We're dropping an extra special episode of "The Sidebar by NYABJ" this week, featuring students from our annual First Take program. Since 1988, First Take is our seven-week program for high schoolers across the New York City Metro Area to introduce them to various aspects and careers in journalism.

Recorded on the final day of the program, the students reflect on what they learned throughout the experience.

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The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.

The First Take Takeover Part 3!

Audacious, trailblazer stories need enterprising visionaries to tell them. This tie between compelling film and skillful director seamlessly weave together in the novel, five-part, Disney+ docuseries, “Harlem Ice.” Harlem Ice is the delightfully inspiring, feel-good film chronicling the lives of a bevy of black and brown teen girl ice skaters of the “Figure Skating in Harlem” organization. Brooklyn-based documentarian SAMANTHA KNOWLES is the young, African American, award winning, filmmaker phenom appointed to craft this first-of-its-kind adventure. 

The Sidebar by NYABJ's SONJA D. GRACY talks with Knowles, a DOC NYC 40 Under 40 List 2023 and “NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Directing in A Documentary Series" recipient, about her work on the Harlem Ice film co-produced by Oscar-winning film director Ron Howard and ABC TV broadcaster Robin Roberts. In this podcast, Knowles shares her vision for the docuseries' creative arc that propels the figure skating organization’s ice access beginnings to its ice-skater mentorships of others across the globe. Knowles also divulges why she squarely centers her art on profiling the plight and progress of African Americans.

EDITOR'S NOTE: To protect the identities of the young cast members of the documentary, parts of their names have been blanked out.

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The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.

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Please join us for the 4th Annual NYABJ Juneteenth Gala and Awards Ceremony on Thursday June 19th from 6-9pm at the ILA Penthouse and Rooftop Garden. The event will be hosted by CBS News' Vladimir Duthiers and NBC 4 New York's Kay Angram. Get ready to mingle with fellow journalists, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and witness the honoring of outstanding members in the industry. Tickets are on sale at www.nyabj.org, with proceeds benefitting our First Take program. Don't miss out on this unforgettable evening!

Filmmaker Samantha Knowles on "Harlem Ice"

June is Black Music Month and as a special treat, "The Sidebar by NYABJ" is releasing not one, but two extended episodes featuring those who have made their impact on Black music. 

To start, The Sidebar's SONJA D. GRACY has an intensive interview with music management veteran MATHEW KNOWLES (1:02). While many know him as the father of acclaimed singers Beyoncé Knowles-Carter and Solange Knowles and his work managing Destiny's Child, Gracy goes in-depth with Knowles' other as impactful milestones, which include being the founder of Music World Entertainment amongst other music and entertainment business ventures and as a visiting professor teaching courses on the entertainment industry at a number of colleges and universities.

In addition, The Sidebar's LISA DURDEN hosts a candid conversation with the multi-talented, platinum-selling artist SYLEENA JOHNSON (50:20). In an interview that will no doubt leave you inspired, Johnson opens up about her evolution as a singer, songwriter, TV host, wellness advocate, and film producer, and provides insight about owning your artistry, navigating industry challenges, and staying grounded in your purpose. She also shares encouraging words for rising artists and gives insider tips on longevity in the business.

Remember that if you liked what you heard, make sure to subscribe so you don't miss Part II, which will be released on July 3rd!

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The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.

Black Music Month Part I Feat. Mathew Knowles and Syleena Johnson

In this second part of our pair of episodes marking Black Music Month, The Sidebar by NYABJ decided to extend it for a few more days to feature the multi-talented TL CROSS. 

In a deep conversation with our own MICHAEL W. RAY, Cross shares his views on Black music over the years as musician, singer, songwriter, and producer with platinum credentials. He also expands upon his background as a lecturer and educator, as well as founder of the Cross Academy of Performing Arts.

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The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.

