Nefertiti Harris of Textures Nefertiti speaks on her journey through the Shrine of the Black Madonna to engage in the mission of empowering Black people by recognizing the beauty of our natural hair. This year Nefertiti is being honored at Detroit is Different’s My Natural Hair Show. Nefertiti shares how she’s moved with the purpose of creating and redefining beauty for Detroit by helping Black people find inner love.
In this episode of “Detroit is Different,” the spotlight is on Scheherazade Washington Parrish, a multi-talented individual with a diverse background in writing, art, psychology, and community engagement. Scheherazade’s artistic journey is deeply rooted in her exploration of various forms of expression, from personal narratives to formal verse. She skillfully deconstructs complex societal, personal, and political themes, especially focusing on concepts of duty and family.
Having pursued psychology at Wayne State University, Scheherazade brings a unique perspective to her creative endeavors. Currently serving as a program manager with Allied Media Projects in Detroit, she continues to inspire and engage the community through her work.
Scheherazade’s contributions extend beyond the confines of traditional publications. Her work has found its way into journals, and anthologies like “The Detroit Neighborhood Guidebook,” as well as large-scale visual art installations and murals. In this interview, she delves into her creative process, discussing the interplay between form and content in her pieces, a theme highlighted in her intriguing project titled “Tools of Redaction: Form.” Tune in to gain insights into the mind of this prolific writer, artist, moderator, and muse, as she shares her passion for storytelling and her unique perspective on Detroit’s vibrant cultural landscape.
Discover Mikki Godfrey’s inspiring journey, a testament to faith, creativity, and business acumen in the heart of Detroit. As the driving force behind the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation’s BuyDetroit program, Mikki’s story is one of resilience and determination. Her path to leadership was paved with exceptional sales and management skills, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to Detroit’s economic growth.
In this captivating video, you’ll gain insight into how Mikki confronted adversity and trauma, transforming these challenges into invaluable lessons for personal and professional growth. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and focus in the face of life’s hurdles.
Today, Mikki Godfrey stands as an impresario, leaving her mark on various creative realms. Join us as we delve into her remarkable journey, celebrating the indomitable spirit that drives her success and the positive impact she continues to make in Detroit and beyond. Discover how faith, creativity, and business acumen have shaped Mikki’s extraordinary story, and be inspired by her unwavering dedication to Detroit’s growth and prosperity.
Get ready to dive into the captivating journey of the legendary comedian Coco as she sits down with host Khary Frazier on this exclusive Detroit is Different interview. In this episode, Coco takes us back to her roots, sharing anecdotes from her upbringing in Highland Park and her unexpected career path from nursing to comedy.
Nursing to Comedy: Coco’s story is one of true inspiration. Discover how she transitioned from her role as a nurse to the world of stand-up comedy. Hear about the pivotal moments that led her to take the stage and embrace her natural gift for laughter, even in the face of personal grief and challenges.
A Journey of Resilience: Join us as Coco opens up about the emotional journey of losing her older sister and how that experience shaped her determination to succeed in the entertainment industry. Through her humor and authenticity, Coco teaches us valuable life lessons about resilience, finding joy, and turning adversity into strength.
Rise to Radio Fame: Learn about Coco’s breakthrough on the WJLB morning show and how she made her mark on the airwaves. Discover the intriguing connection between Coco and Chris Gardner, the man behind the inspiring story of “The Pursuit of Happyness.” Find out how Chris Gardner played a crucial role in negotiating Coco’s first radio contract.
Laughter and Life Lessons: This interview is not just about comedy; it’s a celebration of life. Tune in for a dose of hearty laughter as Coco shares hilarious anecdotes from her journey as a comedian. But it’s not all about laughs—Coco imparts wisdom and life lessons garnered from her unique experiences.
Navigating Stardom and Relationships: Coco dishes on what it’s like to date celebrities while being a celebrity herself. Gain insights into the world of fame, relationships, and the balancing act required to keep it real in the limelight.
Join us for an unforgettable conversation filled with laughter, inspiration, and wisdom. Coco’s Detroit is Different interview is a testament to the power of pursuing one’s passion, overcoming obstacles, and embracing the beauty of life’s unexpected twists.
Don’t miss out on this exclusive interview that offers a rare glimpse into the life of a true Detroit icon. Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on all things Detroit is Different!
As global attention turns to France’s intricate involvement in African affairs, Abayomi Azikiwe’s forthcoming interview with Detroit is Different provides a captivating insight into the historical and contemporary dynamics underpinning France’s presence in Africa. A seasoned analyst and the mind behind the Pan African News Wire, Azikiwe delves into the complex relationship between France and its former African colonies, shedding light on the motivations driving France’s actions on the continent.
Detroit is Different’s feature meticulously traces the roots of France’s colonial history, a legacy that remarkably stretches across continents and centuries, even encompassing the city of Detroit in the United States. Azikiwe unveils the intricate connection between colonial undertakings and contemporary conflicts, highlighting how this history reverberates in the present day.
