Entertainment
Leilani Kristina: A Force of Art, Activism, and Ancestral Power

Some artists entertain. Others inspire. But every so often, a singular presence emerges—one who does both, and so much more. Leilani Kristina is that presence: a fearless creative, a truth-teller, and a living bridge between culture, art, and justice.
A true polymath in the modern age, Leilani is a published model, gifted singer-songwriter, dancer, and passionate Indigenous rights advocate. Her path is not just one of performance—it’s one of purpose. She isn’t simply chasing fame; she’s building a platform for expression, healing, and impact.
Ancestral Legacy, Artistic Fire
At the heart of Leilani’s artistic expression lies her deep-rooted Indigenous heritage. Her performances aren’t just acts of creativity—they’re acts of remembrance. In Nanyehi, a musical staged by Tulsa Theater, she portrayed Betsey Ward, a descendant of her own ancestor, Nancy Ward (Nanyehi), a revered Cherokee woman and peacekeeper. Sharing the stage with Hollywood icon Wes Studi, Leilani brought her family’s history to life in a way that was both emotional and empowering.
This wasn’t just a role—it was a reclamation. Through her portrayal, she honored the resilience of her lineage and connected her audience to stories often excluded from the mainstream narrative.
Runways with a Message
Leilani’s influence stretches far beyond the theater. On the catwalk, she brings her cultural pride and commanding presence to international fashion weeks in Milan, New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. Her look is striking, but it’s the message behind the walk that truly sets her apart.
She doesn’t just model clothes—she models courage, authenticity, and representation. Leilani challenges narrow beauty standards by standing unapologetically in her identity. With each show, she redefines what it means to be seen and celebrated in an industry still learning how to embrace diversity.
A Sound that Speaks Volumes
In the music world, Leilani Kristina delivers more than catchy hooks—she delivers truth. Her original songs, distributed through United Masters, are rich with emotion and intention. Themes of strength, healing, love, and resistance pulse through every lyric, creating a soundscape that resonates deeply with listeners navigating their own struggles.
Her upcoming album promises even more depth, offering sonic experiences that serve as both refuge and rallying cry. Through her voice, Leilani isn’t just singing—she’s speaking directly to those who feel unheard.
Lights, Camera, Impact
Hollywood is beginning to recognize what audiences already feel: Leilani Kristina is a star in every sense. She’s performed at major industry events like the BET Awards Weekend and Big Game Weekend, capturing attention from influential circles in film and music. With auditions for high-profile roles such as Moana and Juliet in a musical adaptation, she’s poised for a breakout in film and television.
But Leilani’s rise in Hollywood isn’t about fitting in—it’s about breaking through. She represents the stories and voices that have long been missing from the screen. Her presence is not just refreshing—it’s necessary.
An Advocate First
Beyond the spotlight, Leilani is a powerful voice in advocacy. Drawing from her lived experience, she speaks on the realities of human trafficking, gender-based violence, and human rights abuses with rare honesty and conviction. Her activism is informed, urgent, and deeply personal.
Whether on stage, in interviews, or through her social media, Leilani uses every tool at her disposal to raise awareness and inspire action. She doesn’t seek attention—she seeks justice.
Defining Her Own Legacy
With representation by ADR Agency and Urge Management, Leilani Kristina continues to blaze her own trail—on her own terms. She’s not following trends or chasing validation. She’s telling stories, amplifying truths, and holding space for those often left out of the conversation.
Leilani isn’t just rising—she’s lifting others as she climbs.
To witness her journey and join her growing movement, follow her on Instagram: @lotus_pua
Because Leilani Kristina is more than a name.
She’s more than a performer.
She is a living movement—a beacon of culture, creativity, and change in a world hungry for all three.
Entertainment
E-Dee Releases Powerful New Single “Young Legend”

E-Dee: From Kingston Roots to Hollywood Dreams
Born in Jamaica and driven by an unshakable passion for music and storytelling, E-Dee, also known as Yung E-Dee, is a rising force in the global reggae scene. Blending authentic roots reggae with modern influences, E-Dee has carved out a unique lane that reflects both his Caribbean heritage and his journey through the entertainment world in the United States. Beyond music, he has also pursued acting and filmmaking, bringing a multidimensional creative vision to his artistry. His work consistently highlights themes of perseverance, cultural pride, and ambition, making him one of the most compelling voices among the new generation of reggae artists.
E-Dee Releases Powerful New Single “Young Legend”
Los Angeles, CA – May 26, 2026 – Rising reggae artist E-Dee (Yung E-Dee) has officially released his highly anticipated new single, “Young Legend,” now available on all major streaming platforms via Clarendon Records.
A heavy roots reggae track infused with authentic island energy, “Young Legend” tells the inspiring true story of E-Dee’s remarkable journey—from his humble beginnings in Jamaica to pursuing his dreams in Hollywood. The song captures the struggles, sacrifices, and determination required to overcome obstacles and transform vision into reality.
With its rich, soulful riddim and heartfelt storytelling, “Young Legend” delivers a powerful message of resilience, ambition, and cultural pride. E-Dee’s lyrical authenticity and commanding delivery make the track both deeply personal and universally relatable, resonating with listeners who appreciate conscious reggae music with a modern edge.
The single stands as a testament to E-Dee’s growth as an artist and his commitment to representing his roots while pushing boundaries in the global music landscape.
The official release date for “Young Legend” is Friday, May 29, 2026. The track is now available for streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, YouTube Music, and all major digital platforms.
With this release, E-Dee continues to solidify his place as a rising voice in reggae, inspiring a new generation to dream big, stay grounded, and embrace their journey.
Entertainment
Jonathan Barfield: Turning Setbacks Into a Lasting Legacy

