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NFL legend Vernon Davis makes another great move: investing in women’s sports – the essence

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SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 9: Vernon Davis observes Frank Gore’s 49ers Hall of Fame induction ceremony during halftime of the game between the New York Jets and the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium on September 9, 2024 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo: Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)

Vernon Davis has at all times been a force to be reckoned with.

The profession of the former NFL player reads like a summary of the excellence of American football: sixth overall pick in the 2006 NFL DraftPro Bowl selection and Super Bowl 50 champion with the Denver Broncos. But lately, the Washington native is targeted on a distinct type of victory – one that would ceaselessly change the landscape of women’s sports.

In an exclusive interview with ESSENCE, Davis revealed his latest enterprise: becoming one in every of the minority owners of DC Powerrelated to the women’s football team D.C. United. This move signals not only a business investment, but makes a powerful statement about the way forward for athletics.

“I am one of the biggest supporters. I love women’s sports,” Davis says, and his passion is evident even during our Zoom call. “I believe that women should have the same rights as men. I feel like their sport, any sport they play, should be equally important. For Davis, this investment goes beyond a typical business transaction. “It’s more than just me becoming the owner, it’s about the support and belief we have in each other. I believe in women. I believe in what they do and they should be praised just as much as men when it comes to their athletic endeavors.”

This latest chapter in Davis’ profession could seem unexpected to those that only know him from his 14 seasons in the NFL, where he established himself as one in every of the most dynamic tight ends in the history of the game. But for many who have followed his journey through the NFL – which has included acting, entrepreneurship and now team ownership – it is a natural evolution for somebody who has at all times seen beyond the end zone.

The foundation of Davis’ success, each on and off the field, was built through years of disciplined dedication to his craft. “The core of who you are is more important than anything else,” he reflects. “If you apply some of the tactics like preparation, hard work, hard work, dedication, putting those things in, if you put it into anything, you will excel in everything you do.” He shares a sobering commentary from his business ventures: “I’ve noticed along the way that many individuals simply don’t desire to do the work. They expect something great to occur, they expect success, but they wish to take shortcuts.

His approach to success has been shaped by key moments in his profession, including what he considers his proudest NFL memory – an incident which will surprise many. “If I look back on my NFL career, I would probably say my proudest moment would probably be the incident with my coach,” Davis reveals. “That was the moment I noticed that it was more necessary to place my team first than worrying about what was happening to me, my accolades and things like that. So the development involved the moment when the coach sent me to the locker room on national television.

This 12 months, Davis added the word “author” to his impressive resume by writing a book in which he shares his travels and insights. “I was inspired to write this book [] because I had a moment to myself when I realized that life is not guaranteed,” he explains. “If I can give back to my journey and my experiences to those in need, that’s what it’s all about. Because I have been in this situation myself, where I was looking for a certain book that would help me… if we are able to see and feel that someone else has been on a similar journey to us, and maybe there is something we can take away from this book that applies to us, It’s a big help.”

While his football accolades speak for themselves – and he admits that induction into the Hall of Fame “would mean everything” because “it’s the reason we play this game” – Davis’ current focus is on creating opportunities for others. Maintains connections with fans through various platforms, including collaboration with Smirnoff, the official vodka sponsor of the NFL, regarding their Match-day matchups initiative. The show, which brings soccer enthusiasts together for a novel viewing experience, reflects Davis’ belief in the power of community and connection in sports.

NFL legend Vernon Davis is making another great move: investing in women's sports

The collaboration that kicked off in Los Angeles on Thursday Night Football is that this now headed to Detroit for the Packers vs. Lions, which is able to happen on December 5. “It’s a unique opportunity,” Davis says about the Smirnoff Game Day experience. “I didn’t know what to expect, but it was something I would love to be a part of again. It’s a way to bring people together in a unique way.”

For young athletes seeking to follow in his footsteps, Davis emphasizes the importance of character and wisdom. “Listen, open your ears. Always be careful,” he advises. “Because listening permits you to gain wisdom. And now, as I sit here, I wish I had the wisdom I had then. He shares advice that has guided his own journey: “A clever man once told me, ‘If you are likeable, you’ve got opportunities.’ You never know once you will see that person again, life is like an enormous wheel.

When asked about the legacy he hopes to depart behind, Davis’ answer reflects the depth of character that has made him successful in every arena he has entered. “I want people to remember that I was kind, I was a leader, I was an inspiration and I cared about people,” he says. “When they look at me, I want them to say, ‘He was a good man.’ He was one of the best people I have ever met.”

