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Daymond John Featured Cover story talks to B.O.S.S. about the importance of Mentorship.
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Donovan Carter II
Donovan talks to B.O.S.S. about his motivations during the ups and downs of his career.
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Dr. Ramona Hollie-Major AKA :The CoPilot
4 Ways to Building Bridges to Meaningful Business Relationships
B.O.S.S. Magazine : Issue 30 : Mentorship
Pg: 11 Cover Interview Daymond John Pg. 12 Michael Harris Pg. 14 Marques Colston Pg. 15 Etan Thomas Pg. 16 Jasmine Crowe Pg. 18 Heidi B. Fuller Pg. 20 Dr. G.I. Berry Pg. 22 Donovan Carter II Pg. 24 WEB WED Mobile Pg. 26 Tree’s Motivational Corner Pg. 28 Shot’s by Russ Pg. 29 Nneka Ukuku
Pg. 31 Marisa Denee Pg. 32 Tia Latrell Pg. 34 Rachel Harsley Pg. 36 Dr. Ramona Hollie-Major Pg. 39 Michelle Burrage
BROKEN
Picking Up the Pieces After the Fall
Everyone fails… Failure can be private or public… Failure hurts and leaves an imprint on your life and those around you… Failure does not have to keep you down… God shows through His Word that He is here to pick you back up… Throughout Scripture God gives you examples through mighty men and women of God… Today is your day to start fresh… Because failure is never final!
Get Your Copy Today! www.drpaulmurray.com/broken-the-book/
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Contributing Writers: Michelle Burrage Vincent Cunningham Natyana Robertson Angel Amos Dr. Gillian Berry Marcia Robinson Desha “DrDesha” Elliott
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Cincinnati Regional Ambassador
Gloria Ishman
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B.O.S.S. Magazine : Issue 30 : Mentorship
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Editor’s Note Magazine
“So, I just want to know how has mentoring helped you and your team...?”This question was posed after explaining the success of our team after winning the best ideation for the Celebration Bowl Hackathon. While my teammates were quick to point out how much we achieved on our merit and work ethic, I stood there realizing that it was mentors that helped guide the mental processes of all of the teams to help us create the best ideas that we could. I followed up with a response that pointed out how instrumental mentors were prior to our winning and even afterwards- because they validated what we knew, what we didn’t know, and what we needed to improve.As B.O.S.S. comes back strong into 2016, with Mega Mogul, and Shark, Daymond John on the cover of our mentoring issue, I really ponder over the question, “What has mentoring done for me?”When I was younger, I was fortunate to be curious enough and in a position to be continuously learning from and working with those who had more experience than me. I don’t ever remember asking anyone to be my mentor, but I do remember all the meetings I would set-up and prepare for, because I wanted to make sure I could share what I learned, what I wanted to accomplish, and I wanted to soak up all the knowledge that was given. I had a mentor tell me once that all of our meetings were funny because I would walk in there like, “This is what I want to do, what do you think?” Well,you know what they say about God and human plans?(Laughs) At least, I was prepped for the meetings and humble enough to ask for some type of clarification on plans that were always bigger than me. While I still have mentors, even distance-learning mentors, (John C. Maxwell, Dr. Alan Weiss, and Maya Angelou have mentored me by books and videos) I am now in a position to mentor others. Whether it’s just in passing, via social media, or Hackathons, I make sure I give time to inspire, impact, and impart someone else with beneficial information to get that person in the right direction. It’s only right that I help those who need validation on what they know, what they don’t know, and what they need to improve. Let Each One Teach One, Editor-In-Charge, Desha “DrDesha” Elliott @drdesha Desha has created and delivered brand awareness and loyalty for over millions of consumers among many Fortune 500 Companies and small businesses. In addition to her marketing skills, her background in management includes helping financial franchises build their business from the ground up, including training and managing their human capital. She creates content, develops workshops, and is the author of the book, Hi My Name Is, a marketing guide for baby boomer entrepreneurs and professionals seeking a career change. Desha carries a passion for building brand awareness, consumer engagement, creating content,mentoring the youth, and doing cardio workouts. For bookings, interviews, or consultations, send requests to drdesha@boss-emag.com. PICTURE CAPTION: EDITOR-IN-CHARGE DESHA ELLIOTT MENTORING CEDAR GROVE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS AT PUSHTECH2020 CONFERENCE.
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Howard J.Clay Publisher @MR_HowardClay
Howard J. Clay is available for speaking engagements, clinics/seminars, as well as appearances for organizations, corporate and school events.
I
always get asked the question, “Will you be my mentor?” And everytime I take it seriously because I know the importance of mentors. Without mentors, I wouldn’t be where I am today. My first mentor was my dad. A strong father figure who instilled great work ethic and strong will. My second mentor was my Pastor, Elder M. French. He showed me education was the way to a better life. As I grew up, many more mentors entered my life, dropping nuggets of gold wisdom into my spirit. They would always say, “ I see something in you, you will be great one day.” This stuck with me my whole life, and now I do the same. Mentorship is the answer that our community needs. But mentorship is not just about finding a young person and giving them knowledge. It’s more than that. Mentorship is about living a life that will allow people to see how “success” can be achieved. You can mentor in any direction at any time. But you have to be a great mentor, which means being a great person. I’ve expanded my mentorship this year in a different direction, through my magazine and through my app, “BOSS Mentoring”. By way of my magazine I added three new columnists to not only grow the magazine but to teach them both other methods of media and being positive when presenting media to our community. These three are already successful in their own right, but print magazines is a different animal in itself. Congratulations to Dvante Black, the new Entertainment and Art Director for B.O.S.S. Magazine, Michelle Burrage our new “Beauty” Columnist, and our Life Coach Columnist, Dr. Ramona Hollie-Major. I’m excited for what they will bring to the table and what I can bring to their lives, dropping little nuggets of gold wisdom into their spirit. The app “BOSS Mentoring” is an app that allows Mentors to pick mentees and engage with them without losing a lot of time. One of the main problems with great mentors is most have time restraints. This app allows them to do what they do best without taking a lot of time, and that changes lives. In the future I hope to expand my availability and mentor even more young people. It’s kind of been something I’ve done my whole life and I don’t expect that to change. If you get a chance, take a few moments and give back to our community through mentoring. You will be surprised with how much of a difference a Mentor’s voice can make to a person. Remember, you have something to offer as a mentor, and it’s never too late.
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Magazine Mentorship
MENTORSHIP pay it forward, in every direction...
