Interview: Comedian Stacy Whitaker

Hello valued readers! Today we want to introduce you all to one of the best rising comedians of the millennial generation, Stacy Whitaker. Whitaker is a long time friend of The Great Change, former athlete and student, Stacy is now focused on nailing performances and proper delivery for his audiences. A comedian has a unique task, to not only make you laugh, but to also make you remember them as a comedian and entertainer. We had the chance to catch up with Stacy, our conversation is below, enjoy!

The Great Change: What are your thoughts after your most recent performance at Hyaenas Comedy Nightclub?

S. Whitaker: I just saw the video of my performance from Sunday night and even though it's not perfect it was beautiful to see the work pay off on stage. It felt amazing to see the strides I'm making in comedy.

The Great Change: What was your thoughts on the other comics', who made up Butcher Lord's Stranger Comics, performances?

S. Whitaker: The other comics did really great. There were a few in particular that made my stomach hurt from laughing. I love seeing different comedians, because we each bring our own unique style to the stage. Butch Lord was made by the one and only Butch Lord. Butch is the man in the Dallas/ Ft. Worth area and other areas as well. If you ever see his name on a show you better believe that it's worth clearing your schedule for.

The Great Change: Do you have any upcoming performances?

S. Whitaker: I was planning 2 more performances for 2016 however I'm thinking I'm going to take some time to do some under the hood work on my game. I have some big plans for 2017 so I'm really putting a focal point on those plans. However, you can still see me at open mics throughout the week in particular Backdoor Comedy Club on Thursday Nights.

The Great Change: What advice would you give to other aspiring comedians and youngsters pursuing their dreams?

S. Whitaker: Take your time to study the mechanics of comedy first. Be prepared for some tough performances and alot of learning. I would recommend reading comedy books or even taking a stand up class before going public with comedy. You'll save yourself alot of stale face that way.

Devonta Abron pens professional contract: Interview

Hello valued readers!

Today, we would like to share with you some exciting news about a dear friend of The Great Change who is succeeding in obtaining their dreams of being a professional athlete. Devonta Abron, standing 6'8 and weighing in at 255 lbs, is not new to the spotlight that comes with being a well known athlete and hoop star. Devonta received a high recruitment as a forward out of his high school in Seagoville, Texas, while playing with one of the nation's elite AAU teams, Dallas Mustangs. His talented play landed him a scholarship that set Abron up for a solid college basketball career for both Arkansas Razorbacks and Texas Christian University Horn Frogs men's basketball programs. The professional level is the next feat on Abron's list. Devonta has accepted the chance to play in Austria and bring his talents to a professional ball club. We got the chance to talk with Abron's about this experience. Our conversation is below, enjoy!

The Great Change: How excited are you about the opportunity to play basketball professionally?

D. Abron: I am more than excited about playing on the next level. Its a dream come true for me. This is a lot more to come.

The Great Change: What is your biggest focus going into this opportunity?

D. Abron: My biggest focus going over there is getting better and getting the job done. I now have a job that I'm getting paid for and it will bring more of the beast mode out of me because I will be hungry to succeed to get to the top.

The Great Change: Who would you like to thank for helping support you and your success thus far?

D. Abron: I would like to thank everyone that has been in my corner and never doubted me about making it in life. It has been my haters that motivated me to get this way and because of them I am hungry to show everyone why I'm here.

The Great Change: What advice do you have to college athlete who wish to take their talents to the professional level?

D. Abron: I want to say to the college athletes that anything is possible. Always follow your dreams and don't let anyone tell you that you can't. There will be people in the same boat as you that are your friend but don't want you to be better then them but you just have to stay focus and strive for greatness.

Interview: Arlington Longhorns 5-0 start inspired by fallen player

Hello valued readers!

Today we want to highlight a spectacular story developing in world of arena football. The Arlington Longhorns arena football league team has begun their season by stringing together five straight wins to hold an undefeated record. The team has obviously been experiencing a great deal of chemistry which has turned into success. The team has received additional motivation and inspiration to play harder in order to honor the passing of former Longhorn player Alex Sanchez. We at The Great Change got the chance to catch up with his brother, who is also a Longhorns football player, Andrew Sanchez, and ask him about how the start to the team's season.