Through this investment in DC Power and continued support of women’s sports, Davis is writing a brand new chapter in his legacy – one which goes far beyond his impressive NFL profession. In a 12 months that has seen unprecedented growth in viewership and support for women’s sports, Davis shouldn’t be only talking about change, but actively investing in it. His commitment to the development of women’s athletics shouldn’t be nearly business – it’s about making a more equitable future for all athletes, no matter gender.

After all, as Davis has proven throughout his profession, true champions don’t just win games – they alter them for the higher.

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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An attempt to save the image of Jeff Bezos’ future wife backfired after weeks of outrage and ridicule over her skimpy outfit

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Lauren Sánchez has apparently gained a popularity for her fashion hits and misses as social media users began following her every move.

Billionaire Jeff Bezos’ current fiancée stepped into the highlight long before she met the Amazon co-founder, after years spent as co-host of “Good Day LA,” a reporter for “Extra” and host of “So You Think You Can Dance,” and he even starred in a number of movies like “Ted 2.”

She faced criticism for posting a sultry selfie in November in a negligee-inspired gown by designer Laura Basca. In October, the 54-year-old again faced backlash when she showed off her latex Halloween costume as Catwoman.

Now, weeks after being deemed “cheap” and tasteless, the founder of Black Ops Aviation has turn out to be a subject of discussion.

Jeff Bezos’ fiancée Lauren Sánchez shows off a “winter white” look, weeks after critics slammed her busty latex outfit. (Photos: @laurenwsanchez/Instagram, Theimagedirect.com via Page Six)

On December 5, Sánchez and the business mogul attended The New York Times’ DealBook event in New York City. For the occasion, she wore a white Alexander McQueen suit and a white lace corset. The beaming bride-to-be sent two mirror selfies of her outfit, which she signed: “winter white.”

One follower particularly was stunned by the whole look he ejaculated that she was “very attractive and beautiful, gorgeous and stunning, charming and fantastic young lady, sexy, charming, charming and elegant” in the photos that Sánchez took.

Two other people swooned over the photos and wrote: “So chic and elegant!” and “You look great.” But as you would possibly expect from online viewers, not everyone was impressed.

When Page six published paparazzi photos from the trip, the critic commented: “It’s 30 degrees in New York and she gets out of the limo in a white Miami smock, her bra visible to everyone. No taste. Nothing. A cashmere turtleneck, flannel trousers and a wool jacket can be classy.

Someone else sharply asked: “Who can be the first to tell her that she looks tacky and not elegant and refined? Does she even know what sophistication means? A 3rd person noted: “She looks more like she’s wearing a bathrobe.”

Another person wrote in a comment from a licensed pilot: “White means…” possibly referring to rumors that Sánchez and Bezos are scheduled to exchange vows over Christmas. At least one person doubted the couple would have the opportunity to say “I do.” This person said: “This will be the longest engagement ever. They will NEVER get married and we all know why!!!!”

Sánchez told the “Today” show hosts that she was in the process of planning the big day last month. She didn’t comment on speculation about exchanging Christmas vows.

Renewed interest and scrutiny of Sánchez has increased as the pair have been spotted in various locations in recent months. The couple reportedly began dating in 2018. Their engagement was announced five years later, in May 2023. Their upcoming wedding can be a second journey for each of them.

Sánchez was previously married to celebrity agent Patric Whitesell, with whom she has two children. She can be the mother of a son, whom she shares with Pro Football Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez. Bezos was married to the mother of his three children, Mackenzie Scott, for 25 years once they divorced in 2019.


This article was originally published on : atlantablackstar.com
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Apart from the song with singer-songwriter India Shawn – Andscape

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India Shawn is a contemporary muse with a chilled nature, crafting love stories and heartfelt tales in smooth, charming songs. With over a decade of experience in the music industry as a singer-songwriter, Shawn has incredible strength. She was born in Los Angeles, and her musical roots reach throughout the country. Beginning her profession in her hometown, Shawn eventually found herself in Atlanta, where she immersed herself in the city’s deep-rooted R&B scene, further shaping her artistry.

“I transferred to ATL, I was in 10th grade, and that’s when my music journey really started,” Shawn told Andscape. “I met people who were trying to get by, so I ended up recording and learned what songwriting was really early on.”

Before releasing her debut EP in 2012, Shawn wrote songs and collaborated with artists similar to Chris Brown, El DeBarge, Keri Hilson and Monica. In 2013, she gained much more notoriety when Solange Knowles published her song “I’m Alive” on the Saint Heron compilationmarking her as an artist value watching.

