I first became aware of Karli Henriquez’s infectious laugh after seeing her MTV3 reality show ‘Karlifornia’ a few years ago. The station was the only MTV that my cable plan included but I became so hooked on her story that I tuned in every week to see LMFAO perform on her birthday or what crazy things her family would say. The thing that really struck me about Karli was how real she seemed to be. After getting the chance to see her responses, that seemed turned into is. This girl is REAL. It’s refreshing to see such a positive role model who is so young. Currently a radio personality on 102.7 KIISFM in Los Angles (yes, the same station Ryan Seacrest is on!), Ms. Henriquez gets to interview all the big music stars (Kanye West! I’m jealous) but The Lipstick Diaries switched it up and got an exclusive interview just for you! Read the full interview after the jump and ENJOY!!

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I met Kristina Duff at a fashion event last month. Occasionally I touch base with styling, and I so happen to be styling the event for the night. Kristina introduced me to AttaGirl back stage while her partner and herself were airbrushing their logo onto models. She spoke of AttaGirl with such passion and devotion, my ears tuned in immediately. Introducing a great cause to the amazing women who read up on the blog is definitely a treat for me. I urban dictionaryed AttaGirl and the definition for it was ” An expression of congratulations or praise directed at a female. Comes from the expression “that’s a good girl” which became “that a girl” and finally “attagirl.”

KL: What is the philosophy of AttaGirl?

KD: I want to make clear that AttaGirl, Inc. loves MEN too!!!  By supporting the women, we are also supporting the men (and children) in our lives. Our philosophy is to see women filled with self-love, self-respect and confidence so authentic that it glows from the inside out and shines onto others all around. By facilitating our “Skills Strength and Beauty” workshops, we are giving women a chance to see their light and what they have to offer this world.

KL: Where did AttaGirl originate?

KD: I have the biggest smile on my face while answering this question…because the 1st answer is…….IN MY HEART, the next thought, over the phone while reaching out to some friends looking for support in starting a Non-Prof. We are based in North Hollywood, CA. and I’m ready for an office big enough for staff and storage.

KL: What made you feel inspired to help women in need?

KD: Gosh, that’s a tough one. So many reasons. During the summer of 2008, I told a bunch of friends that I would change the world through makeup, they laughed and I had no  idea how, but I was ready for something. I have this thing inside that just pulls me to do it, I feel like I have been so blessed to have started off this life with 2 brothers that are both  mentally handicapped, this really brought me the ability to have patience and compassion and also the ability to fall in love with all souls especially those who have overcome hardship  or see life through a different lens. So, take that info, and take into consideration that my background includes makeup, hair, nails, and skin care…put it together and it’s pretty much  AttaGirl, Inc. Love, Compassion and the Desire to Inspire. Freelancing my whole life has taught me to trust myself and that I can really create something out of nothing, it takes  confidence. I believe in faking it til you make it…if I wake up feeling blah, then I smile and do what it takes til I believe it…eventually I’ll just laugh and next thing I know, the smile is  real. I think we are much simpler than we give ourselves credit for, if you want to be great, then just be great. If you want to utilize all your skills and create something positive, then do  it.

KL: How long have you focused on AttaGirl?

KD: Since November of ‘08, although this year seems to be the year of blast off!!! AttaGirl, Inc. is my priority! I’m really focused and driven to see it blossom and change lives. I’m  surrounded by some much love, support and opportunity. Oh! and the mentors I have, wow, I find myself adjusting daily to everything I’m learning on this path and every step supports  the next and so on. I truly believe this is how it happens when I am guided by my heart. My passion was always  makeup, I was the “creative” one. But once my AG business partner retired to be a full time mommy, I realized if this was going to be successful that I would do whatever it took to educate myself and that’s what I have been doing…business classes through the SBA, Marketing classes, books, meetings and viola! I’m suddenly a business woman. I guess this is part of AttaGirl, Inc. and the stand I take for these women; to get out of my comfort zone and do whatever it takes to be who I want to be and to create the life I’ve always imagined.

KL: What has surprised you most the about starting AttaGirl?

KD: When I really decided to run with it and give it all I’ve got, the support just started pouring in! It’s like the universe sees what it is I am creating for the women in my community and all it wants to do is support my mission! It feels like I went through a door and on the other side there was a cliff, I jumped off and was swooped up by my angels and placed on a magic carpet with a genie in front of me. I know this sounds silly, but I can’t even begin to describe the miracles that take place daily. I am Grateful.

