Redbox and Lee Daniel's The Butler For the Win

I wish I saw Lee Daniel's The Butler in a theater. Buying a copy via Redbox and then viewing it on my laptop did not have the same effect. A powerful film, even with a embellished story line, can really be an eye opening experience for a public audience; particularly if that audience reflects different races, genders, generations. This movie, which has quite the star studded cast, is a reminder of a America's racist bigotry. Some might say it is a reflection of the present (read: Donald Sterling). The movie portrayed an uncomfortable number of contradictions and ironies that black Americans faced before and during the civil rights movement. The protagonist, Cecil Gaines, is trained as wait staff for a white family as a youngster. He later moves north and settles in Washington, D.C. for a 'better' life. The opening scenes are dramatic and since I am not a fan of major spoiler alerts, so in that vain I have abbreviated the movie's sequence of events. 

At that time, D.C. was 'less racist' compared to the gritty South.  Cecil excels at his work and gets noticed. Fast forward a bit and he earns a spot with the White House kitchen staff. I was pretty pleased to see Lenny Kravitz and Cuba Gooding Jr. work alongside Forest Whitaker's character. I thought they both did great. My favorite performance came from the one and only, Oprah Winfrey. I forgot how amazing she is as an actress. Wow! Two thumbs up, Mrs. Winfrey. 

I am sure the predominantly black kitchen staff found it peculiar that they were serving their President and therefore their country, all the while earning less pay and recognition than their white counterparts. Never mind they were U.S. citizens with certain unalienable rights. The real Cecil Gaines, Eugene Allen, served eight presidents throughout his 34-year year career. If that is not service, I do not know what is. 

The Washington Post brought Mr. Allen's story to light in a front-page news story back in 2008. Ironically, I distinctly remember reading that article and coming away with a profound appreciation for that writer sharing this very unique life story with the world. Soon thereafter, Columbia Pictures bought the right to Allen's life, according to Wikipedia. And the rest, as they say, is history. 

I sometimes wonder how I would have managed, survived, dealt with living in a segregated life. Literally, the opportunities I have had in the past would not be possible in an age and society in which my worth was less than because my skin color. That's not to say, racial or discriminatory situations have not presented themselves. They have and they will most likely be a part of my life - for better or worst.
                         
Certain scenes in the movie were very difficult to watch. A few times, I found myself looking away from my screen. Sometimes you cannot handle the truth. If nothing else, the movie is a not-so-friendly reminder of how far we have come and how far we need to go.

I am forever indebted to countless everyday heroes like Eugene Allen. I am fully aware that to much is given, much is expected.

If only everyone thought the same. If only...

Chip Off the 'Ol Herblock

It all came back to me.

That feeling that I was missing something. Or that something was missing me. Perhaps, both...? 

I could not believe my eyes as I peered into the window panels of the double doors of the Coolidge Auditorium. One step away from a journalism legend. Mr. Bob Woodward. In town like D.C., his name still rings true, well depending on where you fall on the political spectrum. Regardless, I could not believe my luck that I still got an invite for the annual Herblock Prize. It's a combination of an award ceremony and lecture, plus mingling and munchies afterward. This year's winner was Jen Sorensen, the first female recipient. Her work is pretty darn good. I was unable to attend last year but when I received my invitation in the mail this spring, my RSVP was a swift affirmative. I invited a college friend but she had to back out at the last minute. Sucks for her. 

As a little kid, I honestly thought it was cool to wake up, eat cereal and read the newspaper. I have always been a voracious reader and a lover of words. For years, I would anxiously await the delivery of the Washington Post. I lived in a small apartment with my family but always used reading as an outlet to other worlds.

I distinctly remember learning about the Watergate scandal in school. The names Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein were just names I knew early on. I eventually read Katharine Graham's autobiography because of my fascination with the Post and its history, which includes Pulitzer Prize reporting from Woodward and Bernstein. (Herb Block also earned a few Pulitzers for her political cartoons). I highly recommend her book, Personal History! It's one of the best autobiographical novels I have read. 

Back the main event...

Being in a packed room at the Library of Congress with Bob Woodward on stage was inspiring and fun. His candid stories of his colleague and friend Herb Block were enlightening, humorous and insightful. Political cartoons carried a lot of weight and truly impacted the public's perception of national leaders and current events during that time. It was endearing to hear about Block's work and contributions from his colleagues. I had the pleasure of meeting a woman who worked directly for him for several years. All I can say is - it must have been an exciting time to be in journalism, especially at the Washington Post, especially in a place like Washington, D.C. 

