MANOUCHKA LUBERISSE

She is Beautiful! She is Brilliant! She is a Beauty- Queen! She is like any other very  beautiful woman  in Hollywood, but she does not live in Tinsel town. Manouchka  Luberisse is from Haiti and lives in Haiti. Some countries and communities get a bad rap. She was Miss Supranational Haiti 2013. 

We got a chance to chat with Manouchka and she speaks about her upbringing, ambition, career, modeling and a whole lot more.

BronzePage: It is so nice to be able to chat with you. Before we start, we need to complement you on your skin tone, it is very beautiful. What’s your secret or special beauty regimen? 

Manouchka: Thank you so much, that's such a kind compliment and one I hear often. Honestly, I don't have a very elaborate skincare routine. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve started paying more attention to my skin, but I keep it simple. I get a professional facial about twice a year, and I take collagen supplements to support skin elasticity and hydration. Other than that, I try to stay hydrated, wear minimal makeup, and let my skin breathe. Simplicity works best for me! 

BronzePage: Many young girls dream of wearing a crown you actually made it happen. Let’s start from the beginning, how did you know you wanted to participate in a beauty pageant? Did someone encourage you? How did it all come about? 

Manouchka: I’ve always had an interest in fashion and the creative world that surrounds it. But I never imagined it would lead me into pageantry. Everything started quite unexpectedly when I was approached by Roberto Stephenson, a talented Italian-Haitian photographer. He spotted me and told me I had a photogenic face. At the time, I had no professional experience and wasn’t even wearing makeup, but he insisted on taking a few pictures for a marketing company that was casting for a commercial. To my surprise, I was selected. That experience opened a door for me, and I began modeling more regularly after that.

Balancing this newfound path with my college studies was far from easy, but I pushed through. A few years later, Haiti was preparing to send a candidate to Miss Universe. The woman in charge of coordinating the national competition reached out and asked why I hadn’t applied. I told her I was working and didn’t have time. She smiled and said, “Let’s take it step by step.” She introduced me to a smaller competition Miss Global International in 2012. It wasn’t one of the major international pageants, but it gave me invaluable experience and confidence. The following year, I was honored to be selected as Miss Supranational Haiti, representing my country on a global stage. That moment affirmed that dreams, no matter how distant they seem, can take shape when you least expect it.

 Photo: Roroli Studio 

BronzePage: You grew up in Haiti. Tell us about your upbringing and your family. 

Manouchka: I was raised in a Christian household where discipline and structure were deeply rooted in our daily lives. My family was very religious, and growing up, there were strict rules—no jewelry, no short skirts, and definitely no makeup. My parents placed a strong emphasis on education, morals, and humility. In many ways, it gave me a solid foundation, but it also limited certain aspects of self-expression, especially in my younger years.

Music was one of my early passions. I played the violin and truly loved it. It felt like an extension of my voice. But sadly, I don’t think my parents ever believed it could be more than a hobby, and eventually, I had to let that dream go.

I come from a big family with six children in total, four girls and two boys. I’m the third, so I’ve always had the role of both older and younger sister, which taught me resilience and adaptability from an early age.

BronzePage: Tell us about your career as well.

Manouchka: Professionally, I’m someone who values continuous learning and adaptability. I earned my degree in Business Administration in 2012. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work in various sectors: public institutions, private enterprises, and international organizations. This diversity of experience has shaped me into a well-rounded professional.

Currently, I’m in law school not because I necessarily plan to practice, but because I’ve always had a deep interest in justice, structure, and governance. Having a law degree feels like gaining a new lens through which to understand society, and possibly prepare for other ambitions down the line.

Bronzepage: Tell us about the experience of being crowned Miss Supranational Haiti.

Manouchka: One of the most transformative experiences of my life was being crowned Miss Haiti. That title wasn’t just a crown, it was a turning point. It changed the way I saw the world and, more importantly, how I saw myself. In Haiti, we grow up with a deeply embedded admiration for the image of the colonizer: lighter skin, straight hair, European features. This beauty standard still has a strong hold on our society today.

Being immersed in the world of pageants and fashion forced me to unlearn those ideas. It helped me appreciate true, raw, and diverse beauty. It taught me to love what is real  my own features, my culture, my voice. That shift in mindset was powerful, and I carry it with me in everything I do.

And of course, becoming a mother is another chapter that has had a profound impact on me. It’s an experience that grounded me in a way nothing else ever could. Motherhood has deepened my empathy, my strength, and my sense of purpose. It made me softer in some ways, stronger in others and ultimately, it made me a better human being.
 

BronzePage: Tell us about your career.

Manouchka: Professionally, I’m someone who values continuous learning and adaptability. I earned my degree in Business Administration in 2012 . Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work in various sectors: public institutions, private enterprises, and international organizations. This diversity of experience has shaped me into a well-rounded professional.

Currently, I’m in law school not because I necessarily plan to practice, but because I’ve always had a deep interest in justice, structure, and governance. Having a law degree feels like gaining a new lens through which to understand society, and possibly prepare for other ambitions down the line.

BronzePage: What’s next for you—any big plans or ambitions? 

