Growth Women's Business Network Magazine- December 2019 Issue

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December 2019

Meet

Winter CEO, Mindful Escapes

Women In

BUSINESS

Trends

WOMEN in

Ministry

Building Brands

Believers Growing In Christ

New Apparel Line

Author’s Corner Writing to Encourage & Inspire Others

Financial Literacy

In Our Communities

Coaches Making a great IMPACT!

inspiration. news. networking.


Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine

VISIT US ONLINE!! www.gwbnmagazine.wixsite.com/gwbnmagazine www.facebook.com/GrowthWomensBusinessNetworksMagazine/

Inspiration. News. Networking.


about us

Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine is an inspirational Christian magazine that was created to support women authors, business owners/entrepreneurs, ministry leaders, and nonprofit organizations by networking together to assist them in reaching their goals of growth within their industry.

Mission

Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine mission is to empower and support women towards their growth within various industries. We believe in supporting one another and networking to assist you in reaching your overall mission of building a larger customer or client base. As an inspirational Christian magazine, it is important we encourage, inspire, and uplift one another with the love of Christ while working daily for the Kingdom of God.

Purpose Our primary purpose is to be supportive of women in our local communities, in different states across the United States, and even countries internationally. Growth Women’s Business Networks is here to support women authors, business owners/entrepreneurs, ministry leaders, and CEOs of nonprofit organizations by taking them to a higher level of growth in various industries towards a successful future.

Vision Our vision is reach people by sharing the gifts and talents from women in various industries who want to market their products and services. The online digital magazine will eventually be available in print copies sold in stores in the United States and worldwide. 3 3


contents

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Cover Feature

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Women in Ministry

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Women Fashion

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Author’s Corner

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Health & Wellness

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Entrepreneur Spotlight

19

Financial Literacy

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Founder

Welcome,

Jennifer Diaby, MBA GWBNM, Founder

First of all, I would like to thank God for giving me the vision to create and become the Founder/CEO of Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine. Thank you to all the readers who support the magazine’s mission, purpose, and vision. I look forward to bringing you (the reader) spotlight features in my magazine that will encourage, inspire, and uplift you. Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine is an inspirational Christian magazine that was created to support women authors, business owners/ entrepreneurs, ministry leaders, and nonprofit organizations by networking together to assist them in reaching their goals of growth within their industry.

We also offer an opportunity for men to be featured in our Gentlemen’s Den Spotlight. Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine provide bronze, silver, gold sponsorship packages where you can be featured in several magazine issues. To get more details on how you can be a contributor and support the magazine email us at gwbnmagazine@gmail.com. Mission: Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine mission is to empower and support women towards their growth within various industries. We believe in supporting one another and networking to assist you in reaching your overall mission of building a larger customer or client base. As an inspirational Christian magazine, it is important we encourage, inspire, and uplift one another with the love of Christ while working daily for the Kingdom of God. Purpose: Our primary purpose is to be supportive of women in our local communities, in different states across the United States, and even countries Internationally. Growth Women’s Business Networks is here to support women authors, business owners/entrepreneurs, ministry leaders, and CEOs of nonprofit organizations by taking them to a higher level of growth in their various industries towards a successful future. Vision: Our vision is reach people by sharing the gifts and talents from women in various industries who want to market their products and services. The online digital magazine will eventually be available in print copies sold in stores in the United States and worldwide. God Bless You Jennifer Diaby Founder/CEO of Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine

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Publisher

Greetings Ladies, The end of this year is approaching. This is a time to reflect on things you have learned this year to make 2020 a success. As a woman in business you have experienced the good and the bad. Take a mental break, reflect back and take notes on the teaching moments and what to change. Talk to God and ask for guidance. Make new connections. Get rid of all things that are negative and continue to grow.

Let’s continue to use this magazine to connect and grow in all aspects of our lives. Be Blessed!

Excel Publishings Services Graphic Design & Print

Danyelle D. Timmons A.D. BA

Business Printing Programs Marketing Materials Wedding Items Digital Media Social Media Setup

Training Materials Booklets Promotional Items Vendor Products Event Items Logos

Owner/CEO Excel Publishings, LLC Boss Lady SC Inc.

Contact Information: Phone: (803) 546-6848

Email: excelpublishings@gmail.com Web: www.excelpublishings.com


Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine

FOUNDER/CEO Jennifer Diaby

EDITOR/ CONTRIBUTING WRITER Angela McClain

CONTRIBUTING WRITER Bernadette Graham

CONTRIBUTING WRITER Kadenia Javis PUBLISHER Danyelle Timmons 7 7


Owner, CEO Meaningful Escapes Boutique Travel Agency Please introduce and tell the readers about yourself. Hello, I am Teresa Tidwell-Smith, I claim two places of origin…Washington DC, where I was born and spent many summers and Columbia SC where I was reared and attended District One Schools: graduating from Columbia High School and attended Midlands Technical College. I have two young adult daughters whom I am loving to watch grow into beautiful young ladies. My career in the travel industry really started as a child reading books that took me outside of my environment. I loved reading in the Book Mobile and visiting the library with friends. I was intrigued by the places, cultures, and events in other cities through the books I read in early years of childhood. When I was 14 years old, I took my first flight on Piedmont Airlines. I was intrigued by the Flight Attendants and how they made my mother and I feel comfortable and welcomed. It was my mother’s first flight as well. She won the trip as a contestant on the Price is Right when they visited Columbia. At the time, I never dreamed I would become a Flight Attendant. A mere 10 years later I was a Flight Attendant with Piedmont Airlines. I went on the retire with US Airways after 21 1/2 years of flying the friendly skies. I am grateful and blessed to have had the opportunity to do something I loved an open so many other avenues for me. During my career at US Airways, I served on several committees dedicated to implementing new procedures and services that had a direct impact on our passenger’s experience while flying with us. I also received several Above and Beyond Excellence Awards during my tenure. I was selected to train with British Airways to implement their First Class/Main Cabin Service procedures to US Airways London route in 1994. What is the name of your business and how did you get started? I am the owner of Meaningful Escapes Boutique Travel Agency, where I get to hone my passion for travel and share it with my clients by creating extraordinary Escapes. Getting started in this side of the travel business took years of finding the right fit for me. The travel industry is vast with many different components, cruising, flights, hotels, events, places, etc. Of course, when your first start you think you can do it all. But the best way is to narrow your focus and decide on a niche market. My agency has evolved and shifted as I have in my life. I plan escapes that are meaningful, transformative, and peaceful, incorporating wellness, mindfulness, and spirituality. Creating these type of experiences takes more research to produce the right destination, resort, and excursions to fit my client’s needs. Which means I must be knowledgeable of all the areas mentioned and knowing my clients. I meet with each client or chat with them over the phone as we go through a survey so I learn about them and they can learn about me and how my process works. I gather pertinent information to properly plan for them. I know you offer travel services to couples, groups, and business retreats. Tell me what is most rewarding about your business? The most rewarding things about my business is when my clients return from their Escape and tell me they had an amazing experience. That sends me over the moon! Or, when I have a first time Solo Traveler share their experience of travel freedom, where their itinerary is solely designed for one. I also love hearing from my Retreat attendees expressing the love of the location, accommodations, and the peaceful and transformative experience that they remember for months after their travel. I also love hearing from my Retreat attendees expressing the love of the location, accommodations, and the peaceful and transformative experience that they remember for months after their travel.

