August 28, 2024 - Page 4 of 4

A Dream, A Revelation, And A Newfound Self Love: Dana Grant’s Transformative Journey

NY Weekly Staff on August 28, 2024

By: Maria Williams

One night, while dreaming, Dana Grant saw herself standing in front of a blue door. Its white curtains swayed in the breeze, and a warm light filled the room. When she opened it, she was met with an unexpected visitor—herself. She reached out her hands for an embrace.

“She took my hands and thanked me for all the work I’ve done and every version of myself that got me here because it hasn’t been an easy road,” she shares. That moment in her dream made Grant realize just how far she’s come and inspired her to go back and hold space for every other version of herself, that which has helped her get to where she is now.

Today, Grant is an accomplished life coach, keynote speaker, and podcast host. From the outside looking in, her story appears to be one of effortless success. But her journey has been far from it, consisting of resilience, inner strength, and learning to love herself even when it proved difficult.

In a recent episode of The Dana Grant Show featuring the inspiring Amberly Lago, Grant opened up about her struggles with self-image. Having an eating disorder while she was growing up to then being 50 pounds heavier at a certain point in her life led to a difficult time showing compassion to these previous versions of herself.

Dana Grant: A Dream, A Revelation, And A Newfound Self Love

Photo Courtesy: Dana Grant

“For most of my life, I had the image of needing to be skinny,” she shares. “I had an eating disorder for years, and when I started healing, I gained weight exponentially.”

As a child, Grant would indulge in sugar as a way to escape from the stressful home she grew up in. “It was a divided home, and there wasn’t a lot of peace for me,” she says. “I used to fill up my clarinet case with blow pops and fruity candies, and I would stay in my room practicing and eating candy as a stress mitigator.”

This early coping mechanism made it difficult for Grant to embrace herself for who she is, leading to more serious self-image issues later on in life. In a world that pressures women to look and be a certain way, many can relate to her experiences and the struggle of hiding parts of themselves that don’t fit into the mold.

“I erased pictures with my new baby because I thought I looked horrible,” she continues. “But I want all those moments back.” Deciding that love and compassion are the answer, Grant worked on fixing her mindset, and her physical reality followed suit.

She became consistent with asking herself, “Does this feel like love,” and only made decisions based on the answer she gave herself. “I became really heart-centered on what I wanted my goal to be, not ego-driven.”

Grant continues, “I think we have to connect to our hearts and look at what we love about our journeys. To gain weight is a journey. What did I love about that? I love the healing element of learning why I did it. I’m sad for that version of me because she was in so much grief. But I don’t shame her anymore. I have love and compassion for her.”

Through her dream, Grant was reminded that even the version of herself that she was previously unkind to is deserving of love, respect, and compassion. Her dream was more than a personal revelation, though. It was a universal experience that resonated with so many people.

Many individuals have parts of themselves that they’ve hidden away, moments they’re not proud of, and versions of themselves that they’d rather forget. But Grant reminds us that it’s because of these previous versions of ourselves that we are who we are today. “I didn’t get me here; that version of me did. She’s the one that evolved and did the work, and I’m just a product of that,” she says.

In October, Grant shares that she’s turning 60 years old and is now at a place in her life where she embraces every version of herself with love and acceptance. As she inches closer to this milestone birthday, she can look back on her journey with a deep sense of gratitude.

As a Master Certified Life Coach, Grant works with clients to help them uncover a similar sense of pride and understanding of how powerful they truly are despite the negative feelings they may harbor towards themselves.

If you would like to learn more about Dana Grant’s journey or how she can help you on your own, be sure to visit her website or tune in to her podcast for more nuggets of wisdom.

Published By: Aize Perez

Tristian Smith: Championing Foster Care Awareness and Bridging Global Perspectives

NY Weekly Staff on August 28, 2024

By: Jonathyn Lopez

Tristian Smith, the author of Against All Odds, has transformed his remarkable journey from the foster care system into a powerful narrative of resilience and hope. His debut memoir chronicles his personal experiences, shining a spotlight on both the hardships and victories faced by children in foster care. Soon, Smith will mark two significant milestones in his advocacy efforts: a guest appearance on The Adoption and Fostering Podcast, where he will share insights from his journey, and the release of the eBook version of his memoir, making his story accessible to a broader audience. These achievements underscore his unwavering commitment to raising awareness and offering support to foster children worldwide.

