From the Editor

BY CHANELLE HAYES

As you spend the next few weeks enjoying your summer of sun-soaked days and warm nights, start thinking about the fall season ahead of its arrival in September. The fall season, my personal favorite, is a time of unparalleled beauty. It paints the world with vibrant colors and fills the air with a sense of purity, creating a serene and comfortable environment. With its subtle winds of change, this season invites you to reflect on the past year and anticipate new beginnings.

This current edition of Chic Compass boldly celebrates the beauty and transformations of the approaching fall season. We shine a light on the power of introspection and self-improvement and hope the stories of individuals who have triumphed over adversity and achieved personal growth will inspire you.

Let me introduce you to our cover star, Jerick Padsing. Inspired by his role model, Manny Pacquiao, he gave up his love of football to pursue a professional boxing career. Pacquiao’s influence impacted his career path, proving role models significantly impact us all. Our cover star’s daily commitment to his craft makes him an incredible example of resolution and perseverance. His journey, including many life lessons learned inside and outside the ring and his next big moves, is a testament to the power of determination and courage.

Changing from one sport to another, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has more than 30 years of shattering stereotypes, including the idea that women’s sports are “not as exciting as their male counterparts in the NBA.” In this issue, we sit down with Nikki Fargas, the president of the Las Vegas Aces, a team that has demonstrated tremendous growth from its beginning to its current status as two-time world champions. The Aces have ignited a rising interest in and love for women’s basketball, are a shining example of gender balance in sports and hold great hope for the future of women’s basketball.
Like the WNBA, Dr. Jen Welter has broken many barriers, including becoming the first female National Football League (NFL) coach. Her story is a testament to resilience and determination. With her various football camps, she has changed the lives of girls and women worldwide. When you read about her journey, you will discover that she is an inspiration and that you can achieve your goals and overcome adversity.

This issue also highlights the Social Issues Theatre, a nonprofit that touches on diversity and inclusion through theater. Meet L.A. Walker, one of the co-executive directors of the Social Issues Theatre, who pours her heart and soul into writing, producing and performing. I was impressed to learn about the challenges and obstacles that she has faced and how she has incorporated them into each of the plays that the Social Issues Theatre performs. Each play tackles social issues, such as health concerns, racism, homophobia and gender inequality, which are still important and relevant today. Through her work, she fosters empathetic, supportive communities while advocating for mental wellness. Her life’s journey and everything she accomplishes with the Social Issues Theatre provides witness to the transformative power of change.

In the world of music, we spotlight powerhouse vocalist Lannie Counts, the topic of our grace segment. The humble and sweet singer explained the significance of grace and how it has impacted his career. I enjoyed learning about his remarkable life and how he got into music. He chats with me about his aspirations, broadening his horizons and challenges he has faced. Through it all, he is still pursuing his dream and has made a name for himself as a talented singer and member of various bands. Read his feature story to learn more about his inspiring journey, highlights from this past year and future ambitions.

These are just some exciting people and stories you will read about in this jam-packed issue. As you read it, I invite you to take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate your personal growth and those around you as you look forward to the new beginnings of the fall season.