Amanda Ebokosia at Miss New Jersey USA 2010;
Right after her evening gown competition
Amanda Ebokosia attends Essence Young Women's Leadership Conference
CURRENT PROJECTS!:
THE AE JOURNAL
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Friday, March 27, 2009
The "love" film in Brooklyn & Shot with Fendi,Dior,Versace,Ferrera ..dresses..By photographer Berik
This week I've been in Brooklyn twice for business and pleasure. I say pleasure because I just added a lot of new experiences to my library called, "Life". The last time I was in Brooklyn prior to this week was for a magazine a few years ago. I had the role of interviewing potential models and talent to be featured.
I was selected to take on a project with a well known artist, Dennis Bellone. He had two concepts for this project. The first concept was to recreate Warhol's famous "screen shots" in hopes to pay homage to Andy Warhol.The second part of the project dealt with a documentary filming about love. I know that last time I wrote about how I started a love filled week, after attending a discussion group last Sunday.( To view that entry please click:here )
Below Photos:I was transferring to the G train to Brooklyn after getting off the E. I saw this beautiful art on the walls of the subway station. I got camera phone happy- I guess :).
I met Dennis Bellone walking on the way to his studio. When we arrived at his studio we quickly got to work. He had asked me a series of questions about love and what it all means. I am not going to expand much on that because the project is still going on. I can't wait until it is finally finished. It will be great.
A day after that I received a notice to report to Brooklyn again. This time I was to go to a different side of Brooklyn--Manhattan Beach, to meet with Photographer Berik and his fashion stylist Alex. I was to try on a multitude of dresses from mainly Italian designers. The train ride was longer this time around because I was taking it to the end of the line of downtown Brooklyn. When I left the subway I was greeted with sweet scents that just tempted my belly.I could hear my tummy growling --it wanted fooood. I was hungry,tired, and ready to work with the camera. I also was lost--dead lost-- know one knew how to direct me properly to where I was going. Luckily my phone had a map--thank you G1. When I arrived to my location I found an amazing view ( this meant I got camera phone happy)check it:
I immediately met with the stylist, Alex, he was adorable! He looked me up and down and was like ummmmm 6/8. In my mind I was like I AM A SIZE 4. I just figured he knew best so I trusted him. The clothes fitted well.When I thought I was done trying on one batch of clothing I was only greeted with another! Dresses filled the whole room.. Alex just kept handing me another load. It ranged from Dior, Versace,Fendi, Ferrera and others. I should be getting my test photos out by this upcoming Sunday. I am looking forward in critiquing myself to see where I need to improve. I will post them in my online portfolio section as soon as I get them.
In a few weeks I plan on doing something life changing--something so unexpected and rewarding--I hope. Only time will tell.
Have a great weekend! I will be taking a few practice exams for my MCATS but I will be enjoying it=) So, live your best life.
Sometimes I feel that the only thing that makes sense is art. Growing up I was shy and soft spoken but always remained active in my community. I only started breaking out of my shell or "comfort zone" toward the end of high school. I owe it to art for that. Art is love. Art is poetry.. or is it? Lately, I have been having conversations about what love actually is. I never thought some would actually say that it was an illusion. I'm going to press rewind and take you through my all about love week.
Let me start by saying,"I am really "feeling" myself-- wait that's not right. I am really in love with myself--ok that is better". -Smiles- you will get this later. Last Sunday, I went on a model go-see with a friend to see if I can be the new face for this line of beauty products that are coming out. I love life and most people will say, " Amanda loves trying new things". I even welcome disappointments--that is another entry for a different day. Well, after the go-see I went to this studio in NY with my friend. I wanted to show her where I used to go when I started out modeling and where I used to hold most of my events for my business projects.
Let's just make a long story short. We saw an old friend of hers who was trying to attend a meeting about--love. When I found that out I was like a kid in a candy store. "We JUST have to go-- " truthfully I just enjoy the company of people and wanted to socialize and network.
