Cheryl Magazine | Fall 2021 | Stevie Swain

Cheryl POLOTE-WILLIAMSON™

MAGAZINE

LINĒIJ™

FALL 2021

SHE’S GOT AWhyHABIT! actress, author,

producer, and CEO mom

MALINDA WILLIAMS feels her next level includes YOU!

KIPENZI CHIDINMA

making a global impact one handbag at a time

AGING WELL Are you?

Tips for women over 45: how to feel

beautiful forever

Giving Young People of Color a New Dream

SONCERIA ANN BERRY first African American

Secretary of the United States Senate

ALLISON JEAN Having my dream life. Doing my own thing.

faith in my darkest hour

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THE NOW AVAILABLE ARTOF INFLUENCE I am excited to announce my newest book The Art of Influence is now available! Order your copy today at cherylpwilliamson.com

- Cheryl

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For tips on how to master #TheArtofInfluence, follow me on Instagram @the_art_of_influence.

FROM THE DESK OF CHERYL POLOTE WILLIAMSON

my mindset

Superpower is my

There is nothing that I’ve obtained or accomplished that did not begin with the power of envisioning it first. Some marvel, others laugh or deny, but the truth is, my remedy is tried and true.

1. SET the goal.

2. ENVISION myself obtaining the goal.

3. BELIEVE I’ve already obtained the goal.

4. SPEAK daily affirmations related to the goal.

5. FOCUS on the goal and my reason for the objective.

6. WORK toward the goal.

7. Maintain my position and the art of influence.

8. WIN! Over and over, I win. I win the same way every time. I never lose sight of who I am, and I keep my mind fixed on where I’m going. I never look to the left or the right, but straight ahead. I never worry about what anyone else is doing. I stay focused on MY purpose, and I stay in MY lane.

A sturdy mindset and the ability to ignore distractions and avoid confusion is a superpower that can take you to heights never seen. Your mindset can create in you

the will and ability to do the impossible.

Once you tap in, your mindset can make you fall in love with yourself on a deeper level, as well as your purpose and whatever it takes to protect that purpose. It’s a skill set you must master.

My mindset is my superpower. The pull of the force of success in all areas of my life and the importance I have placed on it is greater than the force of any distraction or negative impulse sent to pull me down.

Are you there? Have you strengthened your mindset and trained it to compel you forward no matter what? What do you want from this life? Don’t be deterred. When pulled in the direction of success, outside forces created to take you off your path must not easily distract you.

Trust that there is more in you, get focused, work your lane, and WIN! Love,

Cheryl EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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CONTACT US CHERYL MAGAZINE

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Editorial Email

editorials@cherylmagazine.com TO SELL CHERYL MAGAZINE IN YOUR STORE info@cherylmagazine.com ISSN: 2766-6352 (Print) Cheryl Magazine a lifestyle and women’s empowerment publication, is a Cheryl Polote Williamson, LLC (CPW) quarterly produced by Williamson Media Group, LLC (WMG) 6101 Long Prairie Road, Box 744 #269, Flower Mound, TX 75028. Periodicals postage paid at Flower Mound, TX and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Please send changes of address to Cheryl Magazine 6101 Long Prairie Road, Box 744 #269, Flower Mound, TX 75028. Subscribers, allow 4-6 weeks for change of address to become effective.

Subscriptions ordered are non-cancellable and non-refundable unless otherwise promoted.

Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, and photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and no responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited materials. All rights in letters sent to Cheryl Magazine will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and to comment editorially. Request for permission to reprint should be sent to the Permissions and Reprints Department by emailing info@cherylmagazine.com and placing “Request for permission to reprint” in the subject line. The title Cheryl Magazine is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Contents copyright © 2021 by Williamson Media Group, LLC. All rights reserved. Nothing can be reprinted in whole or in part without express written permission from the publisher. Printed in the U.S.A. P. 4 | Cheryl MAGAZINE

CHERYL MAGAZINE

A lifestyle and women’s empowerment publication Editor in Chief | Cheryl Polote Williamson Managing Editor | Traci Henderson Smith Contributing Features Editor | Siobhan Davenport Contributing Editor | Charmaine Roots Castillo Contributing Editor | Tess Alexandria Financial Editor | Roni M. Benjamin Style Editor | Keri Henderson

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Patricia Bailey Tyreese McAllister Russell Williamson

OPERATIONS Creative Director | Shannon Skipper-Green Business and Media | media@cherylmagazine.com Sales | Tammy Woodard sales@cherylmagazine.com Projects | Danette Brown projects@cherylmagazine.com

WILLIAMSON MEDIA GROUP, LLC EXECUTIVE President | Russell Williamson Chief Executive Officer | Cheryl Polote Williamson Advisor to the Editor In Chief | Mikki Taylor

SUBSCRIPTIONS www.cherylmagazine.com 1 Year (4 Quarterly Issues) US $80 Canada $101.58 CAD | International (Digital only) 1 Year (4 Digital Downloads) US $20

Cheryl

CONTENTS FALL 2021 | ISSUE #8

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Malinda Williams Good Habits

Actress, Author, Producer, and CEO Mom

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Ann Berry 34th Secretary of the United States Senate

Walking Out In Faith, Giving Young People of Color A New Dream

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Allison Jean Mother, Activist

COVER STORY: Being Obedient and Serving From Her Heart

We are all God's Children and Need to Be Treated as Such

Stevie Swain CEO, Swain Consulting, LLC

LIFESTYLE

FEATURED ARTICLES

From Family to Finances, get insight that will help strengthen and empower your life!

Business, Health, and Community

P.30 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW It's In the LINĒIJ™ Kipenzi Chidinma

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Daddy Issues with Tess Alexandria

If You Don’t Love You First Who Will?

P.34

The Gentleman’s Voice The Plan to Get Your Desired Outcome

with Russell Williamson

P.28

Foxxy Wizdom with Charmaine Roots Castillo Destiny's Weeds

P.40 BUSINESS SENSE & SENSIBILITY Why Use a Business Consultant for Your Business

P.44 Take Control of Your Destiny Royleta Foster

P.50 Charting a Path to Artistic Entrepreneurship Toilynn O'Neal Turner

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What's Your Relationship with Money

Why You Need a Brand Photo Shoot

Just Leap! The A.R.C.H.Y. Creator Gabriella White

Money Talk with Roni M. Benjamin

THE LIST

Style Matters with Keri Henderson

#GIRLPOWER! with Traci Henderson Smith

P.52 Get Intentional with Your Mental Health Tyreese McAllister

P.54 Aging Well Patricia Bailey

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COVER STORY COVER STORY

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Being Obedient and Serving From Her Heart

STEVIE SWAIN CEO, Swain Consulting, LLC

by Siobhan Davenport, Contributing Features Editor After a successful 27-year management career working for big corporations, Stevie Swain leaned on her faith to launch her own financial consulting firm, Swain Consulting, LLC, in 2016. Swain shares how her entrepreneurial journey was not a straight path but, instead, consisted of a series of events over many years. To Swain, however, the journey and destination were worth it.

“I thought working 9-to-5 was the way to success. I was wrong. By being my own boss, I’ve never been happier, felt more freedom, or had more income. I needed time to assess and evaluate my own gifts.”

As a servant-leader, Swain now has the largest African American female-owned Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) processing company in the Midwest. She helps companies reduce their tax liability by millions of dollars annually.

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Swain is recognized as a leading businesswoman and has won numerous prestigious awards, including 2020 Cincinnati Enquirer Woman of the Year, 2020 Best of Cincinnati Financial Consultant, among many others. Swain leads with enthusiasm, compassion, and a desire to see change for improvement in her business and the women she mentors.

Swain didn’t always think like an entrepreneur. Although people throughout her life encouraged her to start her own business, she didn’t believe them.

“If someone said I could have my dream life by doing my own thing, I would have thought they were crazy!”

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Swain credits her faith in God and the supportive people in her life for helping her gain the courage to take a leap of faith and start a business. While working for one company, Swain decided to leave and put her resume online. She kept getting offers to interview with insurance companies, and thought, "No way!" Swain kept praying for a sign. She shares that God did answer and told her He had given her lots of signs.

Finally, being obedient, Swain went to work for Western and Southern Life.

That one decision put her on the path of entrepreneurship. While there, Swain was promoted to management after one year. However, many on her team were not following her advice, thinking they couldn’t

“If someone said I could have my dream life by doing my own thing, I would have thought they were crazy!”

