Striking a Balance: Marc Esannason’s Insight on Balancing Creativity and Business for Young Creators
In the dynamic world of creativity and innovation, my passion, unique ideas, and insatiable desire to make my mark on the industry have driven me to be a successful creative entrepreneur. However, amidst the excitement of my artistic expression, there is an essential aspect that is mostly overlooked—the business behind being a creative entrepreneur. As a Creative Director with years of experience in the industry, I have come to believe that too many young creators focus solely on their creative endeavors, neglecting the crucial aspects of entrepreneurship, business. Creativity is the lifeblood of any artistic field. It is what drives innovation, distinguishes artists and creators from one another, and captivates audiences. I always ask creators “What is their favorite board game?” The majority of the time their answer is Monopoly. I then follow up with a second question, “Where on the Monopoly board does it say “Move five pieces and gain 100 Instagram followers?” Almost all starting businesses you see on social media are mimicking successful businesses. They are actually not really businesses in the sense of the word. It’s all about making an impression to look like something they are not. I sometimes ask to see their profit and loss (P&L) statement for their business and their reply is, what’s that? While creativity may be the driving force, the business side of the creative industry cannot be underestimated. I highlight the importance of understanding the marketplace, target audiences, and the strategies required to transform creative ideas into sustainable ventures. Building a successful career requires more than just talent; it necessitates a strong foundation in business acumen, marketing, branding, financial management, and networking. I believe that young creators should view themselves as both artists and entrepreneurs. By embracing the business side of their creative endeavors, they can amplify their impact and ensure long-term success. Here are a few key points to consider when embarking on a creative entrepreneurial path: Education and Skill Development:To thrive in the creative industry, creators must expand their knowledge beyond their craft. I actively seek opportunities to learn about business strategies, marketing techniques, negotiation skills, and project management. Engaging in workshops, courses, or mentorship programs offers a holistic understanding of the industry. Establishing a Professional Network:Networking plays a vital role in any creative industry. Building connections with like-minded individuals, industry professionals, and potential clients can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations. I attend industry events, join relevant communities, and utilize social media platforms to connect with peers and industry leaders. Business Planning and Strategy:Developing a solid business plan is crucial for young creators. I identify short and long-term goals, define my target audience, and outline strategies to monetize my creative work. Understanding pricing, contracts, copyright, and licensing helps protect my intellectual property and maximize revenue potential. Embracing Marketing and Branding:Effective marketing and branding strategies are key to establishing a strong presence in the industry. I create a compelling personal brand that reflects my unique style and values. Utilizing digital platforms, social media, and online portfolios allows me to showcase my work and attract potential clients or collaborations. Financial Management:While you are pursuing your creative passions, maintaining financial stability is essential. I would put together a monthly P&L to manage your budget, track expenses, and monitor the growth or scalability of your business. Establishing a sustainable income stream provides the freedom to focus on your craft without compromising financial security. My insights shed light on an often-overlooked aspect of the creative industry: the business of creativity. As a creative entrepreneur, I believe that by embracing the entrepreneurial side of my work and striking a balance between creativity and business acumen, I can scale my business, have a successful career, and achieve my goals at the same time.
Supreme Takes A Loss
The acquisition of popular streetwear brands like Supreme and Enyce by large corporations often leads to concerns among fans that these brands may lose their original allure and authenticity. When iconic streetwear labels become part of a corporate portfolio, there is a risk of diluting their unique identity and connection with their core audience. According to VF Corp, parent company of Supreme, the streetwear label recorded revenues of $523.1 million USD in the fiscal year ending March 2023. This marked a notable decrease of $38.4 million USD compared to the previous year, falling significantly short of VF Corp’s target of $600 million USD. Furthermore, Supreme’s net income also experienced a decline, reaching $64.8 million USD, down from the previous year’s figure of $82.4 million USD. Fans worry that the creative direction and design ethos of these brands may be compromised as they are integrated into larger corporate structures. The appeal of streetwear lies in its subcultural roots and rebellious spirit, which can be at odds with the mainstream approach often taken by big corporations. There is a fear that the brands may prioritize profit and mass appeal over their distinctive streetwear essence, leading to a decline in their cultural significance and exclusivity. However, it’s important to note that not all acquisitions result in the loss of a brand’s luster. Some corporations have managed to strike a balance between preserving the brand’s authenticity while leveraging their resources to expand its reach. Success stories include the acquisition of sneaker brand Converse by Nike, where the brand has maintained its identity and continues to resonate with its target audience. In conclusion, the acquisition of popular streetwear brands by large corporations can be a double-edged sword. While it provides opportunities for growth and expansion, there is a genuine concern among fans that these brands may lose their unique appeal and authenticity in the process. Finding a balance between corporate structure and maintaining the brand’s essence is crucial to ensure that the luster of these streetwear icons remains untarnished.