Manouchka: Politics is definitely on my radar. I’ve always believed that change starts with us, and if we want to see a better Haiti, then our generation has to get involved. We can no longer sit on the sidelines while the country struggles. The generation before us had its time and while they did what they could, many systems have failed. It’s now our responsibility to build something new.

Beyond politics, I want to be an advocate for civic education and social values. Our youth are brilliant, creative, and full of potential but many lack guidance in basic principles like civism, respect, and patriotism. I want to help reshape that narrative. Whether through mentorship, public service, or education initiatives, I’m determined to play my part in rebuilding this nation from the inside out.

BronzePage:  You have a fashion line, Manu by Manouchka Luberisse. What inspired it? 

Manouchka: Manu is a project very close to my heart, though I hesitate to call it a full-fledged fashion line just yet it’s still evolving. While many people know me from the beauty and pageant world, I’ve always identified first as a businesswoman. The idea for Manu came from observing a gap in our local market. In Haiti, most fashion brands operate on a made-to-measure basis, which makes their products expensive and inaccessible to a large segment of the population.

I wanted to change that. Manu is my attempt to offer something different, affordable, ready-to-wear pieces that are stylish yet practical. My goal was to create a local brand that feels international in quality but remains deeply rooted in Haitian identity.

Initially, I planned to produce everything in Haiti. But sourcing suppliers and managing production locally proved difficult and expensive. So I opted to manufacture the line in China while maintaining design and branding control myself. It’s not ideal, but it was a practical first step. One day, I still hope to bring the full production back home.

BronzePage:  Which brands have you modeled for? 

Manouchka: Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of working with a few notable brands. One of them is Jenny Polanco, a Dominican fashion house known for elegant and timeless pieces. I've also represented several local Haitian brands, including Bijoux Lakay, which creates beautiful handcrafted jewelry. Most of my modeling work has been tied to supporting and uplifting local entrepreneurs and creatives.

BronzePage: Have you done any acting? Can you name the shows or movies you’ve appeared in? 

Manouchka: Yes! I’ve dabbled in acting over the years. I appeared in a Haitian television series called DESTINÉ, it was a long time ago, but it remains a fond memory. In addition to that, I’ve been in a number of commercials for brands like Lesly Center, Casami, Minoval, and others. Acting was never a full-time pursuit, but it allowed me to explore another side of storytelling and performance. 

BronzePage: After your law degree, you probably should run for president....since you are very interested in politics. That would be awesome. We need younger people in politics. Would you run for President for Haiti one day? Won't that be great? Hope you announce it here first? 

ANSWER COMING UP

My name is Immaculate Hwange 

I was born, raised and currently live in the city of Abuja.

I’m of the Tiv tribe in Benue state, Nigeria.

I graduated from Benue state university where I 

Studied mass communication.

I’m a fashion model, fashion designer and stylist.

Right from a young age, I’ve always had my own special sense of style and fashion, and that passion played a huge part in my decision to become a full time model, and who I am today.

My modeling career began a couple of years ago, when I joined a modeling agency while in the university and then I was encouraged to go into pageantry, which turned out to be a complete success. Ever since then, I fell deeply in love with modeling,,,, everyday of my life. There’s nothing else I’d rather do. My goal is to keep going higher, wherever God takes me- I’m ready. Been ready!

PHoto: Chibuzo Photography

First things first, I’ve always loved being a black girl; I’ve always been confident in my skin tone and I see myself as special ....especially growing up in a household where the rest of my siblings are all light skinned .

I was always noticeable...It’s hard to miss the black one amongst the lighter skinned.

Yes! I’ve experienced a lot of unpleasant moments due to my complexion. I’ve always gotten comments like “Why are you so dark...the rest of your family is light you’re the different one?” I mean, it’s unavoidable. 

I’m forever grateful for how God made me, I never ever felt bad or felt less of myself just because many people tend to prefer lighter complexion.

I’ve always said that my dark skin is my biggest flex, it is one of my many attributes that makes me special in this world and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I’ve always been confident. I love myself, I love the skin I’m in, and no matter what anyone else prefers or thinks I don’t let it bother me. 

Also, while there are people who scorn at my melanin, there are also other people who just adore me because of my complexion. So at the end of the day, opinions and preferences are subjective.

Photo: The Benny Joseph

My advice to other black girls out there who are struggling to love themselves and find themselves or their own light, I want to let you know that you’re gold, you’re the richness and depth of beauty! 

Never let anyone make you feel less of yourself that you have to result to ruining your beautiful skin by bleaching. Look in the mirror and find your beauty, you don’t have to change your skin for any reason at all. We have a community of beautiful black women around you, find your strength by looking at us. 

Photo: Reuben Onoja

For my skin care products and routine, I really do not do very much.

I thank God, for I have really great skin that complies.  

I’ve been using Nivea products and black soap for almost a decade, and I do not plan to stop now. 

Besides, I really do have a very sensitive skin, such that whenever I try new products I get  a bad reaction and sometimes this has led to unintentional bleaching, so I’m really careful about trying random products.

I have a clothing brand WILDBUTTERFLY. 