KL: What would you say are some of your strongest beliefs about AttaGirl?

KD: This is the beginning of something HUGE!!!! Every town needs this service! Women are so powerful, they set the tone for their life, their families, their community…Women are naturally grace, they are strength, and they are healers to this world. Women are all one, they are meant to unite regardless of their culture, color, religion, and economic status. With confidence, self esteem, education and the tools to learn to love themselves; I believe women can change this world into the place it was meant to be.

KL: Since being a Celebrity make-up artist, has there been any celeb sponsorship?

KD: Not Yet!!! I’ve gotta say…there is a fine line when mixing the 2! I definitely have support, but not a celebrity ambassador as of yet! I am just getting into that territory. Everyone has their passion and just because AttaGirl, Inc. is my passion, doesn’t mean I push it down everyone’s throat… so…gentle gentle although as you can see by reading this, it’s not so easy for me to contain my passion! Oh! and I guess this would be a great moment to say: Calling all celebs that LOVE and want to Support WOMEN and take a stand for confidence, self respect, healthy boundaries and loving families…AttaGirl, Inc. wants YOU to be a voice!!!! Please contact me…:) really…leaps and bounds…we are growing and ready for you! lol…I don’t turn away from opportunity when given like this

KL:If I were a volunteer, client, or a donor for AttaGirl what would I be getting myself into?

KD: Aha! I decided to reach out to one of my repeat volunteers and this is her answer: “I have been volunteering my time since I was a kid (food drives, homeless shelters, clothing drives and cleanups), so, it always just seemed like the natural thing to do. For me, AttaGirl is special. AG has been an incredible experience. There is something about AG that has touched my core being, especially as a woman, wife and mother.  Having had the opportunity to meet you Kristina, in such a random chance sort of way, and in turn, volunteering my time for such a deeply meaningful cause has been uplifting and enlightening to say the least. Working with the women through your organization and having the opportunity to share my time and talent to help them feel better about themselves when these women have come down such a long hard road, has been profound for me. I’m looking forward to sharing in every way possible with AttaGirl because I believe in it’s cause. I’ve seen the positive effect that it has had on these beautiful women. Their smiles speak volumes. It’s been one of the things I most look forward to participating in. Giving of myself has reflected back on me and it’s just rewarding beyond words.” -Chandra Savaso

www.attagirl.org

www.kristinaduff.com

Friend them on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/attagirlinc

TLD got up close and personal with the talented songwriter Rochelle Jordan, who was born in England, but moved to Canada at the young age of 4.  Addicted to TV talent shows such as Star Search and video tapes of Micheal Jackson, she was already plotting out her career in music at age 13.  To Rochelle, the 1990’s was real Music and she really wanted to be apart of this movement. When she turned 16, She Formed a group with her cousin for about a year called “2nd level.” Due to unorganized management and false promises, the group fell apart and Rochelle stopped singing for a couple years, but continued to write. Being at the right place at the right time at the age of 19, Rochelle found herself conversing with a producer who got her a gig singing back up for Canada’s pop R&B artist “Keisha Chante.” Thats when everything for RoJo started taking fold. She was taken more seriously and she was getting calls for more background singing.  She Shortly after Put a band together “Intheroy” and Started doing small shows around Toronto. After a while Things became slow again so She decided to through some video’s up on youtube. That is when she had gotten an email from a production company in the states called “Protostar ent” which was headed by a music producer named “klash” who was interning with Chad hugo of the Neptunes at the time. They shortly sent for her to work in LA weeks at a time to record. Since working with Klash, Rochelle has written numerous songs one which is being looked at for a Tyra Banks reality TV show.  With that said, they are currently working on Rochelle’s First EP “Alien Phase” Which releases end of July, 2010.

Enjoy the interview!

TLD: When did you first started singing? Any stories/ experiences you would like to share?

Rojo: I would sing at Church in the choir and my teachers would always have me perform at school assemblies.  I sang ‘Miracles’ - Mariah Carey/Whitney Houston for the ‘terry fox run’ assembly and made my teachers cry back then.. I guess after that experience i actually somewhat started to take music seriously in the back of my young mind.

TLD: When did you first start making music (songs, etc)?

Rojo: I started Writing when i was about 15, Just fooling around with the pen and pad. When i turned 16 My parents started seeing a dramatic improvement in my Phrasing and Concepts, so i kept going…and ive grown ever since Writing wise.

TLD: What genre of music do you consider your work to be?