Celebrating Excellence: Maurice Malone Receives The Diaspora Award in Detroit
On May 28, 2023, the city of Detroit buzzed with excitement. Acclaimed fashion designer Maurice Malone was honored with the Detroit Diaspora Award. With a career that’s spanned decades and has left an indelible mark on the fashion landscape, Malone’s recognition was more than well-deserved. We look back on this event, which spotlighted the significance of such a prestigious award, and retrace the footsteps of Maurice Malone, a true visionary in the world of fashion. Fashion designer Maurice Malone and Jessica Care Moore at the Detroit Diaspora Awards, where the hometown Detroit designer was honored. Honoring the Diaspora: The Diaspora Award that evening served as a gleaming symbol, recognizing and celebrating individuals who had charted significant paths in their respective fields, embodying the spirit of the African diaspora. This award was not just a nod to raw talent and creativity; it also appreciated the inspirational aura that the recipients brought to their communities. Detroit shone a little brighter that night as filmmakers Kristian Hill and Jennifer Washington, artist Shirley Woodson Reid, Dell Pryor’s gallerist, and the indomitable entrepreneur and DJ Bruce Bailey were all recognized alongside Malone. Maurice Malone: A Trailblazer in Fashion: To say Maurice Malone is a trailblazer in the fashion industry might just be an understatement. From setting his roots in Detroit to planting his name globally with his eponymous label, Malone’s style and designs resonate uniquely. He’s acclaimed for his edgy denim creations and has an innate knack for challenging and reshaping traditional fashion norms with his audacious flair. Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Change: Beyond the sketches and fabric, Maurice Malone is a flagbearer for diversity and inclusion in the fashion corridors. He’s carved out spaces for underrepresented communities, tearing down barriers and sculpting paths for aspiring designers from varied backgrounds. His deep-seated commitment to inclusivity and his representation of the African diaspora make him more than just a designer; he’s an emblem of change and inspiration. The Journey to The Diaspora Award: Looking back, the journey that culminated in Maurice Malone receiving the Diaspora Award is painted with dedication, artistic splendor, and a perseverance that’s almost palpable. With designs that didn’t just appeal but captivate, Malone’s influence breached the confines of fashion and was etched into popular culture. Melding artistry with storytelling, his narrative finds resonance across the globe, solidifying his mantle as a designer with vision. A Time to Celebrate and Reflect: That evening, as Maurice Malone stood poised, accepting the Diaspora Award, it wasn’t just a personal triumph but a win for the entire fashion fraternity. That moment crystallized the potency of creativity, passion, and the gravity of cultural representation. It underscored the essence of acknowledging those who amplify their platforms to inspire. Revisiting Maurice Malone’s accolade in Detroit on May 28, 2023, isn’t just about a trophy. It’s a narrative of his monumental contributions to Detroit fashion and his staunch advocacy for diverse voices. As we reminisce about that night, it’s impossible to overlook the myriad doors Malone continues to open for designers of the future. His legacy? It promises to inspire, shatter conventions, and curate the fashion narrative for generations ahead.
Adidas Hit with Class Action Lawsuit: Shareholders Allege Negligence in Handling Ye Partnership Amid Controversy
Adidas is facing a class action lawsuit from investors who claim that the company’s executives were aware of the problematic behavior of Ye, previously known as Kanye West, for several years before terminating its partnership with the rapper. The lawsuit was filed on Friday, following the termination of the partnership in October due to Ye’s anti-Semitic remarks. The shareholders allege that the company knew about the risks associated with partnering with the rapper in 2018, yet failed to take measures to limit negative exposure. The suit cites the 2018 report, which discusses the risks involved in partnering with Ye and accuses Adidas of neglecting to acknowledge his extreme behavior while promoting the company’s commitment to having an equitable workplace and its strategic workforce management process, known as ‘People Strategy.’ Adidas first announced its partnership with Kanye West in November 2013, and the first Yeezy shoes were introduced in February 2015. Despite the controversy surrounding the rapper’s remarks on slavery in 2018, the Yeezy brand continued to thrive, generating about 10% of Adidas’ annual revenue in 2020. Although former CEO Kasper Rorsted and CFO Harm Ohlmeyer are named in the lawsuit, Ye is not named as a defendant. In February, Adidas announced that it expects to suffer a loss of $1.3 billion in sales this year as Yeezy clothes and shoes will not be available.
