Michigan Millennials Take the Stage with Mature
Images courtesy of Creative Pear
Last month, Mature Magazine celebrated one year since our very first cover with Raven-Symoné and Miranda Maday. Looking back at where we started and seeing how far we’ve come was surreal. This August, we kept that same energy alive by spotlighting four incredible Michigan millennials who are redefining what it means to be mature in their own ways. Even better — these are people I’m honored to call friends.
The night brought the community together for real, unfiltered conversations. From stories of artistry to lessons in leadership, the panel wasn’t just about accomplishments — it was about sharing journeys and celebrating impact. We passed out Mature merch and water bottles, making the space feel like more than an event — it was a gathering of culture, creativity, and connection.
One of the most powerful moments was honoring Kierra Lanice, a celebrity makeup artist whose work has been featured in Vogue, Glamour, and The New York Times. She’s worked with names like Sheryl Lee Ralph and Angel Reese, but this one hit home — Kierra also did Raven-Symoné’s makeup for our inaugural cover. To celebrate her artistry then and now felt like everything coming full circle.
We also spotlighted Mikeyy Austin, an award-winning hip-hop/soul artist and cultural curator. Known for blending music with community, he’s built platforms like Ourspace and A Night at the Soul Lounge while sharing stages with icons like 2 Chainz. Mikeyy proves that you can be both a cultural force and a hometown builder at the same time.
Next was Mila Lynn, a multidisciplinary artist whose murals and installations can be found everywhere from Lansing to Detroit — and even overseas in London. She’s showcased at Art Basel and the Broad Art Museum, using her work to celebrate diversity and tell stories that go deeper than just visuals. Mila’s art lives, breathes, and sparks conversation.
Closing out the panel was Candace Nicole Potts, a powerhouse vocalist with a five-octave range who has performed everywhere from Carnegie Hall to the Kennedy Center. Now based in Lansing, she’s not just singing — she’s teaching, directing choirs, and mentoring the next generation of performers. Candace’s story reminded us all that greatness isn’t limited by where you’re from.
By the end of the night, it was clear this wasn’t just about the magazine or even the panelists — it was about all of us. It was about celebrating community, sparking creativity, and honoring the stories that shape us. From Raven to Lansing, these moments remind us that being mature isn’t about age — it’s about impact. And if this first year was just the beginning, the future is looking even brighter.
Check out photots from the event below!