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Your travel agency Meaningful Escapes work to accommodate each individual customer according to their personal needs. Why do you think that is so important? It’s important that I meet with my clients preferably face to face when possible. Otherwise we have a lengthy Discover Call. The call gives me an opportunity to learn their likes and dislikes and preferences. I take them through a survey to learn their Travel Persona/ Travel Style…we all have one! Getting this information allows me to create the perfect Escape achieving the type of experience they envisioned and joyful memories for a lifetime. You work to make your customers travel stress-free. How has that help to grow your business as a Travel Specialists? Making my clients travel stress-free is always the goal. It starts by crafting the itinerary and partnering with exclusive suppliers that share my values of excellent customer service and phenomenal customer experience as a standard. Meeting with supplier representatives and conducting research on travel companies has placed Meaningful Escapes Boutique Travel Agency as a premier agency within the travel industry. This has helped us grow with a global reach to better assist our clients. Where can the readers view and book your services at Meaningful Escapes? The readers can reach us by phone 803-603-5216, email meaningfulescapes@gmail.com, or website meaningfulescapes.com What advice would you give anyone who want to start their own travel agency? My advice for someone wanting the join this amazing career would be to first know what type of travel you enjoy. Develop your niche by the things you enjoy, cooking, gardening, etc. Consider where you are in your life, married, single, age, etc. All these things will help you narrow your focus and develop an agency you will enjoy. Consider the type of agency you want. Do you want a multilevel marketing agency, an independent agency, or work for someone already in the business? Do your research before committing to any agency or entity is best.

Tell us some of your greatest accomplishments? Number one is raising two beautiful, intelligent daughters who I hope one day each will have a major role in my business/businesses. Another accomplishment was to retire at the age of 45 years old from a career I loved and one that has given me so much. One of my greatest most recent accomplishment is that I hiked the Inca Trail in Peru last year with an amazing group of people. The hike was for 4 days ending at Machu Picchu. It was a spiritual journey that tested all my mental faculties. I am still getting aha moments from the journey. I encourage everyone to at least once in a lifetime take a trip that resets the tone in your life. Do something spectacular that will bring an ultimate peace, joy, and gratefulness to your life.

Please share any upcoming conferences or events in 2020 with our readers? What is next for Meaningful Escapes Boutique Travel Agency, We are planning for an Amazing 2020! ●January 10, 2020 we will host our first Caribbean Night ●Italian Culinary Escape with Chef J and Nate Etheredge scheduled for June 15-23, 2020. We still have slots available ●The Gift…Living Loved Retreat is scheduled for November 4-11, 2020 ●I am the Travel Director for In Pursuit of Me founded by Stephanie M Kirkland. ●I plan retreats for IPOM 2 to 3 times per year.

www.meaningfulescapes.com meaningescapes@gmail.com Tel: 803-603-5216

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Pastor Chloe Natacha

Please tell us about Chloe Natacha Ministries and where is it located? Chloe Natacha Ministries was established on July 27, 2019. It is located in New York State. How many years have you been in ministry? I have been preaching the Gospel for over three years, but did not know I was chosen by the Lord to serve as a Pastor. Many had mentioned that I was anointed, but I wasn’t sure until July of 2019. What types of services do you offer through Chloe Natacha Ministries? Chloe Natacha Ministries is strong in faith. We believe in serving the Lord and helping to bring his children to salvation. John 15:5 5“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” We motivate, encourage, inspire men, women, and the youth through prayer, counseling, and help others improve their lives through Jesus Christ with principles of the Bible. The past 3.5 years we created a prayer group on Facebook live. The prayer group will launch on Instagram and YouTube live starting in January 2020. We present many opportunities for the community along with events at the women domestic violence shelter for the mothers and children. We have back to school supplies events, Christmas toy drives, and Thanksgiving dinner at the domestic violence shelter. In 2020, we are preparing our homeless program which is called Dinner on Sunday’s for the Less Fortunate and present events at nursing homes for the elderly. If our readers would like to support you on social media, where can they follow you? Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube Chloe Natacha How important is a positive leadership role in ministry? A leadership role in ministry is very important. We have to lead, inspire, motivate, encourage, and most importantly we have to let others know the Gospel of the Lord. We must continue to provide that support to our brothers and sisters in Christ. Even when we are not motivated, we must be positive to teach, support, and uplift others. What is your greatest accomplishment in ministry? My greatest accomplishment in ministry is serving God. God is the priority without him we are nothing. I am blessed to receive assignments from God to lead in Transformation conference, which will be traveling the world. Our first travel will be in September of 2020, we will be taking the conference to Ghana. We will have three conferences, missionaries, and feed over 400 children at a school. I know you are the President of the ANS Association. Every year ANS Association & Chloe Natacha Ministries host the I Am Victorious Conference. Please tell us about this conference. ANS Association & Chloe Natacha Ministries have joined together as one in July 2019. ANS Association was established in May of 2015. To date, we have over 7,000 member worldwide. Our mission is to empower, educate, motivate, with the process of transformation. There are many conferences throughout the year. “I Am Victorious” is a conference that celebrates VICTORY from God. Surviving and maintaining another year of greatness through Jesus Christ. Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.” We continue to strive with the victory. We use to change the names of the conferences annually, but God said this should be the name. In May 11, 2020 we will be celebrating our Fifth year anniversary. In January our conferences are called ‘I Rise” to encourage others to share their testimony through Jesus Christ. We also have a conference called Transformation in April and October. The first event was on October 25, 2019. This conference was a gift from God created to travel the world. This year you recently became an Author of your first book, “My Journey is Very Bright Through Jesus Christ.” Please tell the readers about your book and where they can purchase it? My Journey is Very Bright Through Jesus Christ is a book that provides complete transformation through Jesus Christ. It is a life changer, motivator, and faith based book. This book speaks about my life, how I struggled with depression, and anxiety. Through Jesus Christ, I was able to see that shining bright light that I could not see because of my circle and not believing in who God created me to be because I didn’t have the vision at that particular time. Although I was achieving great things, I didn’t see myself as that victorious woman. Please share any of upcoming books, conferences, or events in 2020? “ I Rise” Conference Jan. 25, 2020 in Memory of my mom Nicole Aurelien