Considering that I initially thought I would have a career in journalism, it was fitting to be at this event. I cannot wait to attend more in the future. 

Snow Day, Work Day

Las Vegas. 

So close, and yet so far away.

My connection flight to casino land was cancelled due to an massive snowstorm and now I am stuck in a Hilton Hotel for the day. Mixed blessings, I suppose, considering I do have freelance work to keep tabs on and still need to firm up my schedule for Social Media Week NYC.

A snow day is a great time to catch up on work or at the very least spend hours perusing my favorite blogs and websites, especially those covering New York Fashion Week. The hashtag, #nyfw, has been trending on Twitter for the past few days - in case you missed it.

I have to buckle down and dig deep to write a draft guest blog post about my career change that began in 2012. Raven Robinson reached out to me and pitched this idea to share my story of leaving my job and shifting gears professionally. She's a certified career coach and is creating a series of posts specific to "taking big leaps of faith". I cannot believe it has been sixteen long, intense months of networking, doubt and research (read: Internet stalking) to name a few. One of my closest friends always tell me to 'trust the process'. This past year has been quite the process and I know there is so much more ahead.

Let the writing begin.

For Real This Time

My first post in 2014. #abouttime

So many really good posts, locked - not out of heaven - but in my head. Since leaving blogging behind to manage the blog and social content for the startup I worked at, I only really had time to blog in my head. Seriously, there were some good posts but it is a shame I never took the time to sit and type. (I almost wanted that to read 'sit and write').

I have to ease into blogging because dare I say.. my editing might be better than my writing and blogging. Oh snap. Sound the alarm! For most of 2013, I consumed so much content and media. Magazines, blogs, videos, social media, people watching on mass transit. That is a lot of information to take in on daily basis. I am certainly more hip to what's going in the digital space and how it affects us, as people, and brands online and offline. Digital discourse is quite fascinating and in 2014, I look forward to more of it.

Remember my first post? Way back when, ahem 2012, I just started blogging and kept it up for awhile. I have yet to hit 100 posts, sadly. I am much more confident in my voice, both online and offline, so it's only appropriate that I share my thoughts. All I can hope, plan and pray for is less trying, more blogging.

For real this time.

Sunday RoundUp, Heads Up: Events & Emails

Wow! August is  little more than half way done. Phheww. 

I wish I had a longer summer considering I spent most of it pounding the pavement during Startup Institute. I really need to make a list of fun activities and places to explore not only in New York city but in the surrounding localities. 

I'll have plenty of time to create adventures in the Big Apple. Wishful thinking perhaps? This past week, I spent most of my time in Cambridge, Massachusetts for our company conference (CompCon). The weather in Cambridge and Boston was delightful, though the majority of the conference was spent indoors. I had plans to visit Boston late last year but those were unexpectedly derailed. I am glad I was in town for a much better reason. 

Looking ahead, I have a bunch of networking events this week, which I hope I do not struggle in trying to find them. Eventbrite and meetup.com are both really good tools to find interesting events. There are so many startup and tech-related events, many of which are free or low-cost. I'll do a better job of posting pictures, maybe through Instagram? We'll see. I also have a ton of emails but am doing a little better at managing them via Contactually. I know of Boomerang as well but I'm going to stick to one tool at a time. 

Here's to another productive, happy, challenging week!

- Ijeoma 

Thursday Thoughts: Joining Instagram

Still getting back into the swing of these but thought I would share an update.

I. Joined. Instagram.

It's the first app I downloaded on my smartphone (representin' Samsung Galaxy 3). Literally, the icon appeared on my home screen almost immediately. It's so cute.

Also, cute, are these photos that I found via Google Images. Thank me later.

- Ijeoma

Tuesday Tweets: Kathryn Finney Is Taking Names

Tuesday nights are always a good time especially when I join the #didtechtalk hosted by the much needed @DigUnDiv. The last few tweetchats have been chokeful of information with noted guests like @jessicalawrence to @kathrynfinney to @iluvvit. I follow all three of these women (and you should too).

Funny enough, tonight's #didtechtalk featured one of my colleagues, Shaun Johnson (@idealexit), co-founder of Startup Institute. It's definitely a small world because I work with him now and I just so happened to be sitting steps away from him as he was live tweeting (hilarious by the way).

@DigUnDiv @idealexit I know Shaun. This should be fun! #didtechtalk
— Ijeoma S. Nwatu (@ijeomasnwatu) August 13, 2013

If you're interested in how to build, motivate and sustain a startup team, then take a looksy at the hashtag, #didtechtalk.


