Before “graduating from his last corporate gig,” Ed Welburn designed cars for a living at General Motors (GM). In fact, he was a trailblazer and innovator, known to be the highest-ranking African American in the automobile industry.  Ed recently spent some time with SoulVision to reflect on his career. “I’ve never had one of those jobs where it was just work,” he says. “I wouldn’t even call it a job. Read More . . .

In French, Vontélle translates “there she goes” or “to go.” Tracy Vontélle Green and Nancey Harris, co-founders of Vontélle, an eyewear company based out of Brooklyn, want those who purchase their glasses to stand out from the crowd and turn heads. They met at Morgan State University and are both native New Yorkers. They set out to showcase their culture and African ancestry through design.  Read More . . .

At the age of 17, filmmaker Melody Roscher left Richmond, Virginia, to attend NYU film school. “In some ways, I’m just as much from NYC as I am from RVA,” she says. Melody describes her style of filmmaking as character-based. “I’d be happy to make a film in most genres, but what gets me most excited to physically make something is a script that deals with how strange, wonderful, and unique people are,” she says. Read More . . .

In May of 2021, Heather Marie Van Cleave won the title and crown as Miss Virginia for America 2021. In Richmond, Virginia, she is known as a mental health advocate who has a love for fashion. In downtown Richmond, she opened Queen Bee & Co., an English tea room, which she uses as a space for events and for those in the community to experience English ‘high tea’ or afternoon tea. Queen Bee & Co. is a place where people can relax and feel welcome. Read More . . .

Angela Jefferson is a mother of two, a grandmother of one, and an author, poet, storyteller, and spoken word artist. “I am able to connect, encourage and uplift those with whom I share my work,” she says. “Within the books of poetry that I’ve been blessed to publish are feelings that others find relatable.” In 2014, Angela published Hand-Me-Downs and Sweat Pants, her first book of poetry. Hand-Me-Downs is an analogy between the choice of clothes you wear and your character traits. Read More . . .

Akara (Fried Bean Cakes)

“Have a taste of Nigeria’s most popular bean cake.”

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Each month we highlight a community program that aligns with the values of SoulVision Magazine. We believe engaging with one’s community is critical to fostering positive change in the world. The Urban League of Philadelphia (ULP) is a nonprofit civil rights organization that “speaks up and speaks out on some of the most critical issues facing African American communities today.” Since its inception over 100 years ago, the Urban League has been at the frontlines advocating for change and fighting to end systemic racism. Read More . . .

Charles Richard “C.R.” Patterson founded the only African American automobile company, ever. He was born into slavery in Virginia in 1833 and his family, by the grace of God, escaped bondage to settle in Greenfield, Ohio, sometime in the 1840s. Patterson would go on to learn the blacksmith trade and eventually began work in carriage making for Dines & Simpson. While working at Dines & Simpson, Patterson was recognized for his ability to build high-quality carriages. Read More . . .

I love history and most things mechanical. I also like well-made automobiles, watches, and pens. The C8 Stingray beside me was designed by none other than Ed Welburn – this month’s SVM cover genius. Most people have no knowledge of the great contemporary design man. Prepare yourself for a treat. We go further in our Legends section by shining a light on C.R. Patterson. I had only a passing knowledge of this auto pioneer.  Read More . . .