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B.O.S.S. Magazine : Issue 30 : Mentorship
Be your Own Success Story
Daymond John B: Why is mentorship important? D: Mentorship is clearly been one of the top reasons for people’s success. Many people do not understand what they have to go through. When you mentor, you pay it forward and hopefully the person you help will want to mentor when they get to their achieved level of success. B: With all the negative things going on in our community, do you feel that mentorship is the answer, or just a step in the right direction? D: I believe mentorship is actually the answer but it depends on the quality of the mentors. A father figure and mother figure are always amazing and they keep people on the right track. A true mentor will also push the individuals into education as well as other things. Studies have shown that when you take men or parents out of the household, the household has a higher probability of failing. B: How have you helped mentor someone through their career? D: I helped Moe’s Bows (as seen on Shark Tank), with his bow tie company. Moe and his mother did not need me but I was there for reassurance for whatever they were doing. Hopefully, I have given them some guidance that has been of value. He was apart of one of my favorite mentorship moments. I was able to bring him into New York’s Fashion Week on a television show, had him interviewed, and the president of Neiman Marcus called him to put Moe’s Bows in Neiman Marcus. B: What is the proper way for mentees to ask someone to be their mentor? D: Always make sure that the mentee presents something that is of value to the mentor. This is a two way street, mentors need to get something out of it. I’m not talking about money. But for example, let’s say that the mentor is operating a business but they have a passion for saving animals- so if you can’t spend money, then let the mentor know you would volunteer five hours a week at an animal shelter of their choice, so that it would help with their passion. Maybe the mentor is in their 60’s or 70’s and technology and social media is something they really don’t understand. The mentee would ask to be educated in a certain area in exchange for helping their mentor understand how to use social media to convert sales, fix website, or show them more affordable ways to do things. B: What are the characteristics of good mentor? D: A good mentor is going to give you the right track, but a great mentor is someone who has nothing to gain, they don’t own any of your business, they will just mentor out of love. B: What do you look for in your mentees? D: I look for mentees that surround themselves with like-minded people. For mentees that never quit. I look for mentees that are very appreciative but they are not using the mentor as a crutch. They know that the mentor is apart of the progression, but they will move on in life with or without the mentor.
Daymond John’s book, The Power of Broke is on shelves everywhere. Also, follow him on Snapchat: @TheSharkDaymond Twitter @boss_emag
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Magazine
Michael Harris
B: Why do you feel mentorship is important in today’s world? M: Mentors are great examples of success. If we wish to be successful we simply must set goals and follow their path. If you can’t find the mentor you want there a millions of them in books. B: With all the negative things going on in our communities, especially with our youth, do you feel mentorship is the answer or just a step in the right direction? Why? M: I believe it’s the answer. The ideal mentors would be our parents because they truly want the best for us, but of course that’s not always possible. That’s why we indirectly choose negative mentors without being conscious of it. Mentors from television, radio, internet, and the streets are what is accessible to youth. Most follow their peers because they want to be accepted amongst them. B: Give an example on how you have helped someone’s career as a mentor or how you have been helped as a mentee. M: The mentor that helped save my life was Robert Burnett. He taught me about life through basketball and was like a B.O.S.S.: Telltousme. your get to where are nowI started in yourtocareer? father figure He story. taughtHow me todid useyou basketball to get ayou education. emulate athletes that took education seriously like David Robinson at Navy. Today, I have helped dozens of youth, mostly student athletes. I have helped Demetria: I have wantedexams, to be an artist sincesport I wasand three-years-old. Houston was a huge inspiration them prepare for college train for their helped severalWhitney start businesses as entrepreneurs. I still havefor me and when out with Want Dance with Somebody,” at family reunions,it over! (Laughs.)At mentors todayshe likecame Daymond John“I and can’ttoempathize enough about surrounding yourself withwas successful people to family reunions I would tie a pom-pom to my head and everyone was going to sit there, watch me, and enjoy it! help further your growth. And I’m not even really going to sound that good, but it was just something I knew had to do. to ask someone B: What is the PROPER way, Ifor a mentee, to be their mentor? M: I think you should find itthe mentor lookingI wantfor in When it comes to acting, was neveryou’re something a book to start.Trying Peopletounderestimate the power books. ed to pursue. make it in music, I wasofconstantToday we have access to more information than was ever ly traveling between Florida and Atlanta. The guy who available to man in the history of the world. Where else was managing me told me that if I got involved with couldplay, you maybe find the I’d mentors Bill exposure. Gates, Magic Johnson, this have like better Tyler Perry Oprah, Warren Buffett and Daymond John? The more happened to see me perform in Alabama in frontsucof a cessful theyaudience are the more they it are. Timefrom is their mostIt 30-person andbusy he kept going there. asset butisyou can go over it again and again in a isvaluable so crazy. God good! book . I recommend audiobooks so that you can rewind and pauseHow to take notes. begin to played know about B.O.S.S.: much hasOnce youryou education a rolethe in mentor you would like you can start finding people like your success? them in real life. They may not be famous but they are very successful. Demetria: I was only a few credits shy of graduating! I was on a vocal scholarship at a community college. In B: What are the best ways MENTEES can provide value to order to keep the scholarship, I had to be a part of the mentors? musicals choir. We had the to opportunity M: I get aand sensethe of show joy from mentees. I love teach so to spend in Paris. We had to afill outsatisfaction a book they when Itwo haveweeks a inquisitive mentee I feel sense gave us about our experience, but I never received that I am giving back as someone once gave to me. I feel my book. That was my last credit and that is the only reason 12
B.O.S.S. Magazine : Issue 30 : Mentorship
Be your Own Success Story
like I invested in the future. In the past I have received emails and phone calls from mentees that told me I helped them direct and motivate them. I guess that motivates me further. B: What are the characteristics of a good Mentor, compared to a GREAT mentor? M: This is a quote I have on my office wall. That answers that question. The mediocre mentor tells. The GOOD mentor explains. The superior mentor demonstrates. The GREAT mentor inspires! B:Do you have a particular age group that you prefer to mentor? Why? M: No. Because every day is day one. You can always grow. B: What has been your favorite Mentorship Moment? M: My favorite mentorship moment is a tie between Greg Barnett and Rasheed Bailey. Both wanted jobs in the sports industry and were fun, goal oriented, and highly motivated young men. Today Greg is a successful sports agent and just negotiated the biggest contract for a linebacker in NFL history last season. Rasheed went back to school for his senior season and became Div III Player of the year. His hopes of working in sports will have to wait for now. Last season he was signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Needless to say, I am very proud of the both of them. B: What do you have going on right now that you would like us to know? M: I wrote two children’s books and have speaking engagements at middle schools. I also speak at conferences, conventions, and colleges. I have been the keynote on topics in sports management, networking, and youth motivation. This spring, I, Etan Thomas and Marques Colston have teamed up to do The Fatherhood Tour.We set up several dates in different cities to discuss the effects of fatherhood. I have reached out to several other athletes and entertainers to join us along the way. It was Etan’s brain child and Marques Colston used his business savvy by combining his venue relationships with the Philadelphia Soul to have a panel discussion before the games. I am more than excited to be able to bring this discussion to Philadelphia, Allentown PA., and Trenton NJ because it will be in arenas close to home. Hopefully something will be discussed to help bring a positive view point to an everyday topic. If anyone would like to bring the tour to their city email me at: info@bestsportsconsultants.com For speaking engagements: www.harrisinfluence.com
