Those were the words you’ll find on Passion Fruit, the blog of the beautiful and talented Brianna McCarthy. If you haven’t heard of her, I’m happy to introduce you to her phenomenal talents. McCarthy’s a very passionate artist who hails from Trinidad and Tobago. Her work showcases beautiful Black women in their natural beauty. She’s been featured on many different websites, and I was honored with the opportunity of speaking with her about her art, ambitions, and future endeavors!

A Word For My Sistas: You live in the Caribbean. How does that affect your art?

Brianna McCarthy: I’m from the Caribbean; a product of it. Trinidad and Tobago, in particular, is diverse ethnically and culturally–that diversity has created a hybrid culture. I see that “mixedness” everywhere, including in my immediate family. That’s been a huge influence on my work. The women and girls I depict are made of elements pulled from those I see around me–products of the Caribbean.

A Word For My Sistas: If you were forced to go a year without drawing, what would you do?

Brianna McCarthy: I’d go mad! Seriously, I’d probably read instead. It’s the one other escape I have. I love books.

A Word For My Sistas: When and how did you begin creating art?

Brianna McCarthy: For as long as I could recall I’ve been attracted to making things and drawing etc. I come from a very resourceful and creative family. Coming from a low income background meant that I was use to the idea that it was possible to make most things which weren’t otherwise affordable. For example, having 3 older, fashionable sisters meant that we learned to make our own jewelry and clothing. I still have and wear a little black dress one of my sisters made over 7 years ago and another one of my sisters is a successful jewelry designer. I think that’s where it started for me, growing up around creative people and having that innate drive to create for myself. I used to sew all my doll’s clothes and I did that until I was about 15. I really only got serious about showing my work in a public (online) since about 3 years ago.

A Word For My Sistas: How did you come up with the name Passion Fruit and how does it influence your art?

Brianna McCarthy: Honestly, I was eating a passion fruit lolly. I always loved the taste of the fruit, but I was totally blown away by how intense the sensation was. It was hot, my hands were sticky, and usually I would have been uncomfortable, but it was so good. I had created the blog only a few days earlier so when the words passion fruit and the various meanings that could take on hit me that night, I had to give in. What I really like about the fruit is its intensity. It has a bold flavor. Its colors are super saturated and bright, and the way it smells is unmistakable. It made so much sense that night. Another factor that made sense was that art. Creating was the fruit of what I was passionate about; life, people, honesty, and love.

A Word For My Sistas: Tell me about some of your dreams and goals.

Brianna McCarthy: Eventually, I‘d like to work full-time as an artist. However, that’s really the easiest thing I could really think of to say. What’s more important to me is to find new things to do with myself! I’m self taught in all things artistic so it’s a constant journey for me. “Making things” is what I do; I need to do it. I’d like to settle into a dynamic life of new experiences if that makes any sense.

Brianna McCarthy has so many beautiful pieces of art. You can find more at her website, www.briannamccarthy.blogspot.com.

Our strength and influence are indescribable. We are uniquely beautiful, intelligent, and creative. We deserve to BE the best, to RECEIVE the best, and EXPERIENCE the best. Yes, we’re human so we at times fall short, but luckily, those are simply trial runs for the upcoming victory. We’ve heard time and time again that we can do whatever our minds are set to do, and although a bit cliché, it’s the 100% truth. As women of color, we have “odds” against us that others will never have to experience. It’s not a coincidence that we are born equipped with all of the necessary characteristics to overcome these challenges. Drive, eloquence, compassion, determination, and poise are just a few of the traits that automatically come to mind when I consider how phenomenal we really are.

There is no better day than today to revise that resume, jump on the treadmill, explore new options, or end that unhealthy relationship. Reward yourself with the happiness and fulfillment you deserve!

The general statement that Black women are too independent or “gold diggers” is true. Why? Because those are the type of women that get noticed and get the most publicity, therefore making most assume that those are the characteristics of all Black women. It’s not particularly fair, but that’s the way it is. People analyze what they see or hear the majority of the time and not analyze what the actual facts are. Those that have common sense know that ALL Black women aren’t too independent and are “gold diggers,” but we also know that some of them are.

The point is that if you know you’re a good woman with great qualities, a level head, and your morals are in check; don’t trip over statements or opinions that view Black women differently than what you personally portray.

I’m just sayin’…..

Jamaal Brown is the blogger behind the blog site, Ready Or Not. Visit Ready Or Not at www.jbs-readyornot.blogspot.com.

I made believe that it really didn’t hurt me. Made believe that I only hurt myself. I believed you every time you said I’m sorry. Was too ashamed to tell someone I needed help.