Our conversation is below, enjoy!

The Great Change: How has your team’s recent success with a 5-0 start help you honor your brother’s memory?

Andrew Sanchez: I feel like it's a great honor and tribute to him so far. Ever since he passed, the entire team has kept his name alive and has committed to excellence for him. However, it's not how you start. It's how you finish. So we are looking forward to staying perfect and winning that ring for little bro!

The Great Change: What is the ultimate goal for your team and organization this year?

Andrew Sanchez: The ultimate goal is to remain undefeated for the duration of the season and win that championship ring. Every season we expect nothing less than to be perfect.

The Great Change: Perfect starts are clear signs of a team’s chemistry, how would you describe the team chemistry?

Andrew Sanchez: I would say our chemistry is getting better each week. It helps that most of us have been playing together for a few years now. With that being said, we still have a lot of work and improvement to do in order to get where we want to be. We are a family oriented team and that is what puts us on a different level than most other teams. We truly care about each other as brothers on and off the field.

The Great Change: How has your game improved from last season?

Andrew Sanchez: I am playing with a lot more attitude and emotions this year, obviously with the loss of my brother. I think that has made me a better all around player. I want to leave it all out there now more than ever. Most of all I want him to be proud of me and I never want to let him down.

The Great Change: What words do you have for anyone dealing with the loss of a loved one, that might help give them strength to carry on?

Andrew Sanchez: Honestly, nothing will ever fill that void and it will never feel the same without them. Good times and bad times will continue to come and go, but the main thing for us is to remember the special moments we shared with that loved one and to look at as many pictures as possible. Seeing him smile on my side is what makes me feel better. A lot of people get down and out and cannot function for a while. But we have to remember that life goes on and responsibilities never go away. So I use that as motivation to go even harder in everything that I do to make him proud. He always wanted the nicer things in life and I'm gonna get it! ALL FOR HIM!!

Stay tuned to the Arlington Longhorns and their chase for a championship and perfection in honor of Alex Sanchez and their organization!

Thanks for reading with The Great Change!

- The Great Change Team

 

NFL Draft Interview: Demarcus Ayers

Hello valued readers!

Today we would like to send our best wishes to Dallas native Demarcus Ayers as he prepares for today's 2016  NFL draft. Today many young men will see their drams come true. These young men have put in years of focus and dedication and will now finally rewarded. Demarcus Ayers attended Lancaster High School in Lancaster, Texas where his talents earned him college attention. Ayers committed to the University of Houston Cougar football program where he dazzled audiences, opponents and defensive coordinators with his speed and ability to make plays. Ayers was seen from all angles in the Houston Cougar offensive attack during his three years on campus. In the ACC, Demarcus excelled as a slot receiver, special teams kick returner, and even had a moment as quarterback, in the Cougar's win over the Florida State University Seminoles in the Peach Bowl, when he threw for a touchdown. Ayers is now ready to make the leap of faith to the next level.

We had the chance to catch up with Demarcus Ayers on Draft Day, our conversation and Demarcus' NFL Draft Profile are below!

The Great Change: The process to becoming an NFL Draft pick is a ling process beginning the moment you declare for the draft, how has the process been for you?

Demarcus Ayers: It has been an unbelievable process for my family and I, we're enjoying it.

The Great Change: What words do you have for your teammates that you will be leaving behind in the University of Houston Cougar program?

Demarcus Ayers: To keep working. To take advantage of every opportunity you get. Keep God first.  Anything is possible.

The Great Change: Who would you like to thank for helping you along your way to success?

Demarcus Ayers: My high school coach Chris Gilbert. I've been knowing him since eighth grade. He recognized my potential early and pushed me to be the best in school and with football. He taught me how to carry myself and how to do everything with confidence.

NFL Draft Profile: Demarcus Ayers

Height: 5'9"

Arm Length: 31 1/4"

Weight: 182 lbs

Hands: 9 1/4"

40-yard dash: 4.66 seconds 

Vertical: 35 inches 

Broad jump: 10 feet 

Short shuttle: 4.33 seconds 

3-cone: 7.0 seconds

Source: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2016/profiles/demarcus-ayers?id=2555465

Thanks you for reading with The Great Change!

- The Great Change Team

Interview: Chappelle Continues Football Career

Hello valued readers!