The tweet that made me do a double take was THIS ONE -

Expect to see both @ijeomasnwatu AND @AmaMarfo applying to be #FOCUS100 fellows this year. #didtechtalk
— Kathryn Finney (@KathrynFinney) August 13, 2013

I shrieked! And then realized I got called out.. on Twitter... by Kathryn Finney. Cue meme!

Well, I was actually just saying hello (via a *wave*) to my colleague Ama (@ama), who is based in California now. And then, in pops Ms. Finney into the tweetchat, announcing to everyone that the both of us should apply to be fellows. If you are unfamiliar with the Focus100 conference, then head over to http://www.digitalundivided.com/focus100/ for all the deets. Tell your friends. 

I definitely want to go but not as a fellow because I am not a founder nor do have an MVP. Maybe someday, just not today. Volunteering is not an option because there are only a few slots with a surplus of applicants. I still have time to toy with other options like having my company pay for me to attend (#winning) but we'll see. 

The main point of this post and Tuesday Tweets is to highlight awesome content like chats, links, a meme or two, etc. via Twitter. The one Kathryn sent takes the cake, personally. She's like a fairy tech godmother but with better hair and a bold personality. Can't wait to meet her in person! 

Ahh... not too shabby for a Tuesday, not too shabby at all. 

- Ijeoma

P.S. @christineceline co-signed too, lol. Check what she's working on @iamdtech and sign up for their newsletter! 

Make it Happen Monday: Blog Post Reflection

Two semi-major developments that recently occurred deserve a little atención (that's "attention in Spanish).

I made the jump and changed my Twitter handle. I did a few key searches for "how to pick a Twitter name". You laugh, but I did! I knew the answer; not to say there is an A+ answer. I more so wanted to see what responses I would find on the interwebs. I went from Lucky_IJ which corresponds with my blog, for the time being, to.... my name.

Earth shattering. Not. You can now find me on Twitter via my new handle, @ijeomasnwatu.You will see more tweets about user experience (UX), social media, startups, photos from New York City, #learntodo tweets via SINY and so much more. Satisfaction guaranteed!

Last week, I found some time to finally write a post for the Startup Institute blog. Long overdue but I was able to pitch two ideas into one post. I reviewed highlights of the second and third weeks to ensure a heartier post and bit more reflection. Here is the link - http://blog.startupinstitute.com/post/54127168413/weeks-2-3-at-siny

Honestly, I cannot believe it's July. The year is  half way done. I cannot imagine how I will feel at the end of 2013. Let's hope all of this work - networking, studying, building things - comes to a beautiful conclusion, or perhaps a new beginning.

Until next Monday, make IT happen!

- Ijeoma

Thursday Thoughts: Black Girls Code

Black Girls Code swag. #changetheratio

I am a big fan of Black Girls Code and its founder, Kimberly Bryant (@6gems). This is really a beautiful and exciting movement to educate the next generation of girls and people of color to innovate and create technology. I was fortunate enough to attend a viewing of their documentary short. I watched it after seeing a tweet with a link to the video a few months ago. There is a stark dichotomy of watching the fifteen minute documentary on your laptop and seeing it with a roomful of black women.

Mind blown. 

There were a few non-black attendees and a guy or two, which is great because this space needs as many supporters as possible. Out of all of the recent events I've been to, from pitch competitions to networking happy hours to conferences, I have never been in a room where the majority of the attendees were brown people.What a refreshing feeling to be in a space where others look like you and are interested in technology and innovation! I was thoroughly annoyed that I got lost trying to find St. Franis College and missed the networking portion of the program but I was more than satisfied with just getting there.

One of my Startup Institute classmates, Danie, was there too. I forwarded her the Eventbrite ticket earlier in the afternoon because I know the event would be a good fit for her as a web developer. She seemed so pumped to get a New York chapter going and I really hope she connected with the right individuals to do so.

I had another engagement to attend later in the evening with some of my other Startup Institute classmates and employees at Lean Startup Machine at The Randolph near Little Italy. I really like the work that Lean Startup does all over the world. LSM is innovating and changing the way ideas are conceptualized and proven. Plus, one of colleagues from Mason works there. Shoutout to Sirfaraz (plus Sam + Rafael)

I am definitely looking forward to more tech and startup related events in New York City. Now, if only I can reduce my propensity for getting lost...