The meeting was refreshing and brought about a group of different people from various backgrounds/ages/cultures etc. It was one big melting pot of people with one common agenda and that was to solve the age old question-- what is love? & how can we love?.. If I sit here and document the events that occurred that day I would be here forever. However, I will like to say I did learn one thing. Love is the one thing that provides both comfort and pain. Love is not prejudice and holds no discrimination in regards to age.
Love is like an itch. The same itch you got when you were 20 is the same itch you will have when you're 65. Same issues different time-- this is me being positive. Love is a beautiful thing.
I say so because an older woman described a situation( love issue) she was going through with her significant other. Surprisingly after her talk the group all looked upon her in amazement.They were not shocked with the actual story but because they have been through similar situations and were many decades younger.
Talk is cheap if you can't walk the walk--the production has started with Stancil
Live your best life your way and forget about what others think-success is only hindered when you follow other dreams that are not your own.
The above photo was taken on one of the my many early morning runs outside. I am so happy to wake up to that beautiful sky every morning. I almost forgot how running makes me feel. I get the most pleasant feelings from running. It is the one moment where my mind is completely at rest and at one with nature. I excel-inhale-smile and repeat ( More about my fitness cycle please continue: {Click here to _Divatude}). This has been the busiest 36 hrs of life I had in a while.I am studying for my MCATS and taking part in two productions of film--so exciting. This past Saturday the filming for Model Walk started. The show will air this October on Colours TV ( they have local channels for every state) and on the DISH network -9407.
The shows has first recording was a runway fashion show in Midtown Manhattan by Columbus Circle. It consisted of four different looks! Urban Street,Twin,Preppy, and Haute Couture. I wanted to add my own flair to it so I went to a few places to get my own accessories. A friend of my requested that I go to a spot called Culture Couture.
It was a very cute shop that had a lot of modern to vintage type looks. I have been fallen for printed leggings lately, so I grabbed a few pairs for my own enjoyment. I made sure that I also tapped this cute cupcake spot called , "Jimmy's__________", forget the rest.It was almost as good as Crumbs, a cupcake spot located at Bryant park in NY.
My life tastes good and so does yours, you just have to season it just right with the proper ingredients to provide nourishment and fulfillment. During the recording I had the chance to bond with a few of my cast members, Krissie Judd and her friend Kenitha. During break, I asked if they would like to attend a go-see with me at Bourgeoisie Shoes. We had an adventure that day! We kept saying, "Greg really needs to have filmed our own mini journey here ". Aside from my close friends I never would have thought that I would have so much fun with a group of ladies who I barely knew. I am looking forward in a beautiful friendship and a wonderful production at Model Walk. I am itching to discuss the events which occurred on Sunday and Today--but I will leave that for tomorrow. For now, I will leave you with this photo which was taken this past Sunday while in New York.
Lastly, Live your best life-- you are the actor to your own play. Have fun and enjoy today because tomorrow is not granted. Dream BIG-- see BIG --love BIG-- receive BIG...BE BIG-THINK BIG
UNIFICATION-THE GEM PROJECT, INC.THEN AND NOW-my silence is broken.
The first day of Spring could not have arrived sooner! I woke up in a fright when I first saw that it was snowing this morning.Luckily, just as quickly as the snow fell it left and since melted away.The aside flower photo on the left was taken with my phone. I took it a few days ago when I was on my morning run.I am so glad that I can wave my palm to winter, like some horrible ending to a movie that just seemed to drag and mislead all who watched. I proudly hold my cup of fine pure Spring water and say,"CHEERS TO NEW BEGINNINGS". Spring is my favorite season.. It's not too hot nor is it too cold. I can't wait until it does get warmer so I can dust off all my pretty spring/summer dresses.
A few days ago I got too happy when I felt a slight touch of sun. Yes, I was that lady who you walked passed, and may have muttered under your breath, "What is she thinking?". I came out in my denim shorts and leather cowboy boots as if I lived in California and not chilly Jersey in the middle of Winter.
-I did not think I would pull one of those again-
I have been quiet about The Gem Project because it is going through an expansion period and I am trying to run it differently. Several of the events this term has been halted in an effort to have a smooth transition.I have realized that in order to build a strong infrastructure with an organization-you must iron all wrinkles. In due time I plan on expanding and having a new staff aboard to help execute our goals effectively. I also need to observe the tactics I use as a leader and face my flaws. I have a few flaws I am trying to battle. I see The Gem Project thriving and becoming something beautiful and well needed in our community today.
