Marchelle “Tig” Washington: Trigger Happy

Usually a story of triumph and courage is left to the professionals at Disney. One exception is the real-life tale of Marchelle “Tig” Tigner, a black woman who chose to be a survivor instead of a victim of her circumstances. Marchelle is the owner of Trigger Happy Firearm Instruction. She noticed a lack of female representation in the gun community and felt compelled to couple her military background with her passion for women’s self-defense to teach women effective shooting and firearm safety.

After overcoming a sexual assault, Marchelle decided instead of owning a “victim” status she would become a “survivor” and vowed to help one million women be prepared in the face of danger. Based in Savannah, Georgia, Marchelle travels around the country teaching women the fundamentals of firearm safety, shooting and dispelling the myth that women only want pretty and colorful weaponry. 

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Ibtihaj Muhammad: Devotion

Women face many conflicts in the sports. They are often underpaid, underrepresented, overworked and objectified. From the rise of sexual assault allegations to the physical and mental strain from competing, being a woman in sports is a tough job. However, no one makes this tough job seem easy like Olympian Ibtihaj Muhammad. She made history after becoming the first Muslim-American woman to compete in the Olympics while wearing a Hijab in 2016. The illustrious member of the United States Fencing Team sparked many conversations about Muslim women in sports and most importantly in America.

US Ibtihaj Muhammad reacts competing against France's Cecilia Berder in their womens individual sabre qualifying bout as part of the fencing event of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, on August 8, 2016, at the Carioca Arena 3, in Rio de Janeiro. / AFP / Fabrice COFFRINI (Photo credit should read FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP/Getty Images)

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Prabal Gurung: An Evolution

There’s certainly no shortage when it comes to fashion designers. Year after year, fashionistas around the globe anxiously await Fashion Week that floats around to so many different cities. The ability to evolve as a designer is crucial in such a saturated market, and that’s exactly Prabal Gurung’s specialty.

First Lady Michelle Obama and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge have (at least) one thing in common: impeccable style. Who is the designer that links these two? Prabal Gurung. One aspect that sets Gurung apart from the rest is his ability to adapt. Gurung believes that fashion is forever changing - so his designs should be, too.

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Black Veil Brides: Married to the Music

This American band has been around for a little over ten years and has gained a lot of support from fans. The group has also built a solid reputation in the rock music world. Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Black Veil Brides, currently resides in Hollywood, California. Currently, their fans are anticipating their tour in 2018, and their new album called Vale. Even though the group members have changed overtime, some things have remained pretty consistent. The five rock stars are Lead Vocalist Andy Biersack, Bassist and backup vocalist Ashley Purdy, Lead Guitarist Jake Pitts, Rhythm Guitarist and Violinist Jinxx and Christian “CC” Coma on drums. Quite like a machine, each person’s talent helps the band function as a whole. 

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Bimba Y Lola: #THISISFASHION

For just over a decade, fashion brand, Bimba y Lola, has proven to be a major contender in the fashion game. The line was started in 2006 by sisters, Maria and Uxia Dominquez, the affordable, ready-to-wear brand is set to reach new heights as the brand sets out to expand globally.

Since the brand's inception in 2006, Bimba y Lola has managed to create a fashion empire worth millions. The company raked up nearly $180 million last year alone. Bimba y Lola has 225 stores in 16 countries spanning across Europe, Asia and Latin America and plans to open 20 more flagship locations in the very near future. Although there’s not any talks of an U.S. store opening, that does not stop true fashionistas from copping the Spanish-based designs online. 

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Old Lady Gang: Taste the Community

The restaurant buzzed with excitement as hungry guests waited to be seated. “You see how bright it is,” one woman commented as she pointed at the rustic brick walls that had been painted white. “It’s kind of modern and kind of industrial at the same time,” she concluded. Her friend, rocking an auburn afro, nodded in agreement. “Of course it is. You know Kandi’s got style.”

Although the restaurant has been open for more than a year, it was still the place to be. Located at 177 Peters Street in Castleberry Hill, one of Atlanta’s trendy artistic neighborhoods, the restaurant has gained an increasing amount of popularity for its connection to reality tv star Kandi Burruss. But as I waited in line, seduced by the smell of home-made soul food and staring at pictures on the three family members turned managers on the wall, I couldn’t help but feel warmth of home. Despite her fame, singer-songwriter, actress, record producer and Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kandi Burruss-Tucker’s restaurant seemed authentic and down to earth. “Welcome to Old Lady Gang,” an upbeat server announced as she escorted me to my table. A lively group of young adults sitting at the bar laughed heartily as I followed the waitress, wondering what all Old Lady Gang had to offer.

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