- Ijeoma

Tuesday Tweets: Learn to Do

I have been in New York for exactly ten days now. The program is coming along and I expect it to get more intense. Unfortunately, I have extremely limited Internet access at my aunt's house in the Bronx AND there is limited Internet capabilities at the Startup Institute office. I figured that I would post during my lunch break. To check out all the comings and goings, I recommend following the #learntodo hashtag as well as my handle @Lucky_IJ, which I will be changing soon, stay tuned. In the meantime, below are a couple of tweets from my classmates:

Great finish to week 1 at @StartupInst NY. Thanks @JDRichardsTech for capturing our group hug. #learntodo pic.twitter.com/UcFJGoOz5o
— Christina Wallace (@cmwalla) June 15, 2013

I suggested "Roses & Thorns" (Google it) and the group activity ended in a kumbaya group hug. I'm not in the picture because I was taking pictures, go figure.

In just 3 days @StartupInst , I'm already narrowing down which specific area of marketing I wish to pursue. #learntodo
— Henry Cameron Chang (@hcameronchang) June 13, 2013

Cameron, as he likes to be called, is in the technical marketing group like me. He's a fun guy who loves cars.

Hey @StartupInst Boston! any girls on the web dev track this year? Would love to connect. #siny #sib #learntodo
— Danie Banks (@Daniehacks) June 17, 2013

Danie is the only female web developer in the entire program! She is really easy to talk to and has a passion for social good. Definitely connect with her!

More tweets and Twitterness to come.

- Ijeoma

Whatever Happened to Wednesday?

"I thought about how easily we are all brainwashed by our society and culture to stop thinking and just assume by default that more money equals more success and more happiness, when ultimately happiness is really just about enjoying life."

- Tony Hsieh, Delivering Happiness, New York Times Best Seller

One of my books to finish this week is Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion And Purpose by the CEO of Zappos.com, Inc., Tony Hsieh. His last name is pronounced, "shay", in case you were wondering. It's been on my reading list for quite awhile. Thankfully, my sister-in-law had a fresh copy she picked up at an airport awhile back. Funny, I tend to buy business magazines when I fly but maybe I need to start purchasing books for long flights.

In reading this quirky, autobiographical business memoir I realized that I need to share more wisdom. Delivering Happiness is all about learning from past mistakes and offering advice from someone who has had many highs and lows, personally and professionally. It's an informal, fun read packed with gems of wisdom, the process of building a brand and living a purposeful life. 

I am more than half way through his story and I cannot wait to get to the end. I really appreciate his authenticity and willingness to live a happy life. Clearly his life is less stressful than most, since  Zappos.com was acquired by Amazon a few years for over $1 billion. Someone's sitting pretty.

Regardless of his financial security, you have to read the book to respect his hustle and the lessons he learned along the way. It takes a lot of grit and a tad bit of craziness to earn the list of accomplishments he has on his resume.

Though I have not posted on Wednesdays because I have yet to profile a women entrepreneur, I am dedicating future hump days to "Wisdom Wednesday". From books, magazines, blog posts, conferences, interviews and everything in between, there is a lot of wisdom to share.

If happiness is about enjoying life as Mr. Hsieh states, then for me, imparting knowledge and wisdom to others makes me happy. To learn more about the book, visit www.deliveringhappiness.com.

Let the wisdom building, wisdom sharing begin!

- Ijeoma


Want more? Follow me on Twitter, @Lucky_IJ and  Pinterest. 

Make it Happen Monday: Personal Touch

It's June already! This time two weeks ago, I was in New York City attending a conference. It was hot as Hades and I was really looking forward to going home. Little did I know, that my Megabus ride would probably be one of my worst. The details are not worth sharing. It certainly was not as bad as last time but it's one I would like to forget. Note to self: Bring plenty of water.

That particularly trip set the stage for quite an exhausting week, ending in me falling ill. All of my grinding came to a halt about a week and a half ago. My throat, more like my nodules, were uncharactersially sore and swollen. I attritbute my sudden bout of illness to stress and fatigue. It was bound to happen. It's been two weeks and I feel a lot better, especially since several of my projects and engagements were successful. More on that later. I am happy to be blogging again. Now, let's get back to business.

I've wrapped up a least one internship and a part-time job. I have a few more projects to conclude so I can focus all my energies on my big move to the BIG apple. Countdown check: 5 days.

Aside from making my life more manageable by sleeping more, I am spending today and tomorrow in snailmail mode. For many years now, I've made it a habit to handwrite thank you notes and letters of appreciation whenever I leave an internship, job, program or a similar opportunity. I am knee-deep in stationary at the moment but love every minute of expressing my gratitude.

I'm making it happen this Monday by putting pen to paper, literally. Emails are certainly faster and more convenient but sometimes the road less traveled is more meaningful.

- Ijeoma


Want more? Follow me on Twitter, @Lucky_IJ and  Pinterest. 