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Magazine
Mentorship
Marques Colston
B: Why, do you feel, mentorship is important in today’s world? MC. In this age of instant and seemingly unlimited access, success seems to be attainable by cutting corners. The role of the mentor is to encourage, but also present an accurate representation of the pathways to success. B: With all the negative things going on in our communities, especially with our youth, do you feel mentorship is the answer or just a step in the right direction? Why? MC:. I believe mentorship is an integral part of a larger picture. It provides a tangible example of what success looks like, and what it takes to get there. When you have access to successful people you can relate to, it makes your aspirations feel more attainable. B: Give me an example on how you have helped someone’s career as a mentor or how you have been helped as a mentee. MC: Very early in my NFL career I was introduced to Lance Johnstone, an 11-year vet at the time. Lance was a player that had successfully transitioned from the field into the business world, while still playing, and represented the vision I wanted for myself post-football. He began to mentor me as I broke into the private equity and entrepreneurial spaces. That relationship has since evolved into us becoming business partners in multiple ventures and life-long friends. B: What is the PROPER way, for a mentee, to ask someone to be their mentor? MC: To me it’s less about how you ask, and more about what you ask. One of the most valuable assets successful people have is their time. If the mentee has a clear vision of what they plan to achieve through the relationship, it helps to guide the mentor toward relevant teaching moments. B: What are the best ways MENTEES can provide value to mentors? MC: More often than not, the mentor is the older and more experienced of the two. The mentee can help to provide a constant reminder of the road to success, as well as a new and fresh perspective. B: What are the characteristics of a good Mentor, compared to a GREAT mentor? MC: The traits and characteristics are very similar in my opinion. Both must be motivated and committed to achieve, and also self-aware enough to listen and learn from others. Read the rest at www.boss-emag.com 14
B.O.S.S. Magazine : Issue 30 : Mentorship
Etan Thomas
Be your Own Success Story
B: Why do you feel mentorship is important in today’s world? E: Mentorship is what gives young people hope, guidance, and positive role models to look toward. We all know that there are plenty of negative role models in which they can easily have access to. So having someone positive is crucial. It can change their entire lives. It can stop them from making decisions that they would’ve made had they not had someone pumping positivity into their heads. We have to have people who combat the negativity that they are certain to face in society. So if society tells them they they are criminals, degenerates, unintelligent, destined for failure, and has low expectations of them- mentors are the ones to combat that negativity. Mentors would come back and remind the youth they are Kings, Queens, brilliant, and that they can be anything in life they want to be. That they are special, strong, beautiful, gifted, and that they owe it to themselves to not be what society wants them to be. Mentors can really have a serious impact that changes the entire trajectory of someone’s life. As athletes we have a lot of influence over young people because they will listen to us. We just have to use that power for good. B: Give us an example on how you have helped someone’s career as a mentor. E: There is an amazing group in DC prison called Free Minds. I started working with them when I first came to DC to play with the Wizards and have kept working with them ever since. It’s an amazing program that pours into young people while they are in the system and encourages them and helps them when they get out, either to get jobs, get back in school, or just overall get back on their feet. I started going there and speaking with them and listening to them as well. We had them write poems to express how they felt or tell their stories. So when I created a book called Voices Of The Future, which was a showcase of different youth poets from across the country, I published their work in a stand alone chapter. I also made it into a fundraiser for the program so the proceeds went to the Free Minds Book Club. They have all come so far in being able to express themselves, which is crucial. I talked to them about how everyone needs an outlet. And while some pick negative things as outlets like drugs, drinking, etcetera- poetry can be a positive outlet. I was so proud of them. And it was great to see the progress so many of them made. Huge shout out to Free Minds Book Club and everything they do! My favorite moments are when I would run into someone who I used to mentor, who attended a fatherhood panel discussion, a Black Lives Matter discussion, or who heard me speak on some platform and they tell me the impact that I had on them. It happens often. Sometimes people will stop me in the grocery store, at the mall, or any random place and tell me the impact that I had on their lives. My mother, who has been a teacher in Tulsa Public Schools for 30 some odd years would have that happen to her. We would be walking around the grocery store and one of her former students would come up to her and hug her and tell her how much of an impact she had on their lives. And she would tell me that every time that happens it creates such a special feeling because she is able to see the impact she makes. It inspires her to keep teaching and reassures her that she is in fact making a difference. And now that I am in essence following in her footsteps, I know exactly what she meant. Read the rest at www.boss-emag.com Twitter @boss_emag
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Magazine
Entrepreneur Spotlight
Entertainment & Lifestyle Director, Dvante Black, sits down with Jasmine Crowe B: How long have you been in business? What industry did you come from? J: I have been in business since the summer of 2011, I came from the higher education and PR fields. B: Why have you chosen to dedicate yourself to this particular business/ industry? What inspires you? J: The idea for the site, BlackCelebrityGiving.com, came from the vivid awareness of a lack of media coverage for positive things taking shape to impact our communities. I wanted to be not only about celebrities but also nonprofit organizations and causes that directly correlate with the black community. I wanted to inspire social change and celebrate the good things that happen everyday. B: What makes your business/product unique? J:I think what makes us unique is we make a true and measurable impact on social change in our communities. When we highlight celebrities or organizations that are giving back 16
and they RT it, share it or repost it, and tell their constituents it creates a rippled effect, and countless people are seeing that giving is good! We receive hundreds of emails from people doing phenomenal work all over the world to give back. I know that we all have a heart and our heart strings pull for different causes, but most everyone cares about something. So I would say the impact that we make is happening and it gets bigger every day- this is what I think makes BCG unique. B:You could have worked for anyone and would have been successful, why become an entrepreneur? J:Working for someone else just wasn’t for me. When I was working in the field of higher education, I used to make my former company millions of each year and I was making less than $50,000 so it just didn’t add up. I believe you work harder and it’s more rewarding when you are working for yourself. B: What was your last, “aha” moment B.O.S.S. Magazine : Issue 30 : Mentorship
