When I was approached with the opportunity to interview Rachel Jeantel back in October, my mind stopped for a second. It's one thing to write about someone you admire, but it's another thing to be in their presence. Unassuming, confident and outspoken, Jeantel was everything I could have hoped for and more and our time together is something I will never, ever forget.

Rachel Jeantel is glamorous, hard working and focused. A young woman beyond her years (shehas been here before, I just know it), it was an honor to meet, giggle and play dress up with her. After a challenging year, she certainly deserved it. Rachel is truly something special.

She is the epitome of "Beautifully Brown."

Melanie Yvette Martin