New Courses on Careers in the Cannabis Industry
Hello to all cannabis enthusiasts! On this 420 Day, April 20th, we not only commemorate the cultural significance and historical roots of cannabis, but we also advocate for its wider acceptance and decriminalization. Whether you’re an avid supporter or a curious novice, 420 Day serves as a communal forum to appreciate the myriad benefits of this extraordinary plant. 420 Day extends beyond mere celebration—it is an opportunity to reflect on the transformative impact of cannabis, particularly in terms of professional prospects. The rapid growth of the cannabis industry is paving the way for a wide range of job openings in areas such as cultivation, manufacturing, distribution, and retail. Anticipating billions in revenue, it’s fast becoming one of the most dynamic sectors in the economy. If a career in the burgeoning cannabis industry intrigues you, there’s never been a better time to take the leap. We’re thrilled to introduce our new online cannabis courses, tailored to provide a deep understanding of this vibrant industry. These cannabis industry courses encompass everything from diverse job roles and necessary qualifications to the latest industry trends and developments. Our online cannabis courses cater to everyone—from recent graduates on the lookout for their first job to experienced professionals considering a career transition. Equipped with comprehensive knowledge, these courses serve as your launchpad into the cannabis industry. This spring, we’re launching “Introduction to the Business of Cannabis”. In collaboration with the renowned cannabis education leaders, upLVL, we’re also offering a variety of other courses, such as “The Budtender Experience: The Science and Art of Budtending”, “Commercial Cultivation Essentials” featuring Krysta Jones and Sanja Ganja, and “Cannabis Processing – An Introduction”. Seize this opportunity to access valuable professional resources and certifications through our cannabis industry courses. Sign up for our online cannabis courses today, and embark on an enriching career journey in the cannabis industry. Celebrate this 420 Day by charting your path to success in the cannabis industry. Happy 420 Day! Learn More
Art Imitates Life: Vinnie Bagwell
Vinnie Bagwell is a renowned American sculptor, known for her representational-figurative art pieces that use traditional bas-relief techniques as visual narratives. Her preferred mediums are bronze and bronze resin. With a long list of awards and public-art commissions to her name, Vinnie has earned widespread recognition for her exceptional work in the field of sculpture. Born in Yonkers, New York, Vinnie’s gift for drawing was apparent from an early age. She honed her passion for painting during her high school years and went on to pursue a degree in art from Morgan State University. Vinnie is an untutored artist who started sculpting in 1993. In 1992, Vinnie Bagwell co-authored a book titled “A Study of African-American Life in Yonkers From the Turn of the Century” with Harold A. Esannason. She also contributed articles to various publications, including The Harlem Times and Gannett Suburban Newspapers/The Herald Statesman. Vinnie’s groundbreaking contributions to public art have played a significant role in reframing it to include historic Black images. Her first public artwork, “The First Lady of Jazz” at the Yonkers Metro-North/Amtrak train station, was commissioned by the City of Yonkers. It is the first public artwork of a contemporary African-American woman to be commissioned by a municipality in the United States. In Connecticut, her 7-foot-tall bronze statue of “Walter ‘Doc’ Hurley” was the first public artwork of a contemporary African American in the state. Vinnie is currently working on “The Enslaved Africans’ Rain Garden,” an urban-heritage public-art project commissioned by the City of Yonkers. The project features five life-sized bronzes to commemorate the legacy of the first enslaved Africans to be manumitted by law in the United States, 64 years before the Emancipation Proclamation. She is also in the process of creating “Victory…,” an 18-foot-tall angel outside New York City’s Central Park on Fifth Avenue at 103rd Street. The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation commissioned Vinnie to create the 7-foot-tall “Sojourner Truth” in 2020, to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment and the Women’s Suffrage Movement for the Walkway Over the Hudson in Highland. She has also received public art commissions from the District of Columbia Department of General Services for “What’s Going On!”, a statue of music icon Marvin Gaye, “The Man in the Arena” (Theodore Roosevelt), “Contraband,” and “The Immortals.” The City of Memphis commissioned “Legacies” at Chickasaw Heritage Park, and Hofstra University commissioned “Frederick Douglass Circle,” the 24-inch-tall maquette, which is the centerpiece of the Frederick Douglass Museum and Cultural