On Monday, September 2nd, Tristian Smith will be a featured guest on The Adoption and Fostering Podcast, hosted by Al Coates and Scott Casson-Rennie. Hailed as “The UK’s premier Adoption and Fostering Podcast,” the show serves as a crucial platform for discussing adoption and foster care, uniting professionals, foster parents, and adoptees to share their stories and insights. As a devoted listener of the podcast, Tristian reached out to discuss the themes of his book, capturing the hosts’ interest by highlighting the universal challenges faced by foster children across different systems. Despite the geographical differences between the U.S. and European foster care systems, there are striking similarities in the experiences of neglect and abuse that these children endure. Through his story, Tristian emphasizes the critical need to understand and address the trauma that foster children face.

Tristian’s podcast appearance will delve into his personal narrative as outlined in Against All Odds. He will share his journey through the foster care system, offering invaluable advice to potential foster parents and discussing ways to improve the system for future generations.

During the podcast, Tristian will emphasize the crucial role of foster parents in providing more than just basic needs. He believes that foster parents must offer emotional support, patience, and unconditional love to help foster children feel valued and confident. This theme is poignantly explored in Chapter 9 of Against All Odds, which is dedicated to foster parents. In this chapter, he outlines the importance of making foster children feel like integral members of the family.

In tandem with his podcast appearance, Tristian will also release the eBook version of Against All Odds. Recognizing the importance of accessibility in the digital age, Tristian has made his book available in this format to reach a broader audience. The eBook ensures that his powerful story is easily accessible and affordable for readers around the globe.

Tristian’s dedication to making his story accessible stems from his deep understanding of the impact that sharing experiences can have. By offering his book in an eBook format, he inspires potential foster parents and children who may be searching for hope and guidance. The eBook release is a testament to his commitment to spreading awareness and support within the foster and adoption communities.

Tristian Smith is a remarkable success story emerging from the foster care system. In a recent podcast, he vividly recalls the harrowing experiences of his youth, including “sneaking onto a school bus to escape an abusive uncle” and enduring over 25 foster homes. Despite these early challenges, Tristian has built an impressive career, serving nine years as a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Officer in the United States Army. Today, he continues his service as a civilian emergency management specialist for the Department of the Air Force. Recently relocated to Nebraska, Tristian is pursuing a master’s degree in Intelligence Analysis. His exceptional track record and strong letters of recommendation earned him acceptance into Johns Hopkins University, where he continues to advance his education and career.

Despite his remarkable achievements, Tristian remains profoundly connected to his roots. His memoir, Against All Odds, is a heartfelt account of his journey through the foster care system. Beyond sharing his personal story, the book provides practical advice for foster parents and offers valuable insights into how the system can be improved. At its core, the memoir highlights the essential role of hope, patience, and kindness in fostering positive outcomes for children in care.

Tristian’s experiences have profoundly influenced his perspective on foster care, driving his passion for sharing his insights. He firmly believes that “fostering extends beyond simply meeting a child’s physical needs; it requires emotional investment and genuine care.” Tristian’s reflections on the lasting impact of his foster parents, who were not there to witness his high school graduation or his military and academic achievements, underscore the enduring power of love and support that foster parents can provide.

This podcast provides a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the foster care system and the crucial role foster parents play. Enhance your awareness by tuning in to Tristian Smith’s appearance on The Adoption and Fostering Podcast. The hosts received a copy of Tristian’s memoir, Against All Odds, and praised it as “more than just a memoir. It’s a call to action for all foster children and those involved in the foster care system.” After listening to Tristian’s compelling story, share his insights on foster care and the universal challenges faced by foster children with someone you know.

Tristian also encourages readers to anticipate the eBook release of Against All Odds, helping to make his story accessible to a global audience. You can find the original print version of Against All Odds on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

For more information about Tristian Smith and his collaboration with Al and Scott, visit The Adoption and Fostering Podcast page and connect with them on social media. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this important discussion and support Tristian’s mission to improve the lives of foster children everywhere.