-Stevie

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obtain success. Having a heart of service, Swain left management and returned to the sales floor with her team. Leading by example, she showed them how they could achieve their goals. Her team learned a valuable lesson, but more importantly, so did Swain. She learned she had the power and ability to achieve what she needed to do without the backing of a large corporation.

Another pivotal decision while at Western and Southern led Swain to entrepreneurship.

She started CinCWN (Cincinnati Collaborative Women’s Network). Her vision was to create a resource center where women could get help on whatever their businesses needed.

Swain was networking with many business owners and entrepreneurs and loved hearing their stories of obtaining success. That experience also gave Swain the courage to leap into entrepreneurship.

As a woman of faith, the final thing that led Swain to entrepreneurship was realizing her trust in God was strong.

“I put my faith in God. Being obedient and serving from my heart has led me to a place beyond my wildest imagination. I am truly blessed.”

Entrepreneurship hasn’t always been easy.

Swain shares, at times, her bank account was low, and there wasn’t enough money to pay the bills. Leaning on her faith and with the support of her husband, Swain met that challenge by having the “right mental attitude.” Swain and her husband refused to feel overwhelmed or depressed. They lifted each other, held on to each other, and kept their heads above water. They devised a plan to pay one another on alternating weeks to get through this difficult time.

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Swain’s Advice to Entrepreneurs: 1. Pay attention while on your path. It’s leading to where you are supposed to be.

2. Ask yourself, “What is my God-given talent, and what is my passion?”

3. Focus on your skills. Always seek help where needed.

4. Surround yourself with a solid support team of three to four people who want to see you succeed.

5. Follow your heart.

6. God may remove some people from your journey, but that is because they were not supposed to go with you.

Keep them in your prayers but move on.

With all the wisdom Swain has acquired, she shares a message of hope that has led to her success.

“Throughout your life, you are on a path. Pay attention to the signals. Learn what you can from where you are. Be obedient. You will be blessed beyond your wildest dreams.”

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FEATURE STORY

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goodhabits living a life on purpose with

MALINDA WILLIAMS

by Traci Henderson Smith, Managing Editor

When you come across a dynamic soul whose purpose in this world is to bring joy to every life it touches, you want to linger there in its presence for as long as you can. That’s the best way to describe my warm, welcoming, and captivating encounter with Malinda Williams, CEO mom, actress, producer, and author. Williams, best known for her roles in A Thin Line Between Love and Hate, The Wood, Soul Food, for which she won three NAACP Awards, Daddy’s Little Girls, and First Sunday, sat down with Cheryl Magazine to tell us why she’s convinced the next phase of her career includes YOU! “I feel compelled. It’s new for me to share in this way, but it feels like a calling. It’s the best way I can describe what’s going on with me these days. In part, it makes me emotional, overwhelmed a bit by all the love and support I’ve received as I embark upon my new journey. People know me from television and film, but what they don’t know is that I’ve always been drawn to the technical side of the industry. My parents always said that I was a bit of an engineer. I could always figure things out. I was never intimidated by processes and could easily understand how things worked. So when God tapped me to create a platform for women, first, it was just a twinkling of a thought. I had no clue where it would lead. However, I had no doubts. At 50, I’m old enough to know when it’s God. I didn’t have all the pieces, and I had no idea about running a business, digital or otherwise. Reminded of what my parents always spoke over me, and my ability to process tasks through to the end, I knew creating this platform would also mean me building it. I launched it and watched it come to fruition.

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In August of 2019, I launched an online boutique selling clothing and accessories. My offerings were part of a small, curated collection of items I’d found during my travels. Shortly after launching the online store and enjoying a fair amount of success, I began receiving ideas and visions about expanding the store. The vision was somewhat unclear and fragmented. It would come in pieces, almost like a puzzle. Then I received visions of something more. Women and I were all building something together.

It wasn’t the first time I’d received a vision or idea. I get them all the time.

This vision, however, was different.

There was something about it that felt and looked bigger. More than that, there was a different feel that accompanied the vision. I was intrigued but struggled to understand how the fragmented parts fit together to form a complete picture. Then, I recalled a passage I’d read somewhere that said, “You don’t need to have all of the answers, just get started.

The answers will come.” I knew not to concern myself with the outcome or the reason. I was stimulated by the challenge.

My part was to pay close attention and listen. The rest of the pieces would reveal themselves in time. I just had to remain focused on the inner guidance system.

Many times I’ve gotten a word from God and didn’t follow through, or halfway followed, or got in, and it got too hard, and I backed out. But this time was different— different because it wasn’t about me. It was about the portrayal of characters and the importance of how I portrayed Black Women. I got to work at building the digital platform that would support the new direction: She’s Got A Habit.

She’s Got a Habit was launched in January 2019. It is a niche online wellnessfocused, multivendor marketplace and lifestyle platform that empowers women.

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It allows women to tell their stories, sell their products, do their thing, and collaborate with other women. I researched and built the platform myself. It came to me at about 3 AM one morning. I asked myself during the process, why do I know this? Why do I know how to do this? I read somewhere once that the “how” is not your business. When you get the what, the how will unfold. What I found was that the ability was there all along.

Thinking back to my engineering spirit and my love for the technical aspect of all I’d seen and learned as an actress, it was always in there— always a part of me. It just came to me in the voice of God as I felt myself step fully into my creation.

Cheryl Polote Williamson unlocked the permission to the level I was to rise to. Trust among Black women had previously been questionable. I was always taught to have your sister’s back. I was not mistrusting. I found out the hard way that the world wasn’t like that. The root cause is that we need to fix our handling of each other and give each other grace. I sincerely want to be a part of that solution. So, by God’s design, She’s Got A Habit was born.”

As relatable as Williams was in roles, she can be just as relatable as she tries something different by walking in this new area of purpose. When asked about some of her greatest influences, Williams told the story of how she, Vanessa Williams, and Nicole Ari Parker had the privilege of sitting at the feet of Dianne Carroll, listening to her tell beautiful stories.

“I realized that we stood on her shoulders.

I wanted to be her. The weight of what her example meant to me is what I hoped my example means to someone else.”

Everything He put in me began to come together. Things began to make sense as I got to the place of offering myself to the process. My only concern was that I was afraid people would think I had an agenda versus really wanting to help someone and not be in competition. My true heart desires to help, share, build together, support, encourage, uplift, and give women a chance to be heard, seen, and supported by like-minded women.

So, then, the next part of my journey is about helping. It’s about sisterhood. It’s about showing what that is supposed to look like in a way it benefits us, and our children for a lifetime.

I politely replied to this jewel of a human being, “You were her. You just were not aware yet. Coming into yourself is where the power is. You are here now and who you are is just as important to those who watch, follow, need, and support you as who Dianne Carroll was to you at that moment.”

Connect with Malinda at shesgotahabit.net. or follow her on IG @shesgotahabit. She wants to hear from you. She’s Got A Habit is a shopping resource offering quality information and products across beauty, fashion, wellness, travel, and healthy lifestyle choices. The mission is to inspire women to connect and support each other while cultivating good habits. Also, to encourage, inspire, elevate, and empower small business owners and consumers who endeavor to live a fabulous, healthy lifestyle, expressed through quality choices for mind, body, and soul.

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FEATURE STORY

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Walking Out In Faith, Giving Young People of Color A NEW DREAM

Ann Berry, 34th Secretary of the United States Senate

by Siobhan Davenport, Contributing Features Editor Sonceria Ann Berry almost quit her job working in the United States Senate, packed her bags, and returned home to Alabama. However, Berry’s faith guided her to stay the course, which led to her storied 42-year career in the Senate. In March, Berry made history and was appointed the first African American to serve as Secretary of the Senate. In this prominent role, Berry supervises an array of offices and services to expedite the day-to-day operations of the Senate.

Berry made time in her busy schedule to share with Cheryl Magazine readers how her faith plays a vital role in her life and the significance of her appointment to future generations.

Congratulations on your appointment to the office of the Secretary of the United States Senate! What are your thoughts on the significance of serving as the first African American and the eighth woman to hold this office?

Thank you! I have seen many African Americans become the first in their positions. There are several that come to mind that Cheryl Magazine readers will recognize, like President Obama and now Vice-President Kamala Harris. But there are other firsts for African Americans: Carol Moseley Braun, U.S. Senator; Alexis Herman, Secretary of Labor; among others. They all paved the way for me, and I’m sure, like me, they were both honored and humbled by the opportunity.