Rojo: If i had to Categorize my music.. i would have to say its Pop Rnb. I like to call it Eclectic Rnb. Its A different sound, its everything thats Not on the Radio, Its Alien.

TLD: Any major influences?

Rojo: So many! 4hero, Samantha James because of her writing style and how Soft her voice is, i find myself reflecting her vocal style. Amerie Because her vocals are different and She has a certain kind of control with her vocals that is very uncommon..hard to explain! lol. Kelis, She isnt afraid to be wild and Crazy and Her music OMG, talk about originality. Faith evans is a singer that i can relate to, she never pushes her vocals, they are smooth and sensual, and her music was amazing back in the day. INOJ, everyone knows her amazing music even if they dont know her name, Inspires my sound.  Drake and lupe for  Their Swag and Ability to talk about real life. Im not the kind of Artist that just follows the now when it comes to artists i like… I like what i hear and the art behind it. I wont be inspired by any ol’ artist just because they are on the radio.

TLD: Is there any particular way you prepare yourself before singing?

Rojo: To be Honest… No. Im not very discipline when it comes to my vocals yet. Im raw. ive never had training. never been to school for singing.. its all a gift. With that said, ive just become so used to NOT warming up or doing breathing warm ups…i just get up, and start Singing. its not good for me.. but hey, thats how i do. Lol

TLD: Does the music talent run in your family? If so, who do you think you got it from?

Rojo: Music Runs in my family on Both sides. most of my family members on my mothers side Sings. My dads side all play instruments. My Father was a Drummer and a Bass player. My Mother was a singer in her day, so i got it from my momma and pappa!

TLD: If you can share the stage with someone, who would you pick and why?

Rojo: Man, I would love to share the stage Lady gaga, Kanye, Drake, Jill Scott, Beyonce i could go on for hours and list more. These artists are really talented and they know how to VIBE on stage. id love to be apart of that!

TLD: Do you have any upcoming shows?

Rojo: At the moment i do not, Though i do have my hearing party Friday July 9th, I might do something for that.  Once my Ep Drops then people will have a chance to hear me then I can get going with performing live.

TLD: Favorite song you’ve composed?

Rojo: Man, Klash (Producer) and i have created so many great songs. Everytime we make a new one we say ” This is My FAVRIOTE ONE!” its hard to choose, but as of right now, i Think my Jam is ” End to Start” I was really passionate about that song.

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Being the daughter of famous Brazilian politician, Fernando Gabeira, didn’t stop Maya Gabeira from pursuing her dream. She began surfing the waves at the age of 14 in her hometown, Rio de Janeiro. Three years later, she moved to Hawaii to start her career as a professional surfer. At only 23 years old, she has obtained the “Super Woman” title and won the Billabong XXL Best Women Performance Award for four consecutive years. Maya is well-known for being the only sponsored female surfer and having surfed the most dangerous waves.

TLD supports and enjoys interviewing women like Maya. Surf up the interview and see how pros do it!

TLD: Surfing is a tough sport. What made you choose that profession and how did you get discovered?

I started surfing because of a boyfriend when I was 14 years old. I went to Hawaii for surfing when I was 17 and fell in love with big waves. Two years later I signed with Billabong and Red Bull after winning my first XXL awards.

TLD: What is it like to be Maya Gabeira?

Hard to have a schedule because of last minute travels for big swells, lots of traveling, lots of training, but very happy to do what I love for a living.

TLD: Any current or future projects you’re working on? Tell us about your recent surf bikini design with Billabong and Invista.

Right now I’m working on this partnership between me, Invista, and Billabong. It’s a online contest to design my future signature swimsuit made with extra-life lycra, which is core resistant and more comfortable than the regular lycra.

TLD: You’ve won your fourth XXL Wave Award - any words on that?

I’m so happy I had a long year full of incredible waves but also big challenges such as injuries and asthma, but I went through it all and learned a lot. To win after a year like that is incredible. Also, the level of the girls was so much higher this year. It really inspired me to push my limits !

TLD: Besides surfing, what else are you passionate about?

Yoga, fashion, politics, and training!

TLD: You’re in your early 20’s and have a busy schedule. How do you manage to take care of your personal life?

I try my best but my surfing career is first and it’s nice because that’s my personal life for now.

TLD: Describe the moment you first won the XXL Big Wave Award Winner for best female performance.

I WAS so happy and it was all so new. It really opened all the doors for me to be doing what I am doing now.