This July*, we’re talking all about power – and celebrating the fact that no matter who we are, or what our experiences may be, there’s always something in us that makes us powerful. From the well-known women who’ve been killing it in 2019 (page 60) to the power gained from going for the big chop (page 68), we’re talking all things empowerment. Even our interview with Gabrielle Union and Jessica Alba is a key example of women making boss moves – they’re co-leading new cop show L.A.’s Finest, and it’s clear that they’re not holding back with their creative decisions off-camera too. Inspiring! So, this month we asked the team: What’s something that makes you feel powerful? Here’s how they responded…
Editorial Intern – Maya Wing
For me, writing is something that makes me feel powerful and was one of the reasons why I decided to persue a career in journalism. Writing about current issues and educating people who otherwise may not have known about them gives me a sense of power in that I’m helping to inform others. I think the power of writing is sometimes underestimated, yet it can reach so many people and do such great things for their lives.
Contributor, Letter to My Younger Self (p59) –Ivy Ekong
Being able to dress women of all sizes, ages and backgrounds to look and feel beautiful is something that makes me feel powerful. When an IEF babe tells me how confident my clothes make them feel, it’s amazing. Also, being able to raise two little girls while working on my fashion brand and personal blog makes me feel powerful – women are unstoppable!
Advice Columnist – Paisley Billings
It’s so simple but cleaning my flat, changing my sheets, having a bath and putting on a face mask makes me feel like I can take on the world. Also, I’ve had Lizzo’s song ‘Truth Hurts’ on blast the last few weeks and that tune makes me feel POWERFUL!
One To Watch (p114) – Melisa Whiskey
Music makes me feel powerful: being able to tell my own story as a young Black British Nigerian woman, shining a light on stories that otherwise may have gone unheard through my music.
Entertainment and Features Editor – Nicole Vassell
Going to the gym! This may be a very literal take on the question, but it’s true – even though I might have to force myself to get there sometimes, I leave feeling proud and pleased with the work I’ve put in. My body may not be ‘perfect’, but it can do more and more with every visit, and that’s a wonderful feeling.
*This is the July-August issue, but don’t worry – next month’s issue will still come out at the start of August as normal, so you won’t be missing out on any Pride goodness!