“Transformation” Conference April 2020

“ I Am Victorious” Conference July 2020

Books 2020 “Transformation”

Give us some words to educate, inspire, and encourage women and all of our readers of Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine. Women in Business, you are powerful through Jesus Christ. Continue to put God first in your business, set goals, build your brand, build relationships, register for workshops & conferences, stay encouraged, and be positive always. When you reach success, don’t stop, keep searching for more. 1 Corinthians 15:57 – “But thanks [be] to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”


Angela D. Wharton Please introduce and tell us a little about yourself. I am Angela Denise Wharton, best-selling author, award winning speaker, Founder/ Executive Director of Phynyx Ministries Inc. and Survivor of sexual violence. I am a mother of 2 amazing daughters and a wife to my incredible husband for over 14 years. I love spending time with my family making memories that we will forever cherish. I grew up in East Baltimore with my mother and younger brother. My Mom was a single mother and did her very best to provide for my brother and me. I experienced so many adversities growing up, including sexual assault at 14 and rape at 24. These devastating experiences along with God and my willingness to do the work to heal, helped to shape me into the woman I am today; a warrior woman, a women’s advocate, policy maker, law changer and a voice to those who are still existing in silence from the invisible scars of sexual violence. You are Founder & Executive Director of Phynyx Ministries. Tell the readers about your ministry. Phynyx Ministries provides a pathway to healing for women sexual assault survivors through love, support, advocacy, education and empowerment. We empower survivors to break their silence and begin their healing journey so that they may transition, from pain to power to purpose. We began in 2012 at the Empowerment Temple A.M.E. Church in Baltimore, Maryland with our S.A.H.M. (Sexual Assault Healing Ministry) Program. The S.A.H.M program is a 12/14 week program that consists of a combination of in-person meetings and prayer calls geared toward empowering the survivor to heal and strengthening her relationship with God who is the ultimate Healer. What inspired you to start your Phynyx Ministries? Phynyx Ministries was birthed out of the pain of surviving sexual assault at the age of 14 by my mom’s boyfriend (at that time) who was attempting to groom me for what we now refer to as Sex Trafficking along with surviving rape at the age of 24 by a masked gunman in the woods behind the apartment I lived in at that time. During my recovery process after the rape, God gave me the entire vision for Phynyx Ministries one evening during prayer. After 15 years of running from the call on my life to start the ministry, I gave God my yes and we have been changing the lives of women sexual assault survivors since 2012. Phynyx Ministries provides a pathway to healing for women sexual assault survivors through love, support, advocacy, education and empowerment. We empower survivors to break their silence and begin their healing journey so that they may transition, from pain to power to purpose. If someone is interested in supporting your ministry, where can they find out more information? The Phynyx Ministries website is under construction; however folks can visit us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram under The Phynyx Ministries. They can also email us directly at phynyxministries@gmail.com. Another option is to visit the angeladwharton.com website as well. You are the Author of “Life After The Silence: From Pain to Power to Purpose.” Please tell us about your book and the reason you wrote it. Life After The Silence: From Pain to Power to purpose because survivors need to know that they are not alone and that God can move them from a place of darkness and depression into a place of light and loved. I believe survivors must understand that there is value in their voices and their stories. Speaking their truths not only allows them to break free from existing in silence, but it also allows them to take back their power from those who have hurt them. Reading this book will empower survivors to conquer their fears, take hold of the hope and healing that is available and turn their pain into purpose. I also created the Life After Journal: Transformational Healing for Survivors of Sexual Abuse to accompany the book. Quite a few readers of the book expressed to me that while reading the book, thoughts and feelings from their past arose which prompted me to create the journal as a safe space to write out those thoughts and feelings. Where can your book be purchased? Life After The Silence: From Pain to Power to Purpose and The Life After Journal can be purchased on amazon.com, goodreads.com, walmart.com and angeladwharton.com. I read that you was recently was nominated for IALA 2019 Indie Author Legacy Awards as a 2019 Maya Angelou Lifetime Achievement Award Honoree. What was that experience like to be honored with such a prestigious award? I was completely blown away when I read the nomination letter. I actually read it 3 times to be sure I was actually reading the words correctly, that I am the 2019 Indie Author Legacy Awards Maya Angelou Lifetime Achievement Award Honoree! Then I thought, me??? I don’t do the work that I do for accolades, it’s so that lives may be changed and God gets the glory. However, it does feel good to be recognized and celebrated. There are Survivors lives that I’ve touched through Phynyx, social media, email, my books, my podcast (the Angela D. Wharton Show) and even with a word of encouragement that I may never know; but at least they were touched and a seed was planted to grow them on the path of healing. So yes, it was truly a remarkable honor to receive such a prestigious award in the name of our Icon Dr. Maya Angelou and my prayer is that I consistently live up to this honor. Angela, 2019 has been a year of great achievements. You was also one of The Daily Record Maryland’s Top 100 Women tell us about this particular achievement in your State. Yes, 2019 has been a year of great achievements for me both personally and professionally and I am truly grateful. The Daily Record Maryland’s Top 100 Women recognizes high-achieving Maryland women who are making an impact through their leadership, community service and mentoring in the state of Maryland. Winners are selected by past Top 100 Women and business leaders. I was completely blown away that I was even nominated, but to actually win and be named among so many incredible women in business was an enormous blessing. The committee sifted through over 500 nominations and 100 of the best rose to the top. And your girl Angela D. Wharton was one of them for service through Phynyx Ministries, Inc. In March I also shared my testimony in Annapolis to support House Bill 1096, the mandatory rape kit testing bill. It passed and Gov. Hogan signed it into law in April 2019. This makes the second bill that I supported with my personal testimony. In 2018 the Repeat Sexual Predator Prevention Act was passed after 5 years of testifying in Annapolis, Maryland before the House Judiciary Committee then signed into law by Gov. Hogan in April of 218. This means so much to me as a Survivor of rape and I give God the glory for allowing my story to create such a powerful sound in the earth. Please share with our readers your upcoming speaking engagements, conferences, or events. Sure, The Phynyx Ministries Bags of Blessings Holiday Donation Drive will take place Dec. 1st through Dec. 21st where we will collect coats, hats, gloves, scarves, warm socks, toiletries, cleaning supplies and non-perishable food items. All donations will benefit a local housing facility that supports young adults ages 18-25 who were street homeless, in shelters or have aged out of Foster Care. Also, I will be a panelist on March 7, 2020 at a violence against women awareness and prevention event and will be sharing my story at the HerStory Symposium May 22-23. More information on these and other events is forthcoming, so please visit us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for details as they become available. Give us some words to educate, inspire, and encourage all of our readers of Growth Women's Business Networks Magazine. Philippians 4:13 says that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Meaning without God you can do nothing, but with God all things are possible. Sometimes we let fear and procrastination take away our goals and dreams, but listen, fear always finds a way to show up. You just have to dive into the task afraid—that’s courage. Procrastination shows up when we the task that lies ahead will have a tremendous impact on all it whom it touches. The negative self-talk begins and we talk ourselves out of doing what God has purposed for us to do. I encourage you to silence the chatter and do it afraid, God needs you and so do we!!!