Personally, being the first African American Secretary of the Senate is an honor not

simply because of the historical perspective but also because it gives me an opportunity to learn and share my experiences with others—and gain their respect. As Secretary of the Senate, I hope others will dispel any misgivings they may have about me as a woman and as an African American. However, I think the most important significance of being a first is it gives young people of color, more particularly young women of color, a dream. When they see me, they see this position, or any other position they desire, is attainable.

What do you attribute to your successful professional career?

Actually, there are several things that have contributed to my success. First, my faith, which has always guided me and has led me to success throughout my entire life. I first came to Washington, D.C. as a 24-year-old

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with little experience, but I walked out on faith and had a willingness to learn. Second, I’ve also been fortunate to have a very supportive and loving family. My parents did not always have the steady income to provide for my brothers and me, but we always had what we needed--including love and support. Third, support from my husband, my daughter, and friends have helped me feel comfortable to grow and work hard in the positions I’ve held.

Was there anything that threatened to scare you off the path that you chose?

How did you meet the challenge? What lessons did you learn?

In the beginning of my Senate career, there were times when I thought of leaving and returning home.

I think it was mostly because I didn’t know anyone in D.C.,

and I was also intimidated to live in a large city after growing up in Birmingham, Alabama. However, working for Senator Heflin, who was from my home state, certainly helped. Although I was probably the youngest staffer at the time, there was a concerted effort by the staff to make sure I felt that I was part of their team and their family.

I have been in the United States Senate a long time, and many lessons have been learned. It’s vital to let everyone know they are an important member of the team. Our success depends on each of them regardless of their position. In addition, just as I was mentored early on in my career, I have always tried to be a mentor to all that have crossed my path, no matter how young or old, and no matter their background.

With all the wisdom you have acquired, what message has now evolved that you want to share with others?

There have been many young people that have crossed my path over the years, and there are a lot of “Annisms” (this is what the young people call my words of wisdom). I have made these statements to many staffers and friends over the years: • “If something is yours, no one can take it away.”

• “This too shall pass.”

• “There are no secrets on Capitol Hill.”

They are small quotes which my staff seems to always remember, but my main message is to be respectful and caring of others. We may be different, but rather than dwell on our differences, learn to appreciate them!

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DADDY ISSUES with Tess Alexandria

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If you don't love you first who will?

If COVID-19 taught us anything, it was the importance of creating time for self-care. As we all know, the pandemic caused everything to shut down unimaginably. Schools became virtual, jobs transitioned to remote work, and stores and restaurants were either not open or closed much earlier than usual.

With the world as we knew it essentially coming to an unexpected and abrupt halt, we had no choice but to slow down along with it and take inventory of our lives. If you were interested in staying sane, you, perhaps, had to dig deep to find some creative ways to keep your mind, body, and spirit stimulated while quarantining. For me, that included journaling, attending bi-weekly therapy sessions, and working out consistently (or at least trying to).

In keeping with this semi-new routine, I became abundantly aware that pre-pandemic, I had not taken any intentional time out to make myself a priority. I was not in tune with my body. I did not keep track of my emotional stress and the causes of that stress.

I spent little time or effort to relieve said stress in a tangible, well-thought-out way. It’s a given that if I did not create a habit of putting myself first in my own life, it most certainly spilled over into my other relationships.

Unfortunately, I tolerated people who also did not make me a priority in their lives. It’s like the old saying goes, “if you don’t love you first, who will?” People fall right in line and treat you how you treat yourself. I remember journaling one day, and this question came to mind, “Are you the most important person in your life, and if not,

how do you make that so?” Well, I knew the answer to that question was no, and at the time, I probably wasn’t even the second or third most important person in my life. But do you know who I did prioritize? My significant other. Who, ironically, stated to me several times that our relationship was not a priority for him. He had too many things to accomplish first, such as: finishing his master’s degree, completing his fellowships, securing a salaried position, etc. Yet there I was, revolving everything I did around him. How backward was that?!

As the pandemic began to take shape and its toll on human life, the media reports of positive cases seemed unending. Overrun hospitals, limited medical supplies, and lives lost to this frightful outbreak were all we saw and heard. Hearing again and again of the families who had suffered loss and even experiencing loss of my own, I began thinking about how short life truly is. Too short to continue to live in a space where you don’t come first.

I had to remember who I was. I challenge you to do the same.

Prioritizing self can look different for everyone.

Sometimes it means going back to school, starting a business, traveling the world, creating a podcast, watching a makeup tutorial, cutting your hair, or cutting people off. You have to do whatever it takes to make people realize that it is a privilege to be in your life. If they aren’t acting as such, then you have every right to move accordingly.

Thank you for joining me again for Daddy Issues. Why the name? I aim to reverse the feeling women get every time we hear that phrase. There is a stigma attached to it.

It’s often used as a weapon, with the intent to make us feel like we are the problem.

Dispelling the misnomer includes providing new information on something that was named before its true nature was known. I’ll attempt to do that in each Cheryl Magazine issue as I address behaviors and characteristics that developed from our father’s lack of skill and ability to bond with, encourage, teach, or support us. To all the young girls and grown women, it was never your fault. The issue was his, and because of your daddy’s issue, you found yourself improperly navigating relationships. Let’s talk about it. For the record, Daddy Issues is an opinion column. I’m not a clinical professional or expert on the subject, I’m just a girl who needed her daddy. If you’d like to connect, follow me on Instagram: @tessalexandria_ or Facebook: Tess Alexandria. If you have questions or a topic you’d like to discuss, email me at tess@cherylmagazine.com.

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- Allison Jean, Mother of Botham Jean and Social Justice Advocate

by Siobhan Davenport, Contributing Features Editor Allison Jean is a dedicated wife of 30 years, a loving mother, and an accomplished public servant in her native Saint Lucia. Amber Guyer tore Jean’s world apart on September 6th of 2018, when the white female police officer entered Jean’s son, Botham Jean’s Dallas, Texas apartment, and fatally shot him. Guyer claimed to have entered the apartment by mistake, believing it was her own and that she had discovered a burglar. Botham Jean’s death was cruel, vicious, and every Black mother’s nightmare. “I lost my heart,” says Allison Jean. “And it will take some time to regain it.”

To the world, Botham Jean, while watching football and eating ice cream in his home, is just another Black man who tragically lost his life to a police officer. But to Allison Jean, he is her beloved eldest son and middle child who was the glue between his sister ten years older and his brother ten years younger. Jean and Botham shared a special mother/son bond that included frequent and long conversations about family, life, the bible, politics, or world affairs. Botham also made sure to end every call by expressing how much he loved his mother and using his personal endearment for her, Mother Dearest.

After Botham’s murder, Jean thought police brutality and the killing of Black people would cease. Instead, the list of Black people killed

by law enforcement continued to grow with Atatiana Jefferson in Fort Worth, Texas; Ahmaud Arbery in Brunswick, Georgia; Breonna Taylor in Louisville, Kentucky; George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota; Rayshard Brooks in Atlanta, Georgia; Daunte Wright in Brookland City, Minnesota, and so many more. With each death, Jean relived her pain--intensifying her anxiety, anger, and fear. It made her feel she was close to losing her mind.

Jean shares, however, that it is her faith that helped her in her darkest hour and continues to give her strength.

“At some point during 2020, while we were locked down, I prayed and meditated several times during every day for God to give me the strength to deal with this situation. I recited Philippians 4:6, ‘Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.’ I reminded myself that the world belongs to God, and He will choose what He wants to do with it.”

Jean has channeled her energy into establishing justice and accountability for Botham while appealing for improved training of police officers to view Black people as valuable human beings.

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the Botham Jean Act, which goes in effect September 1st of 2021. Though bittersweet, Jean is happy that her son’s name is now attached to a law that may assist in gaining justice for those victimized.

“The only reason the law is in his name is that he is not here. I would give anything to have him back.

However, I fully endorse the attempts at police reform and accountability.”

Jean is busily preparing for The Botham Jean Foundation 2nd Annual Gala on September 24th.

It is an occasion where all are welcome. Friends, family, and supporters gather in remembrance of Botham and to celebrate his life. It is also an important fundraiser to honor Botham’s work and dedication to loving mankind and uplifting the poor and vulnerable in the United States and Saint Lucia.

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“The energy I get to fight comes from Botham because if what happened to him had happened to any one of us, he would be fighting right now. I believe I have the ability to stand up. Therefore, if I don’t, there could be many more affected by these acts of brutality. I do not want any other family to suffer the pain we suffered, but it continues.”