-Syleena Johnson “Hit On Me”

According to statistics, every 15 seconds a woman is physically assaulted within her home. Remember that suffering is OPTIONAL! You have a voice. You have a choice. You don’t have to suffer. If you are a victim of domestic violence, please get help!

The National Domestic Violence hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Anonymous & Confidential Help 24/7.

But my question is this, what qualities do you want in a man? What do you really want?

You can visit my blog daily at www.xoxo-brosia.blogspot.com and subscribe to my You Tube channel at www.youtube.com/user/xGOLDn.

What are you worrying about?

Does it feel sometimes like you’re carrying the world’s burdens on your shoulders?

The question today is, what are you worrying about?

This beautiful necklace from Mayzani’s Summer 2010 Collection is delicately handcrafted using the finest of new and reclaimed materials.

This necklace is inspired by Military/Band Jackets. The use of soft purple lace sewn between gray cotton and navy/white striped fabrics gives a feminine twist to a masculine idea.

The chains and vintage gold buttons finalize the piece with edge.

The necklace is held up by a gray velour ribbon which lies comfortably at the neck. This ribbon is 22 inches long and can be tied to be either longer or shorter.

The layers of the necklace enable a “secret pocket” found on the back of the necklace, accessible with a 6 inch zipper. This pocket can fit standard credit cards, business cards and folded cash.

This makes the necklace perfect for either a day of shopping where you want to keep your hands free of a purse, or a night out where you want to keep your hands free of a clutch!

The Mayzani “Dilsiangl” Military Inspired Necklace is priced at $55 and can be purchased at www.mayzani.com.

Granted, these are just the lyrics to Kelis’ song, but to many women in our society and in my industry, this is their reality.

We’re no longer living in the Stone Age where a man brings home the bacon and the woman cooks it. In today’s society, I can go out and buy the farm to have all the bacon that my heart so desires and pay someone else to cook it. This is what our female ancestors have fought for; so we should be able to live in and absorb all the fruits of their labor. The problem with that is when we walk into a board meeting or when we’re aggressive about the way we want our careers to go, we get labeled as a bitch! So, why is it that in 2010 we still have to walk that thin line between boss and bitch?

There are many double standards in life between men and women. The most obvious double standard in the entertainment and fashion industry is when it comes to being too strong and assertive. Why is it that a man could give an emotional speech and everyone listens to what he says, but if the roles are switched and the woman does the same, she’s described as a bitch and domineering? Don’t believe me, look at society’s examples. Hillary Clinton was called a bitch and made fun of for acting like a man with some articles titled “Hillary Clinton is the Right Man for the Job.” Omarosa, one of reality television’s favorite villains is another example of the double standards in our society. She was most noted for her stint on the hit television show “The Apprentice” where she was labeled the bitch instead of the hero for speaking up and taking charge of situations.

Ladies, is it our fault that society hasn’t changed? Do we allow them to continue to label us something as demeaning as the dictionary description of a female dog? Should we change who we are or should we fight even harder? I say that no matter what we do, there’ll always be something said. Whether it’s, I’m a bitch for being an aggressive strong woman or I’m an angry Black woman because I don’t smile enough to make people feel comfortable. If that wasn’t the problem, then it would be something else. Be proud and be as bold as you can. I walk that fine line everyday and I hope that more women respectfully, will stand up because that’s the only way change will happen. Conquer all obstacles in your path and don’t be afraid to be who you are. Take hold of your career, your surroundings, and your life!

Bianca Golden is a Ford Model and a former contestant on America’s Next Top Model, Cycle 9. You can visit Bianca’s personal blog at www.biancagoldenonline.blogspot.com.

Believe it or not, there use to be a time when music artists didn’t have to rely on any special gimmicks or tricks to gain notoriety. Believe it or not, there use to be a time when music artists depended more so on their actual talents to help propel them to stardom. My, my, my, how times have changed (I’m just saying). Believe it or not, good music always lives on and we tend to never forget those music artists that are responsible for making it.

I think few will argue against the fact that an all-female trio that we came to know as SWV was responsible for making some good music back in the day. Making their debut in 1992 with their album entitled, “It’s About Time,” SWV quickly became heavy-hitters in the R&B game. With hit songs such as “Weak,” “I’m So Into You,” and one of my favorites, “You’re Always On My Mind,” SWV success became undoubtedly solidified and it was clear that this all-female trio from New York would add to the blueprint for future female groups to follow.

After releasing several more albums, SWV decided to amicably part ways in 1999 to pursue solo projects. Coko, Lelee, and Taj might have been out of sight, but the music they left behind for their fans never faded away.

In 2005, SWV reunited and are now in the music studio working on a new album. There’s not an album release date just yet, but if you’re a SWV fan like I am, a new SWV album will be well worth the wait.

What’s your favorite song by SWV?