Happy July fam! Meet the babes of Jersey City. This month we are featuring Black residents and creatives in the community!
Meet Allison @defcon_glitter
Allie is a city hopper that landed in Jersey City in 2013. She ended up loving it so much that she decided to stay. She is mom to 6 year old firecracker Alex and; is a lover of glitter, adventure and tasty foods.
1. What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?
I am the Director of Communications for Sixx Cool Moms, a networking website where we offer community support for local Mothers. And, I personally run the Northern New Jersey Chapter! What I enjoy most about my job is the event planning, the moral support, meme sharing and the collaborative efforts to make motherhood more enjoyable for Women all over the country. My dream job would be a food critic. I love to try different foods and flavors from all over the world, except avocado.
2. What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?
It was Miss Wong’s Speakeasy inside of Talde. Since they are now gone (RIP) I am looking for my new favorite. However I will mention that I do enjoy Jerkin Chicken, Carvao and The Rooftop at Exchange Place.
3. How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe?
4. What are 3 random facts about yourself?
I’ve played the church organ since I was 8
I can read and write backwards
I’m a foodie with severe food allergies -_-
5. What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?
The very first time I traveled internationally, I did it alone. And I went to my #1 destination,: Paris, France. (I also went to 4 other countries during that trip)
6. What do you love most about Jersey City?
When I first moved to JC, it was more about necessity. Back then, coming from Brooklyn the rent was cheap. But over the years, I have grown to love the diversity of our city. And the fact that I never really have to leave because everything I need is within a 1 mile radius.
Meet @whoisjoshuaross
Hello, my name is Joshua Ross, and I’m an interesting compilation of life experiences with a voice @clippersandconvos podcast.
1. What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?
I’m am currently a barber in Newark at Shave Artistry. And I created a podcast with some other barbers Dru and Guaap called Clippers and Convos. It’s a POV of the world thru a barber shop conversation. My dream job would be to create a platform artist for my brand. I’ve been apart of the hair industry for most of my life starting in women’s hair transitioning into a self taught barber who got to turn my hobby into my income.
2. What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?
I haven’t been out in sooo long, I used to frequent The Underground when they had Sunday night Open Mic night with @mauriceluke. That was a great event I miss going to.
3. How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe?
It was surprising because I’m really a homebody so to be nominated and not really know all of 30-40 people was interesting.
4. What are 3 random facts about yourself?
I’m an Army Veteran, I was enlisted for about two years, got injured and got out. Even though I’m honored to be nominated, I’m slightly insecure when it comes to aesthetics. One of my most RECENT hobbies has been roller skating in Newark. I didn’t think I was going to fall in love with it the way I have and I can’t wait to get back to it.
5. What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?
So I’m deathly afraid of heights, even at 6’7 heights give me chills sometimes. I want to go skydiving to get over that fear. 8. What do you love most about Jersey City?
Hmmm, I love the scenery, I love the culture even with everything going on in the world, we remained poised as a unit, that made me feel at ease. It’s the culture hear that has groomed me in the short time into an adult.
6. What do you love most about Jersey City?
Hmmm, I love the scenery, I love the culture even with everything going on in the world, we remained poised as a unit, that made me feel at ease. It’s the culture hear that has groomed me in the short time into an adult.
Meet @dessertpixie
Shakera Rosa is a proud wife, mom, and artist. She was born and raised in Hoboken and has lived in Jersey for the last 14yrs. She loves all things sweet, fashion, & dance. Shakera loves to help the community. With the help of her husband Robert & members of the local church that she attends, she organizes food, clothing, & toiletry drives throughout the year to donate to shelters.
1. What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?
I’m a stay at home mom currently working & growing my two small businesses from home:
Dessert Pixie (Party treats, Party Styling, Customized gifts, Event host/Mc .etc)
aka The Fairy Godmother Of Parties
Dessert Pixie Jewelry (Customized Apparel, Jewelry, Denim Art & Tote Bags)
To be my own boss. The goal is to own a loft or event space where I can provide my services & host private events (Birthday parties, babyshowers, small weddings, etc.). I’d love to offer photography sessions (My husband is a photographer, & artist as well), Dance Classes, DIY Art Classes for all ages, Poetry Nights, etc. Basically a wonderful place for me to create art and happy memories for people all day everyday.
2. What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?
Hands down we love walks to Toricos Ice Cream Parlor. The best homemade ice cream in town for sure. Baonanas has the best banana pudding in town! We’re excited to visit their new storefront. Carolyn’s Soul Food Kitchen on Orient because the food is so dope, she’s a super woman and she’s my favorite aunt (wink!). My favorite spots in the heights are La Concha (The family who runs it are amazing), Noches De Columbia, & Fire House Pizza because my four year old is obsessed with Firetrucks & grandpa is a firefighter. My new obsession during this quarantine has been Tacoria down town across from Toricos. I’ve never had bad food from there! And now I have two of my favorite food spots next to each other.
