September 29, 2022
FROM THE EYES OF A PROPHET Crystal N. Tolbert
GIFTED KINGDOM BUSINESS
Overcoming Obstacles By Walking In Kingdom Authority ISSN 2771-7607
GIFTED MAGAZINE
2
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
EDITOR’S LETTER Dear Reader, Welcome to Gifted Magazine, It’s an honor to welcome you to the Gifted Magazine family. You will not be disappointed! This issue graces the Gifted7, which is a combination of Kingdom excellence from around the globe. Entrepreneurs, Authors, Pastors, Speakers, Designers, and Educators utilizing their gifts and talents in the marketplace to inspire excellence! Our core mission will always be the same: to inspire purpose, introduce excellence and speak life to a global audience. By recognizing leaders worldwide for their contribution to their communities. We thank you for being loyal readers, and are so thankful you are here reading today. Gifted is a faith-based, Christian magazine, run by believ-
As a publication, we do not advocate for any specific
ers. We offer both digital and print magazine issues. We are
political ideology, but we have set standards regarding the
inspired by the voices of our readers, more specifically, of
posting of harmful and denigrating pieces. We see our plat-
the multitude of voices that are contained by mainstream
form as a ministry and thus view that it is our responsibility
media. Have a testimony to share? Gifted is for you! Have
to highlight the Gospel of Jesus Christ, with the use of our
a thought on a current issue? Gifted! Interesting faith jour-
platform. Our intention is to host a platform for believers
ney? Gifted! Whatever Gift it may be, we hope you climb
to share their life experiences, faith stories, and creative
your creative (or life-changing) faith mountain with us.
works. That is why we exist.
Use our digital platform to read articles from our wide
I am elated to be furthering the mission of Gifted Magazine
range of contributors and check out our “Gifted Commu-
and to hear your stories.
nities,” a regular column pointing you to interesting reads across the globe. Our magazine will continue to feature all
SHANIE SALMON-GODFREY,
three sections you have gotten used to in the past years
Editor in Chief
(commentary, faith, and arts & culture) and hope to allow submissions in other languages as well.
Instagram #ShanieSalmon LETTERS+COMMENTS Editor@gifted-magazine.com Subscription Help Giftedmagazine.com/MyAccount or email us at custserv@gifted-magazine.com or call 888-960-5441
4
COVER STORY
C O NT E N T S
08
Jackie Flemming
26
Demetrics Gibbs
GIFTED 7 INTERVIEWS
06
Sylvia Castillo
18
Faith Onyeje Oyita
11
Jackie Stamps
32
Monica Floyd
14
Shaquatta Edgar
46
Brittany Joseph
16
Dr. Eric Holmes
49
Stephanie Mcneal
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
Crystal Tolbert
GIFTED ACROSS GENERATION
22
Terry Weems
42
Eliyahu Shmuel
C O NT E N T S
36
6
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
7
GIFTED 7
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH
SYLVIA CASTILLO
Tell us about yourself My name is Sylvia Castillo, the wife of Evangelist Jorge Castillo. I am a mother of five beautiful children. I am the CEO and founder of Sylvia Early Learning Program which has been running for 19 years. I gave my life to the Lord Jesus Christ 29 years ago. In my life, I have experienced many hardships, but God has always seen me through. The Love of God began cultivating in my life through a heart for prayer. He called me into ministry, and I began as a youth minister. The Spirit of the Lord elevated me to a prophetess to cultivate his people into intercession. How did you identify your purpose? I identified my purpose with the help of the Holy Spirit. He revealed it to me through dreams and visions. As I heard his voice, I began following His leadership. What challenges have you experienced throughout the pursuit of your purpose? The challenges I’ve faced have been to follow God’s instructions Gifted Magazine
completely, focus on what He says
on who you are and were created
and not worry or get distracted
to be. Do not be anxious in life
by what others think of my
but embrace the journey that life
assignment.
brings.
What motivates you to become
One word for Gifted Magazine
the person you are today?
readers?
What motivates me to become the
It is never too late to pursue your
person I am today is that I have
purpose. Follow after what you’re
seen the results of persistently and
passionate about in life. Never
fervently praying. I have seen lives
give up on following after your
transformed, hearts and bodies
purpose.
healed, and people restored to the Lord Jesus Christ. This motivates
Kingdom Blessings,
me daily.
Sylvia Castillo
What advice would you give to your younger self? The advice I would give to my younger self is to remain focused
September 2022
8
COVER STORY
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH
JACKIE FLEMMING
What is the name of your brand/
Tell us about yourself and your
business?
business.
Jackie Enterprises/ Jackie’s
I am a wife, a mother of 3 children,
Collection Clothing Boutique
a boutique owner, and a mentor. I am a sought-after international
While working in corporate America, as a section 8, leasing agent, the Lord moved upon my heart to walk away from my corporate job where I was making good money, to become an entrepreneur.
speaker, speaking at conferences, and empowerment events. I also conducts my annual conferences and events themed “A night of purpose”, as well as workshops and seminars in both business and ministry. When did you know that business/entrepreneurship was something you would do? In 2006 I realized my call into ministry and in 2012, I felt another transition occur in my life. While working in corporate America, as a section 8, leasing agent, the Lord moved upon my heart to walk away from my corporate job where I was making good money, Gifted Magazine
September 2022
9
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
10 to become an entrepreneur. (Jackie
The covid-19 pandemic sort of
not bringing on a team, afraid to
describes the entire process and
affected businesses the world
trust and partner with people. Not
shares in great detail how God
over, what are those things you’ve
getting the proper help needed
spoke to her to make this move
done to keep your business
and being afraid to ask for help.
and to launch out and follow her
running? Okay, what has been your best
dream of becoming an author, a
achievement as an entrepreneur?
public speaker, and a conductor of
When the pandemic hit, I was able
workshops, seminars, and other
to obtain a building and open my
events focused on empowering
clothing boutique. God upgraded
The best achievement for me
men, women, young adults, and
me in the pandemic. Despite the
was when I started seeing the
children, to discover their God-
pandemic, people from all over the
accomplishments of my goals.
given purpose in life
world came to support the launch
Starting seems to be a very
of my new business. The pandemic
What will be your message to
blessed me and my family.
that college student who doubts
difficult part of entrepreneurship,
his chances of success if he starts
how were you able to finance
What do you love most about
your business in the beginning?
being an entrepreneur?
a business? Don’t go through your journey
Behind the scenes, God was giving
I love that I can leave a legacy for
alone by putting God in a box. You
me wisdom on how to gain capital
my children, provide employment,
limit God’s way of success. Get
for my business, I had to put some
and bless others.
your eyes off yourself and ask God
things on hold and follow His lead.
for confirmation and be ok with
Soon enough, I no longer had
How highly do you place God in
your journey being different from
to use credit cards to purchase
your business and what values do
other people’s journeys.
things, I was able to use cash to
you uphold? How can people connect with
pay things off. God is number one in everything
you?