while doing your business? J: I would say when we created a restaurant style experience to serve the homeless population of Atlanta. We had been serving for two + years and I noticed that often we would have a line that could take up to an hour to get down. So I decided to provide them with a 5-star restaurant experience and it completely changed the game. B: Every successful professional should have __________? J: An accountability partner, someone to stop you from procrastinating and keep you focused 100% on the goals that you set for yourself. B: If you could have a mogul as a business partner, who would it be and why? J: I would have to say Oprah because I believe she truly gets the art of service and the importance of giving back. She has also built an incredible media empire and we have so much in common, even though we are worlds apart. B: What is your business motto? J: Giving Is Good
Be your Own Success Story
B: If you could give other entrepreneurs up to five tips, what would they be? J: Time and Strength management. I am a believer in myself 1000%, when I believe I can do something, I focus and I do it. At times, I’ve been doing two or three things at once, but always striving to be the best in everything I do. Learning how to manage my time, utilize my best skills, and delegate when needed were my biggest challenges. I would also say don’t give up, you only fail when you quit. Surround yourself with a team, because nothing truly great ever happens alone. B: Has there been a piece of technology or software that has been a lifesaver to you? J: I like the App HootSuite for scheduling social media posts, it makes me feel as if I have someone working for me and handling all of my social media, and of course my iPhone. B: What is your goal for the next year? J:This year I hope to finally open an office for BCG, complete with a kitchen and a resource center for nonprofits serving urban communities.I am also releasing my first book, teaching children the importance of giving. In the next five years I would like to have a Thrift Store and a Homeless shelter for youth. B: When someone is talks to their friend about your business, what do you hope they say? J:I would hope they say this is a movement, a platform for social change, and positivity in our community that is so needed. Twitter @boss_emag
B: How has education been an asset to your business success? J: Attending an HBCU has been a huge asset for me as I have and still have till this day some amazing support from my professors and that means a lot to me. B: How are you a B.O.S.S. (success story)? J: I’m a boss because I’m fulfilling my purpose. BlackCelebrityGiving.com gives me so much joy, I know God is using my greatest gifts everyday for such a powerful outcome. We are creating change by providing an outlet to empower nonprofit organizations from all over the world. Since our inception in 2011 we’ve donated more than $80,000 through grants, donations, and sponsorships. We highlighted over 500 charities and countless black missing men, women and children, hosted national cause campaigns and collected over 1 million items. Many of the organizations we have featured on the site have since networked with each other and continue to do amazing things in the community and that’s true change that gives me joy the world could never take away.
Jasmine Crowe Twitter and Instagram: BlkCelebGiving FB: BlackCelebrityGiving #GivingIsGood www.BlackCelebrityGiving.com
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Magazine
Author
Heidi B. Fuller
“My Mama Taught Me Better Than That!” A native and longtime resident of Atlanta, Georgia, Heidi B. Fuller is an Author, On- Air TV and Radio personality, Media, and marketing professional with more than 20 years of experience in providing consultation and support to corporations, small businesses, and local municipalities. She is founder and former CEO of “Service with Élan,” a self-started marketing and promotions company, in which she provided talent for companies at various industry conventions and tradeshows. Her client list included such companies as Coors Brewing, Coca Cola Company, Kia Automotive, and Dillard’s Department Store. “My Mama Taught Me Better Than That! 629 Phrases that will inspire, encourage and make you laugh out loud from Mama.” The words that we speak are powerful and so are the words we read. They can build us up or tear us down—be sweet like honey or bitter like tea—make us feel like a failure or become fuel for feeling victorious. This light-hearted book is full of phrases that will enlighten, empower and make you laugh out loud. They are reassuring and thought-provoking expressions that have rolled off our tongues for decades! This book was a true eye opener for me and is sure to be for many others. As parents, mentors and leaders we must make a conscious effort to say things that will allow our children, and those who cross our path, to grow and be functional citizens in today’s society. No matter what color, creed or nationality we all want the same things for ourselves and our families—to be happy and loved. Go to www.heidibfuller.com to order this book today!!!
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B.O.S.S. Magazine : Issue 30 : Mentorship
Be your Own Success Story
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Magazine
Columnist
Keeping It
100
with Dr. G. I. Berry @trsnovel
Dear Dr. G.I. Berry, Im a senior at college and looking forward to graduating in a few months. I am very proud of my achievements as I’ve worked really hard over the years. I did it all by myself with little help from others. So I’m really fed up with hearing how young people should have a mentor. When I looked to others in the past, all I got was disappointment. These so called mentors would make big promises but only after a few weeks I would never hear from them again. I know I’m better off without one.
E
ven though you may think you’re grown with your graduation just around the corner and have access to a world of knowledge because you can Google it- take a step back and think about when you were in middle school. What would you tell yourself to avoid the drama that came from being at high school? Or perhaps go even further back and imagine when you were learning to walk and because you fell down so often, decided to give up to be content with just crawling? Wasn’t it helpful to have someone in your corner who told you to Get up, keep trying, don’t give up, you can do it because they knew the benefit to you of being able to walk. Ideally, a mentor should be able to see your potential when you can’t see
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it yourself. They are able to guide, navigate, or give you skills/tools to avoid some of the stresses you will inevitably face as you go through life. They can offer strategies, solutions, or even a much needed listening ear or shoulder to cry on which can make all the difference in difficult times. So amending the Buddha’s saying slightly to say when you are ready, a mentor will appear, know they will be someone you can trust and be open to receiving the knowledge they are willing to share. What complicates matters is when we close ourselves off, having been disappointed and hurt by people who have let us down in the past. Let’s think for a moment if like those human babies who were abandoned in the wild and raised by animals, then they were eventually found, they
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struggled to acclimate back into then take to unlearn that concept human society, having no idea and understand that you can’t be how to be human. So challenging human all by yourself! was the task, the person who allegedly found the famous case of two young Indian girls who had been raised by a she-wolf and her pack in 1920, wondered whether it would have been kinder to “have left them in the wild where he had found them”?. What if like those feral children we had learnt that normal was a me, myself and I philosophy? What would it Twitter @boss_emag
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Dr. Gillian Berry, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C is a licensed clinical social worker in the District of Columbia and the State of Maryland, with 25 years of experience. She is Director of Clinical Social Work Services and interim Director of The George Washington University Mental Health Services. She is author of The Righteous Sin and regular contributor to B.O.S.S magazine. Find and follow her on Twitter @ trsnovel
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Magazine
Feature
Donovan Carter II
As a youth growing up in Los Angeles, Donovan earned his first set of acting chops by appearing in the music video, “Stand and Be Proud”, and the theatrical play, “To Kill a Mockingbird”. Although he enjoyed entertainment, his love of sports pushed his acting career to the side. His energies were focused toward baseball and football and he ended up receiving a full ride scholarship to UCLA. After college he sought to play in the NFL but after not being chosen to play, he rerouted his energy to acting. Today, Donovan plays ‘Vernon Littlefield’ , a defensive tackle on the HBO series, Ballers. Donovan talks to B.O.S.S. about his motivations during the ups and downs of his career.