Published by: Holy Minoza

Jiayun Ding: The Innovative Path of Glass Art

NY Weekly Staff on August 28, 2024

By: Anne Schulze

In the global art world, glass art has gradually become the focus of exploration for many artists with its unique transparency and light and shadow effects. In Sunderland, England, a city famous for its glass history and heritage, a quiet innovation in glass art is taking place. In this artistic innovation, Jiayun Ding, a new artist rooted in Sunderland, has won the attention of the international stage with her inheritance of traditional techniques and innovation of modern design concepts.

Jiayun has a profound and unique understanding of glass art. She believes that glass is a medium full of possibilities, with both a hard appearance and a fragile nature. She likes to use the interaction of light and color in her works, and through different colors of glass and unique blowing techniques, she creates artworks that are both visually impactful and poetic.

Jiayun showed extraordinary abilities and potential early in her career. She gained extensive practical experience assisting in various glassblowing processes while working at Bristol Blue Glass and Bath Aqua Glass.

As time passed and her skills improved, Jiayun Ding joined the National Glass Center team in 2024 during her MA study at the University of Sunderland and began to be responsible for public glassblowing demonstrations. This showcases not only her craft but also her ability to engage and educate her audience. In the same year, she interned at London Glass Blowing and Blowfish Glass, where she had the opportunity to work with renowned glass artists, further developing her skills and creative vision.

Additionally, she volunteers at the International Festival of Glass, assisting with Blowfish Glass’s hot workshop demonstrations with renowned glass artists. Meanwhile, she has three pieces exhibited during the IFOG in separate exhibitions. This experience not only improved her practice skills and public communication skills but also enabled her to draw more experience and inspiration from practical operations and gain her own reputation through an exhibit of her own body of artworks. Each of her career choices and work experiences laid a solid foundation for her artistic path, allowing her to gradually grow into an internationally influential glass artist.

Jiayun Ding’s artworks delve deeply into the complex interactions between modern society, human emotions, and the natural world. Mastering the transparent and fragile material of glass, she successfully reveals the subtle layers hidden in everyday life and the depths of the human psyche. In her representative works such as “Refined Relic,” “Please Do Not Doubt Your Faith (The Holy Relic),” and “What hinders you pursuit of dreams?”

“Refined Relic,” exhibited at the 2024 British Glass Biennale, exemplifies her ability to blend complex techniques with profound thematic exploration. The glass made diamond shears, bathed in brilliant golden light and placed under a transparent dome as if suspended by a supernatural force, symbolizes her enduring commitment to artistic creation. It also reflects people’s efforts to find spiritual balance amidst the challenges and tranquility of life.

Jiayun Ding: The Innovative Path of Glass Art

Photo Courtesy: Jiayun Ding

In “Please Don’t Doubt Your Faith (The Holy Relics),” Jiayun transforms basic glassblowing tools into a series of divine relics. These transparent tools, crafted from molten glass, float within a dome, exuding a ghostly mystery. These designs showcase her deep understanding of the psychological struggles and creative dilemmas artists face during prolonged battles with intensely hot glass.

Photo Courtesy: Jiayun Ding

“What hinders you pursuit of dreams?” This piece has been selected for the fifteen x fifteen exhibition during IFOG. In this piece, Jiayun uses glass art narratives as a story. Enclosed within the dome, numerous hands reach out, attempting to grasp the central object. These hands encircle the diamond shears, an essential tool in glassblowing. Their menacing gestures symbolize the myriad obstacles and challenges that confront an artist’s pursuit of their dreams.

Photo Courtesy: Jiayun Ding

However, it is Jiayun’s thematic exploration that truly sets her apart. Her works delve into the symbiotic relationship between human beings and the natural world, often reflecting on themes such as the impermanence of life, the beauty and fragility of nature, and the interconnectivity of all living things. Through her art, she invites viewers to contemplate their own experiences and emotions in relation to these broader natural phenomena, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of both. Critically, while Jiayun’s works are undeniably captivating and thought-provoking, there is a risk that their profound messages might be overshadowed by their visual appeal. Some of her works are especially self-referential. The beauty of her pieces could potentially distract from the deeper meanings she intends to convey, leading some viewers to appreciate them solely for their aesthetic qualities without engaging with the underlying concepts.