What has been the motivating
that I do. I let people know that
factor for you?
my company is a Christian-based
Social media handles, email
company.
addresses, and phone numbers.
Looking at the failure of my past
Website (www.jackieflemming.
has forced me to learn how to
What do you think you should
com), Instagram (jackieflemming1),
depend on God. My children are
have done differently?
Email (jflemmingbookings@gmail.
also big motivators for me.
com), Facebook (Jackie Flemming) Believe God sooner.
What are the challenges you’ve faced as an entrepreneur?
What is your worst failure as an entrepreneur, that lowest
The fear of not doing things God’s
moment?
way is a challenge for me. Trying to do things by myself and
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
11
GIFTED 7
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH
JACKIE STAMPS
Tell us about yourself I am prophetess/pastor Jackie Stamps, and I am from Anniston, AL. I am married to the Love of my life; Sr. pastor Scottie Stamps and we have been married for the past 25 years. I am an associate pastor of Total Life Christian Ministries of Anniston, Al where senior pastor Scottie and I are the founders. We have three wonderful children and one beautiful granddaughter. I am a published author of my first book titled, ‘Sandpapered’ and co-author of a new compilation book, ‘Queens Supporting Queens’ along with 29 other women of God which can be found on Amazon.com. I am the founder & CEO of “Virtuous Women of God Ministries International and the founder of Jackie Stamps Ministries where I inspire and empower women to birth their purpose. I am a Gospel recording
purchased on all online distribution
How did you identify your
artist. I am the host of an evening
sites. I have been in the music
purpose?
‘Praize w/Prophetess Jackie’ on
ministry for over 30 years, and I
Facebook Live & Youtube that
am a speaker and psalmist. My
I first identified my calling when
holds every Monday at 6.00 pm
husband and I are the owners of
I figured out I was different from
CST. Also now aired on Elevation
‘Blessed Hands Variety & More’,
everyone else. I never fit. So, I
TV Network is ‘The Empowered
where we create t-shirts, flyers
knew there was something God
Push with Prophetess Jackie’ every
and invitations, wood mailboxes,
was doing.
Friday, 7:00 pm EST/ 6:00 pm
welcome signs, and more.
CST. My CD “Delivered,” can be Gifted Magazine
September 2022
12 What inspired you to pursue your purpose? As a young child and even in high school, God continued to make me different. It was then I knew God had more purpose for me and I determined to pursue it. What challenges have you experienced throughout the pursuit of your purpose? There have been so many different
My inspiration was given through God and my life experiences. I wanted to let other women know that, despite how difficult life may be and whatever they may be currently facing, God is a deliverer.
challenges. I’ve lost loved ones, found enemies, and struggle with my own identity. I had to learn to not be a people pleaser. Yet, God continually kept me through it all. What is the name of your book? My book is titled, “Sandpapered” What inspired you to write your book? My inspiration was given through God and my life experiences. I wanted to let other women know that, despite how difficult life may be and whatever they may be currently facing, God is a deliverer. What motivates you to become the person you are today? I want to come to the fullness of what God has called me to be, to be a vessel in the Hands of God to push people into God’s
Gifted Magazine
given purpose. My family is also
God has called you to be the best
my motivation. They constantly
He made you be. Know that you
pray and push me to be the best
are fearfully and wonderfully made
version of myself, and all that God
by God.
created me to be. CONTACT INFORMATION If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what
Facebook Link: https://www.
would it be?
facebook.com/jstampsministries Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/
Never allow the opinion of others
PastorJackieS
determines your worth.
YouTube Link: https://youtube. com/user/mzpraize
What tips do you have for our readers that are trying to find their purpose? Never give up, keep going! Know that your tests are like sandpaper, they help smoothen out your rough edges. Please provide final thoughts for Gifted Magazine.
September 2022
13
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
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GIFTED 7
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH
SHAQUATTA EDGAR
There have been many challenges. I have been challenged with fear, people telling me I wasn’t supposed to preach because I’m a woman, health issues, loss of my job, passing of my father, divorce, and many other things. Tell us about yourself
poetry to express my feelings. I
What challenges have you
also began identifying my purpose
experienced throughout the
I am a mother to one beautiful
as a minister when I was a child
pursuit of your purpose?
and smart daughter. I am a servant
through dreams. In these dreams,
of God who loves being an
I would be preaching, and it
There have been many challenges.
encouragement to others. I have
took me some time to figure out
I have been challenged with
a passion for people no matter
that was what I was doing in my
fear, people telling me I wasn’t
their color, gender, or economic
dreams. Also, later my calling as a
supposed to preach because
status. I was born to bring change
preacher was confirmed by three
I’m a woman, health issues, loss
to a broken world and that is what
different servants of God.
of my job, passing of my father,
I choose to do. I enjoy writing,
divorce, and many other things.
podcasting, and being a minister in
What inspired you to pursue your
Although I have experienced these
God’s kingdom.
purpose?
challenges, they are pushing me forward into my destiny.
How did you identify your
Knowing the great impact that I
purpose?
would have on people’s lives is
What is the name of your book?
what inspired me to pursue my I began identifying my purpose as
purpose.
I am still working on a name for
a writer when I was about 12 years
my book, hopefully, I will have
old. I would journal a lot and write
a name for it soon. I am also a
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
15 part of several anthologies that will also be launched this year. Those anthologies are as follows: Overcoming Obstacles by Walking in Kingdom Authority-Volume 1, Live Your Faith Out Loud- Volume 2, and Women of Power: Ignited to Serve. What inspired you to write your book? Having my voice heard through the pages of books and the influence they will have on the lives of others is what inspired me. Also, knowing that I will be a part of something that is big and will accomplish the will of God. What motivates you to become the person you are today? My family would be my biggest motivation. My mom and dad; believed in me and were proud of me. Watching my brothers and sisters go through things and continue to go on, daily inspires me to keep going as well. And my daughter she’s proud of me and gets excited about what I do. With them, I can’t help but press towards better and be all God called me to be. God also motivates me because He has never left my side. If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
Gifted Magazine
I would tell my younger self to be strong and courageous and not be afraid, God’s got you. What tips do you have for our readers that are trying to find their purpose? Pay attention to things in your life that don’t make sense because it just might be God pushing you towards your destiny. Also, seek God, pray, and ask Him to show you what you were created to do. Please provide final thoughts for Gifted Magazine. I am excited about what God is doing through me. It’s not always easy, but God has enabled me to be the minister and writer he has purposed for me to be. Even when we don’t feel or think we are worthy or capable of being a light to anyone we must keep pursuing our purpose anyway. It’s often in the darkest moments that God raises us and causes us to shine even brighter. So as a light we
must keep pressing forward with purpose and never lose hope in God. CONTACT INFORMATION Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/FABBossLadyQhttps:// www.facebook.com/ GreaterLoveMinistries18 Twitter: https://twitter.com/ ShaquattaE LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/ shaquatta-edgar-58949941 YouTube: https://www. youtube.com/channel/ UCbtn9suH3vdIkzYiXhnHKCA Instagram: https://www.instagram. com/chosendefenderladyq/ Email Address: minshaquattaedgar@gmail.com Business Phone Number:251-387-2489
September 2022
16
GIFTED 7
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH
DR. ERIC HOLMES
Tell us about yourself and your
assignments my purpose was
business.