-I MUST ACT SMART IN THE DECISIONS I MAKE-
I am also amending my BY LAWS of the way my organization is governed- and taking the proper avenues in becoming a better leader.
I am flawed. I admit that but I have passion and that is what has driven many of my thoughts into action.
A successful leader faces his/her flaws with their best armor and face!
Let the games begin. I am suited and ready for great results this year.
I remember a speech I gave a while back, about passion and the importance of fulfilling the goals you set before yourself. It was a funny speech, I openly asked the crowd if they recalled as a child what they "wished" to be when they grew up?
I responded for them by saying they would have possibly said, " I want to be a teacher, lawyer,fireman, police officer,engineer,writer,artist, and BATMANNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN!" . I shouted the last one at the top of my lungs. I made sure the last one was known. I love children because they have what we all had but lose as we get older-innocence. It is this quality that often allowed us as children to dream beyond measure.
When one dreams beyond measure, they're not hindered by the "How, I Can't,NOT, and No". They're driven by desire and imagination. These are the elements which motivate individuals to feverishly paint their ideal beginnings or endings--only later should they contemplate the how.
I have a confession-- I am a big kid at heart. When I am around the right people, I smile to the point where my face looks like its a still art portrait display. A few days ago I swung on an actual swing--in the middle of Central Park. OK OK It was at the edge of Central Park.
I've been traveling a lot these days to New York. It has mostly been for business which for me, always leads to pleasure---self-gratification eg.shopping,running,...etc). I am currently working on two films. I will expand on them tomorrow. I never thought I would do a film --like I always say: IT IS THE YEAR OF SAYING YES YES YES.
PHOTO: The two above photos above were taken while on the train to NYC
I am overwhelmed with mixed emotions today.I've spent time to reflect on various new situations and circumstances in my life.In order to better explain my points in this entry, I feel it is best to begin from the end to the beginning rather from start to finish. The end is always a key to a beginning so why not start with it? After all, the end is never really the end.
I am sitting at a round table with friends at my Alma Mater. We all are dressed in black and have been discussing the ceremony that had just occurred. I come across being real mellow and quiet in disbelief, as we discuss several different topics and having one of them be life. The importance of life and what it all means to us, that was our topic of discussion.
"We all hope that when it is our time to go, we would have made an impact as she has made" "She did so much for our community, school, and her family".
I and many others today at Rutgers University-Newark and beyond had the chance to say their goodbyes to a phenomenal woman named, Nelitha Wilson-Michael (Nell). I got to know Nell at the student life and leadership office at my Alma Mater. She always was there to speak to her students and offer suggestions,advice, and support. Nell worked for nearly two decades at Rutgers and served as a principal secretary and ADA coordinator for students with disabilities. I will always remember her smiles in Robeson and talks about my next event. She had direct contact with all the student leaders of Rutgers who had organizations. Her efforts will never be forgotten and her presence will always be missed.
At the round table we discussed life and what it actually means. This little puzzle has been talked about for centuries. We felt it fitting to discuss it today as we came back from celebrating Nell's life with her family and friends. We came up with a few conclusions and answers.
Expectation: Live your life without the expectation that tomorrow is granted.
Smile: Everyone has issues! Smiling is the first route to happiness. It is also the first thing a person may notice. ' WOW , she is that girl who is always smiling, so happy' . Smiling also brightens another person's day.
Equate:We are all in this equation called Life, subtract the negativity-let's reflect on the good.
Two entities:Lastly, we all view life and death as two seperate things because we don't truly understand what comes after. Perhaps it is one.. we will never understand until we all one day arrive.
SET TIME TO TELL THOSE YOU LOVE, THAT YOU LOVE THEM. NEVER ASSUME THAT THEY KNOW.