Center in Highland Beach, MD. Vinnie Bagwell’s work has also extended to the theatre, with Director Ruben Santiago-Hudson commissioning her to create the piano artwork for August Wilson’s play, “The Piano Lesson” for the on-Broadway Signature Theatre in New York City. Her work has been exhibited at various venues, including the inaugural, year-long exhibition to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Freedom Rides at the new Freedom Rides Museum in Montgomery, where her 22-inch-tall bronze statue, “Liberté,” was displayed. Vinnie Bagwell’s creativity and exceptional talent as a sculptor have given voice to stories that might have otherwise gone untold. Her work is a testament to the power of art to convey meaning and preserve legacies. Social Media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@vinniebagwell Instagram: @vinniebagwell Facebook: Vinnie Bagwell https://makingabrand.co/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/vinnie-IG.mp4
Olivia Kelly: Building a Personal Brand in Gymnastics | Making History Now
Hailing from the Bronx, 16-year-old Olivia Kelly is making history as a Level 10 elite gymnast and inspiring young entrepreneur. Her mother, a former collegiate cheerleader, quickly recognized Olivia’s passion and talent for gymnastics and has helped her strive for greatness throughout her life. As a young and up-and-coming creative black entrepreneur, Olivia works hard to make her dreams a reality and uses sponsorship involvement to empower other young gymnasts. At just 16 years old, Olivia has achieved many impressive victories in her life thus far. A 2022 World Gymnastics Championship Qualifier A Barbados National Team member, Olivia began gymnastics at just three years old and began competing at the age of 6. As a 2022 World Gymnastics Championship participant, Olivia has won 19 all-around championships, 17 balance beam championships, 15 uneven bar championships, 16 floor exercise championships, and 11 vault championships. Her other awards include: New York State Champion New Jersey State Champion 3x Level 10 USAG National Qualifier USAG Eastern National Champion Region 6 Champion Region 7 Champion MSO Top 5 Gymnasts of the Year MSO Top 25 Gymnasts of the Year Chalk Warrior Gymnast of the Year Today, Olivia is recognized as one of the top young gymnasts in the world, and she has the sponsorships to prove it. But Olivia doesn’t just stop at being a great athlete; she also has a vision for a better world. Her mission is to use her experience and sponsorships as a platform to help other gymnasts and entrepreneurs reach her level of success. A Love of Gymnastics Becomes an Opportunity to Help Others At the age of 12, Olivia began attending an online school at her gymnastics academy. She’s also founded Leos 4 Liberty, a leotard donation organization that helps underprivileged youth gain access to the essential gear they need to continue their gymnastics training. In addition, she’s currently partnered with GK Elite Leotards and plans to publish a kids’ book this April. Sponsorships like these help Olivia continue to spread awareness and provide her with additional opportunities to help others. Olivia’s contributions have helped many families needing assistance pay for the costly gear associated with gymnastics. Between the cost of travel, leotards, and classes, some families struggle to keep up with the investment needed for their children to pursue their dreams. By donating essential leotards and using her sponsorships as a platform to help young gymnasts, Olivia has created an opportunity for many kids in need. She’s also become a role model for many students and peers by volunteering at pet supply drives, her local Thanksgiving soup kitchen, and clothes and food drives each year. Additionally, she participates in Angel Tree, a gift-giving program, to help children in need. Building Her Personal Brand For The Future Along with gymnastics, Olivia’s 3.7 GPA enabled her to receive numerous full athletic scholarship offers to attend college in 2024. She is proud to announce she has accepted one from the University of Missouri. In addition to academics, she is aspiring to be a model for brands like Fenty since she is a huge fan of Rihanna. She is also developing skills as an actress and using her athletic ability as a Hollywood stunt double to expand her brand on the big screen. Olivia is thoughtfully developing a well-rounded personal brand that will enable her to market herself lucratively while inspiring others and creating a lasting impact in the world. We can all learn from the resilience and passion of Olivia Storm Kelly. She’s an inspiring example of a young black creative entrepreneur who has harnessed her own successes to empower herself and others. With her bright future ahead, we look forward to witnessing Olivia’s brand make a lasting impact on the world. Be sure to check out Olivia in this April’s Scholastic Choices magazineand follow her on Instagram and YouTube.