I dropped both first and second collection more than a year ago and I’m still actively working on the next collection which will be dropping soon.

I’m @wildbuttterfly on all social media platforms. Snapchat, Twitter, TikTok  and Instagram 

Photo: The Benny Joseph

Photo: Reuben Onoja

Hamatulrahman Hassan (or Hammy ) is a Kenyan Fashion Model and influencer who is dismantling barriers and has risen to the top of the fashion industry in the UAE. We were intrigued by her journey and decided to chat with her.... we wanted to know the  the secret of her success. A young model from Kenya has become world renowned...with over 1 million followers on Instagram and very famous in the fashion industry in the United Arab Emirate....how do you explain that? She is not only beautiful, but she is also very smart and intelligent. Hammy is enrolled in Harvard University.

Through it all she has stayed true to her identity. She did not try to appear more European to be accepted. She has beautiful tan skin and she is very proud of her African heritage.

We would like to introduce Hamatulrahman Hassan and hear from her.

BronzePage: Please tell us about your journey to the top....that young girl from Kenya...who could have thought!! How did you do it?

Hammy: My modeling journey began in Kenya, where my passion for the industry ignited. A few  years ago, I made the bold decision to move to Dubai, a city known for its bustling fashion scene and opportunities. Determined to make my dreams a reality, I embarked on a challenging path to establish myself in the modeling world. The initial stages of my journey were not without their fair share of obstacles. I attended numerous castings, eagerly showcasing my talent and unique qualities. However, rejection became a frequent companion. 

Despite the disappointments and setbacks, I refused to let them define me or deter my aspirations.  Motivated by an unwavering belief in my abilities, I persevered. I knew that success in the modeling industry required not only talent but also resilience and an unyielding spirit. I continually honed my skills, constantly pushing myself to improve and evolve as a model.

I sought inspiration from those who had achieved greatness in the industry, studying their journeys and learning from their experiences. Their stories reminded me that setbacks and rejections were merely stepping stones on the path to success, not roadblocks. Through hard work, dedication, and a refusal to settle for less, I gradually started to make progress. Opportunities began to present themselves, and doors that were once closed began to open. Casting agents and industry professionals recognized my determination and commitment, and I started receiving more favorable responses. 

With each success, my confidence grew, and I became more certain of my place in the world of modeling. I embraced the challenges and embraced the journey, knowing that every experience, whether positive or negative, contributed to my growth as a model and as an individual. 

Today, I stand proud of how far I have come. I have defied the odds, overcome countless rejections, and carved out a place for myself in the competitive world of modeling. My story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the ability to turn setbacks into stepping stones, and the importance of never giving up on one’s dreams. 

As I reflect on my journey from Kenya to Dubai, I am grateful for the lessons learned, the strength gained, and the opportunities that lie ahead. I know that the road ahead will continue to be challenging, but armed with my determination and the belief in myself, I am ready to face whatever comes my way. 

 My journey is a reminder that success is not always immediate, but it is the result of hard work, resilience, and an unyielding belief in oneself. To all those who are pursuing their dreams, I encourage you to keep pushing forward, to never let rejection define you, and to have faith in your abilities. With the right mindset and unwavering dedication, you can overcome any obstacle and achieve your goals.

 International singer, songwriter, Actress, R&B and  gospel singer; Angel Sessions talks to BronzePage.

She has been nominated over 35 times and has won over 16 awards. Angel is a Grammy voting member, and also a member of the NAACP. She has had  single releases that hit the music charts and peaked at #1 and also  singles that have over a million streams on SoundCloud and Spotify. Her 2022  R&B song entitled,  "Wait For Me" peaked at #1 on Amazon's Soul Top 100 Chart. Currently, it has over 2 million streams on Soundcloud.

Her latest single released on January 10th, 2025, (the song "Why Don't You Wait") went to number one on Amazon Music Chats. She is  a very creative song writer who writes all her songs.

Angel has worked with some of the biggest names in Hollywood. From James Brown, Lenny Williams, Freda Payne, The Dells, The Dramatics, The Delfonics, Ali Woodson, legendary actor Fred Williamson, Gary Bussey, Bubba Smith, David Carradine,

Supermodel Beverly Johnson, Brenda Holloway, Maurice White of Earth Wind and Fire, Preston Glass, Mary Wilson (The original Supreme)...Angel toured  with Mary Wilson as a member of the Supreme. The Stylistic, LJ Reynolds, Teena Marie, Howard Hewett former lead singer of Shalamar, Andre Cymone, H Town, Lauren Holly, Greg Kinnear, Joan Cusack, Phil Jones (Former CEO of Motown Records) who was vice president of Fantasy Inc (and reactivated Stax/Volt Records now own by Universal Music Group). 