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The New York Association of Black Journalists would like to thank the following sponsors who contributed to our 4th Annual Juneteenth Gala and Awards Show swag bag:

Brownkind  
Bifties   
Rich Nuts   
Aluminate Life   
Hask Beauty   
Epsom-it   
Spry  
Andrew Fitzsimons  
Cheribe Beauty  
Tea Forte  
The Doux 
Kazmaleje    
New England Sweetwater 
Maya Angelou: A Writers Journal
Keranique
BosleyMD

Black Music Month Part II feat. TL Cross

In this packed episode of The Sidebar by NYABJ, we begin with our own JEWEL BENTON's conversation with legendary music icon DIONNE WARWICK. The six-time Grammy winner, known for multiple hit singles over her nearly seventy-year career as a singer, actress, and television host, Warwick reflects on the path she’s walked and the wisdom she’s gained along the way. 

Then we turn to April’s Business Journalism panel, moderated by NYABJ Treasurer DIANE KING HALL. As economic issues like inflation, tariffs, and the rising cost of living increasingly shape public discourse, this panel highlights the journalists who make sense of it all. The New York Times' JORDYN HOLMAN, Financial Times' TAYLOR NICOLE ROGERS, and Bloomberg's QUEENNETTE KARIKARI share how they turn complex financial data into accessible, human-centered stories and how they impact the Black community at large. 

(Note: This panel was recorded on April 23rd, 2025. You can also watch the panel on Youtube: https://youtu.be/OapiuwjqM7I?si=grodBs18O5LBx0_5)

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The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.

The Iconic Dionne Warwick / LIVE: Exploring Business Journalism

Scroll through social media and you'll soon be bombarded with perfectly curated snapshots of people seemingly living lives much better than yours—better home, career, partner, looks, more talent, you name it! Even after you’ve logged out, you’re left with the feeling that you don’t measure up—a belief that hip-hop artist and meditation expert BORN I (OFOSU JONES-QUARTEY) is countering with his simple yet powerful mantra “You Are Enough.” 

Speaking with The Sidebar's KIZZY COX, Born I starts with his introduction to Buddhist meditation as a child by his mom, drifting in and out of the practice as he pursued his hip-hop career—and the party lifestyle it entailed. However, as he deepened his spiritual practice, he eventually decided to stop chasing mainstream success. Once Born I embraced coming "from the heart" by rapping about his spiritual evolution, his career reached new heights. In just the past five years, he’s become the voice behind the popular meditation app, Balance, released two albums, written two children’s books, brought his unique brand to the Kennedy Center where he led a guided meditation, followed by a hip-hop performance and is currently one of the meditation teachers featured on Dharma Homies, an online community making meditation accessible to marginalized groups.

But he hasn't stopped there! This BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month, Born I released his third album Komorebi and a new book for adults, Lyrical Dharma: Hip-Hop As Mindfulness. He’s redefining what a meditation teacher and hip-hop artist can be—and showing how mindfulness can heal.

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The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.

You Are Enough: Born I’s Journey from the Mic to Meditation

Before leaving for a brief summer break, The Sidebar would like to present a conversation as part of an unforgettable evening of networking and insight in collaboration with Amazon at the Brooklyn Chophouse in Times Square. Moderated by CBS News New York Meteorologist and NYABJ member TONY SADIKU, panelists explored how vision, purpose, and resilience shape modern leadership.

The panel was made up of LONDON KEMP BOYKIN, Director of Global Realty Sustainable Development at Amazon; MARA S. CAMPO, four-time Emmy-winning journalist, Webby-winning content creator, and CEO of Magic by Mara; PRISCILLA OKYERE, Senior Manager of Worldwide Circular Solutions and Waste Reduction at Amazon; and KIESHA CLAYTON, Principal at the Climate Pledge at Amazon.

From sustainability to social impact, this conversation delivers practical wisdom and bold inspiration for anyone ready to lead without compromise.

(Note: This episode was recorded on July 15th, 2025)

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The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.




