Business
Dylan Santana is a triple threat force to be reckoned with a path for success
The Latino community is known for their strength, hardworking nature and humility. We caught up with a young entrepreneur and author who is making a difference in his community. Dylan, a serial entrepreneur, is a published book author, a youth motivational speaker and model, all under the age of 25.
“The motivation behind my drive is really God and my family,” he said. “Watching them struggle with what they have already been through in life, on top of me seeing myself go through the challenges in life that I face helps me push myself past my limit.”
His mother taught him the importance of working hard, having good work ethics and to never give up will take you far in life.
“Knowing that one day all my hard work and suffering will pay off and I can say I became a man not that just only my family could look up to, but whoever is inspired by my story, and what’s in Luke 1:37: “For with God nothing shall be impossible’’
Dylan Santana was born in Conn., and grew up, N.C.. Over the years, he traveled to a lot of places like Switzerland, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico . He also spent a lot of time in Queens, N.Y., where other family members lived.
Before getting into modeling, he worked at a variety of jobs. Some jobs were physically challenging and low paying, the work was satisfying and provided him the opportunity to hear amazing stories and get a good perspective on life, God, and the importance of gratitude.
Although he didn’t get into modeling and the fashion industry until later in life, his mom told him he would gradually create and develop his own personal style and demeanor over the years, including an interest in hair and clothing styles. She and others suggested he considered modeling.
He applied to be a model at Charlotte Seen Fashion Week, and was chosen by a designer.
Dylan Santana thinks it’s important to always be prepared for any type of shoot, which he does by practicing runway walks, observing his poses in the mirror, visualizing scenarios where he asks the right questions, and making sure to speak in a proper and professional and business tone. Knowledge of the business part of the industry helps, as does having a mentorship and support from a pro modeling teacher.
“I really separate myself from other models by just being me, and knowing who God made me to become,” he said.
When he’s not modeling, Dylan Santana enjoys spending time with his family, and with himself, but always with God.
“I have to get better with resting though and self-care,” he said. “I worked and sacrificed so much in life for the goals and dreams I have that I struggle with just resting or even just going to sleep easy. That’s one thing I’m trying to get better at: in life you’re supposed to work just as much as enjoying every moment of life outside of the grind.”
Keep up with Dylan on Instagram @the_great_santana_
Business
Free Thanksgiving Dinner on Crenshaw!
WestCoast Wingz & Sliderz collaborate with West Coast artist & producer “Mayjah Payne” for a Thanksgiving Holiday Food Drive in the heart of Los Angeles.
“Today was a good day” on Crenshaw boulevard, as a long line filled of all ages were given free thanksgiving dinner for the holiday season.
“We just wanted to give back to the community,” @MayjahPayne commented when asked why the event was put together.
On November 27, business owners from WestCoast Wingz & Sliderz organized an impromptu free dinner give away for the residents of the Crenshaw area. Promoted through social media and word of mouth, WestCoast Wingz & Sliderz brought together local business owners, entrepreneurs, artists, and volunteers to give out cooked meals to the community.
The event was held in the Crenshaw area “District 10” and brought together the residential community alongside family members from all walks of life. With 20 plus volunteers from all ethnicities it was a groundbreaking day for Crenshaw. People ate, talked, laughed, and walked away with free groceries! https://www.westcoastwingzandsliderz.com/
WestCoast Wingz & Sliderz is located in the Baldwin Hills Mall Food Court and the business is committed to the unity and empowerment of the residents in the community. Follow @wingznsliderz on instagram and visit https://www.
Business
Brooke Sandoval’s Inspiring Journey to Brookies Kitchen: A Culinary Dream Fueled by Love and Family
In a heartwarming tale of perseverance and passion, Brooke Sandoval has embarked on a culinary adventure with the launch of her very own cooking company, Brookies Kitchen. Motivated by her deep love for cooking, her family, and the infectious joy she brings to people’s faces through her delicious creations, Brooke’s journey is as inspiring as it is heartwarming.
The spark that ignited Brookies Kitchen was Brooke’s unwavering dedication to her kids and her family. Faced with the challenges of caring for her son, who suffers from the rare syndrome of Treacher Collins, and requiring 24-hour watch under certified supervision, Brooke found herself unable to work in a traditional setting. However, instead of letting this setback deter her, she turned to her passion for cooking as a means of both creative expression and financial support for her family.
Drawing inspiration from her grandmothers, KC and Christina, Brooke honed her culinary skills and developed a unique flair for creating mouthwatering dishes that not only delighted the taste buds but also warmed the heart. Her kitchen became a sanctuary of love and creativity, where she poured her soul into every recipe, infusing them with the love and care that only a devoted mother could provide.
For Brooke, nothing compares to the joy of cooking and sharing her creations with her family, friends, and even her children’s friends. The smiles that light up the faces of those who taste her food are a testament to the passion and dedication she pours into every dish. It is this joy, this connection with others through food, that drives Brooke to continue pursuing her culinary dreams despite the challenges she faces.
Brookies Kitchen is not just a business venture for Brooke; it is a labor of love, a testament to the power of family, and a celebration of the simple joys that come from sharing a delicious meal with those we hold dear. As Brooke continues to grow her company and share her culinary gifts with the world, she remains rooted in the values of love, family, and the transformative power of a home-cooked meal.
In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, Brooke Sandoval and Brookies Kitchen stand as a shining example of resilience, love, and the enduring power of food to bring people together. With every dish she creates, Brooke is not just feeding stomachs; she is nourishing souls and spreading joy one bite at a time.
Business
The Foundational Steps of Divine Wisdom and Purpose By: Ladaro (Monsta Yo) Pennix II and Colin Randolph
This project originally started as an examination of our past, aiming to expose our mistakes and explore our transformation over time. Monsta Yo and I wanted to compare how we had evolved from a regretful period to where we are now. However, delving into our painful memories from decades of incarceration revealed disturbing and disheartening experiences. We realized how deeply we had been involved in destructive behaviors towards others and ourselves, driven by violence, hatred, and fury. Our lives had been shaped by a system that perpetuated hatred and violence, leaving us unable to understand why we behaved the way we did.
Reflecting on our past proved to be emotionally draining, prompting us to shift our focus towards exploring the factors that shaped us into the men we are today. Monsta Yo suggested concentrating on our foundational beliefs, leading to the creation of “The Foundational Steps of Divine Purpose and Wisdom.” We found that scripture had a profound impact on our lives and decided to center our project around its teachings.
I gathered scriptures that had influenced me significantly and discussed their practical applications, especially for those who are incarcerated. Monsta Yo, with his theological expertise, provided insights into the power and wisdom of these scriptures, enriching our reflections. Together, we brought passion, perspective, and purpose to each discussion, resulting in the title “The Foundational Steps of Divine Wisdom and Purpose.”
Through this project, we realized that examining our past was not just about acknowledging our mistakes but understanding the journey of our transformation. Our painful memories laid the foundation for our growth, highlighted through our reflections on scripture’s wisdom and purpose. This project evolved into a testament to our faith and the transformative power of scripture.
Monsta Yo’s theological insights complemented my reflections, offering a deeper understanding of the scriptures’ impact. By blending personal experiences with theological wisdom, we created a compelling exploration of the Divine wisdom and purpose found in scriptures.
-Colin Randolph
Order Now on Amazon:
The Foundational Steps of Divine Wisdom and Purpose https://a.co/d/hKEPE1p