Sessions has been featured in two movies, 'Down N Dirty' and  'A Smile Like Yours'-Paramount Picture. She worked on the Down N Dirty soundtrack as well. Tri-Star Picture invited Angel Sessions to their world premiere movie, Held up starring Jamie Foxx where Angel met Jamie and the cast. She has been on the music scene for over 20 years From her days of performing at pre-Grammy party or  performing at the same venue with acts such as The Whispers, H-Town, Teena Marie, James Brown, Eric Benet and many more. and opening for Fred Hammond, then singing  the National Anthem at the (NBA) Warriors Game, to having a song that charted at number 1 for 11 weeks on the National US Charts....its been a long road for that young girl who started out singing in church in Kentucky to topping the chats in Hollywood with over 25 albums and over 5,550 live shows. Who is this lady who has worked with some of Hollywood's' biggest names?

Starting tomorrow we chat with  Angel Sessions. You do not want to miss a thing.

BronzePage: Angel!  What a lovely name, how fitting. We finally  get to do this. You are a marvel.! What a leap from R&B to gospel music. How did you make the lane change in a city  that is not so welcoming to gospel music?

Angel:  That's a great question. Lol. I've been singing gospel music all my life every since I was a little girl, I remember I would write and run to share it with my mom.my mom.  I always wanted to get into the music industry someday and thought that time had come  at the age of 13 when I was asked to travel with a choir, but my mom said I was too young at that time. As I got older, I started to write love songs and songs that had substance. I remember asking my mom if it was ok to do so, and she said, 'Yes, God is Love and there's nothing wrong with writing songs of love'. After my first two  albums (R&B that was released from Ichiban Records and Stax/Volt Records) I wanted to go back to where my heart was lead... to record gospel music. But I call it urban gospel because it has a hint of R&B sound to it- but the message is of Christ. 

BronzePage: You started  singing in church, at what point in your life did you realize, 'I can do this'. Was there a point in your life, when that happened? Please take us through how it all unfolded.

Angel: I started singing in church at the age of 12. I started singing in the soprano section when the choir director heard my voice and said, 'wow, I want you to sing lead to this song'. When I heard that, I was super elated. From that day on, I became the lead singer of that choir. I started singing and traveling with my church at the age of 12 whenever we were called upon. My mom knew I had a gift because the whole church would be in tears when I finished. I believe God had given me something special-this amazing talent to sing. My song writing skill came right around the same time. I knew this was something I wanted to pursue as a career when I got older.

BronzePage: You have worked with some  very big  names in the music industry; James Brown, Jamie Foxx, Mary Wilson...how did  a gospel music singer become so appealing in Hollywood? What is the magical thing about you that sets you apart from other Christian music singers? 

Angel: I believe there isn't anything different about me, other than the passion and love of Christ that people see in me. Even when I was singing my R&B music, I would not say nor do it just for me. I wanted to share my gift for the glory of Christ and whenever God provided an opportunity, I could share God's word with someone. When I was younger... in my early career, I was so excited to meet and perform with some of the most talented legends and mainstream artists in the music industry. A Christian can still have a place in Hollywood as long as they know their relationship is with Christ. God has them there for a reason and I believe I am here for His reason. I love people and I do not take  what God has given me for granted, but I know that this is not for me, but for His purpose. 

BronzePage: Of all the big names that you have worked with, which one really touched you in a special way?

 Angel : Of all the recording major artists I've worked with, many of them played a special part in my life and touched my heart in many ways, but if I have to choose, I would say, William Hart Lead singer of the Delfontics. We became friends and he taught me a lot about the business such as  like what to look out for and how to better understand the business aspect and not just being a singer. I learned so much from him and it stayed with me for years.... how to be a business woman for my career; how to make it work and not just sing and allow others to take over. There's so much in the industry to learn. My mind is like a sponge, I love to learn things to educate myself.  

BronzePage: Your voice is so rich...it's obvious that you know your craft and put a lot into it. Your songs are organic like it was back in the days, when true vocal-raw talents were singing. You have been in this industry for close to three  decades so I am sure you will understand this question. Why do you think many of today's contemporary artists have lost that thing that great singers like you have? It seems like anyone can sing and make it these days whereas in the days of James Brown, Aretha Franklin,  Diana Ross, Donna Summer, Whitney Houston, Anita Baker, you had to have true raw vocal talent to sing?

Angel: That's a great question. I think back in the old -school days, they did not have auto-tune or voice pitch -correction like they do today. So Producers or writers were really looking for great vocal singers who truly had the gift to not only sing, but sing with emotions and feelings so that people really could relate to that song and feel the artist. It was a craft many people wanted to achieve, and records, at that time sold by the millions. Whereas today, the industry has changed a lot and it's no more about talent but more about image and looks, or style. The studio now has many ways to make a person sound polished with voice correction or auto- tune. But when you are singing live, fans can tell the difference and who would want to disappoint their fans? I just want to keep it real and give my fans what they hear in my records. I sang in the studio and took voice training for over 10 years to train my voice with some of the best teachers in the music business such as Judy Davis who taught Barbra Streisand, Sammy Davis Junior, Envogue. I also studied under Jackie Harrison who taught so many great singers how to sing as well. 

BronzePage: You are very private but here, we pry or at least try...(smile). So tell us about your children, your husband; how did you meet and what drew both of you together?