Make it Happen Monday: In New York City....Again

I'm going, going, back back to   New.   York.   City!

Well, actually I just left The Big Apple a la the Megabus. I took an Amtrak train to Penn Station and headed Uptown to attend Brandcamp U this afternoon. Check out their hashtag #iwnybcu13 for the play-by-play. The all-day branding event is part of Internet Week in the city and featured big names in digital media. I missed the crew from Startup Institute New York by a little bit.  I caught Lynne's (@lynneluvah) digital storytelling presentation; complete with simple tips and samples of brands who successfully managed and communicated their digital stories. Her five takeaways were as follows:

1. Understand your audience. 
2. Know the meaning of your brand.
3. Create a story that connects. 
4. Listen and engage (my personal favorite).
5. Learn!

I came at the tail end but I had the opportunity to connect with folks afterwards, including one of my Startup Institute classmates. Shoutout to Damone; and kudos to Kristina of Villarini Maclean for asking a really good question during the last session about when to say "No".

Your read that right. Yours truly got accepted to Startup Institute. I know what you're thinking - "What about Boston?" Well, what had happened was...

I got accepted but the SI team thought I would be a better fit in NYC. Truth be told, they are right. I always said I would NEVER EVER live in the concrete jungle but I plan to do just that this summer. I am really excited and ready to eat, sleep and live my SI experience.

Like I mentioned before, I was prepared regardless of the outcome. I am really glad everything worked out though. I remember finishing my application literally minutes prior to the midnight deadline. I actually had to coach myself to click on the send button. I have no idea why I was terrified of applying in the first place. I never intended to procrastinate instead I kind of ignored the application entirely, thinking of dumb reasons as to why I would not earn acceptance into the program.

Lame. Not doing that again. Go big or go home. Looks like I'm going to New York City!!!!

This has been another awesome edition of Make it Happen Monday. :)

- IJ

Want more? Follow me on Twitter, @Lucky_IJ and on Pinterest.

Guest Post: New York Notebook's Guide to Spring

***Special thanks to Jody of New York Notebook for guest blogging.***

For months, it’s been difficult to discern whether or not spring is among us. We’ve shivered on the sidewalk under cloudy skies claiming, “but it’s March April May!” then coming home with a sore throat. Nevertheless, spring is piercing the city with bursts of teasing sunshine and the days of T-shirt weather are beginning to manifest. Here is New York Notebook’s Guide to Spring… on a budget, of course.

There’s nothing more Spring-worthy than sipping iced coffee in Washington Square Park. Oren’s Daily Roast (31 Waverly) has got you covered. Also in the NYU adjacent area is the legendary IFC Center. This cinema plays consistently mind-expanding films and serves organic popcorn. This summer they’re playing films such as acclaimed French Something in the Air, Studio Ghibli’s gorgeous From Up on Poppy Hill, satirical documentary How To Make Money Selling Drugs and more. They’re also hosting a Terry Gilliam series until July 20^th and a Queer/Art/Film series until August 19^th. Did I mention they serve organic popcorn?

There’s nothing quite as enjoyable as eating out in spring weather. If, like many others, you’re seeking the best place to get pizza, then look no further. Prince St. Pizza at 27 Prince Street in Soho is the best I’ve found yet. Their thick crusts of crunchy pretzel bread, sweet sauce, homemade mozzarella and burnt-around-the-edges pepperoni make for one unbeatable (and cheap) slice. If you’re looking for something more scenic, then you’ll love Grimaldi’s (1 Front Street) under the Brooklyn Bridge.

If you’re hungry for something more unique, then try Caravan of Dreams (E. 6^th Street). All their food is vegan, which makes for some interesting inventions, such as cold Zucchini Spaghetti with Brazil Nut and Sesame ‘meat’balls, Wild rice and Cremini Risotto Croquettes and Seitan Taquitos. For dessert, avoid cupcake franchise Crumbs and instead go to Prohibition Bakery (9 Clinton Street). Their cupcakes are miniature bites of flavor, sweetness and real liquor of the highest quality.

Probably my favorite thrift store is Atlantis Attic (771 Metropolitan Ave) in Williamsburg. Find designer shirts for as little as three dollars. Beacon’s Closet (92 fifth avenue) in Park Slope is a little more fashion conscious. From here, you can walk to the lovely Prospect Park. It’s Brooklyn’s answer to Central Park and is currently chock full of cherry blossoms, fluffy grass and unemployed hipsters playing Frisbee.

