These 3 ladies from “Like A Boss” headed to being top media moguls

Media and business moguls seem to have a wide range of experiences to get to the place where they finally reach their goals. Some start as assistants to high profile executives, while some others work for a friend or family member. Then there are some who just seemed to be born with the attitude and work ethic to do what is needed to be done to become that leader they always wanted to be.

The new hit Oxygen show, “Like A Boss” gives the audience access to the lives of bosses in the making. The show introduces Amber Grimes, Rian Parish, and Drekia Glenn. While these might not be household names as of yet, just keep watching because these three ladies have had experience assisting high profile executives and talent.

Recently, Amber Grimes, Rian Parish, and Drekia Glenn discussed their goals and reason for being a part of this popular show. Here is a little about the 3 media moguls in the making: Amber Grimes, is currently assistant to media mogul Nick Cannon. Rian Parish is the assistant to popular radio personality Big Tigger and Drekia Glenn is assistant to music executive Abou “Bu” Thiam. Within the show, these protégés are out to prove they have the drive, focus and ambition to be a future CEO.

Amber Grimes is an ambitious Atlanta native with an independent grind to make it in the entertainment world. She recently joined Nick Cannon’s team as his assistant to help him launch NCredible in Atlanta. Her career kicked off early by becoming one of the top college party promoters in the city. After making a big name for herself on the party scene, she furthered her interest in entertainment by promoting and managing several artists. Her hard work quickly led to her first executive assistant position at Def Jam Records for the Former Vice President, Abou “Bu” Thiam, as well as a brand ambassador position with Reebok. It was always this assistant’s goal to become a trailblazer in the male dominated entertainment industry, and Amber has done that by taking her experience with high level executives, major artists, and event planning, to start her own full service marketing company, The Cardi Brand Agency. Amber also uses her athletic background, passion for fitness, and major brand connections to host an all female health initiative, #PowerWomenSweat, that promotes healthy living and offers women of all ages free fitness classes and networking opportunities. Amber has big goals to make it as a powerful female in show business and to inspire other young women to always follow their dreams.

On the rise from none other than the wonderful “Peach State of Georgia”, a shining star was born, Miss Rian Parish. Talented actress, graceful dancer, and one who has been known to “rock” the mic, she is blazing the road to stardom. She has made her contacts in the entertainment game by becoming the right hand to some of Hollywood’s hottest stars and now she is making her mark as she breaks out from behind the scenes to steal the spotlight. Her bubbly personality, charisma, and quick wit make her the go to girl for hosting, emceeing, and interviewing. Rian has honed skills in every facet of the industry from behind the camera as a hairstylist and makeup artist, to owning scenes in television, film, and music video productions. Rian is fully aware that nothing comes easy or fast, and when she is not on set, she is learning the entertainment business inside and out. Currently, Rian is trying to perfect the balancing act between being an assistant to radio DJ and TV personality Big Tigger and being a mom to three kids. If being a mom and an assistant wasn’t enough, Rian is an entrepreneur having started a budding tax preparation and staffing business, in addition to hustling to jump start an entertainment career as an on camera host. Finding the time to do it all is tough, but if working for Big Tigger can give Rian one thing, it’s a chance to learn how to be an on air personality from one of the best.

After reaching out to music executive Bu Thiam, Drekia Glenn finally has her shot at the big-time and will learn the ropes as Bu’s second assistant. Dedication to her job won’t be an issue for Drekia as she has always been a hard worker. Her career goal is to run an entertainment concierge firm, serving the needs of all facets of show business from athletes to models to music artists and more. She is real and no nonsense and someone you will definitely remember after seeing her on the screen just once.

Although, these 3 ladies are very different, they have similar goals and that is to succeed and be role models in empowering other young women. They are each on their way and definitely expect to hear so much more from them in the coming years.

Singer Josh Xantus on tour and building an empire with his vocals

Singer and songwriter Josh Xantus definitely seems to have what it takes to rise to the top of the charts. He has the personality and talent to become the breakout star people will be talking about for year to come.

He got his musical start very early on. He began playing the piano at age six and composed his first song at 13. In fact, Josh’s musical roots have a unique start. Born to Haitian parents in Brooklyn, New York, Josh and his four siblings moved to Queens after his mother and father separated. His mother, a violinist, had a passion for music; however, like many single mothers, her aspirations were put on hold to raise her children. But, she never forgot the music. “My mother wanted her kids to play an instrument so she gave us pianos.” Josh event shared a story about his mom telling them if they learned classical music it was a way to the girl’s heart.

“Continue to carry out the legacy of being a musician that represents real music,” is what the iconic Stevie Wonder told up and coming singer-songwriter Josh Xantus. Catching the pitch-perfect ear of Stevie Wonder is unheard of for a new artist. However, after one listen to Josh’s fresh sound, whether it is 2011’s Can I Live? or his upcoming mixtape The Antidote, it’s no shocker the entertainment industry is taking notice.

At only 26, Josh Xantus, which means golden in Greek, has already caught the likes of Swizz Beatz, Ne-Yo, Jerry “Wonder” Duplessis and Birdman from Cash Money. A fusion of sharp musicality with infectious party anthems, his sound is accentuated by the discipline of a Julliard trained pianist and the swag of a pop-R&B prince.