Women In

RADIO/TELEVISION

Please introduce and tell us a little about yourself? My name is Meek Brown, I am from South Carolina. I have an undergraduate degree in Sports Medicine, a Masters Degree in Health Care Administration and I’m completing a PhD program in Public Policy. After my first degree I worked as an Athletic Trainer for the USC Sports Medicine Department. I traveled the world for a few years while working for Delta Airlines as a Flight Attendant. When I worked for Delta Airlines, it allowed me to meet some wonderful people of whom I am friends with now. I decided I wanted to be a full-time mother to my son, so I ended my career with Delta Airlines. After three years of my son’s arrival into the world, I couldn’t live without seeing him every three days due to my work schedule. My son name is Hevin and he has truly been a blessing in my life. Without the help of my mother and of course my village I’m not sure where I would be today. You are the host of The Meek Brown Show. What is the reason you started your show? I wanted to create a platform to showcase people by allowing them an opportunity to share their gifts and talents, while encouraging others by building up our communities in a positive way. The Meek Brown Show mission is to entertain as well as inform. The Meek Brown Show strives to bring awareness and educate your viewers on many different topics to make a positive impact. Please tell us why this is so important. This is important to me because talk shows are an excellent platform for discussing topics that viewers might not otherwise be exposed too, which often serve to educate people about many new or unfamiliar things. By no means am I considered popular, but the popularity of talk shows as well as the host allows various topics to be delivered in millions of households. It has the ability to galvanize people towards positive feedback; that is the ultimate goal of The Meek Brown Show. Sometimes, events that take place on talk shows reverberate towards not only my culture but other cultures as well. Above all, The Meek Brown Show has possessed the ability to amuse and entertain viewers in a wide variety of ways. What social media platforms can your show be viewed? You can watch “The Meek Brown Show” on Facebook, Facebook Watch, IG, YouTube, and SC Education Channel. Tell the readers about your company Lavish Consulting, LLC. How does it assist clients with Etiquette Protocol and Personal Development? Lavish Consulting teaches etiquette, protocol & personal development to youth as well as young adults (business etiquette). I appear monthly on the "Your Carolina Morning Show"in which a new topic is discussed each month. Topics may include but not limited to: bullying, dinning, public speaking, proper dress attire, proper handshake, etc. We teach in the schools, civic organizations, one-on-one sessions, etc. We also teach in a form of public speaking by speaking locally as well as internationally. I have read where you teach the Essentials of Etiquette for Success in Life and Business. Why do think this topic is of great importance in our communities and overall society? We are lacking many skills in our communities such as soft skills, which are an essential part of finding, attracting, and retaining clients/relationships. Highlydeveloped presentation skills, networking abilities, etiquette awareness can help you retain and maintain relationships whether business or personal. The problem is the importance of these soft skills are often undervalued and there is far less training provided for them than hard skills. Which is why many of our kids are having problems with simple communication. Soft skills are personal attributes that influence how well you can work or interact with others. These skills make it easier to form relationships with people, create trust, dependability, and lead teams. We need more young leaders that understand how to adapt to change in a positive way. What advice would you give to someone who wants to learn how to become successful in balancing their personal life and business? Balance is the key to success in many scenarios. Prioritize your time. You might have to create a to-do list with 50 tasks, in order to prioritize those tasks into the following categories: -urgent and important -important but not urgent -urgent but not important -neither urgent nor important Set aside time for your personal life. Overworking yourself can cause burnout and will make you less productive with less impact in all areas of your life, not just in your business. Learning to balance and manage your time will be essential for the future growth of your business and your family. “If you don’t make time for self how will you ever enjoy self.” Where can our readers find out more about your services at Lavishing Consulting, LLC? Lavish Consulting Social Media Outlets. Lavish Consulting, LLC has a website, but it is under construction at the moment. We are making it a more friendly website. Please share with our readers your upcoming conferences, events, and speaking engagements in 2020? We are completing our 2020 calendar and it will be released the first week in January to include my upcoming book signing. I am an author who write children’s workbook grades K-2 through K-5. Give us some words to educate, inspire, and encourage all of our readers of Growth Women's Business Networks Magazine. It is to inspire women who have a desire or urge to do something worthwhile, which creates a better world. It's a woman who appreciates life with everything it has got to offer. My mother is an inspirational woman and I am trying to be the same to my son.