already in me it just caught up to the timing and season of God and
I was born and raised in
maturity.
Harrisburg. I serve in Beth-el Temple Church. I am an ordained
Starting seems to be a very
elder and I serve in several
difficult part of entrepreneurship,
ministries. I am also a certified
how were you able to finance
life coach, mental and behavioral
your business in the beginning?
health coach, and a 25-year essential healthcare worker at
Family support, family prayers,
Johns Hopkins.
family love, and family encouragement will lead to success, and because I had that
When did you know that
it was successful. It wasn’t that I
business/entrepreneurship was
wanted to give up, but it was some
something you would do?
rough times; however, prayer, support, and God reminded me he
As I was doing different
Gifted Magazine
was with me and kept me going.
It wasn’t that I wanted to give up, but it was some rough times; however, prayer, support, and God reminded me he was with me and kept me going.
September 2022
17 What has been the motivating factor for you? One of the books by TD Jakes Influence The covid-19 pandemic sort of affected businesses the world over, what are those things you’ve done to keep your business running? I would say seek wise counsel, have a mentor, get all the training, and be teachable but always seek God. I am not the pastor, I am one of the Ecclesia one of the Elders helping. What do you love most about being an entrepreneur? his chances of success if he starts I enjoy what I do because it’s a
a business?
privilege to be used by God Continued in the process and What is your worst failure as
preparation
an entrepreneur, that lowest moment?
How can people connect with you?
One mistake is not following the plan and instructions
Social media handles, email addresses, and phone numbers.
Okay, what has been your best achievement as an entrepreneur?
I can be reached on all social media platforms. Twitter, FB, IG
I am always looking for ways to
a)
FB: Eric Holmes.
better and do more and build upon
b)
Twitter: Dr. Eric holmes
the foundation
c)
IG: Dr. E holmes and
d)
LinkedIn: Eric Holmes
I would say seek wise counsel, have a mentor, get all the training, and be teachable but always seek God. I am not the pastor, I am one of the Ecclesia one of the Elders helping.
What will be your message to that college student who doubts
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
18
GIFTED 7
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH
FAITH ONYEJE OYITA What is the name of your ministry
will shall more about how I started
or church?
versus where this once poor girl hawking on the streets of Makurdi
New nation missionary church. I
the capital of Benue state Nigeria,
serve as an ordained pastor in this
is today. By the way, am from
Global movement.
Ibilla-Alukpo, in the Oju local government area of Benue state. I
Tell us about yourself and your
belong to the Igede-speaking tribe
ministry.
of Benue.
I am a book with many pages, so I
At what point did you discover
find it difficult sometimes to know
the purpose and that is the
the area to come from, but I will
ministry God is calling you to?
give it a shot. From childhood. I always tell My name is Faith Oyita as earlier
people that, only purpose
mentioned. I am 24 years old. I am
discovery can give birth to life
the CEO of Oyita Faith shoes and
fulfillment. I discovered that I
bags collections, as well as Oyita
loved God so much from a tender
clothing and textiles, Zocumber
age. My parents were average
drinks limited and other brands. I
Christians but something in me
was born into a family of 5 and I am privileged to be the eldest. I lost my dad when I was in primary 5, almost 10 years, and life became sour. I started hawking for my mum when I was 8 years old though when my dad died, I told myself that I am not a product of my circumstance but my decisions, hence I chose to succeed, stand out and influence my world. The journey from childhood to Adulthood wasn’t smooth but Gifted Magazine
God never assured us of a smooth journey, He rather promised us a safe landing that has been my lot. From the circumstances around my birth, my dad told me I was a special child, the one whom God’s hand was evidently upon. God held me at every step, He raised me and made me tall, and yes we just got started because those height men tag impossible, we will attain it and bid them come. As we proceed in the interview I
kept telling me to aim for more, even as a child. I started fasting in primary 4. My teacher, myself, as well as some of my classmates, will go to the church and pray during the break. At some point, my dad stopped attending our precious church. I went and looked for a church and told him, ‘Daddy, I have found a church for all of us, no one stays at home anymore. They all followed me. I was 7 years old. That was the church my dad worshipped with until his September 2022
19 premature death. The very first
thriving even to the resent day. My
miracle God did through me, and
siblings see me as their prophet
my classmate was to give our
and not just their older sister. I got
teacher a baby. She’d been barren for years. I knew God had called and that He wanted to use me. I gave him my life and he was glad I did. Most of the knowledge in him I had he taught me. I began to pray on my own. I eat the scriptures and love God. I went to join the
I always tell people that, only purpose discovery can give birth to life fulfillment. I discovered that I loved God so much from a tender age.
school, I was already a preacher of the word to my mates. At age 16 I was going out on invitations to preach the word in churches and programs backed up with signs and wonders. At age 18-19 in 200 level. I have ordained a pastor with the New nation Missionary church and till the ends of the earth, we will continue to Flag up Jesus. What inspired you to pursue your
Gifted Magazine
Ghost and they are all actively serving God. I became a father to my siblings and a husband to my mum ensuring I provide them with all forms of security in God, education, finances, etc. What challenges have you
choir at age 8. They said I was too young, but I insisted. In secondary
3 of them baptized in the Holy
purpose? My family played a vital role. My mum will always tell me, seeing attended vigils and program a lot, that she won’t stop me from serving God but as long as I can balance it with assisting her in her business. I hawked till my 3rd year at the university. The Holy Ghost my best friend gave me wisdom on how to carry along business with ministry and they are both
experienced throughout the pursuit of your purpose? I thought of giving up countlessly, but I didn’t. Being a believer doesn’t stop the devil from suggesting trash to you, but the Holy Ghost and the power of God on your inside will rise a standard above those voices. I always say that you can’t stop the devil from fighting, but he
September 2022
20
That would be knowing God still earlier than I did. Spending time with my biological dad. My dad is my hero.
can’t stop you from winning
What is the name of your favorite
too. My resolve to make it in life
book?
here. What message would you give to
became bigger than my desire to
your younger self?
quit. Each time I spent time with
This question is quite difficult
the Holy Ghost the revelations
because I am a bookworm. I
and visions He shows me wowed
love books so having to pick
That would be knowing God still
me. I see myself in places I know
one. Anyways, the power of
earlier than I did. Spending time
only him can take me there. I
Recognition by Mike Murdock
with my biological dad. My dad is
see myself raising the dead, etc.
transformed my life greatly.
my hero.