LIVE: Amazon x NYABJ Presents "Leading Without Compromise: How We Made It Work"

In this education-focused episode of The Sidebar by NYABJ to kick off the school year, producer and host MICHAEL W. RAY sits down with DR. SELMA BARTHOLOMEW, a Grenada-born, Harlem-raised educator and New York City mayoral candidate. Dr. Bartholomew’s journey is both inspiring and multifaceted; starting out by earning a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and physics from Lehman College, pursuing two master’s degrees at Adelphi and Fordham University, and finally achieving a doctorate in pure mathematics. 

Beyond her academic and professional accomplishments, she brings a deeply personal perspective as a dedicated educator and a resilient cancer survivor. This conversation explores how her background shaped her values and provide insight into her passion for education, equity, and community empowerment.

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The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.

A Legacy of Education with Dr. Selma Bartholomew

This engaging conversation is led by public relations guru of more than five decades, ANGELO ELLERBEE, who works with legends like Dionne Warwick and Melba Moore, and developed the likes of Lionel Richie, Shabba Ranks, Mary J Blige, DMX, and even Michael Jackson, to name a few. 

Speaking with The Sidebar/NYABJ’s own JEWEL BENTON, Ellerbee discusses his impactful book "Before I Let You Go", emphasizing the importance of self-improvement, community support, and the challenges faced in the entertainment industry. He shares personal anecdotes about his family, the significance of education and reading, and the need for political awareness and activism. Throughout the discussion, Ellerbee highlights the power of love, encouragement, and the collective strength of the community.

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The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.

Before I Let You Go: Lessons from Angelo Ellerbee

In this episode of The Sidebar by NYABJ, host LISA DURDEN sits down with VIVIAN COX-FRASER, President & CEO of the Urban League of Essex County, to discuss the impact of grant cuts on educational programs.

Mrs. Cox-Fraser highlights the vital work the Urban League provides in the community and shares insights on how funding challenges affect their initiatives. She offers practical advice on overcoming financial setbacks, strategies for staying resilient, and inspiring words for organizations navigating uncertainty.

Whether you’re part of a nonprofit, leading a business, or simply interested in how communities adapt in difficult times, this conversation delivers valuable perspective, empowerment, and authentic excellence.

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The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.

VIvian Cox-Fraser and the Impact of Grant Cuts on Educational Programs

Becoming the first Black anything in environments rife with racism is far from easy, but trailblazing journalist and actress JAYNE KENNEDY has done it not just once but three separate times. Kennedy made history as the first Black Miss Ohio in 1970, the first Black woman to anchor NFL Today in the 1970s and the first woman of any race to host Greatest Sports Legends in the 1980s. Not to mention her award-winning acting career rubbing elbows with other stars like Sammy Davis Jr. and her status as an icon of Black beauty and excellence. 

The newly crowned NABJ Lifetime Achievement Award winner shares her remarkable story in her recently released memoir "Plain Jayne". In it, she takes back her narrative and legacy after a sex tape scandal led her into seclusion for years. 

In an inspiring conversation with the Sidebar’s KIZZY COX, Kennedy discusses her life, lessons and the steps she took on her way back into the well-deserved spotlight. 

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The opinions heard in this episode belong to the individuals who made them and not to NYABJ. Music by HoliznaRAPS. For more information on the New York Association of Black Journalists, please visit our website at www.nyabj.org.

Jayne Kennedy Reclaims Her Narrative

The Sidebar by NYABJ is a show about the world of media, through the lens of Black media-makers. 

Each episode will feature honest conversations with journalists, content creators, advocates, trailblazers  and new voices alike - talking about what it really takes to keep our communities informed and engaged. 

Subscribe now to join us as we look behind the figurative curtain for insights - straight from the source. 

The Sidebar is a production of the New York Association of Black Journalists (NYABJ), the Greater New York chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), the world’s largest organization for journalists of color. 

For more information, visit www.nyabj.org.