Growing up on the south side of Houston in a community called Sunnyside was not easy for Roneshya Paul, whose stage name is Ronan Banks. As a child, she moved around a lot and was in and out of different schools. She did not always embrace the instability, but now as an adult she appreciates her experiences. “I think it was a good thing for me. I don’t have a problem meeting new people and adjusting to different environments.”
Her stage name Ronan came from the old cartoon “Ronin Warriors,” and since people already called her “Ro,” the name was a perfect fit. The name Banks comes from “prosperity and faith for wealth and longevity.”
Banks graduated from Hightower High School in 2009 and felt prepared for college as she took all AP/Honors courses. She then attended Sam Houston State University (SHSU) where she found her love for rapping. While at SHSU, Banks began hanging around people who would rap and freestyle. She started listening to the rhythm, started freestyling with them, and things took off from there.
Banks graduated from SHSU in 2014 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resource Management with a minor in Business Communications. When she returned home from school, she still wanted to continue rapping and one of her goals was to release a song on Apple Music. While working for a school district, one of her colleagues connected her with different celebrities, which opened some doors for her to perform. “I started doing challenges and winning the challenges. It just happened so fast.” Through her music, she started expressing herself while building a brand for herself. When speaking about her music she stated, “If I wrote it and I feel good about it, and if people can viably understand it and relate to it, I feel like I’ve done my part as an artist.”
Music allows Banks to come alive. She referred to music being a “fresh canvas” to paint her picture. Banks furthered discussed her love for lyricism. “If you know how to put words together, my mind is blown.” With this love, she wanted to educate people through her music. “I want to use my educational background and incorporate it into my music.” She wants to give her audience material that will require them to look something up and learn something new. She also reflected on her love for English and how it taught her similes, metaphors, and other elements that helps her create the music she wants to share with others.
When discussing how Banks remains true to herself while pursuing her music, she mentioned how it is because of God. “I have a good relationship with God. He is my foundation for everything. I really care about how he uses me. When you spend time with him, you start finding out who you are. I already stand out, there’s no need for me to try harder to do that. Being rooted in who I am is what keeps me in the space of not trying to portray something I’m not.”
She further mentioned that when she spends a lot of time with God, it helps her to keep a good healthy relationship balance between social media and living her life. She stated, “I fast sometimes from social media just so I can stay mentally healthy.”
Banks also reflected on the current state of our Black culture. “We’re hurting as a culture. Love is not there anymore. I feel like that’s all Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. wanted to do. It was his mission to try and cultivate love. If he would have lived longer, we would be in a totally different atmosphere right now.”
Banks just released her first album titled The Samurai Warrior. She wanted a concept that everyone could relate to. “Everyone has wanted to be a ninja at one point in time and they liked Power Rangers. You have to go through mastery in order to get those skills. And I think that’s the same thing with life. You have to master certain things through trials and tribulations in order to become the right person. I put that on my heart to create that and put that out in my music.”
Banks currently works as a Compliance & Licensing Administrator for an energy solar company. When she’s not working, her goal is to continue to keep making music. “Everybody has their own story, and I just want to tell mine in a way that can help and inspire someone.”
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
