Hartford, CT — As the countdown to New Year’s begins, many celebrations have been canceled due to the recent Omicron spike. However, in Connecticut, people are getting creative, finding new ways to ring in 2022 with style and safety.
You don't have to make the trek to New York City or pay sky-high prices for club entry, nor do you need to spend a fortune on designer outfits to celebrate. Three innovative artists from the Winterfair Hartford are offering local alternatives to help you welcome the new year with energy, fun, and positive vibes—without compromising safety.
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| Ravi Ajodhi - Hip Hop performer |
Ravi Ajodhi
Ravi was born in Hartford and raised in Manchester, where he has lived for over 15 years. He initially pursued business management in college but dropped out after realizing that the money he was spending on education could be better invested in starting his own businesses.
Two years ago, he founded Ulterior Motive, a company focused on helping others unlock their creativity and become independent thinkers. The logo—a symbol of the atom—represents the building block of all life. "I use it as a symbol of myself. I'm just a part of something bigger," Ravi says.
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| Ravi at the Winterfair Hartford |
Ravi
Ravi began his music career in December 2017, inspired by a difficult breakup. His sound blends hip-hop with an ever-evolving style, as he describes it: “It’s not definable in one sense, per se. It’s a new genre. Music to me is about capturing the energy of the moment, so it changes every time I step in the booth.”
He’s performed in SoHo, New York, and multiple venues across Connecticut, with plans to host his own concert next year.
New Year's message
“For the people, trust in yourself, and you can achieve great things. Don’t shy away from your life when it gets hard.”
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| Lashell Gibbs - Fashionista |
Lashell Gibbs
Born and raised in Hartford, Lashell Gibbs is a talented fashion designer and entrepreneur. She launched her vintage clothing and consignment store, How Bazaar, in Hartford about five years ago. With a passion for creativity, she expanded her business by hosting art exhibitions and events at her store before relocating.
Currently, she’s charting a new course in the film industry in Atlanta, Georgia, where she worked as a costume designer for Black Panther 2.
“When I heard about Winterfair, I was thrilled to be invited. I returned to Hartford for the holidays—it was the perfect opportunity to spend time with my family and reconnect with the community.”
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| Lashell at the Winterfair Hartford |
Her adventurous spirit has taken her to places like Peru, where she volunteered to help build homes for families in need.
“It was called the Ultimate Workout, and I participated in two programs. We built houses with the help of professionals, and I felt like I was part of a family. The warmth and generosity of the Peruvians were incredible—they even cooked for us.”
Looking ahead, she’s stepping into the world of costume design for an independent film set to begin filming in March 2022.
New Year’s Message:
“Enjoy the little things. The holidays can often be about big presents and celebrations, but especially now with COVID, we need to remember that family and friends are what really matter. If there’s someone you haven’t talked to in a while, give them a call.”
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| Vice Nu Royal - Artist |
Vice Nur Royal
Vice was born in New Jersey, raised in New York, and later moved to Connecticut to pursue his studies at UConn, where he graduated in 2019. He proudly claims his life motto: "New Jersey made me, New York raised me, Connecticut pays me."
In addition to his academic achievements, Vice is the founder of Tristate My Estate, a business specializing in urban apparel.
“I’ve created a 3D animation of myself wearing the merchandise. It’s a visual representation of my journey—where I’ve been and where I want to go. That’s a huge source of inspiration for everything I do.”
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| Vice at the Winterfair Hartford |
In addition to being a successful entrepreneur, Vice is also a talented musician. He began his music journey in 2015, initially recording and mixing songs on GarageBand using his laptop. One day, he turned his college dorm into a makeshift music studio, grabbing a microphone and fully immersing himself in the creative process.
“As a kid, we always heard stories about the biggest stars being backed by record labels,” Vice reflects. “But we also heard the horror stories—how record labels would take 90% of the profits, leaving the artists with just 10%. Today, with social media, we can take control of our careers and creativity and build our own path.”
Vice’s long-term vision includes creating a video game centered around his character, offering fans an interactive experience where they can engage with his music in a new way.
New Year’s Message:
“Always celebrate your wins, both big and small. Never be ashamed to clap for yourself, even if no one else is doing it. When you keep your cup full, it’s easier to pour into others and support the people around you. Here's to growth, gratitude, and giving!”
To learn more about these talented artists and get exclusive tunes for your New Year's playlist, be sure to visit their Instagram pages.
First Night Hartford
Ring in 2022 safely and joyfully by visiting First Night Hartford.com, where you can explore a full lineup of activities designed to inspire celebration with family and friends.
Do you have a tip or know something interesting? Email me bocetomediamc@gmail.com
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