Angel: I have two Kids, both adults believe it or not, lol. Yes, I started young. I met my  husband, Demetrius years later. We met at the gym. He approached me and said, 'it's nice to see young people working out' and smiled at me. We talked and I told him that  I'm a singer and he told me that he builds websites! That was how we met.

BronzePage: Wow! Demetrius is a smooth guy. What a line...lol. Now about the woman behind the music. I tend to be able to read people quickly, so let me try...you have very sensitive eyes. Tell me I am wrong...are you very sensitive? What touches your heart and when you look around you, what kind of changes would you like to see in the world?

Angel:  Lol. Yes, you read my eyes right. Very good! Yes, I can be sensitive. I'm sensitive because I am a people- person. I want to always make sure I do right by people, and when I don't get the same respect or treatment, or people use me or take my kindness for weakness, it upsets me-at times. I have to understand that we all have feet of clay, but it doesn't make it right when some people in the world just treat others so wrong and can't even see it! I want to make a difference not to follow after those trends and be the way I would want to be treated. That is what Christ teaches us in His word so that is what I want to do. Live through His word. I'm not going to say it's easy to do, but I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Without Him, I could be just like any body else and I don't think I would like myself if I let that happen. 

BronzePage: I know this is not always easy for most artists but we have to ask; which is your favorite of all your songs?

Angel : Lol, yes, that is hard. I have so many. I would have to say, 'Don't Let Go'. I really love that song a lot. I was nominated 8 times for 8 different music awards for that song. 

BronzePage: You sang background vocals for some famous names in the industry. Can you give us some names? 

Angel: Yes, I sang background for The Dells, The Dramatics, The Delfonics, Brenda Holloway, Freda Payne, The Stylistics, Maurice White (lead singer of Earth Wind and Fire) Lenny Williams, Ali Woodson.....

BronzePage: You look so young. Are you a vegetarian? What special health regimen do you follow?

Angel: Thank you so much for the compliment. I drink a lot of water. I sometimes eat chicken and fish  and lots of vegetables. Spinach is one of my favorite vegetables ...also I use cream on my face and I use lotion on my body ... for the most part. I truly say, I praise God for helping me take care of my skin. 

BronzePage: What is the one thing that upsets you? What are your pet peeves? You cannot always be so sweet, even an Angel gets tested ….right?

Angel: Lol. I do have some pet peeves. I like people who are not fake. Sometimes you can meet people who pretend to like you and be nice only to get something from you or use  you because their heart isn't right. I sometimes can tell right away just by what they say or do, or just by watching their body language. If a person upsets me, they will know it because I don't hide it. I like to be real and will let a person know right away, If I don't like something, or something isn't right about them- I try to be respectful about it but I cannot be fake, I have to let them understand just because I may be nice or caring doesn't mean you can treat me any kind of way. We all are human and we all hurt. Some people show it, some people don't. But if you cover your feeling and pretend like it doesn't bother you, it will come across in some other form and it might not be right. As for me, it's best to communicate that to the person and not hold things inside.  

BronzePage: Do yo think it is fair to say Christian music has more longevity? Most of the people you have worked with are no longer very visible on the music horizon but you are still standing strong...what are your thoughts on that?

Angel: Yes, I believe Christian music does have longevity. The message of Christ will always stand, no matter how wicked the world is. God's Kingdom will always stand and win. His word alone is the power of life... He is the word. Through the music I write, I use bible scriptures to make sure  people are getting His word though my songs. I want to make sure it is faithful the word of God  and who knows, maybe God may save this or that person though His word in my songs. 

BronzePage: Your song 'You Can' was very well received. When it was released, it went went viral within an hour. What was it about that song?

Angel: The song 'You Can' had a message. People love a positive message. The world thirsts for it believe it or not. In 2013, it was the right time when I released that song and I'm so happy people took to it the way they did to make that video go viral. I aim to always write songs that touches the lives of many people, like a new version I called "I Know That You Can". It also has a lot of hits on YouTube.... over 12 thousand and it's just a audio. 

BronzePage: Another one, 'Don't Let Go' became a crossover song. What made that song so appealing?

Angel: Lol, I'm glad you asked me that because "Don't Let Go" is one of my most favorite songs,  as I already mentioned. I wrote it to inspire many of God's people to not let go of His love...meaning Christ. There are so many negative  things happening around us, I wanted to write something about  hope,  to uplift someone's spirit who may be going though difficult times and to encourage that person  to never let go. 

BronzePage: What else takes  up your time  when you are not consumed by your music business? Any other project or business you want to plug?

Angel: Yes, My company, Atlas Elite Entertainment team, Rodney Crews and Demetrius Guidry are such a joy and blessing. I know they have my best interest at heart. There are a lot of things we are about to do for our company- with Magazine and Music. I just released my new single,  He Said it (He Wrote It) and we have a new distribution deal with Awal/ Orchard/Sony Music. I'm excited about our artist, princess of #AEE Shardella Sessions and her two latest singles, 'I Like' written by Shardella herself and 'Let it Go' written by me. Both singles charted at #1 on the US National Chart, Amazon. Shardella is  my daughter.