Journalist: Can you share a moment in your basketball journey that truly shaped who you are as an athlete today?
I was cut from my high‑school team, which forced me to confront failure and rebuild. That summer I attended an unsigned‑seniors camp in Memphis (2008) and earned a partial scholarship to Lambuth University that same summer. Years later I played a season with Team London in the Euroleague (2020). Those setbacks and opportunities — plus the work ethic I developed — drove me to found Inspired Athletes, a skills‑development company built on relentless preparation and service to players.
Journalist: Every player has a signature mindset — what’s yours when stepping onto the court?
I stay calm and present. When the game gets chaotic I let missed shots and bad calls go immediately so I can focus on the next play. As a coach I bring a quiet confidence: we balance enjoyment with pushing limits, outwork and outthink opponents, and keep God first.
Journalist: What was the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your career so far, and how did you overcome it?
Finding consistent gym space early on was a major obstacle. I overcame it by building relationships with facility owners and partners — for example, St. Paul Christian Academy and West Nashville Church provided reliable access for years. That persistence required personal sacrifice (less family and social time) but ultimately created stability for my programs.
Journalist: Who has influenced your game the most, and what lessons did they teach you?
My grandmother, Ann Marie Jones (a Memphis educator for 35+ years), was my greatest influence. She emphasized education, character, and discipline; after she passed on May 30, 2023 I’ve continued to live by those principles. Her encouragement helped launch Inspired Athletes (founded October 5, 2022) and inspired me to major in Education in college.
Journalist: How do you balance physical training, mental preparation, and personal life during the season?
I keep a strict schedule: up at 5:45 a.m. for long workouts (typically 3 hours), then handling business tasks — emails, calls and bookings. Coaching at the school level helps me stay grounded. I give myself Saturday evenings off to rest and prevent burnout, and I take holidays to spend time with family and friends.
Journalist: What part of your game are you focusing on improving right now, and why?
I’m expanding my coaching credentials and exposure: I accepted a role with Vanderbilt’s youth summer program with intent to join their staff full time. I’ve received multiple offers (25 total from different programs) and will decide this fall after summer evaluations. I’m focused on relationship building, learning from collegiate/overseas/NBA staff, and sharpening player development techniques to prepare athletes for scholarship opportunities. While also working with AAU and school programs
Journalist: Fans see the wins, but not always the grind — what does a “day in the life” look like for you during peak training?
Typical training days start 5:45–8:30 a.m. (season and off‑season), with workouts 5–6 days per week depending on schedule. I’m in the gym nearly every day and assist an adult league on Thursdays. After training I handle administration — emails, bookings, coaching prep — and take Zoom courses (e.g., Get In The Game 101) to advance my coaching knowledge. Scheduling is often booked months in advance.
Journalist: Looking ahead, what legacy do you hope to leave on the sport and the next generation of players?
I want athletes to use sport as a pathway to education and character development. As assistant coach at Montgomery Bell Academy I’ve helped many players secure academic and athletic scholarships; I aim to scale that impact — coaching at the collegiate or NBA level, expanding Inspired Athletes internationally, and eventually owning a gym to serve underprivileged communities. Since founding Inspired Athletes I’ve trained over 650 athletes and aspire to grow into a CEO who creates opportunities beyond basketball.
Entertainment
Ladaro “Monsta Yo” Pennix II: Turning Pain Into Power With “Let Me Go” Featuring Stevie Stone

Ladaro “Monsta Yo” Pennix II continues to prove why his name carries weight far beyond music. A man of purpose, vision, and relentless determination, Monsta Yo has built a legacy rooted in inspiration, leadership, and real-life transformation. From the streets to the stage, from motivational speaking to community activism, he has consistently used his voice to empower others while remaining authentic to his journey. Now, with the release of his latest single, “Let Me Go” featuring Stevie Stone, Monsta Yo is once again capturing attention and making major noise across the music world.
“Let Me Go” is more than just another song—it is an emotional and powerful reflection of pain, perseverance, struggle, and growth. The track delivers raw honesty wrapped in hard-hitting lyrics and passionate energy that listeners everywhere can relate to. Monsta Yo’s ability to connect real-life experiences with meaningful storytelling is exactly what separates him from many artists in today’s industry. Teaming up with Stevie Stone only amplified the intensity of the record, creating a collaboration that fans are calling unforgettable.
The buzz surrounding “Let Me Go” continues to grow rapidly. The song has been making waves not only on radio stations but also across streaming platforms and independent music charts. Fans have gravitated toward the authenticity behind the record, praising Monsta Yo for speaking directly to the struggles many people silently face. Whether it’s overcoming trauma, fighting through adversity, or refusing to give up despite life’s obstacles, the message behind the song resonates deeply with audiences from all walks of life.
What makes Monsta Yo truly unique is that his artistry is backed by purpose. He is not simply creating music for entertainment—he is creating music that heals, motivates, and inspires. As a published author, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and advocate for community change, Monsta Yo has spent years building a platform dedicated to uplifting others. His commitment to helping people break cycles of violence, incarceration, and hopelessness has earned him widespread respect both inside and outside the entertainment industry.
The momentum behind “Let Me Go” is also helping solidify Monsta Yo’s growing influence within hip-hop culture. Industry insiders are beginning to recognize that his movement is much deeper than music. Every project he releases carries a message, every performance carries emotion, and every word carries intention. Fans continue to support him because they see someone who has truly lived through hardship and turned pain into purpose.
As his name continues climbing charts and gaining recognition worldwide, Ladaro “Monsta Yo” Pennix II remains focused on one mission: using his gifts to inspire change and leave behind a lasting legacy. “Let Me Go” stands as another powerful chapter in that journey, a record that not only sounds impactful but feels impactful. With undeniable passion, authenticity, and vision, Monsta Yo is proving that his voice belongs among the strongest emerging forces in music today.