Today, we have the privilege of congratulating and commending East Texas football standout, Jeremey Chappelle, for his opportunity to continue his career at Northeastern State University in Oklahoma. Jeremey Chappelle has had a remarkable journey to this point in his career. Originally from Jacksonville, Texas, Chappelle has always had success in various sports. Whether in UIL competition or on the AAU circuit. Mentored by Stacy Hunter, Chappelle's uncle, he was able to harness his skill sets and make the leap to the collegiate level at Tyler Junior College. After completing his time at TJC, Jeremey joined the Stephen F. Austin State University football program. From SFA, Chappelle accepted the opportunity to hold a roster spot with the Mississippi State University Bulldogs, until ultimately deciding to seek other football programs. In the midst of school changes, Chappelle's family and the entire East Texas community, including myself, suffered a great loss when Stacy Hunter was murdered at his nightclub on October 20, 2012 in Jacksonville, Texas. In the face of this darkness, Chappelle retreated to the depths of his mind, leaning on his support system and made the decision that his passion for the game of football was still burning and maintained his faith. Faith without works is dead. With that being said, Chappelle has put in the work to join the Northeastern State University football squad. We had the chance to catch up with Jeremey and ask him a few questions.

Our conversation is below enjoy!

The Great Change: At this point in your football career how do you feel about your abilities and confidence on the field?

Chappelle: I'm twenty-four now. My knowledge of the game is much better. I feel as if I'm better right now than I ever been. I was coming off a great spring at Mississippi State. Hopefully it will transgress to my new school.

The Great Change: What has your career taught you about the game of football, thus far. that you want to immediately put to work in your upcoming opportunity at Northeastern State University in Oklahoma?

Chappelle: My career is a lot different from others. This will be my fourth college I'm attending. My career has taught me to never give up and to always keep faith. I will IMMEDIATELY showcase my hard work and dedication to the game when I arrive on campus. Football is life for me. Its the greatest game to teach you about life.

The Great Change: Aside from the legacy that Stacy Hunter, your uncle, has left on the program you will be joining, what legacy do you plan to build?

Chappelle: The past few years NSU hasn't been very successful. In fact, they've been pretty bad. I want to win games, that's it. Winning games brings things like breaking records and scoring a lot of points but I care more about winning games.

The Great Change: What relationship are you looking to build with your fellow teammates and coaching staff?

Chappelle: Every school I've been to, I've built special relationships with my teammates and coaches. I don't think it will be different this time. Teammates are your brothers and that's how I treat them.

The Great Change: Who do you want to thank for your success?

Chappelle: I was raised by my mama, my grandma, and uncle. Those three had a big hand on my life. My mother is a single parent. She has been through it all, with me. Time, and time again I got myself into situations. My mom would come to the rescue. Getting me out of a bind. She's the reason I'm graduating with my bachelors degree. Her love for me has pushed me to do better for myself.

The Great Change: What advice do you have for youngsters with big dreams that are facing adversity?

Jeremey Chappelle: To any youngster with dreams that has been facing adversity, please don't give up. Keep a vision of your goals and do what you have to do to attain those goals. Life is all about highs and lows. In the midst of your highs be ready for your lows. The true content of a man is seen when he faces adversity. Keep your faith and finish.

Thanks for reading with The Great Change!

- The Great Change Team

Hardin-Simmons University football standout goes pro!

Today, we would like to share with our valued readers, the story of a young man who maintained faith in the midst of adversity and received a blessing of a lifetime. Trei Lewis, a former Hardin-Simmons University Cowboy wide receiver has been selected for the roster of The Abilene Warriors football squad. We had a chance to ask Mr. Lewis about this experience. Check it out below!

The Great Change: What was the feeling that you felt when you learned that you had made the cut?

T. Lewis: When I made the cut, I felt like it was much deserved. It is not because of cockiness, but more so because of my consistent hardwork and dedication I have put in this game. I also kept my faith when it seemed that opportunities to play ball were starting to fade in my mind. I still believed I could play and be effective at the professional level. I'm truly blessed for the opportunity that awaits.

The Great Change: What is the biggest improvement that you want to bring to your game in the pros from the collegiate level?