My team Rodney Crews, Demetrius Guidry and I are the founders of Atlas Elite Entertainment LLC. We launched our first annual music online awards in 2018 and did this for 5 years. We no longer do the online award show but we are currently working on our next (9th issue) magazine. We are so excited about our growth in Atlas Elite Entertainment LLC. website atlaseliteentertainment.com Click at the top to see our past magazines.

BronzePage: Before you go, can you share with us what your faith means to you?  Talk to us about your faith.

Angel:  My Faith is Christ. He is the rock of my salvation. His love is so amazing and wonderful. His word speaks to my heart. His word is truth, for He declares in His holy word,  …'I Am the bread of life'. His word is the bread I eat daily- as I read it. I talk to God in prayer, He speaks to me though His word. I want to share with the world, the goodness of God's holy word, the bible. His judgments, everything He has written about in His word, whatever He has opened my eyes, and ears  to spiritually understand, that is what I must share faithfully to those He puts on my heart. I do want to say that I am undeserving of His love and His salvation, but I give Him all the glory for saving me. 

BronzePage: Thanks Angel...we hope to talk to Shardella someday soon!!  What an awesome woman!

We love and appreciate Africa and our hope is that the rest of the world also sees the beauty in that amazing continent, however some of the most terrible  inhumanities have also occurred in Africa. We cannot overlook the pain and sufferings of many people in Africa; to do so would be atrocious. We present to you the story of a woman who saw these first hand and rose to tell her story unlike many people whose voices died in the grave. Hers is a story of a woman who endured untold hardship during the war in Rwanda, a story that would baffle the minds of most people in modern societies....it is almost impossible to grasp. Man's inhumanity to man. Yet she saw the light.

For the next few days, you are about to get transfixed by the story of Sonia Gisa.

At an age when kids were playing innocently in the yard, she saw deaths by the thousands. A war that killed her family.... many people did not make it out alive, but she did and rose to prominence. A reminder that no matter how dark your life may be, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Never give up!

BronzePage! We do it like no one else. 

Sonia Gisa was only 3 years old when her family was forced to flee from their home in Rusenga, Rwanda. To keep them safe, her father decided they should separate because the men were the ones that were mostly being killed. That was the last time Sonia saw him alive. He was killed! Then the family (comprising of her mother, her three sisters and baby brother) endured about two months of near starvation and sickness as they took refuge in a school. It was too much for her  brother, he did not make it...he died. The family had to flee again...this time she lost her sisters and her mother …she was now alone and as fate would have it, she moved in with her aunt. It is an experience that still haunts her. 

We asked her!

BronzePage:'Your parents were killed in 1994, you did not leave for Europe till you were about 18, how did you cope?
 

Sonia Gisa: ''A major part of my direct (and not direct) family perished in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. It is something that, even 31 years later, I still struggle to understand how humans can turn against their own... to that extent.

Although many governmental programs were put in place to help with school fees and a few other basic needs, I bonded with my cousins, and despite all we had lost, we had a happy childhood surrounded by nature.

It wasn’t until I was 18 years old that the opportunity arose for me to go to Europe, and I had the chance to redefine myself on my own terms.

So, that’s when the journey toward my biggest dreams started and now, here we are''.

(Three decades later, the experience is still too much for her. BronzePage decided to stop the interview and switch our focus to what she has become and the bright lights ahead. 

Her tragic experience is well documented in the book : Slaughter Baby. You can find it on Amazon.

In 2009, Sonia Gisa moved to Belgium from Rwanda; she was 18 years old and faced a whole new world. She was like a stranger in a strange land. The adjustment was not easy as she had to learn the language and be able to communicate well, she also dealt with life in a new school, coupled with trying to get a job and an apartment. Sonia was determined and each time she met the struggle with resolved strength.

She discovered her love for modelling and threw herself into it when the opportunity arose. She became one of the top models representing such major brands as Dior, Gucci, Yves-Saint -Laurent, Dolce and Gabanna, Moschino.

It was as if the future opened up for her. She delved into beauty pageantry and represented Rwanda in Miss Supranatural. The final event was held in Poland in December, 2014. Sonia won !! She told BronzePage '' It was sensational, I went home with the title of Miss Supranatural Africa.....it was the first time the crown went to Rwanda'.

Talk about redemption! What an irony, the very country where she experienced untold pain and tragedy, the same country where her life was almost destroyed, it was that same country, she represented and placed on the  world map.

She also took part in Miss Grand International, which took place in Las Vegas in 2016. 

Sonia told BronzePage "It was an incredible experience, and I learned a lot from it. Beauty pageants played a big role in helping me feel confident on stage and in public speaking. Additionally, you get to meet and connect with different contestants representing their own countries you discover new cultures and build an international friendship circle''.

Sonia Gisa is now an International Model and Actress, United Nations Goodwill Agent, War child Charity Ambassador, Advocate for ' Let Them Play" (Children belong on the playing fields not the battlefields)  Author, Life Coach and Motivational speaker. She now resides in London.

'' I ask myself, how did a little girl born in a small village in Rusenga, Rwanda get here.''

'I get asked,  ''How do you manage to display a personal smile and love life with everything you have gone through?' I answer,  I have more reasons to smile, when you escape death you learn the value of each moment.'