“When you educate a woman; you educate a generation, you educate a lifestyle” -Meek Brown

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Women Fashion 2019 Winter Fashion Trends

Turtleneck Shirts and Dresses

Pants with Cuffs

Buckle Bags

Coats with Patch Pockets

Volumetric Down Jackets

Square Sunglasses

Lace

Chunky Chain Necklaces

Floor Length Coat

Trendsetter.net | harpersbazaar.com

Colored Pantyhose

Snakeskin Footware

Tulle Skirts 13


Lisa Bradley was born and raised in Bishopville, South Carolina. She and her husband, Mathis Bradley, have been married for over 25 years and together they have one daughter, Alisha Bradley. She graduated from Sumter Area Technical College with an Associate’s degree in Computer Technology, Morris College with a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management and Webster University with a Master’s degree in Educational Technology. Lisa had her first book published, Expressions of the Heart: Inspirational Poetry, in April of 2016. She used her poetry as a way to express her heart and have conversations with God when she couldn’t verbalize her feelings and emotions any other way. She started writing for everyone else but in the end, the purpose of the writing changed from other people to her. In February, 2018, Expressions of the Heart Word Search Book was published and it stems from poems from Lisa’s first book with reference scriptures for each poem. In the summer of 2018, her first children’s book, God’s World, was published. God’s World is a beautifully illustrated book of short poems for kids that show how God loved us so much that He created this amazing world for us to live in. And with that children’s book, she also has God’s World Activity book which is a book filled with fun games, puzzles and activities for the kids to enjoy. In September, 2018, her first poetry CD was released. It is a compilation of poems from her book set to original music read by her. Lisa thanks God for the opportunity to share what He gifted her with and believes that even if just one person is encouraged, inspired or uplifted by any of her words then she would have done what she was suppose to do. Her favorite scripture Proverbs 3:5, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” is a true testament to her faith and believes that no matter what you are dealing with and no matter how it looks, God is truly in control and He has it all worked out. All you have to do is just trust Him. Please introduce and tell us a little about yourself. I am from Bishopville, South Carolina. My husband Mathis Bradley and I have been married for 26 years. We have one daughter Alisha Bradley. I work full-time at a local area hospital as a data analyst and I have a Masters in Educational Technology from Webster University. What inspired you to become an Author? What inspired me to become an author was the desire to encourage others. Life gets hard and I wanted people to know that no matter what happens God can work it out, because He is still in control. What topics you enjoy writing about in your books? I love writing poetry. Words that inspire and uplift with God at the center of every verse gives me life. Tell us about your book “Expressions of the Heart” and what inspired you to write it? Expressions of the Heart is a book of inspirational poetry that came about as a result of the depression diagnosis of my daughter who at the time was 13 years old. Writing became my voice. When I felt like I couldn’t find the words to pray or sing or even talk, I expressed myself with poetry. That’s how I communicated with God. It was my outlet. You also wrote a children’s book called God’s World, please tell the readers about this book? God’s World is a beautifully illustrated kid’s poetry book that shows how God created this world for us to live in and how He gifted us with the things we tend to take for granted like the flowers that blossom or the rainbows in the sky. Things that show just how much He loves us. Where can your books be purchased? All of my books can be purchased on Amazon. If you go to my website www.lisa-bradley.com and click on the book links, they will take you directly to Amazon. Do you have any new books to be released soon? I am working on a couple of things so you have to stay tuned. No release dates yet but there will be more inspirational poetry in the near future.

WEBSITE: www.lisa-bradley.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/lisa.bradley.3304 FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/authorlisabradley/ INTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/lisam.bradley/

What advice would you give our new upcoming authors? Stay the course. Don’t give up. No matter how long it takes. If God gave you the vision, He will make the provision. Share with our readers any upcoming events you have scheduled in the upcoming year 2020? I do not currently have any upcoming events but when I do, they are posted on my website. Give us some words to educate, inspire, encourage women and all of our readers of Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine. You are not alone. God does not set you up to fail. Even when it seems like you are by yourself, He is there. Trust Him in all that you do and I promise you, He will bring you out on top. Love……….Faith……….Comfort……….Peace..........Expressions of the Heart has all of these things and so much more. This book of inspirational poetry is centered on strong faith, unconditional love and unexplainable peace. With poetic words for any of life’s situations, it inspires, uplifts and encourages the heart and soul as she expresses her emotions while dealing with her family’s challenges with depression. But most of all, God is at the center of every verse on every page of this personal poetic journey.


30 Days of Prayer and Devotion

Believers Growing in Christ 30 Days of Prayer and Scripture Devotional Journal was created to help you grow in a closer relationship with God when applying your faith to receive answers to your prayers. It will assist in strengthening the Believer’s faith to continue to grow daily while overcoming everyday situations that cause emotional hurt and pain. This devotional journal teaches you that with consistent prayers and scriptures it will bring forth answers to your prayers, blessings, breakthroughs, and miracles in your life.

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Health & Wellness Spotlight

Kimberly Joy Morgan, Health & Wellness Coach “Do All Things with Joy” Please introduce and tell us a little about yourself? I love being Yahweh’s Daughter for 43 years. Marcus Morgan’s wife for the past 19 and Mom to Jai 13 years and Israel 11 years. These are my 3 greatest titles. I’m a lover of the ocean and beach life (just moved to Florida and I LOVE it). I love to read, paddle board, and dance. I’m some one who enjoys small intimate groups opposed to large party settings. I love helping women reach their full potential and excel in life with energy and zeal. You can also use anything on my about page on my website: https://doallthingswithjoy.com/about/

You are the Founder of “Do All Things With Joy.” What inspired you to start your Health & Wellness business? In 2007, I got C-Diff from an antibiotic I took for what they thought was a sinus infection (ended up being an infected/failed root canal). My digestive system was destroyed and I had limited resources to help me through rebuilding my gut flora and getting back to health. I started studying on my own and worked with a wholistic doctor out of Atlanta. I so realized I wanted to help other people heal and find answers without all the frustration I experienced, so I went back to school and got my degree as a wellness coach and life coach. I’m so thankful for my illness now. I’m healthier because of it and so are my family, friends and clients.

Where can potential clients view your services and book you for an appointment? https://doallthingswithjoy.com/online-scheduling/ What advice would you give to someone who wants to change their eating habits and live a healthy lifestyle? Don’t try to change everything at once. Understand the power of changing one thing at a time and getting comfortable with that change and then moving on to the next. I wrote the book Share the Joy: 52 Weeks to Abundant Health to help people understand just how to change their health one week at a time by shifting one habit a week. I suggest people start with water and sleep first… Getting enough of these two things can change your health profoundly.

