess due to the expansion of heat inside of a blender). Strain and reserve the curry braising liquid. Take your yams (sweet potatoes are a comparable substitute) and season them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a thyme sprig. In a preheated oven at 350 degrees F, add your seasoned yams on a baking sheet tray lined with parchment paper and bake until fork tender. Remove from heat and cool down. Peel the outer layer of the yams off and portion the yams using a knife, cutting them into medium to small dice-sized pieces. In a separate small pot on medium heat, add a tablespoon of grapeseed oil and begin to sweat garlic, ginger, and on-ion lightly. Add your callaloo and begin to cook down (place a lid on top of the pot). Allow the callaloo to cook to fully release its liquid. Season with salt and pepper. Check every 10 minutes until the texture of the callaloo is nice and tender but not overcooked.Coconut CURRY, CALLALOO, YAMSCURRY chickpea chana,handmade roti, tamarindPOWER ISSUE / 49

Page 50

Ingredients: 1 Can Coconut Milk, 1 Can Coco Lopez, 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon, 1 tsp Ground Nutmeg, 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract, 1 tsp Ground Clove, 1/2 of a Ripe Pineapple, 3 small Guavas, 2 cups Guava Puree, 4 oz Dark Rum, 1 Cup Raw Cane Sugar. Salt to taste.Instructions:Place your coconut milk and coco lopez into the refrigerator to chill (2 hours minimum). Once cooled, open the coconut milk and Coco Lopez and scrape off the coconut fat into a mixing bowl, reserving the coconut liquid. Season with spices and vanilla extract. Whisk the coconut mix-ture until fully incorporated and no longer grainy (you can use a hand blender if necessary). Season the mixture with a touch of salt and place into a container, and return to the refrigerator to set. Using a sharp knife and cutting board, peel your pineapple and small dice the fruit. Set aside half of the fresh pineapple. In a small saute pan, add your sugar and a touch of water and allow to caramelize on medium heat. Once you achieve a caramel, add your pineapple and begin to cook on medium-low heat ensuring the pineapple is fully incorporated into the caramel. Add your rum and light on fire (flambe) and allow the pineapple to roast, absorbing all of the flavors. Sprinkle a touch of salt to season and allow to cook for another 5 minutes until the pineapple is sweet and caramelized (there should be no more liquid in the pan). Remove from heat and cool down the caramelized pineapple. In a small sauce-pot add your guava puree/concentrate and your sliced guava and cook until they become soft and tender. In a Vita-mix blender, blend your guava into a puree. Remove from the blender and strain into a container.Variations of Coconut, Pineapple & GuavaPEACHES & CRANBERRY SPRITZ THE QUEEN’S ROADKETTLE ONE VODKA’SPEACH TEA-NiusesIngredients- 1½ ounces Ketel One Botanical Peach & Orange Blossom- 2 dashes cranberry bitters- 3 ounces Fever Tree soda water- Garnish with cranberriesMethodCombine all ingredients and serve in a wine glass over ice. Garnish with a cranberry.Ingredients- 1.5 ounces Zacapa 23- .5 ounce orange juice- .5 ounce lime juice- .5 ounce ginger syrup (1:1 fresh ginger juice to sugar, blended)- .5 ounce honey syrup (1:1, honey:water)- 1 dash Angostura bitters- Garnish: mint, orange peelMethodCombine all ingredients in a mixing tin and shake with ice. Strain into a chilled rocks glass over ice. Garnish with mint and orange peel.Ingredients- 1.5 oz. Ketel One® Vodka- 0.5 oz. fresh lemon juice- 0.5 oz. simple syrup- 1.5 oz. white tea (steeped with white cranberry juice and fresh muddled raspberries)- 2 dashes lemon bittersMethodCombine all ingredients in a mixing glass and shake with ice. Double strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist and raspberry.Now comes the good drinks part. Ring in spring with a cocktail to celebrate the warm weather on the horizon. Ketel One Vodka and Zacapa Rum have both provided their takes on seasonal serves, using iconic flavors that only start to show up once the first blossoms bloom. As we begin to shed the layers, brighten up our wardrobes, and mix floral or fruity notes into some of our favorite recipes, it’s a great time to think about how else we can welcome spring. Changing up your cocktail routine for the new season is one of these ways to keep your sipping experience fresh.Fruity flavors reign supreme in springtime, and Ketel One Botanical created a spritz perfect for any brunch-time toast. The Peaches & Cranberry Spritz includes Ketel One Botanical Peach & Orange Blossom, cranberry bitters, and a bit of bubble. Meanwhile, Zacapa Rum created The Queen’s Road, which uses orange juice to create a crisp cocktail that could easily replace any mimosa.Should someone be looking for a drink that’s a bit more classic, the Ketel One Vodka Peach Tea-Ni and Zacapa’s Zegroni hit the mark. While the Peach Tea-Niuses fresh lemon juice and white tea create a signature serving perfect for a garden party, the Zegroni is a fresh twist on the bitter clas-sic.

Power Issue 2023

Page 1

Page 2

Page 3

Page 4

Page 5

Page 6

Page 7