I've been feeling so alive these past few days . I am sticking to my exercise routine, studying for my exam, and slowly becoming a real morning person. I had hit up the track today with the typical eight laps, my Rutger's hoodie was slightly drenched from the light rain earlier today. The geese always make it to the track first while I am left dodging their poop while I run. It is funny just a couple of days ago the track looked like this:
I tell my friends these days I have been guilty of loving myself a little too much. After Valentine's day I had a new mentality on how I choose to live my life.I doubt that the fact that it was Valentine's day had any real significance. I just felt it was the time where this butterfly came out of her cocoon. I have always been a woman who most times placed her projects and others before herself. Physically it was apparent.. baggy eyes and all. "Girl, you work so hard.. you look really tired". I hated that.Heck, I probably was packing extra clothes under my lids for the plan to skip town, and go on a well needed vacation. This has been the best I have ever looked and felt in years. I have been celebrating every moment as if it was my birthday.
This year is the year of celebration and happiness by doing what you love. I love helping people, it is evident in everything I do. However, how can I help others when I can't help myself. People always say that charity begins at home right? Well, I have been loving myself a lot more than anyone has in a while. The only person who can object to that is my Momma and she loves me unconditionally. I have promised simple things that I will do daily and monthly. Running early in the morning when some are still fast asleep has been on top of my list for a while.
Running for me is like a high(please don't assume I get high literally). I imagine it to be similar to what a hiker feels when they get on top of a mountain and gaze below-absolutely incredible.
I probably had said this in every entry since then:
It is the year of saying YES YES YES.Don't read about it, DO IT. Don't dream about it, FEEL IT.Don't imagine it, BUILD IT.
"The world is ours.. it's our stage.. we are the actors and actresses of our own destiny. Come on people , let's live"
Au Natural:
I've been going natural in spirit, thought, and hair. I am on twitter and I remember a hairstylist who mentioned that honey was good for your hair. I know it may seem shocking at first but trust me organic products are the best way to go. Cleopatra herself used to bathe in honey and milk because she knew of its positive effect.Honey is a humectant, which means that it holds on to water molecules.It is great for moisture and it has antibacterial and antioxidant properties which is also a plus.
I had the chance to try this on a few skin blemishes and my hair. I give it two thumbs up. My blemishes have faded by 50% since using pure honey on them! I also found that my hair was a lot softer.
Anyway for those that doubted honey... Hey honey...give me some honey!
The production is starting, I will broadcast on DISH Network--meet the cast.
I am pleased with the last two entries I wrote about being bold and power respectively which can be seen (here) and (here). I will never try to trade my hectic and interesting life.I can't stand the thought of being idle which is why I take on every opportunity my way. A few days ago, I found out I was selected to be on this show which will air this October. I received the opportunity about let's say two weeks ago.
I used to model a few years ago consistently and recently I was trying to help out a friend who was interested in getting started with it. There are many scams so I just acted as a mentor and helped her along to receive legit castings. Well, I came across this casting which I submitted her into that was for a documentary filming, which will air on the DISH Network on Colors TV channel 9407. It is a film that will feature New York's most talented youth. It will have a segment about the typical day in the life of a model. The glam and the not so glam.75% of the decision was based on an essay about your life. The remaining 25% was based on your appearance. On the day of the audition my friend asked if I entered. I responded no rather quickly and she encouraged me to try it. Two hours before the audition I wrote my essay and attended it with her and we had all smiles at the end. WE BOTH GOT IT.. which means i have a buddy to go with at the recordings. Luckily we are only required to record 2-3 times a month. This Saturday evening I get to meet with the rest of the cast members so I am very excited about that.
The producer of the show is Gregory Stancil, had such a compelling story about his life that made me even more eager to work with him. Mr. Stancil developed a nonprofit organization geared to help harness the energies of many talented youths in NYC and its neighboring states. I myself have a nonprofit organization called, The Gem Project, located over (here)! We also concentrate our energies on the youth of America by making them aware of various issues that affects them through innovative programs and enriching activities.
I will try to send updates about the program as we start our recordings.I also may even post up my confessionals about my experiences later on Youtube.
TAKE HOME MSG:If you can, try to take on every opportunity that may come your way. You never know the outcome until you try. Opportunities breed new experiences which results in a more fulfilling life.