I know that you are a wife and mother, how do you balance your home and work life. My home is always first. I strive to be a GREAT wife and mom. I set time aside to just be with them. I give my all when they are off to work and school. When my family arrive home, I try to stop and focus on being present for them… I think Time Blocking is key and using a old fashioned scheduler to block out my life and what I need to do to get it all down in key. I also truly live by what I value. I know I can’t replace time so I spend it with the ones I love over “working” all the time. This wasn’t always the case but God has opened my eyes to what’s most important.

What has been your greatest accomplishment as a Health & Wellness Coach? The greatest accomplishment is having clients tell me they are alive because they read my book, watch one of my videos or have worked with me one-on-one. I feel so honored to help people find vitality along with good health each and everyday. If I can give one kid more years with their parents or a wife more time with her husband by educating them and showing them God’s way to health and wellness I’m over the moon happy! Please tell the readers about your book, “Share the Joy: 52 Weeks to Abundant Health? ’It’s a comprehensive owner’s manual for taking care of your temple and packaged up like a colorful conversation with a friend. Thank goodness that friend has diligently done all the heavy duty research and is giving you her bite-sized notes! Where can your book be purchased? Amazon Prime: www.amazon.com/shop/doallthingswithjoy You offer several health/nutrition programs, but one stood out to me was the Physique Mystique. Explain to the readers why this is such a great program. We will discuss how to determine the right type of exercise for your body, as well as what will maximize your results for your physical needs and desires. Remember, everyone is biochemically different. We will design programs for your 30 day journey that you can do at home, traveling or in the gym to see results. We will demo some common exercises that are executed incorrectly to help you with proper form. We will also direct you to proven types of exercise formats and programs that will help you achieve your optimal results. When it’s all said and done, we will have partnered to implement a 30 day individual exercise plan that you can follow to maximize your stellar dietary efforts. We want synergistic efforts! Do you have any upcoming conferences, events, or workshops coming up in 2020? I’m hosting my annual conference/retreat “Fiercely Feminine: Increase Your Vibe to Attract Your Tribe.” 2020 June 5-7 in West Palm Beach Florida. You must register for this life changing weekend. I’m calling this the “Unconference conference.” You will leave feeling productive, inspired and refreshed. I’m also speaking a Dr. Cindy Trimm’s Conference in September of 2020. I’m really looking forward to this event as well. Give us some words to educate, inspire, encourage women and all of our readers of Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine. I know we all want to be a smashing success in life. We all want to go out there and kill it in business. We want to use our gifts and talents to help people in our respective fields of business. As women, sometimes we will burn the candle on both ends and we expect the “fire” to last forever. Think about It. If we have both ends on fire at the same time Facebook: www.facebook.com/doallthingswithjoy someone is going to get Twitter: www.twitter.com/DoATWJ burned (family on one side/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/doallthingswithjoy career on the other) and we Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/doallthingswithjoy are going to run out of wick Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doallthingswithjoy/

(us) sooner. If we just burn on one side we can ask family to hold us up when we need to be on fire for our career and we can ask career to hold us up when we are on fire for family. And that person or group can transfer our fire to another wick (person) for a while to light the way when we need a break. Our wick (life/health) is but so long and we must protect it. Ladies, don’t spread yourselves too thin. Protect your health and if you need help learning how to manage your career, health, and personal life I’m here for you as a coach. Helping women maximize their lives is totally my passion. My business name is Do All Things With Joy: Where Health and Wellness Meet Passion and Purpose. Let’s go be great together and live long productive lives.


Words of Inspiration Living in True Forgiveness From The Heart By Author Jennifer Diaby

One of the most difficult topics to address is forgiveness, because we all have encountered situations where people might have done us wrong. Often, it is hard to forgive those individuals for the emotional pain and hurt we experienced as a result of their words or actions. When building a closer relationship with God we learn and understand the importance of true forgiveness from the heart. Think about it this way as human beings who commit sins God forgives us all the time, so it is imperative that we learn to forgive others. The Bible states, “For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Matthew 6:14-15 NKJV Learning to live according to God’s word in the Bible is key to start the process of forgiveness from the heart. Forgiving others is essential to moving forward in life and starting the process of healing emotionally from past or present circumstances. It is known that when you hold unforgiveness against another person you will stagnant your own blessings. Sometimes prayers will go unanswered because of having anger, bitterness, resentment and unforgiveness in your heart. Releasing those thoughts and feelings from your mind will help you to start to walk in your journey of true forgiveness. Living in true forgiveness is where you can see those who have inflicted hurt and pain on you and not have any feelings of anger towards them. It does not bother you to come in contact with these individuals or even to speak to them. God wants us to love our enemies even when they have done us wrong because He loves us even when we have fallen short because of sin in our lives. “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8 NKJV We must have love in our hearts, in order to demonstrate true forgiveness from the heart. When love lives in the heart, forgiveness can take place where a person can be released from their emotional hurt/pain from the past. Life will be more peaceful because you have decided to walk in the love of Christ showing love while living in true forgiveness from the heart.

Positive Affirmations -I am releasing all negative people and things that may try to hinder God’s plans and purpose for my life. -I am forgiving all family members, friends, colleagues, co-workers, people in the church who have caused me emotional hurt and pain. -I am walking in forgiveness from my heart. -I choose to forgive others who have hurt me emotionally, so I will not hold back my own blessings from coming forth in my life. -Thank you God for forgiving me as I will always choose to extend forgiveness to others.


ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT CEO/OWNER SOPHISCURLZ BEAUTY BAR I’ve always had a natural love for the beauty industry, since a little girl, who would get in trouble from “trimming her hair” in kindergarten. My mother always said, “my child will have something to do with hair as hard as I worked to grow it, she’ll go and cut it off” LOL.