Jiayun Ding’s work has been highly praised in several important exhibitions. In 2023, her work was permanently collected by the Czech Glass Gallery in Prague at the Stanislav Libensky Award Exhibition at Prague Castle, which was an important milestone in her career and highlighted the international influence of her work.

In 2024, Jiayun’s work was exhibited at the British Glass Biennial, which is known for showcasing fine works of contemporary glass art, further consolidating her position in the glass art world. In the same year, her work received a special mention in the 44th issue of New Glass Review. This annual archive promoted by the Corning Museum of Glass brings together the world’s largest collection of contemporary glass artworks over the past 44 years. The review criteria are extremely strict, and the selection of candidates must have excellent artistic standards. As an emerging artist, Jiayun Ding’s work can be selected in this authoritative publication, which highlights her outstanding potential and future influence in the field of glass art. This series of exhibitions and publications not only proves Jiayun’s artistic talent and innovative spirit but also marks her rise in the international glass art world.

Looking ahead, Jiayun plans to continue exploring new realms of glass art while also dedicating herself to inspiring greater interest and passion for glass art. Her artistic journey is one of continuous exploration and innovation in this ancient yet modern medium. Through her hands, glass becomes a window to human stories, allowing audiences to witness not only technical excellence but also the power of art.

Published By: Aize Perez

Agents of Hope Training & Information Center Launches Innovative Refugee Exit Plan Initiative

NY Weekly Staff on August 28, 2024

Agents of Hope Training & Information Center is making significant strides in the field of refugee resettlement with its innovative Refugee Exit Plan (REP) initiative. This program aims to transform the refugee resettlement process in the United States and worldwide by focusing on the empowerment of refugees. Since its inception in 2010, Agents of Hope has been a critical partner in community development, consistently demonstrating the ability of its programs to address the unique challenges faced by refugees. By equipping refugees with the necessary skills, resources, and confidence to transition successfully into their new lives, Agents of Hope is setting a new standard for refugee resettlement.

The REP initiative goes beyond providing immediate aid to refugees. Instead, it focuses on shifting the refugee experience from one of dependency to one of empowerment. By viewing refugees as capable individuals who can contribute meaningfully to their communities and the economy, the REP initiative aims to break the cycle of reliance on welfare systems. This shift is crucial not only for the success of the refugees but also for the economic and social health of the communities they join. The REP program helps to reduce government expenditure on welfare by promoting self-sufficiency among refugees, enabling them to become active contributors to society and the economy.

The success of the REP program has been well-documented, particularly within Chicago Public Schools and other pilot projects. These projects have shown that refugees can transition from receiving government assistance to becoming active taxpayers, thereby stimulating economic growth while improving their own quality of life. The REP initiative’s evidence-based approach demonstrates that integrating refugees into the workforce as soon as possible after their arrival in the United States can lead to significant benefits for both refugees and the government. By increasing the number of refugees who are employed and reducing the number who rely on welfare, the REP initiative offers a sustainable solution to the economic challenges associated with refugee resettlement.

The REP initiative’s focus on economic empowerment and integration is a significant departure from traditional refugee resettlement programs. Rather than viewing refugees as passive recipients of aid, the REP initiative sees them as active participants in their own resettlement process. By providing refugees with the tools they need to succeed, the REP initiative helps to foster a sense of agency and self-reliance. This approach not only benefits the refugees themselves but also has a positive impact on the broader community by promoting social cohesion and economic development.

The REP initiative’s success in Illinois provides a compelling case for its broader implementation across the United States. By adopting the REP initiative, states can pave the way for hundreds of refugees to transition from government assistance to active participation in the workforce. This transition not only helps to reduce welfare spending but also contributes to the overall economic growth of the state. The savings generated by reducing welfare expenditure can be reinvested into other critical services, such as social security, Medicaid, and education programs, further benefiting the community.

Agents of Hope is calling on the state government of Illinois to support the piloting of the REP initiative. By doing so, Illinois can lead the way in setting a new standard for refugee resettlement that benefits both refugees and the broader community. The REP initiative offers a cost-effective solution to the challenges of refugee resettlement, demonstrating that it is possible to support refugees in a way that is both ethical and economically sustainable.