DC Black History Month 2023
In celebration of Black History Month 2023, DC has exciting plans in store to mark the 30th anniversary of Milestone Media. Along with a series of collected editions and new launches, there will be Black History Month variant covers and a brand new anthology featuring the works of Black creators. Milestone Media’s 30th anniversary will be commemorated with the release of the Milestone 30th Anniversary Special, scheduled for March 7th. This 96-page one-shot will feature contributions from various writers and artists, including Evan Narcisse, Chuck Brown, Stephanie Williams, Denys Cowan, and graduates from the Milestone Initiative Talent Development Program. Additionally, Icon vs. Hardware, a five-issue miniseries by Reginald Hudlin, Leon Chills, and Cowan, and Static: Shadows of Dakota, a six-issue miniseries by Vita Ayala and Nikolas Draper-Ivey, will also be launched to mark the occasion. The Icon vs. Hardware miniseries will debut on February 14th, while the Static: Shadows of Dakota miniseries will be released on February 7th. In addition to these launches, DC and Milestone will be collaborating on Milestone Compendium Two, the second volume of the original Milestone releases from the 90s. This massive collection, over 1300 pages in length, will include the Worlds Collide crossover event that saw Milestone books join forces with DC’s Superman line for two months. To honor Milestone Media’s founding father, Dwayne McDuffie, DC will also be releasing The DC Universe by Dwayne McDuffie, a 280-page hardcover collection of his work on DCU titles. The collection will feature stories from various titles such as Action Comics, The Demon, Impulse, JLA Showcase 80-Page Giant, Batman: Gotham Knights, Sins of Youth: Kid Flash/Impulse, and Firestorm: The Nuclear Man. The DC Universe by Dwayne McDuffie will be released on February 7th. DC Power: A Celebration is another anthology that will be released during Black History Month. Like DC Pride, this anthology will feature stories of Black DC characters by top Black artists and writers, including Evan Narcisse, Stephanie Williams, Chuck Brown, Clayton Henry, Valentine De Landro, and more. The 100-page one-shot will include six all-new stories, as well as reprinting John Ridley and Olivier Coipel’s Batman: Black & White story and an excerpt from N.K. Jemisin and Jamal Campbell’s award-winning Green Lantern series, Far Sector. The all-new stories will include Cyborg by Morgan Hampton and Valentine De Landro, Aquaman and Kid Flash by Jordan Clark, Dorado Quick, and Clayton Henry, the Black Lightning family by Lamont Magee and CHRISCROSS, Amazing Man by Evan Narcisse and Darryl Banks, Vixen and Batwing by Chuck Brown and Petterson Oliveira, and Green Lantern John Stewart by Brandon Thomas and Natacha Bustos. DC Power: A Celebration will be released on January 31st. Lastly, to round off the celebration, DC will be releasing six Black History Month variant covers throughout the month. These covers will be available on regular books, and here’s a rundown of what to expect: February 7th – The Flash #792 variant cover with Wallace West/Kid Flash by Mateus Manhanini; February 14th – I Am Batman #18 variant cover by ChrisCross; February 21st – Black Adam #8 variant cover with Malik White/Bolt by Taurin Clarke; February 21st – Lazarus Planet Omega #1 variant cover with Cyborg by Edwin Galmon; February 21st – Wonder Woman #796 variant cover with Nubia by Taj Tenfold; February 28: Action Comics #1052 variant cover with John Henry Irons/Natasha Irons by Khary Randolph
Diddy’s Music Legacy: Why He’s Not Selling His Catalog Just Yet
The decision of artists to sell their music catalogs has been a topic of ongoing debate. In the case of Diddy, it seems that he is taking a long-term approach. In an interview with the Trapital podcast, Tarik Brooks, the president of Combs Enterprises, provided insight into how the rap mogul is handling his catalog. Bad Boy Records is one of the most influential and groundbreaking record labels in the music industry. With a roster that includes iconic artists such as The Notorious B.I.G, Ma$e, Faith Evans, 112, Total, The LOX, and more, Diddy’s label has left a lasting legacy. According to a Complex report from 2016, the label has sold over 400 million records globally and earned at least 38 platinum and multi-platinum singles. Despite his already solidified legacy, Diddy is not in a rush to sell his valuable catalog just yet. Instead, he is focused on where music and his label, Love Records, are heading in the future. According to Brooks, “we’re in no rush to get rid of a portfolio that could be a part of [music’s evolution]. Who knows how you think about those assets in the future?” He also added that Diddy and the team are looking to maximize his catalog “to create the best outcomes.” Brooks also shared that Diddy and his team