B: When you were high school, how did you feel about school? D: I never really was the biggest fan of school, but I understood the value of education. I played sports all throughout high school, (because of that) I had to have a certain GPA just to be eligible for sports. That is what pushed me to get my grades up. (Even) when I had to take my SATs for college- my goal was to play football in college, so I understood I needed a certain GPA for that. I never was the best student, but I knew to give a good effort and turned in my work. I knew that even if I didn’ t have the best test scores, at least I turned in all my work, so the teachers knew that I was at least trying. Even in my senior year in high school I couldn’ t get lazy, I knew that I had to keep my GPA at a certain level, I ended up getting a scholarship for football.
got to higher Science, then you started getting Math combined with Science too, and it just didn’ t work for me. In History, there’ s no right or wrong answer, but in Math you can do all the work but if it’ s the wrong answer, you do not get any points. In History, if you prove a point and can support it, you can get some credit. History was my way of learning about the world and traveling to places I had never been.
B: How did you know you were passionate about football? D: I knew after the 9th grade. I started playing football at 9 years old. After Junior Varsity (JV), after middle school, I grew tired of it a little bit, but I started having more passion in the game once I got to high school and I started seeing myself get better. So, once I got to 10th grade and made Varsity, I thought I might of had a future in B: What was your favorite subject? football. I was competing against D: My favorite subject was guys older than me, and I was History. I studied it in college too. holding my own pretty good. I I never was a Math guy. Algebra played linebacker mostly in high and Geometry was hard for me. school. I played a little offense. Science was okay, but once you Most of my awards came from the 22
B.O.S.S. Magazine : Issue 30 : Mentorship
defensive side of the ball. B: While growing up, who was instrumental in your life for making sure you did well in school and on the football field? D: My mother, father, stepmother, and my coaches too. They always stressed the value of education. My parents were instrumental in checking my report card, talking to teachers and making sure I turned my work in as well. When you’ re young, some of the stuff you learn and you don’ t understand the use of it, but my parents reminded me that I needed those skills f or later. My father made sure that I was around the right people, that I didn’ t grow up around any gangs or drugs. B: How was your college experience? D: I was accepted to UCLA with a full ride to play football. I graduated in 2012 with my Bachelor’ s Degree in History. We had really long days with practices, workouts, and then tutoring. Even when the season was over, I had offseason workouts, and I didn’ t get a chance to involve myself in other organizations. Our football team
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Jaynay Chanel Johnson, MAMFT Marriage and family therapist, teen advocate, Founder of DearTeenSelf Email: info@dearteenself.com IG:dearteenself http://www.donovanwcarter.com Facebook: Donovan W. Carter Twitter: @dcsofly90 Instagram: Donovanw.carter Interviewed by: Desha “DrDesha” Elliott Photo credit: HBO
“The bumps in the road have significance...” did community service, worked with kids and worked with different charities. Now that I graduated, I do events with the alumni, I like networking and getting together, and connecting, because it is a lot about who you know.
I didn’ t necessarily know when things were going to get better, but I knew it would take work and sacrifices. I was able to keep God in my life, go to church and read the bible. At the end of the day, he was the one who blessed me. IF you push yourself, you can go B: Your goal was the NFL, but through anything. When you get you had to pivot careers. What out of your lows and get to your advice would you give to others highs you will be grateful. going through this same situation? D: Always stay positive. Turn B: How is your experience with the something negative into positive. cast and crew behind “Ballers”? I didn’ t really have a backup plan What makes this show unique? when football was over for me. D: We have an amazing cast and I would also say stay open and crew. Everyone works really hard read. I read so many books and and all the cast and crew took read other people’ s stories that risks to get to where they are. motivated me. Also have patience. Dwayne (Johnson) went from
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wrestling to acting. I went from football to acting and John (David Washington) went from football to acting, even London (Brown) who went from being a comedian to acting- we went out of the norm and went for it. The cast are positive, humble, and great people. They let me know that no matter what success you have, it shouldn’ t change you. (The show) is realistic. It has real writers and real athletes that motivate the stories. We have real players in the show and even though it’ s fictional it’ s still realistic. I’ m excited about season 2. I am so thankful for Ballers, and I just want to continue to be seen on different projects.
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Magazine
Tech
WEB Wed Mobile
“WEB WED WILL SET PRECEDENCE BY UTILIZING THE TWO MOST POWERFUL SOURCES IN THE WORLD, TECHNOLOGY, AND LAW.”
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B.O.S.S. Magazine : Issue 30 : Mentorship
Be your Own Success Story
Is the world ready ... On Valentine’s Day, 2016, we introduced the world to the next trend for ‘happily ever after.’, WebWed! A new platform for legal online wedding ceremonies for Our modern day “Roaming-o meets Emoji-et”. A conduit by which couples will be getting e-hitched; anywhere, anytime – and share it with the world. We envision military, long distance families, or even elders can all take part in your special day. Then we thought, why stop there? Building on the latest in video stream technology and social media platforms Web Wed harnesses the power of the mobile user and we predict will transcend any Vegas wedding to date. Hundreds, thousands, or even tens of thousands will tune-in to Web Wed’s couples day after day, and we see some interesting and entertaining possibilities. WebWed Mobile has set precedence by bringing together the three most powerful elements in the world LOVE, LAW, AND TECHNOLOGY. WebWed has defined what it means to be married on YOUR TIME. Your schedule dictates where, when, and what takes place. No fears of being turned down by churches, banquet halls, or other venues. Did we mention it was legal? Welcome to the future of weddings, Wed Web Mobile!
