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Dr. Sabine Thomas and JSOL Studios Are Nurturing Roots and Strengthening Bonds
In a powerful interview, Dr. Sabine Thomas, the executive director of J'Soul Studios, shared her vision for supporting the parent-child relationship and the vital role of grandparents. As a naturopathic physician, Dr. Thomas has a deep understanding of the importance of secure attachment in a child's early development.
Julie-C: From Hip-Hop Prodigy to Activist and Community Builder in Seattle’s Creative Scene
At just 16 years old, Julie Chang Schulman, aka Julie-C, released her first professional project, “Welcome to my World” with the label Immaculate Flave, a bold entrance into Seattle’s Hip-Hop scene that hinted at her future as both an artist and an activist. But her journey didn’t start in the studio—it began at home, where music was more than a pastime; it was a bridge. With a father who was a musician on the autism spectrum, Julie-C learned early that music could be a powerful way to connect, communicate, and create meaning.
Zahilay's Early Political Vision: Insights from His First Post-Election Interview in 2019
With his announcement that he will be running for the King County Executive seat, we look back at Girmay Zahilay’s first interview after being elected to the King County Council in 2019. Zahilay sat down with K. Wyking Garrett on The AC Podcast to discuss his priorities, vision and stated commitment to community empowerment. This conversation, which took place before Zahilay was sworn into office in January 2020, offered a glimpse into the values and goals that would shape his tenure as a council member.
Campfire Coffee: Brewing Success in Tacoma with Community and Perseverance
The story of Campfire Coffee began with a simple need: a job. Quincy and his wife, Whitney, both found themselves unemployed within a short span of time. It was during a long drive home from a family visit that the idea for Campfire Coffee was born. Quincy's wife had always joked about wanting to own a coffee stand, and in that moment, they decided to turn that dream into a reality.
Bill Wright's Legacy Honored with Golf Course Renaming
A historic moment unfolded in the heart of Beacon Hill as the city celebrated the renaming of the Jefferson Park Golf Course to the Bill Wright Golf Complex. This momentous occasion marked the first time in the city's history that a park was renamed to honor a citizen, a testament to the profound impact Bill Wright had on the community and the sport of golf.
Hot Fish House: A Taste of Southern Hospitality in Lakewood
Inspired by the traditional fish houses of the South, Gethers' vision for the Hot Fish House was born out of his own experiences growing up in South Carolina. "I grew up in my grandmother's business," he shares. "She owned a small restaurant called Oakville Lunch, a lot of seafood, lot of pork. So it's down-home Southern Living."
Kutt N' Up: A 20-Year Legacy of Dance, Family, and Community Impact
Seattle's Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute recently pulsed with the rhythm and energy of Kutt N' Up's 20th-anniversary celebration. The event highlighted the profound impact this dance group has had on Seattle's youth and the broader dance community. Co-founders Dwayne Jackson and Koach Giggz (Koach Crosby) sat down for an interview, reflecting on their remarkable journey and the enduring legacy of Kutt N' Up.
Marjorie Restaurant: Back and Better Than Ever in Seattle's Central District
Marjorie, owned and operated by the talented Donna Moodie, has a rich history that dates back to 2003. Donna, who also serves as the Chief Impact Officer at the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, poured her heart and soul into creating a space that embodies her mother's love for food and community.
Besa’s Buy Black Card Brunch: A Day of Networking, Celebration, and Shopping Local
By Besa Gordon - Yesterday’s Buy Black Brunch was EVERYTHING! A sold-out event, amazing vibes, and so much joy filled Simply Soulful as we celebrated community, connection, and Black-owned businesses. From the cupid shuffle to a mimosa toast, the energy was unmatched.
Back2Besa November Recap: A Month of Inspiration, Celebration, and Community Building
Can you believe November is over already? This month flew by faster than a hot wing at a cookout! But even with the whirlwind pace, we packed in a ton of amazing experiences on Back2Besa. So, let's take a moment to rewind and relive some of the highlights.