The success of the REP initiative is a testament to the vision and commitment of Agents of Hope. By focusing on the potential of refugees as contributors to their communities and the economy, Agents of Hope is helping to reshape the narrative around refugee resettlement. The REP initiative shows that with the right support, refugees can thrive and make meaningful contributions to society. Agents of Hope is proud to be at the forefront of this transformative movement, working to ensure that refugees have the opportunity to realize their full potential and contribute to the communities they join.

For more information about the Agents of Hope Training & Information Center and the Refugee Exit Plan initiative, please visit www.ahtic.org or follow them on social media at @ahtiglobal.

For press inquiries, please contact Nana Ahmed, Founder and CEO, at +17737399079 or via email at ahti@ahtic.org.

Published by: Holy Minoza

Original Tee Golf Classic Shines in its Recent July Tournament, Spotlighting Young Players

NY Weekly Staff on August 28, 2024

By: Maria Williams

Original Tee Golf Classic (OTGC) celebrated its 25th-anniversary mark with a memorable tournament held on July 21, 2024, at the picturesque Wild Turkey Golf Club in Hamburg, New Jersey. Known for its boutique nature, OTGC has established itself as a premier event that combines high-quality golf with a celebration of African American golf pioneers and emerging talent.

Founded by Wendell J. Haskins, OTGC stands out for its consistency and commitment to quality. By hosting this event annually at the same location, the tournament ensures that participants and spectators alike know exactly what to expect. This consistency, akin to the tradition of Augusta National for the Masters, creates a sense of familiarity and excellence that has become synonymous with OTGC.

The 2024 tournament highlighted a key aspect of OTGC’s mission: nurturing young, elite players. Each year, Wendell invites four promising young golfers to compete, providing them with a unique platform to showcase their skills and gain invaluable experience. This year, the spotlight was on 15-year-old and recent college graduates. These players, scouted for their exceptional potential, are given a chance to compete for prize money and connect with influential figures in the golf industry.

One notable aspect of this year’s event was the enthusiastic response from the young competitors. “The impact of the tournament on these young competitors is truly special,” Mr. Haskins notes. “One young lady, Ashley Shaw, told me this was the most amazing experience she’s ever had in her golf career. Seeing their excitement and knowing we’re providing opportunities they might not otherwise have is incredibly rewarding.” The opportunity to play alongside established executives and celebrities was a significant highlight for these young athletes, underscoring the true impact of OTGC in shaping the future of golf.

In addition to the competitive aspect, OTGC continues its tradition of honoring golf’s pioneers with the True Original Award. This year’s award, which commemorates Dr. George F. Grant, celebrated his legacy and contributions to the game. The award, along with unique trophies crafted from the original golf tee patent, symbolizes the tournament’s dedication to preserving and celebrating the history of African American golfers.

Wendell’s commitment to the young players extends beyond the tournament. This year, he vowed to introduce each young participant to prominent figures within his network in the golf and business worlds, further accelerating their career prospects. “The strength of a personal network can significantly impact a young golfer’s journey,” Wendell explains. “Connecting them with influential mentors is something I’m particularly proud of.” This initiative, aimed at expanding the players’ professional networks, is a testament to this visionary’s dedication to fostering the next generation of golf talent.

Looking ahead, Mr. Haskins is optimistic about future collaborations and sponsors, building on the success of this year’s tournament. “The tournament’s success is a testament to the support of our sponsors, volunteers, and participants,” he said. “We’re excited about the future and the continued impact we can have on young golfers and the broader golf community.”

OTGC’s enduring commitment to excellence and its focus on fostering emerging talent ensure that the tournament remains a cherished event in the golf calendar, celebrating its rich history while shaping the future of the sport.

Published by: Khy Talara

Day: August 28, 2024

A Dream, A Revelation, And A Newfound Self Love: Dana Grant’s Transformative Journey

Tristian Smith: Championing Foster Care Awareness and Bridging Global Perspectives

Jiayun Ding: The Innovative Path of Glass Art

Agents of Hope Training & Information Center Launches Innovative Refugee Exit Plan Initiative

Original Tee Golf Classic Shines in its Recent July Tournament, Spotlighting Young Players

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