3. How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe?
(Laughs) I’m suprised and humbled. I appreciate the love.
4. What are 3 random facts about yourself?
-I love to host Soirees at my place with a theme. I take party themes seriously & if you don’t come ready in theme, I get offended
-I can always tell when a snake is around because my skins starts to itch. I strongly dislike snakes
– I was a recipient of an extremely competitive paid internship at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in NYC. I worked at Ailey Camp as a counselor and got to take as many dance classes as I wanted. I also received my first pair of Capezio Ballet Slippers from Ailey.
5. What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?
Craziest thing that I’ve ever done was hop on the MTV TRL stage during the commenrcial break to dance & kill it. I got invited to so many pre-taped specials, live studio shows, & Mtv Tres tapings after that. Good old days (laughs)
6. What do you love most about Jersey City?
Jersey City is a melting pot of all cultures. I love diversity.
Meet @shopwithtonette
Tonette Griffin is a proud resident of the Hamilton Park neighborhood in downtown JC. She’s an upcycling enthusiast who loves helping others find their magic and achieve their goals.
1. What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?
By day, I’m a Producer at an event marketing agency in Manhattan. By night, I run an online reselling business — my store is a melting pot of bespoke, vintage, and secondhand treasures. Clothes, jewelry, home goods, the works.
Right now my working life is a fun hybrid of the corporate world and the small business world. Someday I’d love to own a space that I’d describe as the “great community living room”. Where folks can shop, grab coffee, and cozy up with books by day and stop by for a creative upcycling workshop by night.
2. What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?
My go-to hang is with a book on a blanket in Hamilton Park. My go-to for quick eats is anything on the sandwich menu at Cangiano’s. Also a huge fan of Cellar 335, their food & drinks are phenomenal.
3. How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe?
Humbled, honored, and happy. Thank you!
4. What are 3 random facts about yourself?
I have a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art Photography.
I taught myself how to play the piano via YouTube tutorials at 16.
I love putting together IKEA furniture.
5. What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?
Moving to JC is probably top of the list for me. After my partner finished grad school, he found his dream job in NJ which was perfect because I always wanted to work in NYC. A lifelong dream for me and a nice change of scenery after living in DC for 10 years.
However, the week before my move was a literal race to the finish line. I had to produce my last event in DC, a huge citywide festival, while also preparing for my move to NJ and leaving for France to go to my best friend’s wedding. It went like this—Finished the event on Sunday, cleared out my desk on Monday, packed my life into the backseat of our Subaru on Tuesday, drove to New Jersey on Wednesday, repacked a small suitcase and flew to Paris on Thursday. Total whirlwind, and the perfect punctuation mark on this new chapter of life!
6. What do you love most about Jersey City?
The vibe, the balance, the community. There’s so much to explore here from outdoor activities and events. It’s bursting with its own flavor, attitude, and energy. I’m all about community and feel like I belong here, and can make a difference. You can’t find that in a lot of metropolitan cities. I can’t imagine living anywhere else right now.
Meet @serious__lee
Meet @A.doseofk
Kyara Martin, 25 was born and raised in the Journal Square area of Jersey City, NJ. She is a Lincoln High School Alum that moved on to score an Hudson County Community College Associate’s Degree in Education, a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from New Jersey City University, and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Rutger’s University. Kyara’s a dog mom of a rescue Yorkie named Dakota. She loves to travel, try new cuisines, volunteer and help others.
1. What do you currently do for a living and what is your dream job?
I am currently a programming assistant at Hudson County Community College for the Office of Student Life and Leadership (Campus Life). @hcccstudentlife. I work with a great team in which we program a multitude of on and off campus activities for college students to enjoy socially and academically.
My dream job is to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I’m currently working towards this goal. I have a passion to become an advocate for mental health especially in urban communities and identifying resources to those who are in need.
There’s so many places in Jersey City, but I’d have to choose Carvao BBQ as my favorite place to eat.
3. How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe?
It feels great, I’m honestly shocked but what a way to recognized in your own hometown, right?
4. What are 3 random facts about yourself?
I’m an adrenaline junkie, I love brunch, and I can’t swim
5. What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?
Whew, I’ve done a few things but Jet skiing in the Bermuda Triangle would be one because I definitely believed in the hype that I wasn’t going to return haha but here I am live in the flesh.
6. What do you love most about Jersey City?
I love the diversity and culture of the city. I’m really interested in seeing the progression of the urban ares of Jersey City.