I began my cosmetology career, professionally, 11 years ago. Although, during that time, I didn’t quite know what I wanted to do in the field. I just knew that I had a strong desire to do hair, and I was in survivor mode, because at the time, the agency I worked for, was threatening to lay both my husband and I off, and we had mouths to feed. By the time I stepped foot into Wella Professionals Cosmetology school, and saw all of the amazing talent there, I knew I made the right choice. However, I had to think “what would set me apart from the rest”, as a newbie in the industry? There is so much great talent out there. Those who are great at color, cuts, commercial hair, braiding, etc. I never thought, 16 months later of night school, would land me into becoming a sole business owner 1 year later. I chose natural hair because I went natural, at the time, I was searching for ways to care for my natural hair. I figured I’d be my own trial and error. I realized too that there weren’t many salons who specialized in natural hair in Columbia, SC. So after graduating cosmetology school, I said, Natural is what I will specialize in! Many laughed at the idea because I couldn’t understand “why natural hair”? But I paid attention and saw many who were transitioning to natural for many reasons. Whether it was for health, allergies, or just wanted a break from the chemical processing. Needless to say I was successful enough to where I was able to graduate straight out of hair school and immediately begin booth renting for about a year. Shortly thereafter, I was blessed to have become the owner and CEO, of what was birthed as my nickname “Nappyologist”, Nappyology 101 Hair Studio. I was grateful to have worked with quite a number of highly talented stylists that worked inside of my salon, and at least 4 of them are now successful business owners today! In 2017, I renamed my business SophistaCurlz Beauty Bar. I felt like it was time to broaden my horizon with the world of curls! I now have my own product line and will soon launch my daughter’s line as well. I enjoy being able to work with people and building long lasting relationships, confidence, and educating my clients and aspiring natural hair stylists on how to care for their natural hair. Being an entrepreneur as a beauty professional can be challenging, competitive, and rewarding. My greatest joy is watching my clients walk out of my chair with an extra pep in their step. Hair is not the only thing I do, I do also have another full time career, but I have my most important career of my life that I’m preparing for, my fulltime ministry.

Website

www.sophistacurlzbeautybar.com

To Book A Hair Appointment www.solasalonstudios.com/salon-professional/ chasity-shipman1 www.styleseat.com/m/v/chasitythenappyologist

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Financial Literacy

Your Tax Obligation There's still time to reduce your potential tax obligation and save money this year (and next). Here are some ideas to consider: Estimate your 2019 and 2020 taxable income. With these estimates you can determine which year receives the greatest benefit from a reduction in income. By understanding what the tax rate will be for your next dollar earned, you can understand the tax benefit of reducing income this year AND next year. Fund tax-deferred retirement accounts. An easy way to reduce your taxable income is to fully fund retirement accounts that have tax-deferred status. The most common accounts are 401(k)s, 403(b)s and various IRAs (traditional, SEP and SIMPLE). Take your required minimum distributions (RMDs). If you are 70½ or older, you need to take required RMDs from your retirement accounts by Dec. 31. Don't forget to make all RMDs because the fines are hefty if you don't — 50 percent of the amount you should have withdrawn. Keep in mind, even if you don't have RMDs yet, removing a planned amount from your retirement accounts each year may be more tax efficient than waiting until you are required to do so. Manage your gains and losses. Rebalance your investment portfolio, and take any final investment gains and losses. When you have more losses than gains, up to $3,000 can be used to reduce your ordinary income. With careful planning, you can take advantage of this loss amount each year. Finalize your gift-giving strategy. Each year you may gift up to $15,000 without tax reporting consequences to as many individuals as you choose. Consider any gift-giving you wish to make up to the annual limit. This could include gifts of cash or property, and investments. Donate to charities. Consider making end-of-year donations to eligible charities. Donations of property in good or better condition and your charitable mileage are also deductible. Receiving proper documentation that acknowledges your contributions is important to ensure you obtain the full deduction. Have a plan by knowing your total deductions for the year to help you decide how much and when to donate. Pulling some donations planned for 2020 into 2019 may be a good strategy. Review your automated billing transactions. This is a good time to identify what automatic monthly expenses should be reviewed for reduction or elimination. You may also discover billing for services you thought were canceled. This specific review often catches errors that a simple account reconciliation may be missing. Organize records now. Start collecting and organizing your tax records to avoid the scramble come tax season.

Develop your own list. Use these ideas as a jumping off point to create your own list of annual review items. It might also include reviewing college savings accounts, beneficiaries, insurance needs, wills, and going through an aging parent's financial

accounts. Questions about the most effective money-saving moves for your situation? Call today.

Address: 7171 Two Notch Road Columbia, SC 29223

www.javistax.com | 1040@javstax.com Phone: (803) 419-1001



2019 American Business Woman of ABWA Please introduce and tell us a little about yourself? My career in education spans an eighteen-year period in which I have accomplished much as a classroom teacher, professional development trainer, data analysis and research field coordinator, speaker and certified National School Reform Faculty Critical Friends Group Coach. Under my leadership, Lupus Columbia South Carolina (LCSC), the nonprofit charity I co-founded to raise awareness of and advocacy for lupus patients like myself in South Carolina; caught the eye of The National Lupus Foundation of America, Inc. (LFA) and was once the only South Carolina lupus nonprofit associated with the national organization. I served as the Chief Volunteer Officer of the then newly transitioned LFA South Carolina Community Partner (LFASCCP). I played an integral part in bringing lupus to the forefront of awareness in South Carolina. Although LFASCCP is no longer established, Lupus Columbia SC, along with The Lupus Liar, offers support groups within the state of South Carolina. My grassroots volunteer work with

lupus in the community sparked a partnership with the Institute for Partnership to Eliminate Health Disparities (IPEHD) Arnold School of Public Health of the University of South Carolina to spread the word on the development of a South Carolina Lupus Registry. A nationally renowned speaker, author, and professional development trainer, I have presented at several conferences around the country. I have presented at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC as a keynote speaker for Lupus Patient Education Day, TEDxDenverED in Denver, CO and Lupus House Party at the M.U.S.C.L.E research group at MUSC just to name a few. I was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in early 1993. The beginning of my walk with lupus was painful and confusing. my senior year in high school, I was placed as a homebound student and had to complete my last year of high school from the confines of my bedroom. No discouraged, I completed

Statewide Volunteer Lupus Foundation of America Inc.