Do you have any regrets?
What do you love most about
My conclusion is that only a man who hasn’t met the Holy Ghost
being an entrepreneur?
genuinely will want to give up. The Holy Ghost quickens the weak.
No mistakes to regret by God’s
Whenever am faced with a storm
grace. The Holy Ghost has been
I enjoy every bit of all I do and
I remind myself ‘Faith you are not alone, Jesus is in the boat, and it works. When you are faced with trials of life be conscious of the God you carry. We are not meant to run away from mountains, but to eat mountains like chocolate. The Bible says 1 John 4:4 ‘Greater is he that is in me than he that is in the world.’ Become so full of God’s word. The devil, as well as challenges, will never be scared of your face but the amount of God’s word richly dwelling in you. Gifted Magazine
September 2022
21
even those I plan to further do.
What will be your message to
The thoughts of them alone give
that college student who doubts
me chills of fulfillment. As long I
his chances of success if he starts
stay yielded to the government
a business?
of the Holy Ghost and marry my secret place, he will make me
Don’t joke about your secret place.
wonder and praise the earth. All
You started with God and make
I have resolved is to stand when
sure you stay through with him to
God is standing, move when he is
the end. Let the Holy Ghost be
and never take a step if he hasn’t
your all in all, not your knowledge
authorized me to.
not even you’re anointing nor spiritual head as good as they are.
Do you take breaks?
Stay humble and remain a servant. Delete the arrival mentality
No, I don’t take a break. Whenever
from your mind, and never allow
I am called upon, I respond. We
your children to cheer you into
will work while it’s day for the
irrelevance. Stay humble and
night Cometh when no one can
yielded to God.
work. Ministry is not a carrier you take a break from, it is a life you
How can people connect to you?
have sacrificed upon the Altar of God to serve, for example,
Like my page on Facebook @
prophetess Anna in the Bible. As
FAITH OYITA.
long there is grace from God we
On Instagram Oyita.faith
Whenever I am called upon, I respond. We will work while it’s day for the night Cometh when no one can work. Ministry is not a carrier you take a break from, it is a life you have sacrificed upon the Altar of God to serve, for example, prophetess Anna in the Bible.
will continue to live.
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
22
GIFTED ACROSS GENERATIONS
Terry Weems Apostle Terry A Weems Sr My ministry name is Obadiah Ecclesiastical Alliance. I am known for having an electrifying anointing that shifts the atmosphere, bringing deliverance and healing. I’m best described for ministering the word of God in truth, spirit, and power. Having a passion to train, equip and empower those that are called of God to advance the Kingdom of God. I am driving in developing individuals to walk fully in their purpose God has called them to and watching the Lord prosper them. My purpose was discovered at the age of sixteen, however, it took years of development. It was actually in Fort Lauderdale FL., that my purpose was awakened. The words to me were ‘God called you to be a prophet.’ Now, not having a prophetic lineage naturally I was perplexed. It was later that God likened me to the prophet Amos, who stated “I was not a prophet nor the son of a prophet” Amos 7:14. I did not quite understand the full totality of it until God added significant people to my life. These significant people were instrumental in developing my
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
23
My purpose was discovered at the age of sixteen, however, it took years of development. It was actually in Fort Lauderdale FL., that my purpose was awakened.
character and call.
me of giving up. I’ve realized that
Apart from the Bible, Bishop
giving up is easy but continuing
T.D Jakes’ book ‘Making Great
Some family members had a role
the race takes perseverance,
Decisions’ has influenced my life
in the success of my ministry that
patience, and much prayer. It was
and my ministry immeasurably.
I am forever grateful for. However,
the remembrance of the promise
we know that the anointing
that keep me going. Realizing that
One of the biggest mistakes that I
attracts attack, and as hard as this
had I permanently quit, it would
have made in ministry is familiarity.
is to say, at times those attacks
have been food to my foes! So, I
When we start getting familiar
are from the confinement of your
decided to starve my foes and, of
with things and people, we start
own family. The Bible is explicit
course, God helped me too.
allowing things that we should not.
when it cautioned us, that our
The way that I managed to stay
This familiarity caused me to forge
family could be the ones against
close to God was to stay before
relationships that jeopardize my
us. Even the family members who
God! I also had to keep the
destiny. Although “all things work
oppose us are vital to the success
company of real, resilient, and
together for the good” Romans
of our ministry. Their opposition
robust individuals in my life. I
8:28. I believe mistakes are ‘nasty
serves a purpose that we may not
believe who we align ourselves
but very much necessary to take
understand until later in life.
with, will determine if we misalign
us in the right direction we are
ourselves or stay aligned to God.
mandated to go.
From a place of transparency,
Throughout these years of many
there were several times that
storms, I had to rely on God for
I wish that earlier in my ministry,
the thought presented itself to
strength to carry me through.
I had embraced a spiritual
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
24
father because fathers give us
Like Jesus, we must take breaks
our identity. There are so many
because if we don’t, we will break.
that have not located their true
I often say if we continue to be
spiritual identity because of the
used, and not refueled we will
lack of fathers. We have attributed
eventually be useless. I desire to
birthing only to women, but the
stay usable as long as God keeps
scripture debunks that ideology.
his breath in my body. My words
Paul states, I had to give birth for
to those that are starting ministry
you the second time until Christ
are to first wait for ministry. I
is formed in you, Galatians 4:19. I
would strongly recommend them
believe I would have been formed
to allow God to groom them so He
earlier had I embraced a spiritual
will provide room in their proper
father.
place. I would also make sure they
True fulfillment comes from fulfilling your God-given purpose. I can honestly say every aspect of what I’m called to do I enjoy it. This is what I was separated from the womb to do. My plan in moving ahead is to remain consistent, committed, and confident. Allowing God to order every step is essential to what’s before me.
understand trying to be perfect is True fulfillment comes from
frustrating. God does not call the
fulfilling your God-given purpose.
perfect, but he will perfect the
I can honestly say every aspect
called.
of what I’m called to do I enjoy it. This is what I was separated
I can be reached at
from the womb to do. My plan
www.terryaweems.org
in moving ahead is to remain consistent, committed, and confident. Allowing God to order every step is essential to what’s before me.