Given Jean’s poise and outwardly exhibited strength during the loss of her son, she received the coveted Lady of Grace Award by Bishop T. D. Jakes and the Potter’s House Ministries in Dallas, Texas. The Christian Acappella Music Awards also recognized her for Grace and Courage in Jacksonville, Florida. Jean was recognized as Helen Television System’s Person of the Year in Saint Lucia for 2018. Her family was among the finalist for Texan of the Year 2019, while her son, Brandt, received the 2019 Ethical Courage Award from the Plano-based Institute for Law Enforcement Administration in Dallas, Texas.

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FOXXY WIZDOM

with Charmaine Roots Castillo

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Destiny' s Weeds My son came running into the house after an afternoon of playing outside. “Go wash up and get ready to eat,” I said. “Yes ma’am,” he quickly replied as he put one hand behind his back and began to walk sideways while continuing to face me. The sly grin on his face was a dead giveaway that piqued my curiosity. “What you got, Curtis?”

“Nothing,” he lied. Strike one.

Had he not learned after seven years of life on this earth with me that a mother’s wit is nothing with which to toy? I paused for a few seconds with my eyes fixed on him and offered him another opportunity to come proper. “What’s in your hand?” I took a couple of steps towards him, and he took a couple of steps backward, still hiding something behind his back. Once again, he denied having anything in his hand. Strike two.

In our house, lying was a cardinal sin, bringing about punishments doled out in greater measure. My tone then changed to the momma gonna knock you out frequency, and I demanded that he show me his hand. Surrendering to my imminent wrath, he slowly revealed what I already knew to be something. “These are for you,” he said in a moment that shifted his destiny, saved his butt, and forever changed the way I looked at colorful weeds.

So now, I have a question for YOU. What are you hiding? The world is looking right at you, and we

know what you have to offer has been cultivated in your heart for months, perhaps years. Now is the time to bring forth the beautiful gift you have been holding back.

Allow your brilliance to break through the cloud of self-doubt. The world is so hungry for what you are about to bring to the table, so no more walking sideways. What you perceive to be a handful of colorful weeds is someone else’s beautiful bouquet. Breathe in deeply and slowly exhale as you position yourself, from a heart of love, to allow a second wind to supersede your second thoughts.

A brand new horizon will open to you, and sheer joy will be the gift that keeps on giving. You’re still in the game, so get off the bench and batter up buttercup.

Your season of disappointment and procrastination is over. Surrender your will and release to the rest of us, with the best intention, what you were created to share. Gifts are designed to be given, you know. Be courageous! Show us what you got.

Stop sidestepping your responsibility to release the beauty not so hidden inside of you.

We all see it, and we all know it’s there. We’re just waiting for you to share.

My son came close to striking out. In the nick of time, he revealed what he was trying to hide, thereby making a difference. It’s your turn. Step up to the plate. It is your winning season.

Contributing Editor Charmaine Roots Castillo is a model, freelance editor, best-selling author, and creative writer who promotes hope, encouragement, and brighter perspectives. Connect with her on IG: @56silverfoxx or connect at CharmaineCastillo.com.

Photo Cred: YRS Photog raphy

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IT'S IN THE ™ LINĒIJ

by Traci Henderson Smith, Managing Editor

I have a confession. When I was pitched the idea for this story, I thought, ok, I’ll get to it. It’s handbags. How in-depth could it be? Then I met the amazing Kipenzi Chidinma, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of LINĒIJ™ (pronounced lineage), a sustainably sourced luxury gifts line and had my mind completely blown. She’s a world-changer if I’ve ever seen one, making global impact one handbag at a time.

Kipenzi received her B.S. in Criminal Justice, with a minor in Biology from California State University, Los Angeles. She started her career as a research scientist, studying DNA sequences and immunoassays. After spending more than ten years in the science field, Kipenzi decided to pursue another career.

She earned her M.B.A. in international business and fashion marketing from Woodbury University. Necessity and a love for handbags sent her to a study abroad program in Turkey, which ignited her creative passion and led to her founding LINĒIJ™. She sat down with Cheryl Magazine to tell us her incredible story.

“Once I finished the program, I started working for a fashion company. I was living my best life, and then life happened. Life’s circumstances interrupted the flow of the world I was creating for myself. I no longer had the flexibility I once had in my job and was eventually released. I decided then to go into business for myself. I was determined that no one would ever again dictate my future or income. One day, my mother and I were cleaning out some of my great grandmother’s things and came across some beautiful accessory and clothing designs. I didn’t know she designed. In that moment, my interest was peaked. I started researching American manufacturers with no success. They were unwilling to share information or show materials. Either they didn’t have what I requested, or kept insisting I couldn’t afford it. Manufacturing is a male-driven industry and they were just not wiling to assist. I finally reached out to some friends I made while in Turkey. I told them what I needed and their only response was, “No problem madam.” Crocodile, ostrich, python, and other exotic furs and skins, you name it, they were willing to share information and materials. They told me about a woman they wanted to connect me with. I decided to go to Turkey. I ran into a woman in the LAX airport also on her way to Turkey, carrying the most beautiful handbag I had ever seen. We talked and talked and just clicked. Come to find out, her name was Serap Baturay. She had a woman-owned factory in Turkey called Moso Canta Rezl Koç of Koç Leather and Furs. Believe it or not, she was the woman my friends were connecting me to. She owned her own manufacturing company, she loved my ideas, and she started producing my designs. After three years, Serap brought me into the company and taught me the manufacturing side of the business. I braved hilly, rocky terrain, walking mountainsides, visiting P. 3 1 | Cheryl MAGAZINE

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and purchasing from distant and remote villages and source markets, buying skins and jewels from Old World markets. This was the work of generations in Turkey.

It sparked my desire to not only become part owner but also with my experience in business, bring another level of commerce to Turkey. I created sustainable partnerships and co-ops with farms and villages. Also, choosing to work with and source from as many womenowned and BIOPIC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) as possible. Our work keeps entire villages fed and financed because we only purchase skins and furs directly from farms that use their kills as a source of protein. So not only is there no waste, the villagers eat well, and the farms make money by selling us their skins.

Preserving the balance of nature is extremely important to us. Our products are never obtained from animals in the wild. The materials we use are designated as food sources first. LINĒIJ™ is certified through C.I.T.E.S., the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and is in compliance with all local, state, federal, and international regulations.

Additionally, we maintain the highest standards of ethics and quality and we also pay double the living wage at our company.”

Ok, so, this is Black Girl Magic if we ever needed a definition. There are indeed no limits and no boundaries with this global entrepreneur. I must admit, not easily impressed, I was wowed by Kipenzi’s boldness, fearlessness, and willingness to go a world away, alone, to carve out a place for herself in business after constant rejection in the U.S. What Black woman ups and goes to Turkey to look at skins for a purse? Kipenzi Chidinma’s response was apropos. “It’s what I come from.

I come from a line of bold, fearless, women who loved to travel and always went after what they wanted. My grandmother and a girlriend of hers once traversed to Russia in the 70’s just to try caviar at the source.” It was clear. It’s all in the LINĒIJ™ (lineage).

The inspiration for LINĒIJ™ traces back to 1916, when Lillian Delancy left Blue Hills, Turks and Caicos in search of a new start in America. Mrs. Delancy, an educator of many years, was finally able to fulfill her dream of opening a boutique featuring her custom designs for men, women, and children in 1935. Her creativity and

entrepreneurial spirit were a huge influence, for her great granddaughter, Kipenzi. When the Los Angeles native discovered her great grandmother’s collection of rare accessories and hand drawn patterns, she was motivated to embrace her innate talents, and launch LINĒIJ™.

Kipenzi made history by becoming the first AfricanAmerican and Afro-Caribbean woman-owned, sustainably sourced luxury executive gift and accessory company. After starting her business in 2015, she later bought her manufacturing in Istanbul, Turkey in 2018.

LINĒIJ™ manufactures various luxury apparel, private label items, personal protective equipment, executive/ promotional gifts, and shoes for adults/children. Under her leadership, LINĒIJ™ has offices in New Orleans, Istanbul, and Los Angeles. She earns great recognition for her creativity and business acumen. Kipenzi has been featured in prominent publications including Essence Magazine, DFW Style, and Rolling Out Magazine. Kipenzi was a finalist for the 2020 Design Excellence Award from The Accessory Council, and has been nominated for a Rising Star Award, presented by Fashion Group International New York. LINĒIJ™ was recently chosen as one of the 225 diverse businesses in the Los Angeles area to partner with and provide materials and gifts for the NFL and Super Bowl LVI Business Connect Program.

