Thoro Gem Thursday: Jenifer Lewis

"But a true diva has dismissed that drama. A true diva's heart is open, and she's ready to play by her own rules - rules that are gentle and kind."- Jenifer Lewis

What better way to kick off Women's history month than bragging about wonder of a woman! This week's thoro gem is the beautiful award -winning actress, author, singer, comedian, and activist, the legendary Jenifer Lewis. She is a pillar not just in the black community but also the industry. I just recent download her book, The Mother of Black Hollywood, A Memoir, and its full of laughs, jewels of wisdom and plain ole real talk. Of course she reveals the highs and lows of her career and also being diagnosed with bipolar disorder. If you're a reader this is definitely one to add to your collection.
Her body of work truly speaks for its self, so do I really need to say much?! Yes I do. 55 movies, 30 tv roles , She's earned it.

From Tina Turner's momma in What's Love Got to Do With It, Ruby Johnson on the hit TV series Black-ish and my favorite character of hers, Aunt Lettuce in the movie Dirty Laundry, where she played the loud, meddling sister to actress Loretta Divine and aunt to the main character played by Roc Dunbar who comes out as gay to his southern family shortly after a surprise visit by his white boy.

Jenifer Lewis brings a precise level of excellence and melanin magic to screen that is never forgotten. So much so, that you almost feel like you've encountered her as if she's had to lift your head up by the chin, look in your eyes after gently wiping tears away right before saying " Baby, cut all that crying bullshit out and pull yourself together. Aint' nobody got time for that." This lovely familiarity is the reason why most millennial's have gladly given her the honorary title of Auntie.




A Diva, Wise, and authentically Hilarious, Jenifer Lewis, you truly are a thoro gem.

Thoro Gem Thursday: Issa Rae

Since this is the last Thursday of the year I wanted to feature somebody who I not only admire but someone that has inspired me over this year. With that being said it's only right that I close out the year with this week's thoro gem is Issa Rae.

So....I have to be honest, I never heard of this magical black girl until the premiere of her hit show Insecure on HBO. After falling in love with the series and becoming more familiar with her work, I wish I was one of those people that can say I witnessed her journey from the beginning.

Through her writings and comedy, Issa expresses how beautifully frightening it is to be young, black, woke and especially a female in America. She concocts real life issues with a dose of lighter that anybody can relate to even if you're not first handedly affected by the topics. Whether you want to admit it or not she's just dope like that. From her debut with her web series entitled Awkward Black Girl to being the new face of CoverGirl, Issa demonstrates there is nothing you cannot have as long as faith is behind your gifts.

Not only does 2018 look to be promising for Issa with Insecure coming back for its third season but also it has been confirmed that she will be working on two new series with HBO. I'll be right in front of my TV with my snacks and in the company of my woes on black twitter.

If there was ever a time you doubted the transferring of energy, watching this gem would make you a firm believer that it is possible. You can't help but to be impressed with how humble and extremely honest she comes off. And not that ratchet " I'm going to say whatever is on my mind" honesty but that "this is who I am and I love me" honesty. This year, she has been one of the ladies that has encouraged me to continue writing when it felt pointless. Her drive, perseverance, and success has motivated the writer in me to wipe my tears, Boss up and tell the world that they `gon to get AAAAAL this black girl magic today.

Funny, Beautiful, Inspiring, and definitely for the culture. Issa Rae, you truly are a thoro gem.

IG: Issa Rae
WEBSITE: www.issarae.com