Central to the discussion is France’s insatiable thirst for African resources, an exploitative trend that dates back to colonial times.
Former French president Jacques Chirac “without Africa, France will slide down into the rank of a third [world] power,” March of 2008.
French President François Mitterand “Without Africa, France will have no history in the 21st century,” 1957.
The interview brings into sharp focus the recent developments in Niger, a West African nation currently at the forefront of conflict with France. The suspension of Niger’s constitution and the dissolution of institutions following a military coup underscore the nation’s determination to assert its autonomy over its abundant natural resources, particularly its significant uranium reserves, ranked seventh largest globally. This valuable radioactive metal serves as a cornerstone for various industries, including nuclear energy, cancer treatment, naval propulsion, and weaponry.
Azikiwe exposes the historical narrative behind Niger’s natural resource industry, revealing how French corporations have dominated this sector, leaving the nation’s government with only minority holdings. The struggle for self-determination in Niger represents a wider sentiment across other West African nations once colonized by France, as they rally behind Niger’s bid to break free from neo-colonial shackles.
As the interview unfolds, Azikiwe’s expertise navigates the nuanced layers of France’s engagement in Africa, encapsulating not only the historical context but also the contemporary complexities surrounding economic exploitation and political autonomy. This preview only scratches the surface of the profound insights that Detroit is Different’s conversation with Abayomi Azikiwe promises to unveil, offering a platform to understand the intricate web of power, resources, and history woven between France and its African counterparts.
For more information on the current conflicts between France and Niger and/or other Pan-African News visit http://panafricannews.blogspot.com/ today.
Keith Bennett is known to many in Detroit as the mind behind Flip the Script. The journey to helping returning citizens came from a love of basketball. As a high school student, Bennett was a basketball mastermind that became a student assistant coach. In this interview, he discusses how Curt Jones became the gateway for him to fall in love with basketball and leave baseball. The study and work ethic attracted the attention of coaches. This led to his journey of promotions in the nightlife of the 1970s and 1980s in Metro Detroit. This is Part I of the Keith Bennett interview on Detroit is Different.
Mark Crain’s dedication to community and development has forged a profound connection with Dream of Detroit, where his commitment to family, business acumen, passion for the Woodrow Wilson community, and Islamic faith have converged to drive transformative change in the heart of Detroit.
Mark Crain’s business acumen has been instrumental in Dream of Detroit’s growth and impact. His strategic thinking, financial expertise, and networking abilities have helped secure funding and collaborations, enabling Dream of Detroit to initiate transformative projects in the community. Mark’s business background has also instilled in him a sense of accountability and efficiency, ensuring that every effort contributes to sustainable, long-term development in the area.
The Woodrow Wilson community holds a special place in Mark’s heart. It is a neighborhood rich in history and potential, yet plagued by decades of neglect and disinvestment. Mark’s connection with the community runs deep, as he witnesses firsthand the challenges faced by its residents. His Grand Fathers Locksmith shop across the street from Central HS grounded Mark there as a child. Dream of Detroit’s mission to revitalize the Woodrow Wilson community aligns perfectly with Mark’s vision for a thriving, inclusive, and vibrant neighborhood that residents can take pride in.
Mark Crain’s Islamic faith serves as a guiding principle in his life and work. The values of compassion, social justice, and service to others, as emphasized in Islam, resonate deeply with his commitment to community development. Through Dream of Detroit, Mark channels his faith into action, working tirelessly to create positive change and empower those in need. His faith reminds him of the importance of humility and selflessness, qualities that have earned him the respect and trust of the Woodrow Wilson community.
The Summer Oasis Music Festival in Idlewild, MI, has emerged as the ultimate glamping experience that the house music and dance culture needed, enticing DJs worldwide to visit this picturesque destination. At the heart of this exceptional event lies the vision and dedication of Cedric McDougle, whose passion for music, culture, and community led him to create a festival like no other.
Cedric McDougle, a visionary entrepreneur and music enthusiast, envisioned a festival that would not only celebrate the electrifying beats of house music but also pay homage to the rich cultural history of Idlewild, MI. The town, renowned for its significance as a historic African American resort, served as a source of inspiration for Cedric. He wanted to create an event that would foster a sense of unity and empowerment, drawing from the vibrant legacy of the town’s past.
The idea of combining glamping with the immersive experience of house music and dance culture sprang from Cedric’s desire to offer festival-goers an unparalleled experience. He believed that providing luxurious amenities in the midst of nature would enhance the overall festival vibe, attracting a diverse audience from all corners of the globe.
Cedric McDougle’s vision for the Summer Oasis Music Festival was to create more than just a music event; he aimed to cultivate a community. He wanted festival-goers to feel a sense of belonging, to connect with one another through music, and to share in the joy of celebration. By curating workshops, talks, and interactive experiences, he ensured that the festival became a space for dialogue, creativity, and networking for artists and industry professionals alike.