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Magazine
Leader
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B.O.S.S. Magazine : Issue 30 : Mentorship
Be your Own Success Story
I
Be Beautiful
feel that so many of our young ladies are lost today. Too many in our society think it is okay to lack respect for themselves and others. Sisterhood is a word that does not exist to too many. Young ladies walk around showing their bottoms and boobs to the world like it is a show following them. Females refer to themselves as THOTS and B’s like it is a name to be proud of. What happened to the days of wanting respect? People are only going to treat you as good as you treat yourself. I just wish I could sit and talk to so many of our young ladies and tell them how Beautiful they are. I think the problem is that so many of our young ladies do not truly feel Beautiful inside, and therefore they do things externally to cover that up. If more of our young ladies knew their worth they would not allow others to call them out of their name and be okay with it. They would not call themselves out of their name, or call their female friends out of their names. I know that it is hard being a female because of the many emotions young ladies face. We tend to keep a lot of feelings and thoughts inside. We do not want the world to know what we really think, or how we really feel, so we put up a front
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to many. I did this myself when I was a teenager. I always had a smile on my face even when I was crying on the inside. I felt as if I did not have anyone to turn to for advice or just someone to talk to about how I felt and why. I kept it all inside. My outlet was sports. I took it all out on the court. Everyone needs an outlet, and I was very Blessed to have one. I want our young ladies to know how Beautiful they are on the inside as well as on the outside! Outer beauty starts with inner beauty and loving yourself. You have to love who you see when you look in the mirror every single day. Do things to make yourself feel good. Keep your hair looking nice, wear nice matching clothes. You do not have to spend a lot of money on an outfit to look nice in it. Buy clothes that are your size. Do not try to squeeze in a size that is too small for you. It only shows your rolls more. There are many tips to dressing nice and looking nice. My motto is, When you look good you feel good, and when you feel good you are happy. This stands to be true, so don’t take for granted the little things that make you feel good about yourself. I encourage you all to Be Beautiful. Be Beautiful on the inside by being nice to others and helping others when
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you can. (We always can help someone). This does not have to include money. You can be nice to others by doing random acts of kindness. Keep in mind that helping others is one of the best things you can do to make yourself feel good and put a smile on your face. Be Beautiful on the outside by dressing nice and not showing too much of yourself to the world. Keep something for the imagination. Be Beautiful by knowing that you are Beautiful and that you are God’s child and you are Loved. All in all, be true to yourself and do not feel that you have to fit in with anyone. Be yourself, Be light, Be Love, and no matter what you do, Be Beautiful!
By: LaTresa “Tree” Cunningham Twitter: @PurpleDiva13 Instagram: @PurpleDiva13
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Magazine
Photography
414-315-3669 Instagram: @ShootsbyRuss Russell.schiller1996@gmail.com
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Magazine
Finance
What you need to know about Bitcoin Pt. 1
B
itcoin has become both the villain and darling of the world and is a topic virtually on everyone’s tongues. Though a popular topic, very few governments and communities know how to handle Bitcoin. I believe that innovation in the way we handle Bitcoin and the new markets it opens can provide a great opportunity for communities of color and women. But before this happens, we need to understand what Bitcoin is and the legal limits that are surrounding Bitcoin. For the purposes of this article when I use the word bitcoins I am talking about the currency. However, when I am referring to the technology Bitcoin, it will be capitalized. The tech community defines Bitcoin as a peer to peer payment system and digital currency. Bitcoin was introduced as an open source software in 2009 by an unknown developer going by the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto. Bitcoin is considered cyptocurrency because
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it uses cryptography to control the creation and transfer of money[1]. What is powerful about Bitcoin as a technology is that it offers the benefits of both a credit card (electronic transmission of currency) and also cash (personal information is not compromised in the use of it) by using a distributed ledger that verifies transactions without requiring a centralized third party to do the verifications. We will return to this benefit in later articles. Bitcoin is currently being defined in the United States as a virtual currency, which is a medium of exchange that operates like currency in some environments.[2] For example, Farmville credits operate as money within the Farmville environment. However, outside of the Farmville world you cannot use the credits. Up until recently it appeared that the US government would regulate bitcoins as simply a currency and apply the same rules that they have applied to money transmitters. www.facebook.com/B.O.S.S.MagazineATL
By NNENA UKUKU Twitter: @nukuku As Seen in Blacks In Technology (www.blacksintechology.net) That assumption has recently been challenged. For this article we will only discuss the regulations surrounding bitcoins as a currency, for a deeper discussion please visit www.venturegainedlegal.com blog. When bitcoins are regulated as currency, the rules that regulate financial institutions and payment platforms[3] will regulate Bitcoin startups. For example, startups may be viewed as a money transmitter and may have to register as a MSB[4] (money service business). A money transmitter is any person who engages as a businessin accepting currency, or funds denominated in currency, and transmits the currency or fund, or the value of the currency or funds, by any means through a financial agency or institution or any other person engaged as a business in the transfer of funds. Read the rest on www.blacksintechnology.com
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Section Three
Entrepreneurs on the move!
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B.O.S.S. Magazine : Issue 30 : Mentorship
Marisa Denee, MBA Atlanta, GA www.choatebiotics.com Facebook: choatebiotics Twitter: choatebiotics Instagram: MarisaDenee Facebook: MarisaDenee
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Entrepreneur
B.O.S.S. checks in with Marisa Denee, MBA. She is currently pursuing her Philosophy of Doctorate in Higher Education and is the Director of Fashion & Beauty with Choate Biotics, LLC. In her current position she is responsible for all operations, management protocol, and acts as a mentor in partnership with local school districts as they extern (externships are an experiential learning opportunity similar to internships that give students short practical experiences in their field of study) through her directed fashion productions. The externship serves as a platform of support for young adults who are interested in the fashion industry as well as a reward system for teachers via incentive strategies. She has currently partners with Dekalb County School District in Georgia.
B: How are you adjusting to being a Doctoral Student? How is this degree adding to your career goals?1. My experiences related to being a Doctoral student are immensely challenging, as expected, with the various demands of life including but notlimited to family, business and projects. Currently, I am taking a break from the Doctoral program to focus on the completion of my first book, "Opportunity in Pain", slated for publishing in early 2017 along with a few children's books slated for publishing mid 2016. I feel that completing each work will provide more concrete value to my Doctoral journey. There are so many intricate details within a program of this magnitude and I want to give it my best while also obtaining the most in depth knowledge from the experience. Completing my works prior to completion of my doctoral program, including dissertation, will guarantee my complete and utter responsibility to the program which assures the heightened value my experience. I LOVE education Twitter @boss_emag
and everything it attributes to my life. B: What has been your impact as a mentor?2. The impact of mentorship for Dekalb County School District students was overwhelmingly emotional for me and the students alike. When I decided to reach out to a school district for the Student Externship Experience with Choate Biotics, LLC, I pondered on the best approach and structure of the program. I knew going in that my goal was to present the students with an opportunity that they would not have experiences if they had not connected with me. The exposure for them was very impactful! I was so pleased that they embraced the experience, they took notes as if they were in school (I loved it), they were on time for placement and they had fun. They took the experience as seriously as I had the day that I went to the school district and presented the opportunity to executive leaders at the school district. I am grateful for the impact that this creative gesture has embarked on their lives and to hear their words of www.facebook.com/B.O.S.S.MagazineATL
gratitude, love, respect for me and grateful attitudes, simply warms my heart. It reassured me that despite the challenges I faced behind the scenes, it was worth seeing things through to completion for their benefit. They were able to network with celebrity fashion designer, Algernon Johnson and exchange contact information. He now plans to allow them to intern with him as he creates pieces for celebrities. This is hands on experience, with a professional who has a great track record! It is not likely that they would have encountered Algernon in the streets of Atlanta, let alone ask for the opportunity to work with him. They will now not only connect with him but others in his circle aswell simply by default and the domino effect continues. This is EXACTLY what I wanted for them, this is my vision! I want to make a difference in a huge way where their lives are changed forever.