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
25
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
26
COVER STORY
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH
DEMETRICS GIBBS What is the name of your brand/
of the things that I love to do
I knew that business /
business?
is an advocate for others. This
entrepreneurship was something I
is one of the reasons why Ipub
had to do once I became unhappy
was birthed through me. Ipub is
working a man’s job for the rest of
a publishing company that helps
my life. You never know what can
Tell us about yourself and your
people speak and tell their stories.
happen to a man’s job. You live
business.
It isn’t just about becoming a first-
paycheck to paycheck. You could
time author, but more so about
be laid off unexpectedly and be
Greetings everyone, my name is
standing on the truth of what God
super stressed, but when God calls
Demetrics. I am the author of two
has given them.
you into entrepreneurship. You are
IPub
books. I attend Fort Valley State
secured. You have to be obedient
University to pursue my bachelor’s
When did you know that
in Political Science. I desire to
business/entrepreneurship was
become a lawyer. However, one
something you would do?
and trust the will of God.
You never know what can happen to a man’s job. You live paycheck to paycheck. You could be laid off unexpectedly and be super stressed, but when God calls you into entrepreneurship. You are secured. You have to be obedient and trust the will of God.
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
27
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
28 Starting seems to be a very difficult part of entrepreneurship, how were you able to finance your business in the beginning? When I first started Ipub publishing company. I didn’t have the finance. All I had was knowledge and creativity. I’ve realized once you have the strategy, creativity, and true understanding of your vision. You can build anything with little to no finance. I remember when I became a first-time author. I didn’t know what to do, but then I realized that you don’t have to have all the funds to start. There are many resources and ways to help you achieve what you desire to do at little to no cost. You have to have the mindset to make it happen. How bad do you want it? What has been the motivating factor for you? Do not give up. Do not stop. It’s at that moment when you stop. Delay and procrastination start to come in. You have to understand that once the vision has been
What are the challenges you’ve
mindset about how God is leading
faced as an entrepreneur?
you with your business. Once you have the perspective to let God
given to you. You have to go full force and have confidence like
The challenge I have had is making
show you, your focus cannot be
never before. Never let anyone
my close ones my support system.
tainted.
talk you out of what you believe
You have to know that God may
God has given you. It is for you to
not have familiar faces to support
The covid-19 pandemic affected
take it and run with it. Know that
your vision. Get comfortable with
businesses worldwide, what are
God will make provisions for you
having strangers be a part of the
some of the things you’ve done to
and your business.
vision that God has allowed you to
keep your business running?
carry. You have to have an open
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
29
I always made sure not only my health and safety were first, but also my clients. You always have to prepare to adapt to whatever situation may happen. plan to find ways to keep your clients in the loop and maybe make an email platform to keep the communication open. What do you love most about being an entrepreneur? What I love most about being an entrepreneur is seeing the fruits of my labor. We know that the bible states that God judges the fruit. I desire to make sure results are produced. My heart is to make sure that every person begins to use their voice to speak their truth in many ways, whether it is from their mouth, writing, or just through an image.
I always made sure not only my
your clients face to face. You
health and safety were first, but
may want to develop a business
also my clients. You always have
plan to strategize running your
How highly do you place god in
to prepare to adapt to whatever
business through technology or
your business? And what values
situation may happen. It is vital to
ways that don’t expose you, the
do you uphold?
continuously improve to ensure
person who works for you, or the
your vision survives any storm or
client. Another example would
God is at the center of my
adversity with a strong foundation.
be if, for some reason, social
business. Even when I begin to
I strongly recommend creating
media was down. How would you
coach first-time authors, we start
a business backup plan. For
communicate with your audience
with prayer. Then, we start to go
instance, if your business involves
or clients? You can build a business
over their manuscript. I will have
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
30 the client read their manuscript aloud as they are reading. I’m able to hear God. Once God speaks to me. I’m able to open up to them with what God says pertaining to their book and the purpose of why the book is necessary. My business is grounded in God and his word. What do you think you should have done differently when you started your business? When starting Ipub, I was very hesitant. I would say to have high confidence and to move expediently. ACT ON IT RIGHT AWAY! What is your worst failure as an entrepreneur, the lowest moment? How did you overcome it? My worst failure as an entrepreneur was not ensuring I was consistent with my business. I would post something here or there and wonder why I’m not getting customers. Always make sure that you are constantly promoting your vision. It doesn’t matter who likes, shares, or even comments. People see regardless, and if they see that’s all that matters. If you do not promote. You are unrecognizable, and no one knows you. Take your business seriously! Always motivate yourself to stay in the loop with what you can do to better your business. Up your game with technology, and
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add new services and new ideas to enhance your business. Figure out
What has been your greatest
ways to continue to engage the
achievement as an entrepreneur?
audience assigned to you. Always understand as an entrepreneur
My greatest achievement as an
that this is your life. Just because
entrepreneur is seeing my clients
you achieve one thing does not
happy and excited. It ignites me
mean you become a lineate. There
to go harder to see that their
is always work to do and ways to
vision comes to life. It’s no longer
become better.
a thought or a dream to them; It
September 2022
31
has become a reality. One word!
is everything!
MANIFESTATION! Contact Information What advice do you give to a college student who doubts his/
Facebook Link-http://www.
her chances of success if he/she
facebook.com/demetrics.gibbs
starts a business?
Instagram Link-@chevona11 Website Link- www.