Meet @brianwinstonfraser
Brian Fraser is a creative born and raised in Jersey. Spent lots of time in the South (Atlanta) for school and returned to be closer to family. He spends most of his time plotting his next photoshoot, outdoor adventure or seasonal playlist.
1. What do you currently do for a living?
NYC based photographer and Digital Product Manager.
2. What is your dream job?
I’m doing it now! I love working across many genres to explore and document new aesthetics of the African Diaspora.
3. What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?
My favorite place to hang is at home with a small group of friends. Harry’s Daughter listening to DJ LesTok is a close second.
4. How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe?
Embarrassing – I’m always behind the scenes.
5. What are 3 random facts about yourself?
The top of my bald head sweats when I get anxious or eat spicy food. Always in favor of nighttime bike rides. Looking forward to the day we meet aliens.
6. What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?
Jumped out of a plane for fun.
7. What do you love most about Jersey City?
You can find something from all parts of the world in JC.
Meet @ariel.zuri
My name is Ariel Zuri Hicks. I am the owner and creator of ZURIIARII an e-commerce fat fashion boutique. I am a black, fat, short blogger, and self-acceptance advocate. Self-acceptance means everything to me, without it there is no body-positivity, no self-love, and absolutely no confidence. Long before the body-positive movement, I was raised by the queen of self-love, my Mother. She was the sole inspiration for ZURIIARII and is the reason I am me today. Growing up fat, fashion was my only hurdle. So I made it my duty to create a space for women and girls like me to not only feel confident but comfortable.
1. What do you currently do for a living?
I am currently an administrative assistant for a career institute but I am “famous” for managing Jersey City’s beloved Roflcopter Toys and Gifts.
2. What is your dream job?
Wow, can I list 8? I would love to write, create, produce, or even direct an HBO series.
3. What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?
I am obsessed with Ani Ramen! Spicy Miso and Shrimp buns are my go-to.
4. How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe?
Amazing!! I am honored, shocked, and confused as to how I got here!!
5. What are 3 random facts about yourself?
I am currently obsessed with lemon Oreos.
I can’t live without “The Office”.
I’m named after the little mermaid.
6. What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?
To keep it pg, the craziest thing that I’ve done is cliff dive at Mountain Creek.
7. What do you love most about Jersey City?
I love that different areas in the city have different vibes. Hamilton Park is completely different from Journal Square, and The Heights and Exchange Place are two different worlds. I live in the Harsimus Cove area and I love it because I am so close to everything that I need. The Path, to get to Manhattan to party, Keyfoods, to grab a last-minute frozen tikka masala meal for dinner, and Hoboken. I was born and raised there and I’m so close yet the perfect amount of far away from my family.
Meet @Ytifa14
Hey guys! My name is Yarelys and I actually live in Union City (not too far from Jersey City). Yarelys has been in North Jersey for 8 years and LOVES it! So many things to do and cute places to visit. Her favorite part about it is that this area is very close to NYC, her hometown. She grew up in Washington Heights, the Bronx and CT. She went to the University of Connecticut and majored in Resource Economics with a concentration in Management & Marketing.
1. What do you currently do for a living?
So about that….I just recently made the decision to leave corporate America after ten years FOREVER. 2020 has been the year of speaking up and freedom! I realized Corporate America wasn’t serving me physically or emotionally. I entered the full time entrepreneurship world with my brand Cash is Queen!
2. What is your dream job?
As mentioned in the previous answer, I has decided to transition into focusing on my brand which I started June 6th. My goal with it is to promote financial awareness in the black and brown community as well as foster personal freedom and promote wealth. That is my passion & calling. I am done with JOBS!
3. What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?
OMG ! I recently went to Harry’s daughter and loved it! I found about this place through Lynn actually. They have great Caribbean food and the rum punches are to die for!
4. How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe?
I thinks it’s cool! Momma I made it! I am truly honored to be highlighted in this way and hopes to inspire someone reading it.
5. What are 3 random facts about yourself?
I lived in 3 out of 5 boroughs of NYC
Although I am Caribbean, I don’t know how to swim
I am writing a novel
6. What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?
Definitely Bunge jump or sky dive! I have to build up the courage to do that. But I mean since 2020 has been full of risk taking maybe I will continue the pattern.
7. What do you love most about Jersey City?
North Jersey in general is so awesome!! I don’t know if I would ever move because of the diversity & culture it represents.
Meet @boxingwithbarron
Meet @j_godiva
Jessica Connelly is a 35-year-old female who is passionate about networking and connecting people. She was born and raised in Jersey City until she was 8-years-old but returned to attend NJCU for her undergraduate, graduate degree, and other licenses. When she’s not at work, Jessica can be found among friends and family, reading voraciously, or meditating on the importance of self-growth.