My morning started out with sweet scents and aching legs.I woke up this morning with my hair smelling like candy because I decided to deep condition it with honey and coconut milk. I immediately washed the gunk out and put on my running shoes.In order to see results I have to be consistent right? I ran around the track near my place and did 8 laps which equates to 2 miles. If you calculate the run between going there and back, you may just add an additional 2 miles. This all resulted in a happy work out of four miles. YES WE CAN ADD :)! This does not include my 400 hundred crunches I did effectively this morning. I made a promise to work out and update daily here and so far it is working. I am such a happier person! I feel lighter,calmer, and not to mention toner. I will try to post entries on my progress with my fitness/beauty journal. I want to see results!
GO OUT TODAY AND TAKE ON YOUR OPPORTUNITY AND ENVISION YOURSELF SUCCEEDING WITH IT!~ Positive energy breeds positive results.
(Gee, Brain, what are we going to do tonight?)----- Let's talk P.O.W.E.R.
I will be the first to say, I love power. My family knows it, my friends know it,and I know it. If it was offered as a discipline in college, I may have minored in it. I believe having power can help you paint your ideal life.When your thoughts are emitted out to the world you will soon see how it plays harmoniously with your actions, like a fine tune that is echoed from the cords of a piano-- it will start take form. It deals with actually seeing your ideas -- observing them as it transitions from thoughts to something visible-- something easily attainable.
It's like sweet Ambrosia.
There is power in words and if used properly you can sway even the most stubborn of minds. I had a professor who once said, " Words are the pipelines to your brain". I am still a pupil in that department. I understand it fully with the several projects I had done in the past. I had to gain trust before I was granted anyaction. It took power in words and presence. You have to work in confidence within yourself before you can think of getting anything in life. Why should I do this? Why should I grant you this? Who are you?.... . Reflecting on the last entry, you have to be bold.
I have several books! I place value on books more than the shoes on my feet or the clothes on my back. I've started reading, " The 48 laws of Power", by Robert Greene. He is rather frank about power in is recent best-seller. It almost seems evil at first but I see truth in it as he examines several events in the past where power was displayed.
Niccolo Machiavelli: Renaissance diplomat and courtier states,
Any man who tries to be good all the time is bound to ruin among a great number who are not good"
The gains of attaining power are countless. When one bends to your will without even realizing it, is what I call: Power laced with traces of seduction. Robert Greene has another novel called, The Art of Seduction. My mouth is watering by just thinking of getting my hands on that book!
Greene also says in order for one to be in track with power, you must not allow emotions to crowd your way of thinking. Anger clouds reason while love blinds self-deserving interests. We are encouraged to reflect on Janus, a Roman deity, who literally had two faces--we must look forward toward the future and have a face to look backward to the past. In order to live a sound life and assume power in the present, we must calculate all possible permutations. That is the only way we can guarantee a life that seems controlled.This will result in you always maintaining your composure because you would have already thought of every resolution for everything that could go wrong. A person in power does not falter or break down when something does not go right.We can always identify a powerful person by how composed he/she is. They maintain their level of composure because they have already expected all flaws in their work and have already calculated the best route to solve them effortlessly.
We can assume power by taking it on strong and steady. We are the conductors of our own orchestra called life.
I woke up early this morning and took control and said, " I will run today.I did run!I went out for a long 3 mile run. That was powerful for me. It was better than lounging around and saying, " I wish I could go..".
Power hungry or not. LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE Your way!
THIS YEAR HAS BEEN THE YEAR TO BE BOLD. I added a new twist to the quote, " When life throws you lemons, make lemonade". I say when life throws you lemons put on red lipstick! Be daring enjoy every moment in your life, no matter how big or small it is. Every obstacle is a challenge and should be tackled as such.
These past few days I've been doing things that I would not normally do. It has been the year of saying:YES YES YES. Currently, I have accumulated the best experiences from living by that philosophy this year. Today, I sit here exhausted because I am full with my daily 4 course meals of the following:
Appetizer:Feel Good Pudding~ Waking up happy and working myself out. This means a few series of crunches and stretches. If I am lucky to wake up extra early, I'll add in a 30-45 minute jog. I have not done that in a long time.I smile at those 20 lap jogs around of a 400m track. Its funny, that was like a year ago.