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Magazine
Entrepreneur
Tia Latrell 32 Photo credit: Michael W. Eaton Photography.
B.O.S.S. Magazine : Issue 30 : Mentorship
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Be your Own Success Story
Founder of Latrell Flowers, LLC is a very detailed and passionate Floral Artist/Designer as well as a SAG/AFTRA Actress who believes in striving for excellence in every piece of work. She has many acting accomplishments showcasing her wide spectrum of talents landing her many roles in everything from film, television, theater productions, radio voice-over work, to spokes-model and also adds a few music credits to her name. Latrell Flowers was launched in 2010 and has 10 years of previous Floral Artistry experience as its foundation. The Floral Designs of Latrell Flowers have graced various forums and stages. Latrell Flowers was honored in being the Floral Artist for the year 2011 for the largest Funeral Home Directory, Funeralhomes.com, and holds the 2015 Trailblazer Women’s Award for Women In The New Era Making A Difference In Today’s World For Leadership, Commitment, and Inspiration. The Custom Made Floral Designs of Latrell Flowers have been displayed and sold in Vintage, Consignment, and Antique Stores. The Floral Designs of Latrell Flowers have also landed in Laurel, Maryland City Hall, the Laurel Board of Trade Inc, and have been showcased and displayed in Celebrity Events, Weddings, Ceremonies, Anniversaries, Banquets, Birthday Parties, Engagement Celebrations, Proms, Funerals, Parades, Special Events, and Milestone Projects. Latrell Flowers, LLC holds certifications as an MBE and SBE and also holds a Certificate of Authority in New York State. Latrell Flowers, LLC also holds Membership as an E3 Business Group, Inc member whose mission is to develop entrepreneurs with the mindset, skills, and processes which allows them to create successful businesses while building themselves into successful leaders within their neighborhoods, communities and personal lives. Latrell Flowers mission is to inspire and capture attention to the various forms of art through floral artistry that can inspire all. Latrell Flowers aspires to be the “Number One” Floral Artist and Designer in the world and show the magnificence of God through the power of his creation in the form of art. The Company's motto is to “Keep God first in all that you do and you will be blessed abundantly”. Tia Latrell has been relentless in making her dreams come to light. She has always and will forever make it her goal to capture the public’s eye in sharing her gifts with the world and striving and achieving excellence. “She loves what she does and never takes a minute of it for granted.
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Magazine Entrepreneur
By RACHEL HARSLEY Twitter: @rachelharsley As seen on Blacks In Technology (www.blacksintechnology.net)
6 Steps To Landing a Google Internship and Turning It Into An Offer
A
few weeks ago, I signed a full-time offer to begin my career as a Software Engineer at Google. I’ll begin once I graduate next fall. As I signed the virtual document, I reflected on what had been my tradition during this same time of year every since I began undergraduate studies. I’d normally busy myself with updating my resume and sending it out to a long list of companies. Then I’d anxiously wait to for call backs. This is an annual ritual shared by my cohort of thousands of computer science students every fall.Thus, as I happily committed my career naissance to Google, I wanted to share my secrets to success. How did I land an internship at Google, and just as importantly, how did I turn it into a full time offer? Here are my six steps. . Prepare like a Pro Interviews are like final exams. Prepare vigorously for them. There are many coding interview preparation books well worth
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your time. I recommend Cracking the Coding Interview by Gayle McDowell and Programming Interviews Exposedby John Morgan. As a second note, practice coding questions on a whiteboard or an empty word processor. Explain your thoughts aloud. The more you prepare, the stronger of a candidate you will become. Rid yourself of the notion that it takes some magical trick to get offers from top companies. It simply takes hard work and preparation much like training to be a standout athlete in a sport.
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. Start from the Bottom. I didn’t begin with a Google internship. And that’s okay. Almost every company you can think of needs computer science talent. I began my career as an IT intern for a regional grocery store. Apply everywhere and take almost any reputable internship, especially if your resume is lacking industry experience. During the interview process, be ready to accept rejection. Every interview is B.O.S.S. Magazine : Issue 30 : Mentorship
helpful for your growth, regardless of whether or not you get a call back. Ask for interview feedback and use this to improve for the next go-round. Finally, once you land an internship make a solid contribution and then document this on your resume.
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. Iron Sharpens IronOnce you land the internship, it’s common for minorities to experience imposter syndrome. This
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is a feeling that you don’t belong or deserve your accomplishments, despite apparentcompetence. I struggled with this feeling as a female and minority, until I came to grips with the fact that I bring something to the table. Companies want productive interns, and they’ve signed you on because they recognize your potential to meet this goal. You were hired because you can produce. If you still aren’t convinced you belong, realize internships are also meant for you to grow. Your teammates can help sharpen your skills to become a better programmer, problem solver, communicator, and much more. Take on a challenging project, and reach out to others when you need help. This Twitter @boss_emag
is a guaranteed recipe for growth (and success).
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. Get ConnectedMost internships require more than technical savvy. This is especially the case for minority engineers, where racism, bias, lack of mentoring, and isolation are social factors that lead to the early exit of bright minds. Be mentally prepared to face these challenges and have tough skin. “Read the rest on www.blacksintechnology.com”.
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Magazine
Columnist
4 Ways to Building Bridges to Meaningful Business Relationships
The way to building meaningful business relationships is to be strategic and deliberate about building bridges – meaningful connections to others that you have or hope to develop professional relationships with. Relationship currency is important and can make a crucial impact on the success of your career and/or business. I wanted to share four (4) ways to building meaningful business relationships:
Written By: Dr. Ramona Hollie-Major AKA :The CoPilot Twitter: drholliemajor Instagram: drholliemajor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ LiveYourLifeCoaching Website: www.drholliemajor.com
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.Pay Attention- Listen when they speak, listening is showing them that you care. When your customer or vendor is talking are you listening and taking note. The names of their children, their spouse or little Fluffy (the pet Yorkie). Take note of the things around them, the pictures on the walls, thetrophies on the shelf. This will give you an idea of the things they enjoy and/or how they spend their time. It will give you some conversation topics when you talk to them or give them a follow-up business call. Did they mention they were off to their son’s baseball game? If so, ask did their team win the game. Did they mention an upcoming vacation? Ask, how the vacation went or if they saw a specific attraction where they traveled to. Talking about things that they enjoy, will help to build trust with yourclient/vendor.