T. Lewis: I want to become even MORE dominant and come in the locker room and make an immediate impact to show the coaches, and my fellow teammates, how serious I am about making plays and winning. These coaches are professionals and also have strong connections to the NFL, you never know what could happen. So I definitely want to be focused on great technique and the details of my position and playmaking that will happen based on my athletic abilities.

The Great Change: Who would you like to give thanks to for helping you achieve this goal?

Trei Lewis: I definitely want to thank God for helping keep my faith and blessing me through my trials and triumphs. My family; my mom and brother, have been so motivating to my success. I want to be able to take care of them. They keep me going everyday. Lastly, I want to thank my college coach Burleson for teaching me life lessons and giving me the tools to learn how to be a better man, not just a better ball player. 

The Great Change: What are your expectations for yourself this upcoming season?

T. Lewis: My expectations for this next coming season is to have the best season and have the most fun I have ever had while playing this game. I still have so much passion for this game. I am just excited and blessed to get the opportunity to play once more, because nothing is guaranteed. I definitely plan on opening some eyes as well, to people who are not really sure of my talents or are not aware of my talents. I would like to bring it to their attention. I always tell myself to train like the underdog, no matter what others say or what the odds are.

Trei Lewis' determination and hardworking has paid off and his story is an inspiration to everyone that knows this young man. Stay tuned to our blog for more stories!

Interview: Roynal Bridgeforth

One of the most important people in a young man's life is his father. Well I want to give you all the honor of reading the interview my father and I had recently. We must take the time as a younger generation to soak up all of the knowledge our elders have. Take a look at the wisdom that father Bridgeforth had in store for me!

The Great Change: What comes to mind when you think of you hometown, Memphis, Tennessee?

R. Bridgeforth: The first thing that comes to my mind when I think of Memphis is, family. I think about the love and respect we have for each other there.

The Great Change: What do you remember most about your mom?

R. Bridgeforth: The thing I remember most about my mom is that she was a very loving person.

The Great Change: What do you remember most about your dad?

R. Bridgeforth: The thing I remember about my dad is that he was a hard working man. Everyday he made sure we were fed and that we understood the value of a honest day's work.

The Great Change: If your parents had a message for your children, us, what do you think it would be?

R. Bridgeforth: Always love each other and be there for each other no matter what, and to please listen to your parents. 

The Great Change: What has given you success as a basketball coach?

R. Bridgeforth: Drive. My drive comes from the look that I got from son when he was a newborn. That still drives me today. This is literally bringing tears to my eyes.

The Great Change: What did you believe about yourself that helped you become successful and deal with hard times?

R. Bridgeforth: That I had faith in God and he would lead me in the right direction, success in basketball is not my greatest achievement. Watching my son and my daughter turn to respectable and God fearing people gives me much joy.

The Great Change: What three event most shaped your life?

R. Bridgeforth: The three most impactful events that have shaped my life are the death of my mom, the birth of my kids and the love of my life, my wife, Georgina Bridgeforth.

The Great Change: What could the world use more of right now?

R. Bridgeforth: The world could use more responsible parents and loving people. We need less hatred.

The Great Change: What do you believe that people want most in this life?

R. Bridgeforth: What people really want most out of life is to be loved and needed. 

The Great Change: What are you most proud of?

R. Bridgeforth: I’m really most proud of my marriage, my children. My children make me proud because they are smart, loving and giving. They are not filled with hatred. Also the fact that they love God.

The Great Change: What message would you like to share with your family?

R. Bridgeforth: Family... please do not take anything for granted. Life is too short. We will love each other through the hard times. Do not make the same mistake twice. I want you all to know that God got you if you have close relationship with him.

Thank you all for stopping by The Great Change Blog today! Check out our latest book The American Alien! 

Click Pre-Order to the RIGHT.

Interview: Karyn Cummings

The Great Change got the chance to catch up with long time educator and Dr. Ralph H. Poteet Principal Karyn Cummings and ask her some questions about the current state of our education system. Our conversation is below, enjoy!

The Great Change: How long have you been in education as a profession?

Principal Cummings: I have been an educator in MISD for 25 years.

The Great Change: What inspired you to get into this particular field?

Principal Cummings: I always loved being a teacher and wanted to be able to help other teachers become great. Administration affords me that opportunity without losing the connection with students. I love seeing students grow and succeed, and as a principal in high school, I am in a unique situation to do just that!

