Starting Your Dreams Later In Life and Embracing the Detour

Jenee Darden speaking at Creative Mornings I know it's been a while since I've posted anything but that's because of my job. I'm working as a reporter covering Oakland and I host an arts segment on the radio where I get to interview amazing artists from around the Bay Area. Plus I'm publicizing my book  and building my speaking career!  You know what's funny? I thought this would all happen by the time I was 27-30.  Nope. That wasn't God's plan for me. I'm finally beginning to do the things I've wanted to do and I'm almost 40 years old. Some people reading this who are 40 will say 40 is still young. But some younger people reading may think 40 is nearly ancient. But I'm writing this post for those who like me, thought their career and personal dreams would come true much early in life. I'm here to tell you not to give up.  You know, death inspires life. A number of my relatives and friends have passed away, ranging in
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Fly Ladies of the Day
Fashion Designers Gisella and Janet Asante

Fashion lovers around the world are eager to see what First Lady Michelle Obama will be wearing while in London for the G20 Summit. But I want to recognize two sistas across the pond who began rocking the fashion world 18 years ago.

Gisella Asante and her daughter Janet are the creative minds behind Gisella Boutique. Many of the designs are influenced by a clever mix of bold African styles and colors, accented with European chicness. In 2005 I visited their shop in south east London and I was in heaven. Beautiful fabrics, stunning bridal gowns, sexy dresses and hip jewelry--loved it!

Gisella Asante's story is an inspiration for the millions of people who recently got the dreaded pink slip from their jobs. In 1988 Asante was laid off from her job. Instead of looking at her situation as a closed door, she saw a huge opening for opportunity. According to the black British paper, The Voice, Asante used her buyout money and savings to pay her way through fashion school. Three years later Gisella Boutique was born. Her daughter Janet joined the business after finishing college. She also designs and co-manages the business.



Gisella Boutique is not only working the runways, but television also. The mother-daughter team are the official costume designers for the MTV base show "The Brothers," airing overseas. "The Brothers" is a TV adaptation of the hugely, popular play. This drama/comedy looks real juicy. See for yourself here. Somebody needs to put the episodes on You Tube so the U.S. sistas can watch.

As you can see, sistas are making moves all over the world. Congratulations to the Gisella Boutique for their amazing work and bringing diversity to the fashion runways. Hopefully Lady O will swing by the boutique during her trip and pick up a few outfits.






Photo Credit:
1.Gisella Boutique
2. The Voice
2. Gisella Boutique

Comments

  1. AnonymousApril 1, 2009 at 4:54 PM

    Wow their fashions are stunning. It's exciting to see women of color making an imprint in the fashion industry.

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousApril 3, 2009 at 9:18 AM

    Keep up the good work!!!!

    ReplyDelete

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