Unbreakable Voices: Empowering Survivors to Stand Up and Speak Out

EVERY DAY WOMEN MAKING HISTORY AS WE CELEBRATE WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

Step into a world where resilience and strength reign supreme, as we unveil our powerful women's empowerment shoot in our latest issue. "Unbreakable Voices" is a stunning visual journey that shines a spotlight on survivors who have not only triumphed over adversity but also chosen to inspire and empower others to rise above their own challenges.

In this special feature, we celebrate the remarkable stories and indomitable spirits of women who have faced daunting trials, from domestic violence and health crises to workplace discrimination and personal loss. Our survivors are not just survivors; they are warriors who have discovered the strength within themselves to confront the past and channel their experiences into catalysts for change.

Through the lens of our talented photographers and the words of our dedicated writers, we take you on a captivating journey. Each frame and story is a testament to the courage and resilience of these survivors, who have found their voice and are now raising them to break the silence around their experiences.

"Unbreakable Voices" serves as a rallying cry, a source of inspiration, and a call to action for women everywhere. It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we have the power to emerge stronger and united. This shoot isn't just about showcasing beauty; it's about celebrating strength, courage, and the unshakable determination of women who have risen from the ashes of their past.

Prepare to be moved and motivated as we celebrate the unbreakable voices of survivors who have transformed their pain into power. It's a testament to the incredible resilience of women and a vivid reminder that together, we can empower each other to stand up and speak out against the challenges we face.

This entire issue is dedicated to the every day woman. The woman that goes unrecognized. Woman to Woman, I see you. And I hear you.

I got the opportunity to chat with Rhonda McTyre who organized this cover project.

QSM: Rhonda, talk to me about the inspiration behind this empowerment photo shoot.

Rhonda: WOW….Tawana you about to make me cry LOL. God put this shoot on my heart about a year ago and kinda was nudging me. I was contemplating because I felt as if I financially couldn’t do it, but after preparing and seeing his signs I said why not? Let’s do it! This shoot Makes me emotional because many women, sisters, mothers, daughters, victims, survivals etc. are silenced or scared to share her story. We hear more about celebrity women vs the everyday women (9-5 workers). Now this her time to speak up and speak out for other women struggling to share their story.

QSM: I feel you on that. How did you choose who was going to participate in the photo shoot?

Rhonda: A couple have shared there stories with me personally and I’ve seen some shared on social media that caught my eye. The craziest part is 11 always stuck with me and honestly thought half of them was going to tell me no but all said YES…

QSM: This was a huge project to undertake. I recognize it people I've been organizing photo shoots for a long time. Did it go as planned?

Rhonda: Absolutely NOT!!!! I mean I was trying to find finances the day before the shoot to feed the girls and some had outfit malfunctions, outfits didn’t come in, people had car problems etc. if you name it we had it all to happen.

QSM: How did you choose the team that was going to bring your vision to life?

Rhonda: My team my team my team.. Lionel Whyte the photographer; I’ve always wanted to work with him, because I watched his work through IG and once I told him my vision he has on board right away.. Jazzmin (pose coach) has always been such an amazing friend and sister. I was introduced to her when my podcast first came out in 2020 called Model Check-In. She was one of my first guests on the show. Jkyle the videographer he was a referral from Jazzmin and was so kind to help take on the video recording of the project. My MUA Siedah Blount has been riding with me since 2020 and has been like a sister to me ever since I started modeling.

QSM: What is the message that you hope people will walk away with after reading the stories?

Rhonda: The message I want to share with the world is “Sis or Bro, you are seen and heard even when you don’t feel like no one is watching your journey. The struggles that you go through, the trials you go through, just know if he is able to see me through things and I’m able to see these women in the thick of it all. Your voice has power, its time to speak up and be seen.” Hopefully their stories will help many others speak up as well.

QSM: Do you think you will do something like this again?

Rhonda: Hmmmmm I honestly can’t answer that now.

QSM: LOL I felt that answer! lol.. Any final thoughts you want to leave people with?

Rhonda: Final thoughts? Ladies, WE DID IT!!!!

Shout out to each of the ladies that took part in the project. They were not afraid to share their stories. To read about them, simply click on the names below, or navigate their stories via our home page.

Photographer: @lionelwhytephotography