''When I was parading (Modeling), I didn't think of anything else, I was 100% concentrated in the present....it was the most glorious moment of my life, there was no more painful childhood, no more trauma attacks or nightmares. I was simply blessed. I never thought that such a feeling could exist, that such a feeling of gratitude for life could be possible"

 …."I have come to terms with the unsettling memories of this -anything but innocent childhood, and built a new strength to become myself. I turned what was an unbearable burden into a force for fearless progress, propelling me to London and into the world of the most prestigious players in Fashion'. 

(Last word from BronzePage:)

'Speechless ….that so much Love, Grace, Humility, Kindness and Gratitude could come out of a woman who witnessed so much pain and human brutality especially at an age when other kids where playing in the fields.''

Words are not enough!!

She is a message to anyone going through trials: Never Give Up! Don't even think about it !! Life has so much in store for you'.

Africa Fashion Week London (AFWL) is a yearly event that brings value to designers through, contacts, experience and knowledge within the fashion community. 

 With a collaborative catwalk, exhibition, and business development program, AFWL has led the way in highlighting Africa’s emerging designers and apparel industry and has been at the forefront of bringing awareness of Africa’s burgeoning fashion industry to the international market. 

Designer & Exhibitor application form for AFWL 2025 is available on line: africafashionweeklondonuk.com

The name 'Noella' a feminine version of Noel,  stands for ' Christmas day' or 'born on Christmas day'. This gorgeous Model and Philanthropist was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo on December the  25th while people all over the world were celebrating Christmas.

You are about to enter into the world of a woman who refused to turn her back on those she left behind. We bring you the story of  the woman behind Malaika (her School for  poor kids in Democratic Republic of Congo).

We cannot say enough about this woman. We have devoted the next few days to 'The Noella Story'. Her thoughts, her aspirations, her passion, her experience, her childhood.

Bronzepage does it better than anyone else.

Noëlla Coursaris Musunka was born to a Congolese Mother, and a father from Cyprus . 

Noella's mother made a choice, a very painful one, but one that would pay huge dividends when she sent her daughter to live with relatives in Europe because she knew she was too poor to provide for her. Little Noella's journey to Europe started, from Belgium to Switzerland....for the next 13 years she had very little contact with her own mother except by mail.

Pause for a moment and try to comprehend the emotional clash and conflict in the mind of that little girl now living in a strange land without the comfort of the only woman she has ever known and fully trusted; her mother. 

She made great use of her life in Europe by immersing herself in school. Noella's appreciation for education must have been born at this time. She graduated with a degree in Business.

Shortly after Noella completed her degree, one of her friends entered her into a modelling competition; good news of course, her life took a turn as her journey to the global stage just started. She was chosen to appear in a campaign for Agent Provocateur. Noëlla did various campaigns in New York and London as modeling gave her access to the pages of fashion magazines like Vogue, Elle, Vanity Fair and Marie Claire..... the doors just sprung wide open.

Unlike many successful people who forget their past and turn their back on where they came from, Noella had a burning desire to give back. As she traveled the world, she realized she deeply wanted to help and share her passion for human rights. 

After 13 years in Europe, 18 year old Noella was now ready to visit her homeland and reunite with her mother.  

 The idea for Malaika was born when Noella went home to visit her mother. She saw the stark poverty and lack of opportunity for women in her country.

She founded Malaika in 2007, a nonprofit grassroots organization that empowers Congolese girls and their communities through education and health programs. Malaika’s projects are impacting thousands of lives in the community of Kalebuka and in Congo and are all offered completely free of charge. 

These include an accredited school  for over 430 girls, a Community Center built partially in partnership with FIFA that provides education, health, and sports programs to over 5,000 youth and adults each year, clean water for over 35,000 people each year through the building and refurbishment of 31 wells and an agriculture program, which helps feed students and staff two meals each day; and a technical program.

The minute Noella introduced Malaika to the world, more  doors started to open for her. Her story was intriguing; a celebrity who was actually proactive, sincerely helping, giving back and not just talking about things that should be done. 

Some of the magazines, platforms and opportunities that have showcased the Noella and Malaika Story are listed below:

Vanity Fair, Cotswold Style, Grazia, Shiffon, 

Greek World Reporter, Forbes, Sandton, 

Elle South Africa, Bizcommunity, Now in SA,

Laqua Magazine, Greek Reporter, Image, British Vogue,Fashion Network, Vouge India, Billionaire, Editeur Plus, Vogue Espana, Harpers Baazar, Elle Germany, L'Officieal, Tatler Ireland, Moda, Greek City Times, Vogue Australia, Cosmopolitan, Vogue, Neue Afrique, Leadership, Forbes, Actualite, South Africa Daily, True Africa, The St Raphael Resort & Mariana Magazine, Daily Mail, Global Fund for Children, Congo Airways Magazine, Africa News,  CNBC Africa, Marie Claire, The Guardian, TV%. IGNYTE, CountryandTownHouse, Fashion Magic 42,