If you’re looking for cocktails, there is no shortage of artisanal, well-crafted and daringly unique drinks. Soho’s Pegu Club (77 West Houston Street) has a cocktail called the Earl Grey Marteani, for lovers of that bergamot-scented savior. Tooker Alley in Prospect Heights (793 Washington Ave) is a dimly-lit period piece of a bar that serves a tongue-burning beauty called the Jala-Piña, made from pineapple white rum, serrano-infused honey syrup and lemon. I’ve not yet been to Pouring Ribbons (225 Avenue B) but I hear amazing things.

And finally, live comedy - the reason I came to live in New York in the first place. I love Sunday nights at The Knitting Factory (361 Metropolitan Ave) which are hosted by Hannibal Buress and feature upcoming local comedians and cameos from established worldwide names (did someone say Robin Williams?)

 

 The Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in Chelsea (307 West 26^th Street) showcase sharp and witty sketch comedy on Mondays at 9.30pm followed by free stand-up at 11pm. And if you manage to get tickets, you’ll have a blast at their famous improv show Asssscat 3000 on Sundays.

Now, get out there. After all, it’s spring!

-

Jody is a writer from London. In November 2012, Jody moved to New York City with no job, no apartment, no connections – nothing. She writes about the experience on her blog: www.newyorknotebook.net

Tuesday Tweets: Spread Light, Spread Literacy #SLSL2013

As promised, I will provide more information about the philanthropy project I'm participating in on behalf of Capital Cause, a young philanthropist organization based in Washington, D.C. If I recall correctly, I first learned of the organization at the end of 2010. I saw an email in a Yahoo! group from one of their board members as they were recruiting leadership for 2011-2012. I applied but did not get the membership director position. I was asked to be a volunteer and decided to support the organization. I've been a volunteer member ever since!

This spring, I signed up for one of their giving cirlces projects and was matched up with three other young philanthropists. A giving cirlces project is an intensive, 60-day fundraising initiative. Small groups of young philanthropists crowdsource their skills to crowdfund a project.

My team is made up of our group leader and only guy, Anthony, Krishana, and Shantae. Our Capital Cause advisor is Jalisa. Special shoutout to Darla, our Capital Cause liasion! Our challenge is to raise $2,000 for a public charter school in D.C. The funds will benefit 144 students and the school's online literacy tools as well as new laptops. For more information and to make a $25 to sponsor a letter on our keyboard, visit our fundraising page - www.spreadlightcc.eventbrite.com. Don't be shy, tell a friend, tweet and like our Facebook page. I've always been a bookworm, so this particular initiative is certainly worth my time (and hopefully yours).

Like previously mentioned, my role is to manage our social media presence which includes or Facebook page and tweets via our hashtag (#SLSL2013). I try to post relevant images, quotes and fundraising updates to our Facebook page. This week, I am ramping up our efforts to ensure we reach our goal. One of the ways I keep track of our hashtag is using Tagboard. You can do hashtag searches through Twitter but I learned of www.tagboard.com last week and I am huge fan. I like the interface and you can easily browse through uploaded photos as well - all in one convenient place.

Check out all of our tweets on my team's Tagboard page - http://tagboard.com/slsl2013. You will see tweets from all of us as well as photo uploads from our recent game night. If you want to join us, feel free to tweet about your favorite book, word or letter with the hashtag, #SLSL2013. While you're at it, make a donation.

I will keep you posted on us. Go Team Spread Light, Spread Literacy!

- IJ

Want more of Lucky IJ? Check me out on Pinterest and Twitter.  

Sunday Roundup, Heads Up: Motherly Advice

Happy Mother's Day to you and yours!

Don't you just love that everyone and their mother (pun intended) is posting pictures on Facebook and tweeting about their loved one. It's cute to see the warm fuzzies all over the Internet but you may want to watch the Mother's Day PSA from Twitter, in case you missed the memo.

Happy Mother's Day from my kindergarten self.

Festivities and appreciation aside, this week will be major! Before I get a head of myself, I have to give a shoutout to my giving circles project, courtesy of Capital Cause, Team Spread Light, Spread Literacy. Later in the week, I will share more information and feedback out the sixty day fundraising project I've been involved with since early March. My team has already raised over, $1,000 in about a two weeks. See for yourself and donate while you are at it. I came up with the team name and am responsible for managing our social media presence, including our Facebook page and tweets. Follow our hashtag, #SLSL2013 and support us! 