Kipenzi’s goal is to unite functionality, luxury, and sustainability through her brand.

In addition to her business endeavors, Kipenzi is an advocate for those affected with Huntington’s Disease (HD). Having lost her mother in December 2019 to complications related to HD, she became more steadfast in finding a cure. Presently, 100% of the profits from LINĒIJ™’s HDSA collection is donated to HDSA to find a cure. As a board member for the Huntington’s Disease Society of America, Los Angeles Chapter (HDSA, www. hdsa.org), her mission is to educate, empower, and advocate for those with HD. Kipenzi hopes she inspires those she encounters to reach their full potential, and leave the world better than she found it.

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THE GENTLEMAN’S

WHAT WOMEN VOICE SHOULD KNOW

A Plan To Get Your Desired Outcome

by Russell Williamson

As a leader, speaker, and business coach, I witness the great successes and unfortunate failures in lives and careers. It is always exhilarating to see a perceived “tough” situation turn into an extraordinary victory.

When discussing situational dynamics, it does not take long to identify how things went wrong or how they went well. Usually, at the core of that shift in one direction or the other is the PLAN. You’ve heard, “those who fail to plan, plan to fail.” It is a concise message—if we don’t know where we are going, then any destination will suffice. For those desiring to create an impact in the lives of others, a lack of purpose and direction is certainly not the most satisfying way to live. When it is all said and done, don’t we want to review our life’s journey and say, “Wow, I am satisfied?”

Here’s an invaluable acrostic - G.H.O.S.T. While I implement four letters, adding the fifth letter “H” helps with the recall of the approach. Using this guide will help you as you go about your journey of developing a plan, whether for your 4 | Cheryl MAGAZINE P. 3 4P.| 3Cheryl MAGAZINE

next big business venture, finding the ideal partner, or buying a new car. The usefulness of this concept is endless when developing a concrete path to improved outcomes for relationships or in business.

GOALS

Remember, you want to look back on your journey and say you are satisfied with the road you traveled and with what you have accomplished. Like any journey, the ultimate destination is the accumulation of many short trips. Celebrate small victories on the road to any goal whether a personal best or you are like Barack Obama winning Senate seats on the way to the presidency. If you want to go from A to Z, you will need to pass B, K, M, and W. The journey may get rough, and you may even stop from time to time, but whether big or small, each marker could be considered a lifetime achievement for many and should hold some level of importance for you.

When is the last time you thought about setting a goal? Right here is where the planning begins. First, you have to want it. Set a goal that is important, meaningful, and will keep you engaged. Make it specific. Visualize yourself achieving it. What do you see, and who is there with you when you obtain that desired outcome? It’s critical to write your goal on paper or someplace you can see it often. Make it big, audacious, and a sincere stretch.

OBJECTIVES

Making your goal(s) big, audacious, and a stretch should give you a moment of pause.

What you want to achieve should seem so enormous you have to think, how do I get there? Set your objectives and level up on the path to your goal. Objectives are milestones along the way. To set the right objective, ask yourself, will accomplishing this near-term outcome move me closer to my ultimate goal?

Then, allow yourself time to contemplate the value of this step. Your list of objectives does not have to be lengthy. However, it does need

to be relevant to advancing toward the goal. If you’ve set a relational goal like meeting your life partner, but don’t like leaving your home except for work, church, or the grocery store, then you are restricting your opportunities.

You may consider a crucial objective for yourself is to also frequent locations beyond the few where you currently invest your time.

Objectives should remove a barrier or solve a problem, move you closer to your goal, and improve your current condition.

STRATEGY

Now it’s time to strategize. Strategy is your mental GPS. In conversations with various clients, before clarifying their goal(s) and objectives, I often hear them state the need to put a strategy in place. You must give intentional thought to your goals and objectives then the strategy will help you develop the roadmap to a winning plan. If the first two steps aren’t well defined, you could be creating a roadmap to nowhere.

The right strategy requires concentration on the best use of your talents and resources to win and create a path that provides the best advantage. Traveling towards your preferred outcome is like using an actual GPS. At times the road is smooth, and other times, there are a few potholes. When you hit potholes on your journey and discover a lack of equipping to handle them through talent or resources, it is time to re-route. Create a new strategy or mental GPS. Strategies can adjust. As you achieve objectives, gain new skills, or obtain additional resources, you can enhance strategies to keep you on track. I can’t overemphasize the need for flexibility in this area. Change is constant. Your plan, especially your strategy, has to be dynamic.

TACTICS

Steve Jobs, the founder of Apple, was quoted saying, “To me, ideas are worth nothing unless executed. They are just a multiplier. Execution is worth millions.” Tactics are the execution elements. They give you the day-to-day details P. 3 5 | Cheryl MAGAZINE

on how you have utilized your resources, tools, and talents.

Tactics help move you closer to your goal, ensuring necessary action. List the plan of action and its details.

Write down every step. No activity is too small. Missing a step could slow or stop your progress. Your time, talent, and resources are finite. Use them meaningfully to move you toward your big goals. Again, capture the details, then review and update as needed. Not having your details enumerated visibly puts you at risk of forgetting or missing something vital to winning.

The GHOST concept helps to promote thinking and action, not over-analysis. Learn and find new ways to grow.

Celebrate your progress and simultaneously look to the horizon for your next opportunity or goal. I salute you for each invaluable step taken in pursuit of your desires!

Russell Williamson, acclaimed for leadership development and coaching individuals and teams to reach peak performance, is a bestselling author, executive, entrepreneur, and former franchise owner featured in Dallas Morning News and Dallas Business Journal. Follow Russell on Twitter and IG @4ACrown, or contact him at russwill@924sports.com.

“Talented.

Keep your eye on this guy.”

-DL Hughley

VE LIat

“A-Train, man, you're a FOOL!” -Bill Belamy

“Brother, you’re a monster on that stage!”

-Keith Robinson

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STYLE MATTERS with Keri Henderson

Photo Cred: Turquoise Media Group

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Why You Need A Brand Photo Shoot Branding is about so much more than logos, colors, and fonts. Your visual identity through videos and imagery plays a primary role in shaping your brand online.

If you are a business owner or a thought leader in your industry looking to expand your online presence, you need to invest in a brand photo shoot. Here are a few reasons why: 1. MAKE A GREAT FIRST IMPRESSION Most likely, someone is going to find out about you online through your website or social media. What impression do you want to make when they see you online for the first time?

Great brand photos allow you to control your image and give you the power to make sure you are making a great first impression.

You can use brand photos to showcase your personality and style, giving your audience a sense of who you are and what they can expect if they meet you in person. This leads me to point two.

2. BUILD TRUST WITH POTENTIAL CLIENTS Professional brand photos help you build trust with potential clients before they ever

meet you. If someone visits your website or sees your social media photos and your imagery is of poor quality (bad lighting, poorly styled, etc.), they will be less likely to believe you can help. If you can’t put your best foot forward online and show up in a professional and polished manner, potential clients will doubt you will be able to show up for them.

High-quality, professional photos that are styled well and showcase your confidence builds a level of trust with which potential clients will be more inclined to connect.

3. USE FOR MULTIPLE PLATFORMS How often have you had to scramble to find a decent photo when asked to be a guest speaker on a panel or podcast or featured in the press? Having brand photos on hand makes it easier to promote yourself and your business across multiple platforms. When you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready!

Whether you are starting a new business, pivoting in your current business, or working to build your brand, a brand photo shoot is an investment worth making to build your online presence and attract your ideal clientele and opportunities.

Cher yl Magazine always enjoys providing amazing tips, hacks, essentials, and more from the amazing Keri Henderson, former L. A .-based celebrit y and personal fashion st ylist. Follow her on IG @kerilhenderson.

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BUSINESS SENSE & SENSIBILITY

Why Use a Business Consultant for Your Business?

A

business consultant is an asset to any sized business and is especially helpful for small businesses that are seeking general direction on how to enhance their approach, reach their target audience, and impress the market with a solid reputation. More than demonstrating the dos and don’ts of business, business consultants are trained to offer their expert insights on various workplace matters. You want a business consultant equipped to transform the entire workforce dynamic within a business operation, from the interactions of its staff to its influence in the market. Experienced consultants skilled to assist companies with eliminating unnecessary expenses and executing their sales projections are

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essential to offering an outside perspective of the business to make effective changes.

Business consultants provide advice and management to help improve the performance and efficiency of your business.