HARPERS BAZAAR, LacunaMagazine, SCHICK,

#CongoExcellence, Harper's BAZAAR Japan, 

Women of Influence 'Meet a Role Model' Feature Questions, FOOT AU FEMININ (Cameroon), NEW AFRICA DAILY, MOJEH

Congolese Entrepreneurs, Kaieteur News,  

Sustainability Forbes, Malaika Foundation Congo And Formidable Magazine, Telegraph, TAP Magazine, FORBES AFRICA, Afropolitan

Brune Magazine, Creative Wardrobe, Vogue, 

Harper Bazaar, Sunday Times, Grazia, IIRR, 

Congolese Prodigies LeCongolais, PORTER, Net a Porter, The Times, Luxx Philanthropy

INNOV MAG, Book "Lessons from life and business" by Facebook Inc., Actualite.cd, 

APO Group, Magazine Congolais, Telegraph, Maverick Life, Vogue and Piaget, C'CHIC Magazine, Rachel SUMBU ( Radio de la Femme (Kinshasa), CIAB MAGAZINE, CHANGE IN AFRICA, Vogue Germany, Financial Times, Ici et Ailleurs Magazine, Marie Claire, 

Hunger Magazine, Adunagow Magazine, 

METAL magazine,  African Shapers, Pride Magazine Nigeria's Woman of the Month: January 2022, Salon d'Afrique, Interview seSalon d'Afriquer, lemondefemin.com,  

Hamaji, Sans Frontières mag ( FRENCH ),

CLAM Magazine, Elle Italia, Daily Telegraph, 

Nigeria Business, Opt1mum Magazine, 

VoyageDallas, HERA Magazine, Amazing,

Mayfair Times, Optimum, Marie Claire UK, 

Sandy Times, Madame Arabia, Vogue ARABIA.....the list goes on. Some of these brands were not listed here.......just too many of them.

Malaika started as a small project sponsoring ten girls from a  a local orphanage from a small village of  Kalebuka in south eastern DRC. Since 2007 when it was founded, it has  grown into a fully-fledged ecosystem that is transforming an entire community in the DRC from the ground up. Its  collaboration with Apple provides solar panels and access to renewable energy at the Malaika School, as well as sessions on coding, photography, filmmaking, and design. Malaika school  provides free, accredited primary and secondary education to 430 girls, ranging from STEM and coding to art, music, theater, and sports.  The Malaika Community Center offers free literacy and vocational education, health classes, and sports programming to 6,000 people in the Congo. There is provision of clean water and sanitation. The building and maintenance of over 30 wells provides a consistent source of safe, clean drinking water to over 36,000 people each year.  Malaika’s Technical Program trains young women and men ages 18-35 in mechanical and electrical skills. Upon completion of the respective programs, which last 9 and 12 months, students will be certified at a nationally-recognized level to pursue high-demand, local jobs. Malaika has recently expanded its offering with the construction of two new buildings for even more technical classes including welding, plumbing and carpentry – plus workshops for art and advanced IT classes. 

Malaika has taken Noella to meet and work with people  she never dreamt she would ever meet.  From Bill President Clinton,(Clinton Global initiative 2015) King Charles, Princess Caroline of Hanover, working with Hollywood star Eve, meeting with Forest Whitaker, Alexandra Palt, Nelson Mandela's grandson- Ndaba Mandela,Hollywood actress Kerry Washington, President of FIFA Giovanni Vincenzo Infantino, the wife of King Charles - Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, Model Naomi Campbell, Will.i.am, Cherrie Blair (spouse of former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Tony Blair) ....the list just continues to grow.

Malaika’s work has been recognized internationally. In 2023 Malaika was awarded the Peace Through Sport Initiative of the Year at the Peace and Sport Awards. Malaika teacher Therese Mabaka was selected as one of the top 50 finalists for the Global Teacher Prize 2023, presented by the Varkey Foundation and UNESCO. Other awards include: World Literacy Award (2021), Maya Amerja Sustainability Award (2018), House of Mandela Award (2018).  

MSNBC President, Rashida Jones who was the First Black Woman to lead a major cable news network, is stepping down after four years.  Jones said she was leaving to “pursue new opportunities.'

Rashida Jones was born in Pennsylvania, but her family  later moved to Virginia where she attended high school. Her love and flair for journalism started at a young age. She was the Editor of the Student Newspaper in high  school. When she graduated, she  attended Hampton University, where she majored in Broadcast Journalism. 

 While she was still a senior in college, Jones worked as a Morning Show producer at WTKR in Norfolk, Virginia. She graduated with a Bachelors of Arts Degree in 2002.

 A few years later, she moved to The Weather Channel, as a weekend producer, and became Director of Live programming in 2009. She also worked as News Director, at WIS-TV in Columbia, South Carolina. Jones would later move to New York as an Executive Producer for Daytime Shows at MSNBC, and became the Managing Editor at MSNBC and Senior Vice President of specials for NBC News and MSNBC.
On February 1, 2021, Jones succeeded Phil Griffin as the President of MSNBC and the First Black Woman to be the President of a major network.
On January 14, 2025, she resigned from her position at MSNBC.

We wish her the very best in her new pursuit.