The advice I would give to a
demetricsgibbs.com
college student is to go for it. You
Email Address-
have no excuse. Why? Because I
ipubpublishingcompany@gmail.
am a full-time student in college, I
com
have a full-time work-from-home
Business Phone
job as a paralegal and a full-time
Number-478-258-6867
publishing company. Yes, I may
We look forward to celebrating
have a lot on my hands, but I
with you while you inspire
would put myself on a time frame
others! Have A Great Day, Gifted
or schedule. Make sure that you
Magazine, LLC Giftedmagazine@
build a structure so that you are
outlook.com https://gifted-
not all over the place. Of course,
magazine.com/
You have no excuse. Why? Because I am a full-time student in college, I have a full-time workfrom-home job as a paralegal and a full-time publishing company.
school is your priority. You can create your business around your class schedule. Another thing you can do is look into finding a mentor or a coach. Accountability Gifted Magazine
September 2022
32
GIFTED 7 INTERVIEW
MONICA FLOYD MONICA FLOYD MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL Wife, mother of four, adult son who has Autism and mental illness, prayer warrior, worshipper, mentor, and advocate for women and children with special needs. The ministry is about uplifting, empowerment, inspiration, encouraging, embracing, equipping, raising self-esteem, motivation, and healing. It gives women a platform to share their heartfelt testimonies so that other women can be healed, delivered, and set free from their past and present hurt and pain so that they can walk into a better future for themselves, and future generations. They can walk into their God purpose. I have always encouraged or helped women and men get through challenging times by just being a listening year since I was a teenager. Being an adult, I noticed that many topics weren’t being discussed because of the old way of thinking that we are supposed to be so strong that we don’t seek any type of counseling and continue to hurt, and I needed to change OUR mindsets. Gifted Magazine
The support of my oldest and youngest daughters and my parents all push me even when I can’t see the results. Yes! It can become difficult doing ministry while raising an adult son with Autism and several mental challenges while being a momager to my 7-year-old. Knowing that other people’s lives depended upon whether I kept going truly helped me not quit. Also, my children are always watching me and needed me to not give up. My Faith has been tested by
The ministry is about uplifting, empowerment, inspiration, encouraging, embracing, equipping, raising self-esteem, motivation, and healing.
abuse, homeless, and rocky marriage. I honestly had to focus on every promise that God made September 2022
33
I have always encouraged or helped women and men get through challenging times by just being a listening year since I was a teenager.
to me and believe what I couldn’t see. That has been easier said than done. I’m anointed for this by Angela Kirksey Remaining in a place where God told me my time was up. Accepting my calling and leaving when God told me to. Yes I’ve expanded my education so Gifted Magazine
September 2022
34 that I may be an effective leader. I’m also currently working on my doctorate. I’m considering expanding to tv, so I will also be building a team to balance everything. Yes, I take mental breaks to refresh and restore. Right now, my son and youngest are always with me so my breaks occur in the middle of the night, or whenever I can. Give God a real yes. Ministry requires your focus and trust to always stay in God’s will. It sometimes requires you to let GO of people and things that would hinder you. Don’t let people’s opinions override God’s voice and instructions. Facebook-Monica Floyd Instagram-Monica Floyd Ministries Monica Floyd Ministries International Email: Prophetessmonica3@gmail. com I CHOOSE ME LLC phone:302-497-5296 Email: 1ICHOOSEMENOW@gmail. com, Clubhouse-Monica Floyd
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September 2022
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Gifted Magazine
September 2022
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COVER STORY
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH
CRYSTAL TOLBERT
What is the name of your brand/
a desire to help others. Walking
business?
In Greatness Ministries is a faith-
purpose.
based ministry and Coaching
When did you know that
Walking In Greatness Ministries Inc
Program. I desire to help woman
business/entrepreneurship was
Tell us about yourself and your
find their value, purpose, joy,
something you would do?
business.
independence, and the true meaning of happiness to prepare
When God gave me “My Exit to
My name is Crystal Tolbert,
them for their destiny to fully
the Platform” strategy. Taking my
and I am a mother, Pastor,
be Awakened. It also provides
Ministry into the Market Place
Transformational Coach & Author.
a biblical yet practical approach
from the Pulpit to the Market&
I have always had a passion, and
to living your life in purpose on
having a real plan for your Next.
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
37
Healing, they have spirituality, but they have not been taught how to deal with trauma, & wounds that are stimulated at a young age. Therefore, I created my business in the marketplace to educate and help heal people from a different Approach & perspective. Starting seems to be a very difficult part of entrepreneurship, how were you able to finance your business in the beginning? I literally follow my “My Exit to Platform” strategy. I used my savings, and the money that I made from speaking engagements as well as mentoring to get me started. What has been the motivating factor for you? In Ministry, what I found out, so many in the church are lacking Healing, they have spirituality, but they have not been taught how to deal with trauma, & wounds that are stimulated at a young age. Therefore, I created my business in the marketplace to educate and help heal people from a different Approach & perspective.
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
38
What are the challenges you’ve faced as an entrepreneur? The hardest challenge for me was not becoming overwhelmed with investing so much to make it work. Most Entrepreneurs will tell you, that you work harder for yourself than you do in Corporate America. So, staying Grounded and balanced was so important. The covid-19 pandemic sort of affected businesses the world over, what are those things you’ve done to keep your business running? The Pandemic is when my business started to flourish because it forced me to rely on God’s strategic plan for my Coaching Program. I didn’t have time to
The hardest challenge for me was not becoming overwhelmed with investing so much to make it work. Most Entrepreneurs will tell you, that you work harder for yourself than you do in Corporate America. So, staying Grounded and balanced was so important
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
39
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
40 second guess, and it forced me out of my comfort zone. What do you love most about being an entrepreneur? Being able to have the flexibility to serve God’s people and still maintain a real intimate relationship with God and my young son. How highly do you place god in your business and what values do you uphold? My Business was created, by God and Mat. 6:33 is my favorite scripture. Everything in my business is centered around, God as being the number one focus in Developing Authentic Healing. What do you think you should have done differently? Started the business earlier & not allow Fear to delay me. What is your worst failure as an entrepreneur, that lowest moment? Second, guessing what God spoke to me and allow others to persuade me in the beginning from his plan. Okay, what has been your best achievement as an entrepreneur? Seeing lives transformed and being
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able to witness the change within
How can people connect with
those I was called to serve.
you?
What will be your message to
SOCIAL MEDIA HANDLES,
that college student who doubts
EMAIL ADDRESS, PHONE
his chances of success if he starts
NUMBER….Instagram: @
a business?
crystalntolbertFacebook: @Crystal N. Tolbert
I would tell them to seek God &
Address: 13624 Gamma
ask him for his Birthing plan for
Rd Farmers Branch, TX
their business. Also, what is their
75244Website: https://www.
Why? Because your why is what
crystaltolbert.com
will encourage you not to give up
Phone: 2148615570
in the most critical times.
Email: walkingingreatnessministries@ gmail.com September 2022
41
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
42
COVER STORY
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH
ELIYAHU SHMUEL I’m a Husband, Father of four,
started preaching.