For instance, creating solutions in areas of critical importance like finances is incredibly valuable. A great business consultant guides clients to a certified financial professional such as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

If you have specific business goals related to monetary budgets and projections, or fiscal complications, a qualified business consultant would provide a trained CPA that could offer guidance to execute your plans and resolve any apparent issues concerning

your economic matters.

A quality business consultant knows and understands that a CPA’s point of view is crucial to developing your small business and helping it to succeed.

Here are four sensible small business tips as an example of what your business consultant can offer you through an in-house expert CPA:

A CPA’s Constructive Advice On Accounting

Tax Season Assistance Business tax is an important element to record and manage, the perfect task to delegate to a trusted CPA. Your CPA can offer helpful tax advice and an effective strategy to set you up for tax season with the proper filing methods. Properly paying your taxes is essential for your business’s prosperity, so finding a reliable accountant for this responsibility is beneficial. A CPA will organize, prepare, and file your taxes and can even search for ways to cut your costs for the following year. Tax breaks are a bonus with a CPA’s assistance, so prepare to be made aware of deductions like driving mileage that can reduce your taxable income.

Payroll Patrol All operating businesses maintain a staff that requires payment and with your continual expenses, it is difficult to keep track of every cost. A CPA confirms all your employees are fully paid and consistently monitors your payment activity through efficient payroll software. They handle payroll reports, taxes, and required documentation for this major business aspect to be accurately processed.

CPAs possess financial knowledge and resources that will take care of this demand, benefit your business finances, and grant you peace of mind. With the combination of payroll technologies and a CPA’s expertise, this portion will always be fully addressed and maintained.

The Best of Bookkeeping In this digital age with an automated bookkeeping system, businesses no longer need a designated bookkeeper to review their expenses, investments, and entire financial statuses. This technology can truly boost your business’ productivity and overall performance in just a few simple clicks.

Any qualified CPA can determine the right bookkeeping software for your business and help you develop a bookkeeping method to trace your financial activities with a thorough review. Staying up to date with your monetary movements is imperative for your business to continuously thrive. Integrating a software solution to analyze your books is extremely useful for long-term progress. Also, a CPA will know how to properly categorize your financial information to the income statement or balance sheet.

Commendable Consulting Every business owner needs substantial financial advisory. Whether you need economical guidance on occasion or a regular basis, receiving wise counsel when it comes to your business profits and payments is vital.

For general questions, serious concerns, or in-depth planning, a CPA is the resource you need to consult with, regardless of the financial demand. Every successful business utilizes a CPA and you can too! As educated and insightful financial experts, CPAs are equipped to offer more than just suggestions; they are there to assist you in every area of your business. From financial ventures and budgeting to potential losses and unrewarding decisions, your CPA can deliver quality service for various financial needs. A CPA should be considered part of your team.

Courtesy of Beech Hill Consulting Global IT, a professional business consulting services firm specializing in exceptional and creative care to help businesses prosper. www.beechhillconsulting.com

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THE LIST CHERYL'S FAVORITE RESOURCES

Knowing you ’re not alone in your business and that helpful resources to take your business to the nex t level surround you can be a relief. Here are a few of my favorites, from networking to funding.

Goldman Sachs 10k Small Business Program www.goldmansachs.com/citizenship/10000-smallbusinesses/US/#

Women’s Business Enterprise National Council www.wbenc.org/certification/

If you apply, use Cheryl P Williamson LLC as a referral.

WBENC is also an approved third-party certifier for the SBA’s Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contracting Program.

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Lift Fund www.liftfund.com/

Small Business Administration www.sba.gov

Assistance with loans, tools and resources to help entrepreneurs grow their business

The SBA has worked to ignite change and spark action so small businesses can confidently start, grow, expand, or recover.

The Walker’s Legacy walkerslegacy.com/ Walker's Legacy is a growing global women in business collective founded to establish networks of empowerment and access for women of color in business.

Minority Business Development Agency www.mbda.gov/who-we-are/overview The U.S. Department of Commerce, Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) is the only federal agency solely dedicated to the growth and global competitiveness of minority business enterprises.

Dallas Entrepreneurs Center thedec.co

Black Alzheimer’s Brain Study blackalzbrainstudy.com/

The DEC Network is a 501c3 non-profit organization driving innovation and economic impact by helping entrepreneurs start, build and grow their businesses.

Our mission is to create solutions for a healthier community.

DFW Airport Capacity Building Program Series www.dfwairport.com/business/opportunities/bdd/capacitybuilding/ As part of our commitment to serve as a catalyst for the growth of small, minority and women-owned businesses, DFW is excited to once again offer the Capacity Building Program series designed to provide business skills training and guidance on doing business with DFW.

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Royleta Foster TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR DESTINY

by Siobhan Davenport, Contributing Features Editor

Royleta Foster is a servant leader committed to helping adults living with disabilities. With only $52 in her bank account, she founded Creative Living Support Services, LLC, and in only five years, her business has grossed $1 million and is on track for another million-dollar year.

Foster sustained injuries that affected her ability to learn; after being ejected through the windshield of a car driven by her biological father, driving while drunk. Adding to that trauma were constant comments from her special education teachers in middle school and into her high school years that she was destined for a life on welfare, having babies with different men, and continuing to live in the housing project where she grew up.

Thankfully, Foster’s mother and stepfather were a source of inspiration for her and her six siblings and always encouraged them to rise above their circumstances and pursue their dreams.

Although money was tight, her parents saw that the family participated in activities that allowed them to expand their horizons and see beyond the housing project where they lived. Relying on her faith and drawing from the encouragement of her parents, Foster rejected the words of her special education teachers and was determined to rewrite that narrative. She set her heart on not only lifting herself out of poverty but lifting her family out of poverty as well.

“I always wanted to be a business owner and, for a while, I forgot about that dream because life happened. I was sexually abused by my biological father and subsequently involved in several abusive relationships. I needed to heal. I was raising my son as a single parent, when in 2012, I lost everything. I lost my job, I lost my home, and I lost my car. I had to start completely over and moved in with my sister, but as difficult as that time was, giving up was never an option.”

Foster met a friend in high school who insisted she attend an educational program called Upward Bound. Through that program, attending college became an attainable goal. Her parents advocated having her removed from remedial classes in her senior year. This move put her on the path to college.

“I am most proud of achieving my educational goals. I’m the first one in my immediate family to go to college and the first to obtain a master’s degree. God put me in a place where I can serve and help others, and I want to inspire my family and others to see possibilities.”

Today, Foster refuses to put limits on herself.

While pursuing her doctorate, she is celebrating the status of being a two-time best-selling author, a certified life coach, and an active member of Mu Alpha Mu Christian Sorority, Inc. Foster believes if she can overcome her

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challenges to become a successful entrepreneur, so can Cheryl Magazine readers.

“There’s no secret sauce to owning a successful business. You need vision, dedication, and a willingness to work hard. Are you going to give up at the first signs of failure or go back and rework your plan? The best advice I ever received was from Cheryl – “Don’t get ready, be ready!”

You miss opportunities when you’re getting ready.”

To learn more about Royleta Foster and the service she provides to families and individuals living with developmental disabilities, go to www.creativelivingss.com.

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MONEY TALK with Roni M. Benjamin

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WHAT’S YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH MONEY? When people hear the word relationship, they tend to think only of family and friends. Many don’t even realize they have a relationship with money. The truth of the matter is, we have a relationship with everything. Relationship: the way in which two or more concepts, objects, or people are connected; or, the state of being connected. For example, I have a relationship with shoes—I am deeply connected to them in some emotional way. I wear them with pride, I care for them, and I store them safely to support their longevity. Now, before you laugh or pass judgment, I want you to look at your life. To what are you deeply connected? Is it your phone, your favorite TV series, or your clothing designer? We have relationships with everything in our environment, including concepts.

What is your relationship with the concept of money?

Most people have an unhealthy relationship with money. Surveys show [i] 38% do not have an embergency fund; [ii] 46% do not have an emergency fund; [iii] 47% do not have money saved for their kid’s college education, and [iv] 46% of people do not have a life insurance policy. There are ways to improve your relationship with money, which is very similar to the way we improve our relationships with people-through care, self-control, respect, and honor.

CARE: When someone you care about enters your home, you acknowledge him or her with a greeting of some kind. Even if you’re busy, you give your attention to someone important. The same should be true with money. Consciously prioritize time for money in your life.

SELF-CONTROL: You are, in many cases, the CEO of your money. Your money works for you. Every day you should know where your money is and where it’s going. If you don’t know your monthly income and expenses, how will you know your money is working

properly for you? You may have to adjust your money so that there’s always a surplus and not a deficit.