The Great Change: What is your opinion on the idea of adding money management and investment classes to the high school curriculum?

Principal Cummings: I think those courses would be a great addition to the high school curriculum. We currently offer Dollars and Sense as an elective, but the scope of the objectives is limited to what can be covered in one semester.

The Great Change: What is your response to those that say standardized testing constrains creativity in the classroom?

Principal Cummings: I have to disagree that standardized testing limits creativity. I believe teachers must insure a balance of skills and creativity in order for students to be successful on standardized tests. I do believe that the rigor of the tests keeps teachers focused on the skills as they require much time to teach.

The Great Change: How do we ensure that we continue to have good teachers that are capable of helping each student become a functional member of society?

Principal Cummings: Coaching new teachers is critical to keeping them in the profession. If we cannot keep them, they never learn to be truly skilled in the art of teaching. Teaching requires a specific skill set that is perfected over time. The mentoring and coaching by experienced teachers and administrators will assist in retaining teachers. If we can keep teachers through the first 7 years, they typically make teaching their career.

The Great Change: Do you have any further ambitions beyond your position as Dr. Ralph H. Poteet Principal?

Principal Cummings: To be honest, I still love being a campus principal. I am content being at Poteet, but I am willing to do whatever my superintendent would want me to do. Central office would be the next step for me, but I am in no hurry!

The Great Change: Thank you for your time talking to us here and look forward to talking to you again in the future!

Interview: Viktoras Merkevicius

Hello Valued Readers!

We here at The Great Change have the joy of interviewing an astounding young man that is from Lithuania, a country located in Europe, bordering Poland, Belarus and Latvia. Welcome Viktoras Merkevicius. Mr. Merkevicius is currently in the states as a student-athlete at Rochester College in Michigan, where he is studying History. Vik, for short, manages his own blog located at viktorasblogas.blogspot.com. He is a great friend of mine and I value his input greatly. Viktoras and I had a great conversation below about his view and experience here in the U.S.A.

Enjoy!

The Great Change: Hey Vik! So first off, when did you initially come to the states and what brought you to the United States of America?

Viktoras: I came to U.S July 6th, 2011. The reason I came here was free education via a basketball scholarship. My first stop was Los Angeles, CA. 

The Great Change: As someone who was not born here, what do you see as our biggest problem, in your eyes?

Viktoras: In my opinion, the biggest problem that America has is their EGO and PRIDE in their own country. Every person has to have strong feelings and love for his native country, but Americans have too much of it. For example: The American flag. I was driving twenty miles from one spot to another, and purposely I counted how many flags will I see. I counted forty-nine flags on a twenty mile road. When people are using flags without any good reason, the flag looses its meaning. This is only one example. Another problem would be: Americans think that this country is the center of the world, but it is not. Our Earth spins around the Sun, not around the U.S.A.

The Great Change: What is the biggest similarity between the U.S.A. and Lithuania?

Viktoras: The most similar thing would be people's hospitality and willingness to help others. Both countries for the most part will help one without even knowing him/her.

The Great Change: What do you like most about the U.S.A. so far?

Viktoras: As I mentioned, I love people's hospitality. I have had a unique chance to live in different places in U.S.A. and see different faces of this country. I lived year in Los Angeles, a year in the Dallas area (TX), and now I am living by the Great Lakes. Every I place I have been, I have met people who have helped me along my journey and I am truly thankful for them. Also, ranch dressing. In Lithuania we do not have ranch dressing, and now I am just obsessed with it.  

The Great Change: How many American states have you visited and which state happens to be your favorite, why?

Viktoras: I have visited 13 states so far. My favorite state would be California because of the weather and all different fun things you can do there. My dreams is to visit Alaska one day. 

The Great Change: What is your favorite American memory so far?

Viktoras: I had many, many great memories from my living years in this country. Ode to your host Donovan I would have to say that the best thing we did in Texas with him was mixing "Menthos with Coca Cola". I remember we spent over 10$ to buy many bottles of this drinks and "menthos" candy. 

The Great Change: Lastly, if you were a Lithuanian Ambassador to the United States what would be your most important point to get across to our head of state, Barack Obama?