Salad:Mind Crunch Lettuce~ I try to stimulate my mind daily reading a good book or news article. If I have limited time, I read up my new articles online at cnn.com or nytimes.com on my phone. It keeps me up to date with the current events. I personally feel that it is important. I don't depend on television nor do I watch it much. Which is why I need to make sure I have my mind crunch lettuce.
Main Course:Superwoman Delight~ I have a lot going on in my life so I divide it in threes. I organize tasks the day before in lists called: Personal Life, Academia, & Business. I quickly see results by completing each task in its own category. I do not overwhelm myself by listing several things. The key is to be realistic and set your goals in visible writing. You must also take advantage of your time and not procrastinate ( I KNOW IT IS HARD). I'm not perfect and I continuously try to find better ways in being efficient in everything I do.
Dessert:Sweet tooth nourishing Flan~ I try to nourish the relationships I choose to have with particular people. I start with God , myself, family and then friends. I need to nourish myself by taking care of my mind,body, and spirit.You must love and take care of yourself in order to build fruitful strong relationships with others. I do have a favorite list on my phone, the list includes my family and friends who mean a lot to me. I try to make some time during the weekend to reach out to at least one friend. I do this while I trying to keep in contact with my family during the week. Life suddenly becomes sweeter. I just can't wait to try my dessert of sweet tooth nourishing flan by the end of the day. Sometimes I even take this particular dessert early in the morning or afternoon!
Each day is soooooo exciting! I often think to myself about what things that I've not tried and can at that particular moment. Living each day is a gift from God.
ENJOY YOUR FOUR COURSE MEAL!
Current music listening to:Cassie ft. Fabolous-Super Model
All you need is to put in a little effort--begin to see results!
All you need is to put in a little effort--begin to see results!
Sometimes it is an effort to stay grounded. This is why I make it an effort to have the right friends around me. I find that the company that you choose to keep around you will influence in some degree your actions as well as thoughts. My Personal Quote:When I feel too relaxed, I really start to appreciate the people who I choose to surround myself with. They are people who are ambitious,intelligent, and individuals who continously strive beyond their own expectations. They're not just dreamers--that's when I quickly get back on course.
This year is going by really quickly. It seems like just yesterday I was enjoying the Bahamas with my family in January. I miss them sooooo much sometimes. I consider my family my protection and in some cases my security blanket. This year has been an adventure so far because I am starting life by myself on my own and it is great.After graduation this past May of 2008, I decided to enroll in grad school at Rutgers and take on a few classes. Last semester I worked while taking Advanced Topics of Cognitive Neuroscience: Pain and Pleasure & Systems. I did okay earning an A and B respectively. I enjoyed my class-mates and our discussions. It was such a great experience. Currently, I am taking a kaplan course now and studying for several major exams. Recently, I was choosen to do a documentary in New York which will air on the DISH NETWORK. I will start orientation very soon (3/14/09), I will make an update about it when the time approaches.
I promised to reveal parts of my own vision board from the last entry. Basically a vision board is a board that has clippings of things you wish to do or desire in life. What is the point? Well, for one it acts as a daily remainder of what you plan to do and I feel its great to always have something positive. Here are some snaps:
Pretty Right?, It has a lot of space left.. I don't think it will ever be complete. I also expect my vision board to change as I grow.
This past weekend I went to a friend's party.I wore the aside dress in black ( I may just go back and get it in pink).I never really go out to parties anymore because I am so busy. I did enjoy myself at the China Club a lot I may go again around my birthday *shrugs*. This year has been the year of saying YES YES YES. It has resulted into a much happier "Amanda". Don't get me wrong I can say no. I have found that life is way too short to add a series of WHAT IFS and HOW CAN into my own personal equation of happiness. I rather just subtract those out and enjoy my life my way.
I feel like moving out west or down south sometimes.. when I wake up to this:
Photo was taken outside of my apartment. I wish the sun can come melt it all away. I want to go back to Florida!