Josh started playing classical piano at the age of six, quickly mastering Mozart, Bach, and Beethoven. But it was Brian McKnight’s 1997 hit, “Anytime,” that would change the trajectory of Josh’s music. “That was the first song that really made me want to write a song,” recalls Josh. “I was just a kid, but I was with this girl and the song made me want to ask her these questions. ‘Do I ever cross your mind? Do you think of me?’ It was the first song I made a connection with.”Josh was ready to abandon classical music for the soul of R&B, but his mother insisted that he not disregard his skills on the piano. Soon after, Josh was accepted to the prestigious Juilliard School.

After completing Julliard, Josh attended the legendary Five Towns College, which includes the alums Chrisette Michele, Nicole from Nina Sky and Adam Levine, the lead singer of Maroon 5. On his days at Julliard, Josh reflects, “I’m happy my mom pushed the classical music — it’s why I am where I am at now. At the end of the day, you’re either meant to do it or you’re just trying.”

Josh Xantus is certainly meant to do it and you can’t fight soul music when it’s calling. Josh was the first artist signed to M USA Entertainment in 2011. As a new artist, he performed as the opening act for Fabolous, Busta Rhymes and Ne-Yo. In addition, he garnered critical acclaim for last year’s indie smash Can I Live?, which was compared to Usher’s Confessions.

In 2012, Josh exercised his business skills by landing an administration deal with Downtown Publishing. Via Swagga Boyz Productions with his partner Claude “Qou” Forbes, who is known for his work with Trey Songz and the late, great Michael Jackson, the deal will develop new artists and cultivate the groundwork for Josh’s The Antidote.

In 2013, Josh is reinventing his sound. R&B is in his roots, but he is defying the rigid confines of labels to explore new horizons, which is apparent in the upcoming The Antidote. “The project is more about finding out what you really are, who you really are and what you really want out of life,” Josh enthusiastically explains. Songs like “The Weekend,” “Breathe” and “Wake Me” are destined to rule radio with its urban rhythms and pop appeal.

He is organically broadening his base, reaching the masses with a sound that cannot be categorized. Quite simply, Josh is a pop star. The Antidote, which will be released in early 2013, includes production from Music Man Ty, Los Da Mystro and Swizz Beatz. Plus, there is more to come in 2013: a nationwide tour, an EP and collaborations. “If you’re putting your music out there, I think fans should know who you really are. I’m going to give them a show!”

While Josh has taken the time to learn his craft, earned a blessing from Stevie Wonder and worked with veterans in the industry, his musical destiny has yet to be seen. By being a truly gifted musician and a driven entrepreneur, he has accomplished unprecedented success for an artist that has no major label backing. With his new 2015 smash single “Real Chick”, a nationwide tour, and a revamped sound, 2015 will be the year of Josh X. Things are definitely moving for this talent. Josh co-wrote the song “Ready to Go” with Swizz Beats for this hit show Empire which happens to be one of their biggest song to date and is featured in a Pepsi commercial with Jussie Smollett. Josh is set to hit the road on a US Tour with Love and Hip Hop reality star and rapper Cardi B this summer. Be sure to stay tuned with Josh via his social media channels: Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Global Language Project presents the 4th annual “My Dream Speaks” gala

Angela Jackson, founder of The Global Language Project speaks.

On May 4, 2016, the Global Language Project (GLP) celebrated its 4th annual My Dream Speaks Benefit at the Cultural Services of the French Embassy in the Payne Whitney Mansion in New York City.

The My Dream Speaks initiative provides an opportunity to celebrate with special partners, supporters and friends who share an interest in improving the lives of socially disadvantaged public school students and empowering them to succeed in a globalized world.

“We launched Global Language Project to give inner city children a chance to be global citizens, breaking cycles of poverty and unemployment through foreign language learning,” says Angela Jackson, founder of GLP. “We will celebrate children’s lives that have been changed by our programs and highlight our latest initiatives that support and inspire our children to dream big!”

My Dream Speaks celebrates the aspirations of every child, regardless of socio-economic background, and the wider opportunities afforded them for being multilingual.

This year, the GLP presented Global Icon Awards to two outstanding honorees that have made substantial contributions to the world of children’s education, language learning, diversity and corporate responsibility through their professional endeavors. Both have been ardent champions for a generation ready to compete in a globalized world: NAXOS of America, Inc., the world’s largest classical music label and producer of GLP’s music CD’s for children; and Ms. Roberta Graves, President of the Black Enterprise Bridge Foundation.

The event kicked off with a performance by students who are a part of the language programs where they were also able to showcase what they had learned. For more information about the program, visit their website.

KEANU’ Screening Hosted by VIBE – Thurs, April 28, 2016 in New York City

On Thursday, April 28, 2016, various New York influencers flocked to AMC 19th Street to enjoy a special screening of the new film KEANU hosted by VIBE Magazine. The screening kicked off with an introduction from VIBE editor Mike Yi followed by a night of raucous laughter, as guests enjoyed the film starring: Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele, Method Man,Tiffany Haddish, Jason Mitchell, Will Forte and Luis Guzman.

The movie is the first for the two comedians and is a feature for full of laughs that viewers will enjoy. Members of the press and other notables were a part of the audience to be some of the first to check out the film.

Special attendees included Raven Symone (The View), Yandy Smith (Love & Hip Hop NY), BBOD’s Moe (Love & Hip Hop NY), Dutchess (Black Ink Crew), Puma (Black Ink Crew), Monifah (R&BDivas Atlanta), and Terez Thorpe (R&B Divas Atlanta). KEANU is currently in theaters!