I will start my own business by the end of the year, with my husband, to assist at risk youths on their path to success in the Hudson County area. The business will include job placement/ re-entry of youth in a trade, externship/internship, or apprenticeship while protecting the business as well.
3. What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?
I LOVE Just Be-Claws. Drinks from both The Ashford and South House.
I do not like surprises, and this was a surprise. It was a humble, grateful sandwich wrapped in a bow.
5. What are 3 random facts about yourself?
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My favorite actor of all time – JIM CARREY!!!
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I attended Natural Motion in Jersey City in 2003 and still have my cosmetology license.
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I despise the word “moist” unless it is describing a chocolate cake.
6. What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?
On the last leg of my trip to Thailand, I went on a water excursion. I DO NOT swim. With a life vest on and all, I traveled with a group inside of a cave. Getting bit by sea lice (YUCK!!), someone yells out, “Oh, look, a SPIDER.” My husband looked at me and said KEEP GOING! I began to scream internally and prayed to GOD!! But I was able to make it through the cave and back to the boat safely.
Growing up in Jersey City, I am witnessing history being made. There were times my parents did not allow me to step foot in Downtown. And some of the mom and pop stores are still standing including Moloney’s Meat Market by the courthouse. (Shameless plug). I used to go there all the time as a kid with my mom because my eldest cousin, Guy, worked there. His brother, Eddie Connelly now owns it.
Meet @PeteyxKraxe
Peteyxkraze are a super duo from Jersey city, NJ. Self produced from the beats to the visual graphics. Their music is honest but at the same time it makes you forget how painful the truth can be. They put smiles on peoples struggles. They balance well the real life battles of being rappers, Working men, family men, and community activists. In 2018 they dropped a music video every week for 10 weeks. In 2019 they released music everyday for 70 plus days consecutively. Soon the world will know. #Pxk #musicthatmakeyoufeelsomething
1. What do you currently do for a living?
Petey : I do music for a living, I produce , engineer , write , and perform music. Other then that COVID got me on unemployment at the moment so it’s lit !
Kraze: I’m a rapper and graphic designer but currently working a bullshit 9 to 5.
2. What is your dream job?
Petey: My dream job is to be one off the biggest artist in the world. I’ll most definitely venture off into other businesses but that’s my dream , wouldn’t call it a job.
Kraze: I need to change the world.
3. What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?
Petey: My favorite place to hang out is my crib but other than that it used to be red lounge till they took it away also I don’t eat out that much I cook for the most part.
Kraze: Studio, I love making music more than hanging out anywhere. But the Newark ave strip be lit. Duke’s and Diesels be fire.
4. How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe?
Petey : honestly I feel like I’m being cat fished
Kraze: I feel Sexy
5. What are 3 random facts about yourself?
Petey: I have a beautiful 3 year old daughter , I have my BA degree, and I fell down the stairs when I was 2 and had to get stitches in my mouth .
Kraze: I’m funny as hell, be lying sometimes, and I also got stitches in my forehead when I was 2 lol I fell out a laundry cart.
6. What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?
Petey: Dm all my ex’s in one group chat and ask for they forgiveness and too take me back.
Kraze: Petey is crazy, but star in a Porno.
7. What do you love most about Jersey City?
Petey: It’s just a feeling I get no where else. I love the culture , I love the birds , I love the raccoons, I love how it raised me
Kraze: The hill, the culture, the love, and the potential everyone has to be a voice in their community, the way it just teaches us.
Meet @C_berx
Born and raise Fresh Meadows, Queens NY. Moved to Central Jersey then to JC now here almost 4yrs. I live downtown JC from Paulus Hook to Powerhouse District. Beach and Golf during the warm weather and the Slopes during the cold season! I travel often and inspire to see the world through my lense.
1. What do you currently do for a living?
Creative Department at Chanel
2. What is your dream job?
Creative Direction and to inspire the young.
3. What is your favorite place to hang out or eat in Jersey City?
Latham House, White star, Frankie, Hamilton inn
4. How does it feel to be nominated as a JC babe?
Acknowledged, grateful, and appreciated.
5. What are 3 random facts about yourself?
Promote love
Social qualities
Network qualities
Grateful
6. What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done or wanted to do?
Craziest thing I would do but probably won’t would be Skydiving.
7. What do you love most about Jersey City?
Diversity, community environment, welcoming aspect.
Jessica Connelly is one of the most beautiful human beings to walk the face of this planet!! She’s got my vote! 💕
Love that you do this! And with interesting, diverse mix of people. Thank you