By Anna Martinez When we hear Barbie, we often think of a blonde blue-eyed model. Latina Tina Rodriguez is working to change that stereotype and showcase Barbie’s diversity. Rodriguez, Associate Prepack Manager for Barbie and Girl Brands at Mattel Inc., understands that being a Latina who works within her community is extremely important. Outside of…
Having just premiered at the 2023 SXSW Film Festival, Agniia Galdanova’s documentary “QUEENDOM” is a raw, emotional journey that chronicles the life of Gena Marvin. As explained in the official film synopsis, the documentary follows the life of, “Gena, a queer artist from a small town in Russia, [who] dresses in otherworldly costumes made from…
By Marissa Palmer AUSTIN, Tx.—You’re hanging out with your friends, talking, joking and laughing with each other. The flow and pattern of the conversation is easy, not forced. And it isn’t just the conversation that flows easily; it’s the body language. It’s all so natural, fluid and utterly unrestrained. There is no tension or anxiety,…
If you’ve picked up a magazine, scrolled through TikTok, or turned on Netflix in the past year, chances are you’ve heard of Jenna Ortega. Born in 2002, Jenna Marie Ortega is the Gen Z It Girl. Her roles are current, moving, and always intentional. Her acting skills are supreme, and given her heritage as the…
From 2010 to 2020, Austin experienced a 33% increase in its population, growing from 1,716,289 citizens to 2,283,371 at the end of the decade. This, according to Austin Chamber, is due to Austin’s, “draw as a destination for migrant talent.” Meaning, due to the now booming Tech industry, along with Hollywood’s most recent discovery that…
Today marks the beginning of Black History Month in the United States, and with that comes a lot of excitement, festivities, and cultural celebration. At the same time, there might also be some confusion. If you grew up after Black History Month was instated, you may have never thought to ask why it occurs in…
“Bad Axe” is an IFC documentary that follows a multi-racial family of Asian and Mexican descent and their challenges in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. In the aftermath of the George Floyd riots, the family struggles to keep their restaurant “Rachel’s” (named after Mrs. Siev) afloat in their hometown, a conservative pro-Trump and rural…
Fashion Designer, Author, and Teacher Olivia Echeverria (known professionally as Olivia Bis) has lived a colorful and fascinating life. From her upbringing in East Los Angeles to her rewarding fashion career in Hollywood, Bis has experienced success, career transitions, and an enduring love for teaching and clothing design. Last October, Bis released her new book…
AUSTIN, Texas—Growing up, Barbie was the role model I always wanted, whether she was the woman who earned straight A’s in school, the woman who bought a Dream House or the girl who didn’t need her parents’ permission. When I became old enough to learn of the negative criticism Barbie faced over her unrealistic proportions,…