Viktoras: I know how American people are divided on this matter. Half of them love him and supports him, other half - don't. I wouldn't talk about any problems with him, because his life is filled with problems. I would just take to the bar and have a glass of good imported beer. 

Interview: David McDonald

I had the chance to ask a long time friend of mine, David McDonald, some questions about his recent voyage to Africa in hopes of learning some information that can benefit us here at The Great Change and most importantly, YOU, our readers. David is a Youth and Community Studies Major at The University of Texas at Austin. He minors in Public Relations, African & African Diaspora Studies. My dear friend is also the President of the Black Student Alliance, Student Representative of the Division of Diversity and Community Engagement, and Lead Mentor at the University Leadership Network. But, most importantly David is a young black male with a mission. Our enlightening conversation is below, enjoy.

The Great Change: So, David, what made you want to go to Africa?

David McDonald: Everyone NEEDS to go to Africa. I have always dreamed of going to Africa ever since I was old enough to understand that my heritage began in Africa. When the opportunity presented itself to go, I wasted no time in pursuing it. I didn't want to go to Africa for a vacation or to get get "the real third world experience", I wanted to experience a piece of myself that hasn't been explored yet and to understand the value of Africa as a whole.

The Great Change: What was your idea of Africa before you visited and how was that compared to the reality when you were there in person?

David McDonald: Before I visited Africa, my perception was completely wrong. The way the media portrayed Africa, I expected to see wild animals everywhere, the people not to understand English, and the stereotypical African experience that people think of when visiting Africa. When you're there in person, you realize how wrong everyone's perception of Africa really is. Yes, there are parts of Africa that are poverty stricken and have serious health conditions, but there are places in Africa that are extremely developed, have beautiful homes and cities, and have similar appearances to America. As a Black person with a lighter complexion, I didn't expect to see many lighter skin South Africans, but most of the people in South Africa looked just like me or even lighter. I finally felt connected to the land and the people. For the first time, I could be just David and not the minority or the Black person in the room. 

The Great Change: What part of Africa did you visit?

David McDonald: The city of Cape Town, in the Western Cape of South Africa. 

The Great Change: What was the biggest thing you took away from your experience in Africa?

David McDonald: The world is so much bigger than what I've known it to be and Africa is so much bigger than what the maps depict. I've realized how much I don't know about the world and how much I still need to experience. Going to Africa increased my hunger to see more countries and nations all over the globe. Then seeing the diversity within the African continent expanded my view of Africa. The experience you will get in West Africa is vastly different from the experience and history you get in Southern Africa. In South Africa. There is just so much more to learn and do now. 

The Great Change: How do you plan to use that experience to further the things you have already set into motion here in the states?

David McDonald: Now I feel more mobile. Not only do I have the mindset to move around abroad, but I can also move around more in the states. If there are job opportunities or networking that needs to be done, I feel comfortable traveling now since I have been abroad. For my career in Education, I'm no longer thinking about just the American education. I'm thinking about how I can have an impact on a global scale. 

The Great Change: What's the next big thing for you? 

David McDonald: The next big thing for me is Brazil. There is a huge Black population there and I know spending time in Brazil will give me a new perspective on the Black diaspora.

The Great Change: Thank you for your time David, all best of luck to you in the near future!

For any business inquiries about David McDonald, he can be reached at davidmcdonald@utexas.edu

Interview: Ashley Humphrey

Hello valued readers,

I would like to share with you a young, black and gifted woman, Ashley Humphrey, with whom I had the privilege of asking some questions. Ashley is a poet, painter, writer and performs spoken word. Our conversation is below, enjoy!

The Great Change: How old are you?

Ashley Humphrey: I am 21 years old. My birthday is on September 11. 

The Great Change: What person in your life had the biggest impact in leading you in the road you are on?

Ashley Humphrey: That is really a tough question because I feel that there are many people who have greatly impacted my life. My immediate family has definitely influenced me to become who I truly am but if I had to choose one person, I would say my mother.  She is not only my mother; she is my friend and spiritual buddy. From the time she held me after birth until now and more days to come, she has instilled in me values that are priceless. She taught me how to not only be a woman, but to be a Christian woman who knows her self-worth. She taught me to be me and to be me boldly. I can honestly say that I wouldn't be who I am if she wasn't in my life as she has been.