You may need to earn more, or you may need to cut back on spending. Recognize the difference between a want and a need. Align your spending with your current life and not entirely from your ego.

RESPECT AND HONOR: Do not take your money for granted. Think about all the money you’ve made or held in your hands within your lifetime. When you take inventory today, how much money have you kept?

Impulsive unconscious spending plays a major role in so many people having an unhealthy relationship with money. Decide to have a money relationship full of love and freedom. Success with money begins when we learn to respect money. When we respect money, we are serious about being disciplined and responsible with it, which leads to freedom from money guilt and builds confidence in our financial decisions.

Once I decided to improve my relationship with money, I implemented a money tracking system through tools such as excel budget sheets, Mint software, and by monitoring my spending through my bank app. I also read daily affirmations about money to shift my mindset around money. Some affirmations include: I am money’s master, and it grows and multiplies on my command. Money flows in my life. I am prosperous. I spend and save money wisely. Daily affirmations about money will break those barriers of self-limiting beliefs that keep you hostage to your financial situation. I share many of my affirmations about money in my book, Soulful Affirmations: 365 Days of Positive Thoughts and Lessons to Start Your Day. Grab your copy and start taking steps to improve your relationship with money and live the life you have always desired. https://bit.ly/RoniUplifts

I am a financial services professional committed to helping individuals and businesses build a solid financial house and leave a legacy for their children’s children. I don’t know where you’re located in the world, but if anything mentioned resonates with you or incites you to move to action, I encourage you to reach out to me. Together, let’s create a plan for you and your family specific to your needs.

Roni M. Benjamin

Licensed New York Life Insurance Company Agent Financial Editor, Author, Speaker, Entrepreneur, and winner of Dr. Boyce Watkins’ 2020 #BlackOwnedBusiness Pitch Competition (770) 685-5532

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ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT

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Toilynn O’Neal Turner Charting a Path to Artistic Entrepreneurship

by Siobhan Davenport, Contributing Features Editor

Toilynn O’Neal Turner doesn’t remember a time art and activism weren’t a part of her life. Turner grew up with a well-respected and well-known artist and activist father, Robert O’Neal. As a child, Turner remembers attending meetings at Cincinnati City Hall, protesting at five and six years old, and enjoying her father’s art exhibits.

“My father was a child of the sixties. He was a part of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). He also had the first art gallery in Cincinnati’s Over-The-Rhine district, called New American Art Gallery, which evolved into an opendoor community art center. He taught art to anyone who walked through the door, including homeless people, and then would have meetings with civil rights leaders in the same community space.”

Turner’s mother was a scientist. However, her parents inspired her to pursue her creative and analytical side to work with government officials, artists, and community leaders to affect change.

Turner spent time with Cheryl Magazine to discuss her passion and accomplishments.

You are a successful artist, artistic entrepreneur, cultural activist, and the founder/director of New American Art Gallery II and Robert O’Neal Multicultural Art Center. What award or accomplishment are you most proud of and why?

I am honored to have my work as an artistic entrepreneur recognized and celebrated. I am most proud, however, of the 2019 MAC Award for Diversity and Leadership in the Arts from the Multicultural Awareness Council (MAC) of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. This award recognizes local artists, administrators, and visionaries who forge paths of inclusion of underrepresented communities in the arts.

Many of Cheryl Magazine readers are entrepreneurs or would like to become an entrepreneur. Eight years ago, you founded and are now the Director of New American Art Gallery II and founding Director of the Robert O’Neal Multicultural Art Center. As a founder, what was your vision for

creating the art gallery and center? What advice would your share with our readers?

Both the art gallery and art center are inspired by my parents. Art has always been able to impact society, speak truth, and foster clarity. Black art, in particular, has for centuries been instrumental in sharing the injustice and prosperity of the Black community. Through a creative lens, we can push appreciation, which, in turn, can encourage dialogue and action. This is what has influenced and inspired me to open the gallery and the center. I believe it is important to preserve history, promote culture, and uplift voice by using the arts as a tool.

I advise Cheryl Magazine readers to stay passionate about what they want to do and make it happen. Do not procrastinate on living your best life.

With all the wisdom you have acquired, what message has now evolved that you want to share with others?

Never validate yourself by comparing yourself to others. Comparing yourself to others is a distraction tool to justify not moving forward because of fear or insecurities. Your success and accomplishments are yours, and everyone’s path is different. You have to walk in confidence, be persistent, and even make mistakes to be a true leader.

To better serve the community, Toilynn O’Neal Turner is spearheading fundraising efforts to build a new Robert O’Neal Multicultural Art Center. To donate, please use the following methods: Mail to: Toilynn O’Neal Robert O’Neal Multicultural Art Center P.O. Box 82 Cincinnati, Ohio 45201 Paypal: romaccincy@gamil.com Venmo: @romac1201 Cash app: $oneal2424 P. 5 1 | Cheryl MAGAZINE

AGING WELL

with Patricia Bailey, Caregiver Coach

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Youthful Secrets Do people ask you, “What is your secret to aging well? I get it often, but I expect it. At almost 68 years around the sun, I know a little about aging.

More importantly, I have lived to learn a lot about aging well. These lessons have given me an aura, contentment, and beauty that prompts the question:

Pearls

“What is your secret to aging well?

So, what is my secret? It is the same secret you hold but may not be self-actualized yet. To age well gracefully, entertain the process of reimagination and apply the following three tips: Renew your mind Enlarge your heart Activate your beliefs My aging well journey began when my mom Mary succumbed to Alzheimer’s in 2004. For seven years, I fought to find some comfort for her against the ravages of this disease. As a result, my life transformed.

While being a caregiver, my life was overhauled and impacted in a multitude of ways. I gained over 30 pounds. I lost my executive marketing and sales position. I struggled financially to care for my mom and me. But these were offset by the ultimate reward: I found my purpose.

Who would have thought broke, overweight, and unemployed would be a formula to better aging?

It was a winning formula that began when I was 45. I began to reimagine myself. As a marketing and sales professional, I helped build brand identities for leading corporations and some of the largest Black hair care brands for men, women, and children. Following Mom’s

homegoing, my marketing transitioned to solutions on caring for other caregivers. I found joy in helping families and their elderly loved ones. I reimagined an entirely new platform, ultimately becoming a caregiver coach.

You can reimagine yourself too. Here are the three core tips:

Purpose

Renew Your Mind: The mind has a never-ending appetite. Your mind reflects what you choose Traci Henderson to eat ofby life.

Let kindness be a just Smith dessert. Be knowledgeable of your chosen field, intentional with your thoughts, and control your imaginings.

Be positive and push back negative energy.

Enlarge Your Heart to Serve: Serve with gladness. Be your why. Minimize your agenda and super-size caring and loving others. Matthew 6:21, 'For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.’

Activate Your Beliefs: Trust in your purpose.

Have faith in the path chosen. Be confident and unwavering. Let perseverance be your mantra, and let continuous change fuel your growth engine.

Let aging well gracefully become your mindset.

Incorporating this into your spirit and your being will bring you eternal joy and happiness.

Pat Bailey’s ascension to caregiver coach, certified belief therapist, and dementia care practitioner caps a 40+-year career in beauty care. She has managed, marketed, and sold 17 different brands to major retailers. A mother of one son, and grandparent to two, she is a weekend golfer, enjoys yoga, studies biblical history, and enjoys music. Connect with her on LinkedIn at Patricia Bailey - She Ages Well.

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Get Intentional with Your Mental Health Mental Health Awareness Month, observed in May, served as a gentle reminder that we should prioritize our mental health and wellness. Your mental health affects every area of your life—how you think, feel, behave, respond to or deal with situations, and how you learn. Balanced mental health is key to living a fulfilling life.

I usually begin initial sessions with clients asking about their mental health and wellness routine; however, a majority of my clients give me a blank stare as if to say, “Is that a thing?” I explain by comparing mental health and wellness routine with daily dental care, emphasizing the necessity of a daily routine and what occurs when this daily routine gets neglected. By the third or fourth session, my clients share that their mental health is improving.

I attribute these treatment gains to my insistence that each client prioritizes their mental health and develops an intentional mental health regimen.

After the year we have had, checking our mental health is mission-critical. If this past year has thrown you off, you are not by yourself. Even the most grounded and successful women have had to level up in their mental health self-care and implement activities that allow them to reconnect with the things that bring peace, clarity, and general well-being.