have the advantage of being able to take their time and conduct experiments at their own pace to figure out what they want to do with the catalog. He stated, “We have the benefit of being able to go slow and kinda take our time and basically run experiments at our own pace to figure out what we want to do. And so from that perspective, people have continually come through with offers, opportunities, and things. And we’ve purposely taken our time as we’ve thought about what Puff’s experience of music is gonna be over the next years as he climbs what he talks about as his second mountain.” In contrast, fellow hip-hop legend Dr. Dre is reportedly selling a portion of his music income streams and additional assets in a deal worth up to $250 million. According to rumors, Peter Paterno, Dr. Dre’s attorney, shopped the deal for several weeks. If the deal goes through, it would include assets such as royalties from two of Dre’s solo albums and his share of N.W.A royalties and producer royalties. Additional assets would also include the writer’s share of his song catalog where he doesn’t own publishing, which may include songs from his iconic album ‘The Chronic.’ In conclusion, Diddy and Dr. Dre are approaching their music catalogs in vastly different ways. While Diddy is taking a long-term approach and focusing on the future of music and his label, Dr. Dre is reportedly looking to monetize his catalog by selling a portion of his music income streams and assets. Each approach has its own merits and it will be interesting to see how these decisions play out in the long term.
Snoop Loopz Rebranded as Snoop Cereal: Master P & Snoop Dogg’s Collaboration with Post Consumer Brands
Get ready to wake up to a crunch that echoes with the beat of rap and resonates with the spirit of entrepreneurship. In an electrifying announcement, rap mogul Master P has disclosed a groundbreaking alliance between Post Consumer Brands, Broadus Foods, and rap titan Snoop Dogg. At the heart of this collaboration? The much-anticipated global launch of Snoop Cereal in June 2023, a crunchy testament to diversity and community economic empowerment. Master P was resolute and inspiring in his comments, “We want to take care of the community and be able to build economic empowerment, so that’s what this brand is about. The deal we did with Post is adding diversity to these stores to be able to have an African-American-owned company,” he emphasized. “Post believed in our brand, and Post believed in diversity.” Hot from his early-morning rendezvous with Post, Master P enthusiastically disclosed that Snoop Cereal, previously christened Snoop Loopz, will make a global splash under three delicious identities: Frosted Drizzlers, Cinnamon Toasteez, and Fruity Hoopz. As per a post on Snoop’s Instagram account, “They don’t want us to use Snoop Loopz on our cereal box even though [that’s] my name.” The fresh nomenclature reflects the array of cereal flavors brought together under the Snoop Cereal banner. TD Dixon, Chief Growth Officer at Post Consumer Brands, expressed his delight over the partnership, “Our purpose at Post is to make delicious food accessible for all. Broadus Foods is a family-owned food company focused on feeding families and giving back. We’ve been feeding families for more than 100 years, so when Snoop and Master P approached us, the thing that immediately aligned us was our passion for feeding all families. We’re excited to partner with a brand that’s committed to family and community just like we are.” The announcement comes on the heels of speculation last week regarding a possible name change for the duo’s existing cereal, Snoop Loopz. Undeterred, Master P said, “They thought we was going to have one,” referring to the cereal that will be WIC-eligible. “Look how God works. It’s a blessing.” Adding a dash of character to the cereal will be a blue Siberian husky cartoon, Captain Ace, gracing the box as the lead. Master P explained, “Our character on the box is the lead character, Captain Ace. He’s the Kobe Bryant of cereal. It’s important because we spend trillions of dollars as African Americans. When you look at Aunt Jemima and Uncle Ben, those were the closest products to where we thought we owned those products, but we didn’t. Those were just people’s faces on boxes.” In essence, this high-powered synergy between Post Consumer Brands, Broadus Foods, Master P, and Snoop Dogg marks a spirited endeavor to enhance diversity and promote economic empowerment. They are set to debut an African-American-owned cereal brand, named Snoop Cereal, across the globe starting June 2023. With three tantalizing varieties: Frosted Drizzlers, Cinnamon Toasteez, and Fruity Hoopz, the cereal will also be WIC-eligible, and will sport the vibrant cartoon of Captain Ace, the blue Siberian husky, as the box’s leading character. Get set for a breakfast revolution!