The Great Change: When did you begin performing spoken word?

Ashley Humphrey: I began performing spoken word not too long ago. To be specific, I started performing my poetry last November. I have always been a writer, jotting down my feelings and experiences but I use to be afraid to express my personal writings with anyone.  My friend April Neal, a fellow poet, encouraged me to perform at an open mic she hosted and I loved it. On the stage I felt totally transparent.  I felt like God was using me to shine his light to people from my poetry.  From that day, I haven't stopped and I won't stop as long as my poetry continues to help people and give them something they can relate to.

The Great Change: When did you begin painting?

Ashley Humphrey: I have had an interest in art since I understood what art was. I started to get serious about painting around the age of 13. Painting has always been an outlet for me to express all the things that my words can't exactly capture. Sometimes, words cannot fully show the emotion, pain, or passion behind the letters so my paint brush started to do the talking. Now after spiritual and character develop, I've found a way to use my words and art to express my love for God, my experiences, and a way to encourage others who may be going through what I've been through.

The Great Change: What inspired your pieces such as “Skeptical”, “Lost Identity” and “Instrumental Soul”?

Ashley Humphrey: “Skeptical” is a painting that I did to express the skepticism seen within people who never have hope or faith. They are skeptical about everything only believing what they see.  The eye cannot see God so they doubt his existence which blinds their perceptions. It's those who are not skeptic that can see everything.

“Lost identity” is a piece that I feel describes a person who is lost on who he/she is. They try on different masks to fit the occasion or simply try to fit in with who they are hanging around. The different faces represent the different masks he/she wears to be accepted. The true face is not revealed because the true face is lost.

"Instrumental Soul" is a piece that I designed to show the soul that music has. Being raised in Memphis, TN really influenced the blues and soul type of art on the guitar.

The Great Change: What provoked your spoken word piece “Beautiful Flaws”?

Ashley Humphrey: “Beautiful Flaws” is a spoken word piece that I wrote to emphasize the beauty that everyone possesses. Sometimes we lose confidence in who we are or the way we look because magazines portray a certain image that is the "ideal look". It's something that affected me tremendously and many other girls. I felt that it was time that everyone sees that we all are perfect because our perfect God created us. God made no mistakes in creating each one of us and the way we look. We have to not be afraid of being who we are and looking the way we do. It took me a while to realize that but now that I do, I hope to help several girls realize it as well through this piece.

The Great Change: Describe the feeling you get while performing your craft, whether it be spoken word or painting.

Ashley Humphrey: When performing my craft, I feel that it is shared time with God. It's the time where I listen to God, express my love and appreciation for him, and just let go! When I'm performing, I feel a freedom that is indescribable.  All the things that I feel or thing comes out through my artistic expression. 

The Great Change: What impact do you wish to bring to your audience and who is your target audience?

Ashley Humphrey: I hope that by being transparent, I can let God shine through me with the talents he has given me. I just want everyone to know God, what he has done for me and what he can do for anyone who seeks him. I hope to reach our youth because negative influences are heavily present these days. Worldly acceptance is what our youth walks toward when the walk should be towards acceptance from God. My main goal is to show them that saying no to the world but yes to God is the best decision and most important one will ever make.

The Great Change: Are you currently working on any projects?

Ashley Humphrey: I am currently working on a book titled "Under-Construction: Spiritual Renovation". This book will be for those who choose to start their walk with Christ. I also have many community projects coming up to spread the word of God and kindness to the community. 

The Great Change: Is there an artist that influences your work or that you would compare yourself to?

Ashley Humphrey: The greatest artist is God and he is my inspiration. He created all things.  When we walk outside, we see different plants, animals, and other people who make up the world. It's such a beautiful thing to experience what he has created. Every one of my pieces is a recreation of his work from my perspective. I would never compare my work with his, but I will always show it from my point of view.

The Great Change: We here at The Great Change appreciate you taking time to answer a few questions Ashley and look forward to the release of your book, which we would love to have you back to elucidate upon when it is complete.

Ashley's previously mentioned works can be located and viewed on her website www.ashleyhumphrey.com or for social media updates from Ashley Humphrey follow her Instagram page @_ashleyhumphrey