MAUI BIGELOW IS LIFE STYLED HONORS

In the heart of Atlanta, amidst the vibrant pulse of the city, the 11th Annual Life Styled Honors Event unfolded, igniting five days of empowerment, celebration, and unapologetic expression. This year's festivities, curated by the indomitable Maui Bigelow, marked yet another milestone in recognizing and uplifting trailblazers in fashion, entertainment, activism, and beyond.

Maui Bigelow, the visionary behind PHAT Girl Fresh, emerged as a digital pioneer in 2010, harnessing the burgeoning power of social media to amplify voices and catalyze change. Over the years, Maui has become a media powerhouse, renowned for her blend of feminism, style, and authentic storytelling. She's lent her voice to esteemed platforms like MadameNoire and HelloBeautiful, and her influence has graced the pages of Associated Press, Ebony, and Buzzfeed, resonating with hundreds of thousands worldwide.

The apex of Maui's visionary endeavors is Life Styled Honors, an annual affair that transcends conventional norms, fusing fashion, beauty, and empowerment into an ingenious tapestry of inspiration. This year's event, now in its eleventh iteration, radiated with energy and purpose, paying homage to those who lead with courage and conviction.

Life Styled Honors isn't merely an event; it's a movement—one that invites all to embrace their power, step into the spotlight, and champion their truths. For Maui Bigelow, this is more than a passion; it's a mission—to create pathways for women to thrive boldly and unapologetically, leaving an indelible mark on the world.

As the curtains close on another remarkable year, those who attended are left with more than memories; they carry with them a renewed sense of purpose and possibility. For those yet to experience the magic of Life Styled Honors, mark your calendars and follow along on social media—because in the realm of Maui Bigelow, the journey is as transformative as the destination.

(left to right) Nadia Williams (Maui’s sister), Destin Whitaker (host), Maui Bigelow

Photo Credit: Rick Jones @rjonesphotography

Let’s get to know Maui

Photo credits: Photographer: @musicatedvisual, Makeup: @AMusicatedbeat, Dress: Christian O’Meshun

QSM: You've been a pioneer in using social media to amplify diverse voices and promote empowerment. How did you initially discover the potential of digital platforms, and what role do you see social media playing in advancing social change today?

Maui: My initial discovery of social media and the realization of how vital it would be happened during the height of Black Planet. It was obvious that this was they new wave and I really begin paying close attention. 

Social is advancing social change by simplifying our ability to communicate effectively with one another. Forget calling people and writing emails, today, we can simply press record upload and communicate with the world. 

QSM: PHAT Girl Fresh is renowned for its unique blend of feminism, style, and beauty culture. Can you share more about the evolution of this platform and how it has contributed to reshaping perceptions of beauty and self-expression within the fashion industry?

Maui: As you stated PHAT Girl Fresh was created from a meld of things that I continue to stay true to. However, over time the Maui Bigelow brand has grown as I did to understand that looking good and feeling good go hand in hand; this means speaking to a woman’s mental, emotional and spiritual health also. This means creating content and engaging in conversations that speak to motherhood, relationships, healthcare and other things that concern women. More than anything, I grew to understand that there is a unique and specific need for black women to engage in these conversations and be in community with one another. 

QSM: As the curator of Life Styled Honors, you've highlighted remarkable women from various fields. What inspired you to create this annual tribute event, and what impact do you hope it has on attendees and the broader community?

Maui: I created Life Styled Honors out of love and an understanding of my purpose. Since I was a young girl, I’ve known my purpose was to cater to the souls of women and girls. Life Styled Honors is another way for me to intentionally be obedient to The work God wants me to do. It is a very small way for me to offer women my heart. 

The impacts that I want this event to have on women is for them to feel seen, heard and celebrated. Because the truth is, in all of our glory there is significant lack in that area and while black women always show up and rise to the occasion, knowing you’re appreciated feels great. The second impact I pray this event creates is a willingness of others to create soft places that are unapologetic about distributing flowers to those deserving and offering influence and inspiration to those in need. 

QSM: Your collaborations with major brands like Lane Bryant and L’Oreal have been significant. How do you navigate these partnerships while maintaining your authenticity and staying true to your mission?

Maui: I have partnered with many brands over the 11 years, and I am always very intentional about what I want and what I will deliver. I make sure that anyone I’m in partnership with understands that I am Maui Bigelow first and foremost; no matter what I will always be Maui Bigelow, I am who these people have built both personal and social relationships and community with. I refuse to compromise. Most times they respect my honesty and have already been affected by the Maui Magic. LMAO!!! 

QSM: FACTS!!!!! (LOL) This year's Life Styled Honors marked its eleventh year. Looking back, what have been some of the most memorable moments or achievements from these events, and how have they shaped your outlook on empowerment and representation?

Maui: Whew Shit! This is a big question! Every year has had its own razzle dazzle but the expansion to three day and then to five days were both significant because it required more of me and my very tiny team. In regard to honors, all of them have been memorable but three that stand out were honoring Tarana Burke at the height of the #MeToo Movement, honoring Breonna Taylor’s mother, Tamika Palmer after Breonna was murdered, creating the She Is Her honor with the support of The Breonna Taylor’s Foundation and honoring Dominque Morgan, our first Transwoman. 

My outlook on empowerment and representation has intensified with every moment and opportunity that I have been able to use this platform to uplift women. It becomes more apparent every year. I understand more as I engage more women especially the newbies and the young girls. 

QSM: What can we expect for next year?

Maui: I honestly have no idea what we can expect next year but I know it’s going to be dope. Right now, I’m focusing on helping some of my fellow event producers with their event by offering advice and pulling up to support. I heard someone say, “if you do something consistently for 11 years, you’re an expert.” As an OG I think it’s only right that I share my knowledge, experiences and be a resource. 

(left) Nzinga Imani, (right) Maui Bigelow

Photo Credit: Rick Jones @rjonesphotography

QSM: I LOVE THAT ABOUT YOU!!! You've traveled extensively as a motivational speaker and panelist. What message do you aim to convey during these engagements, and how do you see your role evolving in the realm of mentorship and advocacy for women's empowerment?

Maui: When I came into this space it was never just about fashion and beauty. Hell, it was never about one specific thing; it was solely about women and girls. It was about the understanding that my story could change lives. It was about respecting the uncomfortable places God had allowed me to travel through to get to where he wanted me to go. I love using that, I am committed to using that and that will always be the cup I pour from because I know there is a great need. I make it my priority to share my hardships every time a mic is in my hand or I have an audience because I want people women specifically to understand, “Life happens and many times it’s less than favorable but you have the power and potential to happen too.” You can’t focus on the trials, focus on the travel because how you go through, get through, and grow through are the real story. 

I definitely see many things happening soon that will support my pivot into a greater realm of advocacy, activism, spirituality, empowerment and black feminism. 

QSM: What do you want people to know and love about Maui Bigelow?

Maui: I want the people to know Maui loves them. I want them to know that Maui is flawed and that Maui doesn’t always get it right. I know it’s hard to grasp but Maui does fuck up occasionally, but Maui loves people and God. Lol!!! And don’t judge me for cursing and mentioning God, He knows my heart. 

Honestly I want people to take what they can from me and my story. I want them to use it to grow and be better than me. Use it to inspire them and influence positive changes. 

For the full Life Styled Honors recap click here.