MXR:SEA at Black and Tan Hall: A Celebration of Seattle's Creative Spirit
Seattle's creative spirit was on full display at a recent event that underscored the city's commitment to nurturing its creative economy. The MXR:SEA mixer and workshop, held at the Black and Tan Hall in South Seattle, brought together a diverse group of creative entrepreneurs, city officials, and community leaders to celebrate Seattle's creative strengths and chart a course for a dynamic future.
A Decade and Counting With Black Nativity, Josephine Howell Is Using Her Voice To Uplift Others
Josephine Howell, a talented vocalist and passionate community advocate, appeared on The Day With Trae to discuss her upcoming projects and her commitment to using music for positive change. Howell shared her enthusiasm for the "Sounds of the Sound 7" event and her involvement in "Black Nativity," highlighting their importance in fostering community and celebrating artistic expression.
Building Community: Beacon Pacific Village's Innovative Approach to Housing in Seattle
Beacon Pacific Village, a new affordable housing development in Seattle's Beacon Hill / International District neighborhood, is more than just a place to live. It's a community development project that aims to serve families in every way possible.
Behind the Scenes: Building Seattle's Overlook Walk
Back in early October, the City of Seattle was buzzing with excitement as we unveiled this incredible new addition to our waterfront and I was there at the Overlook Walk ribbon-cutting ceremony! It's been a long time coming, and I had the privilege of speaking with some of the key players who helped make this project a reality. Let's dive in and hear what they had to say!
Giving Tuesday Spotlight: Destiny Wimpye's Mission to Empower the Next Generation
Destiny Wimpye, a professional ballet dancer and passionate advocate for social change, joined The Day With Trae to discuss her foundation's work and the importance of Giving Tuesday. Wimpye emphasized her commitment to empowering underserved communities and encouraged viewers to support her foundation's initiatives on this global day of generosity. During the interview, she also shared insights into her journey as a dancer and her vision for creating a more equitable society.
Enter to Win: Besa Gordon Wants You To Win a Buy Black Card By Intentionalist
Besa Gordon wants to give you the gift of intentional spending this holiday season, with your shot at winning your own Buy Black Card by Intentionalist. In case you haven’t heard, the Buy Black Card is a prepaid Mastercard that can be used exclusively at participating Black-owned businesses. It is a way to support the Black community and learn about new Black-owned businesses while also investing in them.
The Melody Behind the Magic: An Interview with L&M Hair Studio's Visionary Founder
Down I-5 in the Rose City, Melody Brown, a passionate entrepreneur and hairstylist, has created a haven for Black hair and beauty with her salon, L&M Hair Company. Melody's journey began in elementary school, where she faced teasing and insecurity about her hair, a common experience for many young Black girls navigating predominantly white spaces. Determined to take control of her narrative and embrace her natural beauty, she started practicing braiding on her own hair, discovering a hidden talent and an unshakeable passion that would ultimately shape her future.
The Rock Ballerina: Kimberly Nichole on Seattle Roots, New York Grit, and Finding Her Sound
Kimberly Nichole’s journey into rock music was a natural evolution. Early on, while collaborating with a producer who had a strong passion for rock, Nichole was introduced to iconic bands like The Doors, Green Day, and Foo Fighters. Although she had always enjoyed rock, especially being from Seattle, it was during this creative period that her love for the genre truly deepened. The producer also introduced her to blues records, broadening her musical palette.
Advertise on Back2Besa: Uplifting Our Voices Across the Pacific Northwest
Reach a Diverse and Engaged Audience: Back2Besa is a platform that celebrates Black excellence and amplifies the voices of the Pacific Northwest's vibrant Black community. By advertising with us, you're reaching a diverse and engaged audience and showing your commitment to supporting and uplifting underrepresented communities.
Local Loyalty Program: A Unique Initiative Driving Economic Growth in Rainier Beach
Converge Media has been following the Rainier Beach High School redevelopment project since its inception, documenting every step of this transformative journey. From the initial planning phases to the groundbreaking ceremony, the pouring of the foundation, and the gradual rise of the walls, we've been there to witness the progress.