Spotlight on Vashtie Kola

Submitted by Odellia L. on February 22, 2010 - 8:19am
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Vashtie Kola

YPNation will round out Black History Month by spotlighting an outstanding "Young Professional of Color" each day this week. They are pioneers in fields from business to blogging, serving as an inspiration to other YP's looking to excel in their own right. They are, without question, YP's to watch.
 
Today's pick is Vashtie Kola. Also known as “Downtown’s Sweetheart,” Kola is an Albany, N.Y., native, and alumni of the Manhattan-based School of Visual Arts with an imposing resume.
 
Why is the YPNation spotlight on Vashtie Kola?
Only two months shy of her 29th birthday (April 23rd), Kola is a seasoned video director, party promoter, clothing designer and former music label executive. A true entrepreneur, Kola takes risks, seizes opportunities and has built an impressive career from her diverse interests.
 
Vibe Magazine listed Kola as one of the "31 Most Stylish People Under 31." Also on the list: Kanye West, Rihanna and Justin Timberlake.
 
When did Kola get her feet in the game?
After graduating in 2005 from the School of Visual Arts, Kola signed with the music video production company Box Fresh Pictures where, along with her role as a director, she outlined concepts for music videos for established directors, including Anthony Mandler, Lenny Bass and Dr. Teeth. During the same time, Kola styled and modeled for the clothing line, Billionaire Boys Club, which was co-founded by recording artist/producer--and Kola’s ex-beau--Pharrell Williams.
 
In 2006, at the age of 25, she was hired by Island Def Jam Music Group, a major record label, to help re-vamp the company as its new director of creative services. Today, she continues to act as a creative consultant for major brands and companies such as Universal Def Jam and Atlantic Records.
 
That same year, Kola helped start the iconic 90’s themed party series "1992"  held monthly in New York City, which spread to local and international cities, including Miami, Paris and Amsterdam. The party caught the attention of The New York Times, The Daily News, and Hip Hop artist Q-tip who, in 2007, asked Kola to join forces on another nightlife party series entitled “Open.” Kola's vision was to have a place to go with great music and a welcoming vibe. Both events brought out a mix of hip people and top celebrities--Jay-Z, Ne-Yo, Maxwell, Mick Jagger, Rosie Perez, Mary-Kate Olsen, Ben Stiller, Rosario Dawson, and many others.
 
Her latest endeavor is her clothing line Violette. Kola describes the signature brand as the the Lower East Side dwelling daughter of Louis Vuitton who wears “cool t-shirt, kicks, and a great handbag." Violette is carried at specialty boutiques across the globe, including Colette in Paris, Essence in Japan and Fruition in Las Vegas. There is also Violette Homme, which is dedicated to men.
 
What else is on Kola’s resume?
 
Videography:
 
2005
    •    Beans - "Papercut"
    •    Tony Hussle - "Come Again"
2007
    •    Child Rebel Soldier - "Us Placers"
    •    Armand Van Helden - "I Want Your Soul"
    •    J-Status featuring Shontelle & Rihanna - "Roll It"
2008
    •    Slim featuring Ryan Leslie & Fabolous - "Good Lovin"
2009
    •    Solange - "T.O.N.Y."
    •    Kid Cudi - "Heaven at Nite"
    •    Yung L.A. - "Futuristic Love (Elroy)"
    •    Justin Bieber - "One Time"
    •    Junior Sanchez ft. Joel Madden & Benji Madden - "Elevator"
    •    Jadakiss - "Letter to B.I.G."
 
See more from Vashtie:

 
(Photo of Vashtie Kola from Photobucket)