Friend, Gifted, Charismatic, Highly Spirited, Energetic, Anointed Seer,
Challenges: I have gone
Prophet, Exorcist, Author, Life &
through many disappointments,
Spiritual and Mental Health Coach,
discouragement, personal failures,
Cantor, Hebraic Teacher, Radio
health issues, persecution,
& TV personality, Influencer, and
jealousy, envy that has always
Intercessor who started preaching
followed me, misunderstanding,
at the age of 15 in the Island of
slander, and defamation of
Puerto Rico.
character. I suffered abandonment and many rejections. People see
I identified my purpose primarily
the glory today in me, but they
through prayer since I was raised
don’t know the whole story!
by a Godly example, The Blessed
I identified my purpose primarily through prayer since I was raised by a Godly example, The Blessed Memory of my Late Grandmother Isabel Torres Carmona who was a powerful prayer and Intercessor.
Memory of my Late Grandmother Isabel Torres Carmona who was a powerful prayer and Intercessor. Also, I had a Good Pastor who was a Highly Anointed Prophet who operated in all the Gifts of the Spirit Fluently and unusually: The Late Rev. Don Smith whom YHWH ( God ) used to call me by First and last name on June 27 ( My Birthday) 1987 during a Prayer Service in Puerto Rico. ( Never met me before) My inspiration was my Grandmother, My Pastor, and Evang. Carlos Guadalupe. I had Good mentors throughout my life. See, I was saved in December 1986, Filled with the Holy Spirit on January 10th, 1987, on Shabbat. I was 14 years young, a year later Gifted Magazine
September 2022
43
Gifted Magazine
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What motivates me to be who I am is because I am a Prophet of old. I firmly believe that through prayer everything should be birth in the natural and in the spirit. Books: I have written over 17 books. But my latest one is entitled: The Demonic Deceptive Doctrine of Grace. What inspired me to write the book ( Deceptive Demonic Doctrine of Grace)was seeing that the body of assemblies of believers is vast at large on life support. The reason for this, I have discerned it’s because we’re feeding the people this hyper Grace gospel that does not exist and it’s not even biblical, particularly the definition that it has been given. Grace has granted many a license to sin and tried to get over it. We are living the days of Isaiah chapter 5 and Isaiah chapter 3. People have lost fear and reverential awe of the presence of the Holy Spirit. We have confused the terms and definitions of the word grace, favor, and mercy and they do not mean the same thing. Grace and mercy are not synonymous. I found out that the Gifted Magazine
word favor is found 59 times in
become whatever you’re covering
the Old Testament and the first
is and that which you invoke upon
time it was used was in Genesis
yourself. Remember your destiny
and 159 times the word grace is
and your future is locked in the
found in the New Testament which
loins of leadership.
interestingly that word was never used By our Messiah, King and
What motivates me to be who I
Lord, mentioned very few by the
am is because I am a Prophet of
other Apostle who walked with
old. I firmly believe that through
the Messiah. Mentioned by Paul
prayer everything should be birth
130 times. If people understood
in the natural and in the spirit.
that Grace is a Greek goddess
Either prayer takes out sin or
granddaughter of the Greek god
sin takes out prayer but the two
Zeus along with Victoria and
cannot coexist. I have a passion
Glory they would study the matter
and addiction to the presence of
deeper. It may explain why some
the Holy Spirit. There was a fire 🔥
of our leaders struggle with their
placed there many years ago when
sexuality. Oh, yes this is NOT for
I was young and have never been
the faint of heart. Because you
put out regardless of my ups and
September 2022
45
Stop trusting people and be led totally and entirely by the Holy Spirit is the advice I would give my younger self. We must discern between connections and attachments.
Remember that God cannot lie. Pray for four hours in the Holy Spirit. Recite 22 psalms per day out loud in a prayerful attitude. Keep yourself clean and Holy. Behold the coming of the Messiah is here! downs. Prayer and consecration
you: Envy, Jealousy, etc
sustain me as a matter of fact, I
C) Eat Healthily, Eat Organic, Take
have written two books on prayer
Organic Vitamins and Minerals
and I’m going on my third book.
D) Sleep and rest well E) Have a strong prayer life and
Stop trusting people and be
study of the word. consecration is
led totally and entirely by the
a must and I firmly believe that our
Holy Spirit is the advice I would
Heavenly Father is demanding for
give my younger self. We must
us to become intercessors.
discern between connections and
F) forgive completely but love
attachments.
people from afar G) surround yourself with people
My spiritual advice to everyone
who celebrate your destiny
who is reading this is the following:
purpose and assignment and that
Contact: esbyah@gmail.com / Website: esbyah.org (513)910-9481 www.facebook.com/ESBYAH www.Instagram.com/navi_of_ yahweh ESBYAH MUSIC: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/ esbyah/bless-me ESBYAH Radio & TV: https://unored.tv/esbyahradio/ Website: esbyah.org
are genuinely excited about you! A) Stay away from negative people. See, negative people always have
Finally, my final thoughts:
a problem with solutions.
Forgive yourself and don’t let
B) Stay away from people that hate
anyone keep you hostage.
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
46 GIFTED 7 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH
Brittany Joseph Tell us about yourself I was born and raised in Miami, Florida. I am of Haitian descent. I graduated from the University of South Florida in 2014 with my bachelor’s in Women and Gender Studies/Sociology. I graduated from the University of Southern California in 2018 with my master’s in social work. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and currently serve as a therapist. I am the founder of The King Art Society which is a space that empowers people to come to a place of acceptance, revival, and transformation. In January
people having a safe space to be
2020, I married the love of my life!
vulnerable and free. I learned that
I love to dance, be creative, and
this is my purpose to provide this
encourage others.
space.
How did you identify your
What inspired you to pursue your
purpose?
purpose?
I identified my purpose while in
I was inspired by friends and
college. I changed my major three
leaders on social media who
times! I was confused and praying
created safe spaces for others.
for guidance on what path to take.
This encouraged me to obtain my
When I changed my major for the
master’s in social work and learn
final time, various opportunities
how to facilitate a safe space for
came to work with people in
others.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and currently serve as a therapist. I am the founder of The King Art Society which is a space that empowers people to come to a place of acceptance, revival, and transformation. I
different stages of life. It is there where I learned the importance of Gifted Magazine
September 2022
47 What challenges have you
•
experienced throughout the
learn more about yourself.
pursuit of your purpose?
•
I was inspired by friends and leaders on social media who created safe spaces for others. This encouraged me to obtain my master’s in social work and learn how to facilitate a safe space for others.
I struggled with doubt, insecurities, depression, and comparison. I often looked at others and rather than be thankful for how far I had come, I was frustrated about where I thought I should be. This discontentment and not staying in my lane made my purpose blurry and unreachable. What is the name of your book? The King’s Diary: Writing Your Way to Authenticity What inspired you to write your book? I felt that the word “authentic” is often used and its meaning is unclear. As I am embarking on my journey to authenticity, I am learning that living authentically is embracing who God created us to be. This inspired me to share what I have been learning and encourage others to live authentically!