Following the release of the single “There Must Be a God” from the Andscape soundtrack, she caught up with Shawn to learn more about the muse behind the vibes.


Singer India Shawn grew up singing in church with her family. “I feel like most of us R&B kids have that experience,” she said.

India Shawn

Name:
India Shawn

Hometown:

Los Angeles

Artistic soundscape

Airy, soft, telling a story, multidimensional, soft, mysterious, atmospheric

The oldest musical memory

Shawn’s soulful sound is deeply rooted in her upbringing, with influences drawn from her childhood memories and the musical culture of her church. “I sing with my sister all the time, and I also grew up singing behind my mom in church. She was the leader of praise and worship. So I feel like most of us R&B kids have that experience,” Shawn said. “I had these little solos in church, and I believe what made me consider in it was that after the service people got here as much as me with tears of their eyes and said, ‘You really moved me while you sang.’ “These early moments of connection with music and audiences laid the foundation for conveying depth and sensitivity through her music.

Influences

For Shawn, music, especially R&B, has all the time held a special place in her life. “Me and my sister are harmonizing in the living room, just picking some of our favorite songs, including for me Mariah Carey, Babyface, Boyz II Men and (and) Brandy,” she said of her early music memories.

Creative process

Shawn often draws inspiration from real-life experiences and relationships that influence her music. She weaves this into the authenticity and atmosphere of her songs, but she didn’t immediately recognize where her inspiration got here from. “It’s funny that it took me so long to make that connection, but I realized that I was telling my whole story and presenting my business through my music,” she said. “It took me two albums to realize, wait a minute, I’m giving people a lot to understand here… these aren’t just songs. This is truly the life I live.”

Challenges and development

As Shawn’s profession grows, so do his moments of appreciation and reflection. “I literally just thought about a very gradual progression of my career. It’s like step by step, but there are more breakthrough moments. My first tour, which was so beautiful, I just knew I could pack a room and people knew my lyrics and sang my songs to me. Those moments that make the waiting not in vain.”

Shawn has plenty of recommendation for up-and-coming singer-songwriters. Her biggest sacrifice? Collaboration is essential. “I think (cooperation) is really why I’m still here. So find your people… you’ll know when it feels right, you’ll have that freedom and fluidity, and you’ll be able to really create things and create without having to think too much.” He also shares the importance of patience. “Just be patient during the journey. This has been a theme throughout my profession. Let it develop. I feel like more things come from being in that flow and being present reasonably than forcing all of it.

Current project

There should be a God”, the lead single from Andscape , now streaming on Hulu, also serves as a teaser for Shawn’s solo album. “(This song) is such a manifestation of God’s love,” she said. “I think when you find yourself in a place of waiting, you can feel very hopeless. So when you see glimpses of God’s love again, or the fact that you know there is a higher power, there is a source that is thinking about you, has you in mind, has a perfect plan for you, it’s just like the clouds parting. And this is the moment, I understand. I understand that I had to go through all this to get here. And that’s exactly what I felt in the studio that day.”

Sheila Matthews is a digital producer at Andscape and a proud HBCU graduate. She believes “Return of the Mack” must have won a Grammy, and her Twitter mentions are open to all debate.

This article was originally published on : andscape.com
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ICYMI: Tessa Thompson’s Mocha Lip, Danielle Brooks’ Updo and More – Essence

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With just a number of weeks left until the tip of 2024, the celebrities are setting the tone for the brand new 12 months this week. And although mocha mousse is anticipated to be fashionable in 2025, neutral shades in darker tones have gotten more and more popular. Paired with an array of beauty eras – from elegant Twenties updos to 2000s-style round pink, the brand new Hollywood showcases its best 12 months-end beauty moments.

Tessa Thompson and Issa Rae are the newest to debut mocha lips holiday shade near the season, and Coco Jones’ lipstick was cranberry red. Doechii’s perforated suggestions and signature face-lift tape made it probably the most avant-garde look of the week, and within the sweetest moment, Chloe and Halle Bailey’s round pink cheeks made pink cheeks a winter styling staple.

From makeup to hairstyles, Sabrina Elba and Alva Claire opted for light, coffee colours, and Jourdan Dunn’s short hairstyle proved relevant at any time of the 12 months. Meanwhile, Lupita N’yongo, Danielle Brooks and Venus Williams’ braided buns showed just how classic this style may be.

In case you missed it, take a take a look at 17 of the very best celebrity beauty moments from the week below.

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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