For my internship, I've initiated the social media strategy which culminated in a Twitter chat this past Tuesday. I have participated in many Twitter chats but never conducted one until last week. I had a guest panelist and promoted the event over the course of a few days, which included direct tweets to influential people and education based organizations. The Twitter chat was thirty minutes but easily could have lasted an hour. We had a handful of followers tweeting along with out hashtag and gained several new followers. Thanks to the data collection and analysis via SproutSocial, I can say that it was a good first chat and look forward to more. I used Storify to aggregate the chat discussion and to highlight the different followers. I think Storify is really useful in keeping Twitter chats organized and cataloged for future reference.

Last week was busy but I had good developments. I am hoping for the same positive outcomes for the final decision on my Startup Institute application. I first mentioned I was applying in March and now I'm in the last rounds. There was a Google Hangout with one of the founders, Aaron O' Hearn, on Friday. I like Google Hangouts a lot and find them really convenient to host meetings or just to "hangout" online. Aaron's insight and feedback was just what I needed to understand the program a bit more while meeting my potential colleagues. I'm nervous but ready no matter what the decision. 

My photoshop class ends this week as well. Sad face. I had no idea how complex Photoshop is but am thankful that I can at least navigate my way. I don't have Photoshop on my laptop or desktop but Adobe Creative Cloud is apparently the way to go for professionals. My instructor recommended Sumopaint, which has been fun to use. My design skills and knowledge will only get better and better. 

Before I end this post, I have to offer some of my mother's advice to the world. 

1. Family is the most important thing.
2. When you wash the dishes, clean the entire sink and the stovetop.
3. Take care of your health. <--- This is really important, as my mom is a nurse and attests to a good diet, exercise and sleep. 

Cheers to motherly advice - past, present, future.

- IJ

Want more of Lucky IJ? Check me out on Pinterest and Twitter.  

Thursday Thoughts: New York State of Mind

Two weeks ago, I was in New York City to attend NYTech Day. The weather was mild but thankfully the sunshine was aplenty, making my walk from Columbus Circle to the Hudson River bearable. My trip was brief, nevertheless it was a good experience being in a space trolling with startups and entrepreneurs. Though I would have liked to have seen more diversity within the startups and attendees, there were hundreds upon hundreds of startups showcased which was a thrill for me. 

Prior to my trip in April, the last time I was in NYC was for my first blogging conference, BlogHer. I wrote about that experience and continue to think about that random inclination to buy a ticket for Pathfinder day. I was lucky that I had a group of friendly, supportive women. I still keep in touch with Anne of Peach Prenni too.

I guess, New York City is just one of the places. It's almost like a slightly addictive drug, but one that your doctor feels comfortable prescribing. It's truly a city that never sleeps, where every living soul has a dream, passion, hope, wish. I try to travel to NYC a few times a year just to get a jolt, or rather an injection of zest from the "concrete jungle" as Alicia Keys croon.

I will venture back to the Empire State for Brand Camp University. By happenstance, or luck, I saw a tweet about it and thought I need to step up my branding game. That, and I think camps are fun. I will be staying overnight catching up with friends and capturing as many photos as possible. This time, I will be ready.

In keeping with a the New York State of Mind theme, Jody of New York Notebook, will be my first guest blogger for next week's Thursday's Thoughts. She has a fun blog and a bunch of suggestions for enjoying the city on a budget.  Who knows, maybe we can move our Twitter conversations to IRL (in real life) conversations. Thanks Jody!

Jody's banner for her blog, New York Notebook.
Source: newyorknotebook.net

I love the banner that she uses for blog. NYC here I come... again.


- IJ


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Friday Faves List

It's been awhile since I penned a list of my favorite things. This list is a bit overdue but better late than never. No pomp and circumstance, let's get to it.

So.. the last few days and weeks have utterly crazy. Aside from the $100 parking ticket I got when I traveled to New York recently, it's all been very positive. I have met amazing women entrepreneurs and leaders from all walks of life. Their stories have been enriching and motivating. Here is snippet of recent adventures in no particular order.

• The week I returned from the Midwest was jam packed but one event sticks out so clearly to me. Thanks to Kezia of Capital Cause, I was able to attend a private event for African-American women at a well-known executive building... that happens to the opposite of black... and has a lot of security... it's in the District of Columbia... you get the idea. I honestly cannot remember the last time I was in a room with beautiful, educated, fashionable black women. It was like a room full of Olivia Popes! I got to hear really unique stories about women who support the President and First Lady in very stressful, demanding and high-profile positions. All ages were represented and it was a glorious sight to see older women get emotional about their professional careers and the struggles they faced as women of color. I have their calls for progress and passion to pay it forward etched in my brain. Shout out to Jilliene and Larcus! They were brave and sat in the front row with me. Pleasure to meet such driven young women. 