Your mental health status can fluctuate, depending on what is going on in your life. It is important to note that declines in your mental health are normal and can happen regardless of your financial security, relationship stability, or career success. Stressors, such as a global pandemic, anxiety about health and job security, isolation, and loneliness have had a negative impact and served as a wake-up call to make self-care intentional and a priority.

Intentional self-care is vital to living a life of purpose. Here are nine tips to improve your mental health.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

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Pray.

Take the time to meditate.

Speak positive affirmations.

Listen to music and sing out loud.

Go to therapy.

Practice yoga.

Journal.

Breathe deeply.

Take nature walks.

Thank you for getting intentional about your mental health and wellness. I want to encourage you to do so while also promoting radical resilience when you face challenges.

Tyresse R. McAllister, LCPC, CSOTP, CSOTP, CCTP is the owner of Clinical & Forensic Associates, LLC located in Upper Marlboro, MD, serving the Washington, DC metropolitan area. She has nearly 30 years in emergency mental health. If you would like to connect, follow Tyreese on Instagram: @tyreesemcallister, or Facebook: Tyreese Mcallister.

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From the emerging author and Caregiver Coach, PAT Bailey, Finding New Tomorrows© provides caregivers life enhancing caregiver planning tips and tools. PAT believes “A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s for the individual is a diagnosis of caregiving for the family and the community”. Finding New Tomorrows© will help caregivers navigate a safe path to their next best day.

Caregiving, Alzheimer’s & %KMRK ,IPT Visit: FindingNewTomorrows.Com

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#GIRLPOWER

with Traci Henderson Smith

JUST LEAP!

The A.R.C.H.Y. Creator Gabriella White I remember Gabriella (14) as a wee inquisitive tot. Sometimes you meet children—explorers, adventurers, really, you know from the start will go on to greatness.

Founder and CEO of Architecture Reaching Communities Helping to Inspire Youth (A.R.C.H.Y), Gabriella White, a sophomore at River City Science Academy, social entrepreneur, and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) activist, did not waste any time pursuing her purpose and making a difference. She is all about enlightenment, inspiration, and creating opportunities.

After attending architecture camp three years ago (age 11) and observing the lack of diversity, she decided change in this fieldwas necessary and developed the idea of A.R.C.H.Y. “There weren’t enough Black and Brown kids,” says Gabriella, affectionately known as Gabby. From that experience, A.R.C.H.Y. was born. The business aspires to point children towards STEM and get them interested in STEM careers at an early age, especially those collaborating with the arts, like her favorite, architecture.

“I started my business because I realized as a kid I missed out on and didn’t know about so many other STEM-related career opportunities for me.”

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Gabby goes on record saying she founded A.R.C.H.Y. to disrupt the status quo and create more diversity within the Architecture, STEAM, and Design fields.

She advocates as a STEAM Squad member, hosting workshops at schools and summer camps. Notably, she also teams with Microsoft to provide children, especially those who look like her, with a glimpse of the opportunities available to them within STEAM industries.

The 2019 Generation WOW Girl, crowned by United Way of NE Florida and Generation WOW for WOW United, Gabby received funding and was named a girl who would change the world for her innovative ideas on community improvement. A 2018 Oui Academy Outstanding Achievement Award recipient and a 2019 Youth Game-Changer Award and Grant recipient for Jacksonville Police Athletic League (JaxPAL), Gabby is making her mark. Future Gems featured her on LinkedIn and ABC local on First Coast News. A gifted facilitator and speaker, The CRC Foundation Youth Camp at Microsoft Jacksonville, Florida, featured her as a workshop facilitator, as did the Black Interior Designer’s Network Conference and the 10th Annual $MARTWomen Make Change event hosted by Junior Achievement of North Florida. Other distinguished featured speaking occasions include the Third Annual Wonder Women Tech Conference in Long Beach, CA., and the 2018 Southern Women’s Show in Jacksonville, Florida. Gabby was a featured spotlight on the Raising Smart Girls blog, Her Story, and CBS Fox 30 for Black History Month. Deutsch Bank also featured her for its Black to the Future panel.

Gabby is on the ETRE Girls board, an international STEM advocacy organization featuring smart resources for motivated, world-changing girls highlighted from around the world. ETRE featured her in the book ETRE: Who Do You Want to Be? She is a youth member of the NAACP Jacksonville chapter and a Duke University TIP student currently attending an artificial intelligence course. Her future includes the launch of A.R.C.H.Y. Foundation for Kids, an educational product line, and making A.R.C.H.Y. a global entity. Having had the pleasure of speaking with and learning from mentors like female CEOs Tiffany Brooks of HGTV/OWN, Casey Kelley of Blended Designs, and Tracey Friley, architect with Haskell, adding her tenacity and determination places her goals at arms reach.

Cheryl Magazine salutes Gabriella White. She exudes GIRL POWER, and we are here for it! When asked how she felt about being recognized and if there was any advice she had for those that may see her as inspiration, she had this to say: “It means a lot. I’m really thankful to be featured in this issue. I hope my story can inspire others. Anyone reading who is interested in becoming an entrepreneur or pursuing a dream, I say leap! Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. That’s what I had to do to imagine A.R.C.H.Y. It’s what I have to do every day. I have to make quick moves, to act, to jump over something to get things done. By leaping, you discover your own strength and what you can do by leaping. Just make sure to always have a backup plan.”

In 2019, Gabby was elected the Chief Science Officer (CSO) of Sci-Tech Institute and the National Science Foundation for River City Science Academy. In the same year, she was a featured speaker for York County Mini Maker Faire in Biddeford, Maine, a gathering of fascinating and curious engineers, artists, scientists, crafters, and other “makers.” As the keynote speaker for the Terrace Towne Architecture Conference in Madison, WI, in January of 2020, she presented to more than 1,700 elementary students, sharing with them her passion and desire to change the face of STEAM and create more diversity. That March, she received a resolution from the City of Jacksonville Councilman Terrance Freeman for her community work.

For the past two years, Gabby has attended AIA, American Institute of Architect Miami Black Architects in the Making summer program, receiving the Sustainable Community Warriors Recognition Certificate. Folio Magazine named Gabby one of the 18 Under 18 Youth Impacting the Community. She is also a youth board member for Simone Bridges Inspires, Inc., a local Jacksonville nonprofit founded by her galpal, young mogul Simone Bridges. Simone is a former Cheryl Magazine GIRL POWER feature and proof of how important it is to surround yourself with like-minded people.

For more on the incredible work of this girl mogul, visit archycreator.wordpress.com, or connect with Gabriella White on Facebook at ARCHY creator Gabriella and @archycreator on IG and Twitter.

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A Guide to Creating a Beautiful

Thanksgiving Table

Fall is here! That means Thanksgiving is just around the corner. When hosting Thanksgiving dinner, it may be hard to find a table decoration that suits your style.

Whether you're looking for a traditional setting, or something more modern, we've got you covered! Here are a few tips on how to create a beautiful Thanksgiving table.

Start by choosing your centerpiece. It is important to begin here to set the overall theme of your design.

From fresh flowers, gourds, or ornate candelabras, the options are endless. Expand your centerpiece by allowing it to flow throughout the table set up. You can never go wrong with a harvest theme. Adding fresh produce or seasonal accents like grapes, figs, or calico corn can be fun.

Think outside the box. Instead of traditional fall themes consisting of autumn colors like oranges, yellows, and browns, don't limit your decor to a fall pallet. Branch out by using colors that fit your home decor, theme, or your favorite design. Don't be afraid to combine different patterns and bright colors for an eclectic blend. Add a runner for texture and visual elements like candles and foliage. There's no better time than the holidays to showcase your creativity and festive spirit to friends and family.

Select the perfect tableware. Finding china with beautiful patterns, ornate trims, or bold colors is a way to set your table apart and bring a personal touch to your holiday table. Thanksgiving is a perfect time to bring out your family heirlooms or visit a local antique market to find unique serving trays or platters. Begin with something you know you want to use, like the family silverware or a passed-down serving platter. Let this signature piece be your focal point and allow it to guide you to what to include, from dinnerware, glassware, and flatware, to linens.

Setting the perfect table is just one part of sharing a wonderful Thanksgiving meal. Thanksgiving is the season of giving thanks and spending quality time with those you love. As you gather around your perfect Thanksgiving tablescape, be sure to finish off your setting with the most important item of all, gratitude.

Bumble Bee Tablescape and Photography Courtesy of Heidi Pearson - IG: heidipprc P. 6 1 | Cheryl MAGAZINE

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