.Network – Social media is nice and a great way to grow your circle and make new connections. The information you put out there on FB, LinkedIn, etc. may or may not get to those you are trying to get to know you and your business better. However this does not build relationships, it is no replacement for face-to-face interaction and the importance of personal touch with clients and prospective clients. It is also beneficial to find ways to build these relationships outside of the workplace. If they happen to attend your church or their child is on the same soccer league with your child or attends the same school. They get to see how you are as a person outside of the business contact. This interaction can strengthen or weaken their perception and desire to build business with you. Don’t be the parent caught yelling at the ref or berating the coach. The one-on-one conversations are crucial to developing relationships and building trust. There goes that DzTdzword again. Always thinking about how you can build 36
B.O.S.S. Magazine : Issue 30 : Mentorship
Be your Own Success Story trust with your client or prospective client. Once you build trust and you have a service or product to offer the client, it is so much easier to create a business relationship that is not only a one hit wonder but builds into a long-term business relationship. This is how you begin to build a solid network.
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.Keep in Touch – If you are reaching out connecting to people on FB, LinkedIn, etc., are you just connecting to them but never following up or making a personal contact with them. Are you staying in touch with individuals you are meeting at networking events, gathering business cards from, or meeting in your work network? If not, how can you stay in touch with them? Do you make yourself available so they can stay in touch with you? I was talking to a colleague of mine who does training all over the country. She made some great connections through her trainings and extended an offer to anyone that happened to visit the NY area to give her a call when they were in town to connect. She was saying how amazed she was at how many took her up on her offer and connected with her when they where on the east coast and went and visited her at her home. This doesn’t mean you have to invite people to your home. It may be meeting up for dinner. Or when you are traveling and you know you have some clients in the area you are visiting, you can send them an email or give them a call to let them know you will be in town and maybe meet up for lunch or some activity to give you an opportunity to connect face-to-face. Again building trust, which builds your business relationships. Another example, I was talking to a childhood girlfriend about speaking at a conference in Florida. She is in the process of planning a conference in the same area and was like that is great maybe we can plan it the weekend before or after your speaking engagement and you can spend the week at my home. Building relationships require effort on your part and a give and take. You have to be willing to put in the work and the extra effort to build trust, which builds better business relationships.
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.Don’t Burn Bridges – Even after your business relationship has ended find ways to maintain some level of consistency with your contact. A monthly newsletter, a holiday card, or perhaps a birthday card to former clients. This consistency can lead to future referrals, references, and/or new business.This is one that I truly believe in – you never know when that person will end up on the other side of the table. My wedding planner Twitter @boss_emag
from almost 20 years ago has periodically stayed in touch over the years to see how things weregoing. A few months ago, my girlfriend was at a bridal show and was sharing with me about two wedding planners she had met and was trying to decide who to go with. When she mentioned the name Sharon – I immediately asked her the consultants last name and name of her business. Low and behold it was my former consultant. Needless to say my girlfriend scheduled a session to interview the consultant and invited me to attend. It was a mini-reunion. Of course you know the end of this story – my girlfriend hired her as her wedding consultant. Years ago I worked as an Associate Director for an MBA program and did recruitment and student advising. When I went to interview for one of my jobs years later, it was one of my advisees was one of the hiring managers for the position. What if I had not been available to her when she had questions or needed guidance going through the program? What if I had been short with her or not returned her phone calls? The outcome would have been very different. Think of the car dealer where you bought your last car. They send you discounts for services for your car to bring you back to the dealer. I know at least once a year, I get a letter requesting used cars – wanting me to sell them my car for a great price and I can also get a nice deal on a new car. They are making sure they stay in touch with me and their other customers so they stay top of mind when you need car service or are looking to replace your car. Or like in my case, I have another 16 year old in the house and may be in the market for an additional car. These are just a few of many examples I could share from my own experience and those around me. We have to remember business relationships can and will determine the business opportunities that present themselves for us, the jobs we will get, the contracts we will be offered. We need to be deliberate and mindful when building our business relationships, so that they are top of mind when we are connecting with new and current clients – we are always being strategic and working to nurture and cultivate these relationships. This doesn’t mean be fake and insincere. You should always be sincere in your conversations and connections. If you are not, this will be evident to the other person and weaken rather than strengthen your relationship. We all know that relationships do matter and who you know makes a difference, so continue to be present with your clients and build those bridges that are necessary to create and maintain meaningful business relationships.
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Beauty
Bronner Brothers Hair Show Highlights & BOSSXtend
Written By: B.O.S.S. Fashion & Hair Columnist Michelle Burrage Instagram: @everything_michellerene
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his year, I had the wonderful opportunity of representing B.O.S.S. by attending the 2016 Winter Bronner Brothers Hair Show. Bronner Brothers kicked off the weekend by having an invite only event with Andre Walker, who has been the hair stylist of Ms. Oprah Winfrey for over 22 years. Mr. Walker debuted his Gold System hair care line with a demo and provided the entire line to guests. I attended the Bronner Brothers hair show on opening day and really enjoyed myself. I went to all of the booths and was able to speak with some of the guests and saw how their experience was. I spoke to a few guest who were first timers who were really impressed with the booths and the demos that were being displayed. I also spoke with a few like myself who attended previous years who were highly satisfied with the new structure of lines and check in. I overall enjoyed the show this year and the sightings of celebrities who made their appearances- Cynthia Bailey, Christian Keys, Latoya Wright, and Keyshia Kaior, just to name a few. Each time that I attend the show, I make it a priority to reach out to an Atlanta-based hair company and showcase their hair. I can’t attend the hottest hair show in Atlanta and
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not have my hair laid! This year, I contacted Bossxtend hair located in Lawrenceville, Georgia. Dalandra and her daughter Alexus are the owners and were so kind in sponsoring me with hair extensions from Bossxtend for this year’s hair show. This mother/ daughter duo is changing the Atlanta hair extension game by providing excellent quality hair, that is also affordable. I met with Alexus who is also known as Sparklemariee on her youtube channel and was able to get a lesson on the types of hair that they sale and how the quality and price of their product differs from other Atlanta hair companies. Bossxtend has been in business for a year and is taking the Atlanta hair business by storm in such a short period of time. I was in awe with Sparkle and Dalandra, they are women of minority and entrepreneurs who work very hard. You can follow Sparkle on YouTube as she vlogs with her mother as she shows the day to day struggles of striving women entrepreneurs. Bossxtend has superb quality hair and the price of the hair make it affordable for almost any budget. Did I mention the code red sales that they have? Well if I didn’t just follow Bossxtend on Instagram so you won’t miss out. The quality of hair is so great that in addition to the www.facebook.com/B.O.S.S.MagazineATL
hair that was given to me for the hair show, I went online and made my own purchase and was blown away with the code red sale. I look forward in shopping with Bossxtend in the future.
www.boss-emag.com
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