Jilliene, Larcus and yours truly. 

 

 

 

• The panel event I dreamed up is coming along slowly but surely. I've confirmed four panelists and a date, May 22nd at my alma mater, George Mason University. At first it was an idea in my head and now it's an event that is less than three weeks away!
• I've been interested in public relations for awhile now and my internship has helped me learn a thing or two. I finally wrote my first press release and it was approved with flying colors. Yes!
• Earlier this week, I met up with Amaka who is working on a crowdfunding startup to support women entrepreneurs. We are working together and it's been going well thus far. Her energy is so big and electric. Go Amaka! 
• I blogged about my writeup for the Blogatech summit on Monday and since then, it was retweeted a couple of times by some of my faves, Ananda Leeke and @digundiv! Even better news... I am of one of three featured bloggers for BeBlogalicious. Look out for my post later this month.

I could go on. No really, I could. There's so much more. And I have the pictures to prove it! I'm doing a better job of taking my camera and not only uploading photos but editing and creating videos too. The possibilities for content creation and development are endless at this point.

This list is just a snippet of some of my favorite experiences in the last few weeks. I feel lucky that I can share these moments. Happy Friday!

- IJ



Want more of Lucky IJ? Check me out on Pinterest and Twitter.  

Make it Happen Monday: Work It. Write It.

It's happening....

The rhythm of writing. The ideas flowing smoothly, succinctly. I remember this feeling right around Thanskgiving. I was bubbling with joy. And then I had a slight bump and eventually took a break in preparation for a new blog design that never happened. (Note: Don't work with lame designers). I also had a death in my extended family at the end of 2012 which certainly did not produce a level of creativity and happiness that I strive for in my writing style.

In the past week alone, writing, content creation and development, and pure brainstorming have taken over my life - and I LOVE it. I am not sure how it all happened but I know a Gchat conversation with Cristina Roman (@cmroman) surely had my juices flowing. We had first connected when I emailed her after reading a post she wrote for Levo League. She was thorough in her response to my inquiry and even offered to link back to my blog, which at the time was just itty bitty thing. Fast forward to a few days ago, I pitched an idea about a career-related post for her blog and readers. She enthusiastically gave her approval and now I'm off to the races to write my first guest post for another blogger Thanks Cristina!

Wait, there's more.

I recently wrote a review of BeBlogalicious Blogatech summit because it was that good of a networking/mini-conference. That blog post, which I tweeted to @beblogalicious, led to a guest spot on their website's blog! Check it out here.

Thanks Stacey for the opportunity. I had fun writing it.

So yes, this Monday has been a good one. A lot of writing, drafting, editing and connecting. Onward!

- IJ

Tuesday Tweets: Blogatech Recap

I had the utmost pleasure of spending a full day at the BeBlogalicious summit, Blogatech, at the Microsoft Innovation & Policy Center (@MicrosoftIPC) in D.C. last week. I finally had the chance to meet face-to-face with women I follow on Twitter including the founder of BeBlogalicious, Stacy Ferguson (@justicefergie), Christine Celise (@christinecelise) of DiversiTech and Ananda Leeke (@anandaleeke) of Digital Sisterhood. These beautiful, intelligent women had great energy and were so supportive! Aside from the attendees, there were great speakers espousing tips and other gems about social media, blogging, consumer research, building an online platform and much more. Here are some tweets to give you a snapshot of the lessons and insights from the 2013 Blogatech summit

#Blogatech agenda

Uhhhh... @profallirich just asked us to trade cell phones with our neighbor. Hard to part with our tech. #BlogaTECH

— Blogalicious (@beblogalicious) April 18, 2013

• I think everyone freaked out when we this exercise was announced. It was interesting to see the reactions of relinquishing your phone, which turned out to be more personal than would guess.

When starting a biz begin by taking inventory of ur friends' skillset to access necessary rsvs to help you launch.@blerdology#Blogatech

— DiversiTech (@IamDtech) April 18, 2013

• Solid advice if you are thinking of launching your own product or venture. Reach out to your personal networks first and go from there. Maximize without spending money!

@geturbizmobile Thank you! I really enjoyed #BlogaTech. I always get inspired and meet great people @beblogalicious events!

— Julie Diaz-Asper (@JulieDiazAsper) April 19, 2013

• Julie's presentation was really funny. Her first point was, "Don't be boring" when using social media. Enough said.

So much useful knowledge. I look forward to more Blogalicious events and engaging conversations and continued support from the women I met. Cheers!

- IJ

P.S. Super excited that I got to meet the women behind Blerdology, kat calvin and Amanda Spann! #blerd