Gifted Magazine
Be kind to yourself as you
What motivates you to become
Be honest with God and yourself. Vulnerability permits you to access who God has created you to be.
Please provide final thoughts for Gifted Magazine. Trust that God knew your path before you walked on it. He got you!
the person you are today?
CONTACT INFORMATION
The desire to please God with my
life.
The King Art Society
If you could give one piece of
_kingartsociety
advice to your younger self, what would it be? Don’t allow the opinions of others to sabotage who God created you
Website Link www.kingartsociety.com Email Address kingartsociety@gmail.com
to be. What tips do you have for our readers that are trying to find their purpose? •
Permit yourself to try new things.
September 2022
48
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
49
GIFTED 7 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH
Stephanie McNeal What is the name of your brand/
in Identity and Destiny, former
realized that although forgiveness
business?
Women’s Ministry Leader, Podcast
was on her lips, it wasn’t in her
Host, Speaker, and Author. And
heart. It was her ministry, but
for over 10 years, she’s been
it wasn’t her mastery until she
known as a Forgiveness Coach
changed her mindset. Today, she
Tell us about yourself and your
and fully embraced her call as
is the author of her memoir Freed
business.
a Minister of Reconciliation.
2 Love - How Forgiveness Can
But none of those credentials
Heal You From Broken Pieces
Stephanie McNeal is a certified
mattered because one day, she
to Master Peace, speaker and
relationship educator, licensed
was confronted with the truth and
podcast host of The Freed 2
The Freed 2 Love Podcast
Love Podcast, and teaches her powerful mindset shift - P.R.E.S.S. (an acronym for perseverance, resilience, endurance, submission, and supplication). This powerful mindset shift empowers people to walk out of their forgiveness lifestyle daily. This translates in their lives to peace, freedom, and success. She inspires legacyminded women to increase their emotional and spiritual growth so they will be freed to love - God, themselves, and everyone else. When did you know that business/entrepreneurship was something you would do? Growing up in my family business, I always saw myself as an entrepreneur. I started my first business in 1998 and after working for a non-profit company, I launched this business in 2012.
Gifted Magazine
September 2022
50 Starting seems to be a very
finished work of forgiveness before
difficult part of entrepreneurship,
I’d ever see success. Therefore,
how were you able to finance
I invested a lot of time working
your business in the beginning?
on myself so that I can show up authentically and transparently
As with the majority of businesses,
healed and whole.
77% of businesses started selffunded. I was able to start my
The covid-19 pandemic affected
business with my own as well as
businesses worldwide, what are
funds from my family.
some of the things you’ve done to keep your business running?
What has been the motivating factor for you?
My primary motivating factor has been fulfilling the call of God in my life. I believe that God called me to be a minister of reconciliation and it has become my life’s work.
My primary motivating factor has been fulfilling the call of God in my life. I believe that God called me to be a minister of reconciliation and it has become my life’s work. What are the challenges you’ve faced as an entrepreneur? Being an entrepreneur is a challenge by itself. Especially if you are a CEO. You wear many hats and some of the challenges have been, of course, funding the business for growth and expansion. Also, because I am the brand, I struggled for many years with imposter syndrome. One of the major challenges was although I was called to be a minister of reconciliation, through the circumstances of life, not to mention a history of bitterness from my family, I had become a bitter person. So, when I got the call, I realized that I had to do the
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If I had the faith that I have now, the things that I had planned and wanted to do before, I would have done them and not wasted so much time on things that weren’t fruitful. Being a part of a community of Christian entrepreneurs and working within a mastermind group was instrumental in keeping me motivated, accountable, and moving forward. I highly recommend it because entrepreneurship can be so lonely and oftentimes your friends and family cannot relate. What do you love most about being an entrepreneur? I love the freedom to be able to create something that changes people’s lives. How highly do you place god in your business? And what values do you uphold? I look to God as my source of wisdom, vision, and direction for my business. I know I said earlier that I am a CEO, but God is my CEO. I cannot move in confidence without direction from Him. My Gifted Magazine
Top Values ● Peace ● Health ●
I was so insecure when I first
Trust ● Family ● Pleasure I find
started my business because it
that when I operate in alignment
is of such a personal nature. If
with my values, my life is so much
I had the faith that I have now,
more fulfilling and better.
the things that I had planned and wanted to do before, I would
What do you think you should
have done them and not wasted
have done differently when you
so much time on things that
started your business?
weren’t fruitful. I would have just listened to The Vision that God
September 2022
53 was giving me and executed it. I
have the greatest opportunity
would have relied on Him for the
for business success. It seems
results and just relied on myself for
like entrepreneurship is trending
the execution. Secondly, finding your ideal client is imperative to your success. A lot of people start businesses, and they think that everybody is their market, and that is simply not true. There is a perfect psychographic and demographic of people that is ideal for your business. Stick with that. What is your worst failure as
My greatest achievement as an entrepreneur is the transformational work that I do with women. Being able to come alongside a woman, inspire and lead her to do her spiritual and emotional work.
right now. They have the vitality, technology, and resourcefulness of youth in their favor. No longer are people expecting to get a job and work that job for 40 years and then retire. My advice would be to go for it! Do it while you are single and have no responsibilities of raising a family or a spouse. Contact information
an entrepreneur, the lowest
although it wasn’t starting all over,
moment? How did you overcome
it felt like starting all over. It felt
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it?
like a failure.
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I would say one of the worst moments was about a month-
What has been your greatest achievement as an entrepreneur?
and-a-half ago. I was about to
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celebrate 10 years in business. I
My greatest achievement
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had just launched my book, but
as an entrepreneur is the
stephanieymcneal
right after I launched my book I
transformational work that I do
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took a job. I took that job because
with women. Being able to come
freed2love.com/ Email Address
I was tired. I was tired of my
alongside a woman, inspire and
- stephanie@freed2love.com
friends looking at me sideways (I
lead her to do her spiritual and
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felt) because my business was not
emotional work. To see her do
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the way it should be after working
her work and it results in her light
for nearly 10 years. So basically, I
coming on which used to be dark
was pleasing man as opposed to
and her life-changing for the better
pleasing God. I left the job after
is the greatest honor, achievement,
initially taking the job because I
and most gratifying work that I can
was mentally, physically, spiritually,
ever do.
and emotionally exhausted. I was tired of standing in faith for the success that I thought I should have by now. So, there I had just left the job and realized I had
What advice do you give to a college student who doubts his/ her chances of success if he/she starts a business?
lost the momentum that I have been building up to that point. So,
Gifted Magazine
I think that college kids right now
September 2022
54
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Gifted Magazine
September 2022