On Saturday, March 15 2025, the Shirley Bradley LeFlore Foundation (SBLF) recently hosted “An Intimate Afternoon with Filmmaker turned Author Hatsephi Kushma (also known as Crystal Wright)” to celebrate the release of her debut novel, Champagne, Living My Best Life, published under her pen name, Crystal Wright. Nearly 70 attendees enjoyed a lively fireside chat led by poet-professor Dr. Jason Vasser-Elong, where Hatsephi shared her writing experiences, followed by a reading and book signing accompanied by music from DJ L O Kari, creating a memorable event for this emerging literary talent.
In Champagne, Living My Best Life, Hatsephi invites readers into the intriguing life of Champagne Monroe, a successful investment broker whose world shifts unexpectedly as she confronts her mysterious alter-ego, Candy Lane. Music producer Neal Richards finds himself caught between these two fascinating women, leading to a story filled with passion, intrigue, and complex themes of lust, deception, and manipulation that promises an unforgettable reading experience.
Hatsephi Kushma has built a 30-year career in television production, serving as the CEO of HK Films, LLC, and producing drama, sports, and public affairs programs, making significant contributions to the St. Louis broadcast, film, and media scene. In 2001, she shifted to film, working as a Costume and Wardrobe supervisor on commercials, music videos, and Oscar-nominated films like Up In The Air (2009). She holds a BS from Lindenwood College, an MA in Filming from Washington University-St. Louis, and has studied at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Additionally, she teaches African American cinema as an adjunct professor at Webster University and St. Louis University.
Dr. Vasser-Elong, who filled in for SBLF cofounder Lyah Beth LeFlore-Ituen, earned his Doctor of Education (EdD), a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing/Poetry, a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Cultural Anthropology, and a Certificate in African Diaspora Studies from the University of Missouri-Saint Louis. He has published many essays and articles, and he is the author of the poetry collection titled shrimp (2Leaf Press 2018).
“Part of the SBLF’s mandate is to help support poets and writers in the St. Louis area,” said LeFlore-Ituen, cofounder and executive director of SBLF. “My mama was a mentor to Crystal and it was my pleasure to help facilitate her book launch at High Low, which ended up being a successful event. If there is a way we can help folks promote their literary works, we will try our best to do so.”
Champagne, Living My Best Life is available on Amazon in print and Kindle formats, and at other major book outlets.