my senior year with honors. I graduated from the University of South Carolina-Aiken campus with a bachelor’s in Business Education and double minor in Business and Marketing. I then went on to complete her graduate studies at Walden University with a Master of Science in Educational Technology, followed by an Education Specialist degree from Nova Southeastern University in Computing Technology in Education. With God, I have accomplished all of this while continuing to battle the ever changing effects of lupus. You are an Educator in Aiken County Public School District, what inspired you to become a teacher? I started out as an Educator in Aiken County Public School District in 1998. Since then I’ve been able to take my experience as an educator into the corporate realm as a Senior Professional Learning Manager based in New York. And now I am back in the classroom as a Business Education Teacher in District Five of Lexington and Richland Counties of Chapin, South Carolina and loving it! I’ve always had a passion for serving and teaching others because I am inspired by those I teach. I learn so much from helping others. What has been the most rewarding about teaching school? Oh my! There are so many intrinsic treats I have been able to take advantage of by teaching school. My students are the most amazing individuals in this world. Where else would I get to have new experiences everyday than in a classroom. You never get bored with young people. I think what’s rewarding is the magnificence of their honesty. You are forced to look in a mirror each time a young person discovers something new in your lessons and in being with you as their teacher. You are a mentor and model of a human being when you teach young people. You created a charity organization called “The Lupus Liar.” Please tell us more about your organization. The charity division of The Lupus Liar is the volunteer part of the organization. The volunteer priorities are based with Lupus Columbia SC, a registered charity in South Carolina. In general all activities, volunteer based work, support calls, and support group meetings are done to serve those in need that are diagnosed with Lupus. We can never have enough support when it comes to helping those in need. Lupus is such a devastating and confusing illness that many people don’t understand how to aid others in managing the disease. Where can our readers learn more about your organization and support you in your efforts to educate people about Lupus? My flagship company, The Lupus Liar, allows me to educate, advocate and raise awareness about lupus as a highly sought after speaker, critically acclaimed author, presenter and trainer. I am devoted to helping others face life with an open mind, heart and spirit. Readers can learn more about current works within the lupus community at Facebook.com/TheLupusLiar. Access to videos, clips, pictures, and articles are also available on my other social media channels like Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter. If you prefer to listen, you can subscribe to my podcast at iTunes and Spotify. You can access all channels through my website www.TheLupusLiar.com. What was your inspiration to help Lupus survivors and why do you think it is important to bring awareness to this autoimmune disease? When I was first diagnosed with Lupus the diagnosing doctor told me that I only had less than a few years to live. Well, past ten years later, I continue my journey hoping to inspire those who know me. I am also inspired by my cousin, Nigel. He has been diagnosed with lupus for over 33 years now. As a male diagnosed with Lupus, he experiences a lot of his trials unbeknownst to many because men are still considered a rarity when it comes to this mysterious illness. You wrote a book called, “Diary of a Mad Lupus Patient” that was an Amazon Bestseller. Please tell us more about your book. I am blessed to have published several books and am currently working on the soon to be released "Keeping Up With Lupus: A Digital Guide." “Diary of a Mad Lupus Patient” is a book that chronicles the first few years of my life after diagnosis. It provides insight to the sporadic doctor appointments, mental and physical stress, and confusion that Lupus brings into your life. It started from me taking short notes about how I felt because, at the time, my diagnosing doctor didn’t feel that I was clear enough about my pain levels and struggle with my symptoms. I am excited about the work I am doing on this book with registered nurse Kimberly Hartmann. We are pending the finalization of completing a medical resource edition of the book. It’s very exciting! Do you have any upcoming conferences, events, or workshops coming up in 2020? Besides a few health fairs and community events, I do have a few upcoming conferences or speaking engagements coming up in 2020. I will be participating in the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) annual Lupus Education Day in May. I will be posting about them in my blog and on my social media channels. Another event that I am excited to be apart of is HealtheVoices in April of 2020. Our volunteer support group will also be holding a lupus education workshop in our local community. I will also be holding a workshop on how others can move into a paid advocacy role for their hard work and commitment to helping others be a patient voice for themselves or those they love. Give us some words to educate, inspire, encourage women and all of our readers of Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine. I keep God close to my heart, express my life's ups and downs, and take refuge in happiness and trials. I continue to see my physicians regularly. I believe that the gift of a healthy life is not often received. Yet, the art of loving the life that you have and the health that you can achieve, makes life all the more special.

Phone: 803.221.4219 | Email: hjohnson@lupuscsc.org

South Carolina Community Volunteer Facebook: www.Facebook.com/SCLupusEvents Website: www.LupusCSC.org Be Counted: https://goo.gl/KEEhyN


Transformation Coaching Service | Spiritual Life Coach | Entrepreneurship Coaching

Juanita Gibbs has been married to Luke Gibbs 17 years and they are committed to the fulfilling their purpose of working for the Kingdom of God together. Presently, Juanita and her husband currently reside in Greenville, North Carolina. Mrs. Gibbs is an author of two books, “Developing a Winners Attitude in 7 days” and “40 Day Detox of Negative Thinking” which are both available on Amazon. She is also a teacher and her passion is to write and teach people on the importance of “Inner Life!” Mrs Gibbs builds her teachings centered around spirit, soul, and body which is based on this scripture “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 5:23 Mrs. Gibbs states, “It’s not just about jumping and shouting, it’s about learning to live and walk in the Spirit.” It was through this revelation, she was inspired a few years ago to create a group called “Emotional Abandonment Recovery Group.” The thriving group is on Facebook, in which countless numbers of people are getting healed from childhood trauma. Mrs. Gibbs pastors a ministry called “Reformation Development Center” where she releases the prophetic sounds of Heaven. I don’t pretend to be perfect, but I am growing, developing, and learning myself, along with the Lord’s Church-Juanita Gibbs

www.juanitagibbs.com

www@juanitagibbs.com

www.facebook.com/juanita.gibbs.1 www.facebook.com/innerlife88


FASHION DESIGNER Please introduce and tell the readers a little about yourself. Hi! My name is Avarie Pressley. I am 28 years old and I am a fashion designer and a homemaker. You are a Fashion Designer of clothing, tell us what inspired you to start designing? From childhood into adulthood, I’ve always loved how it made me feel to see someone else in something that I envisioned. What is the name of your business and where is it located? My business’s name is 1209 by Avarie Pressley located in the northeast side of Columbia SC. I know you design absolutely beautiful dresses, especially prom dresses or outfits for special occasions. Where can your clothing be purchased? Custom clothing is designed and created upon request. If someone wants to get you to design a custom-made outfit, how do they book an appointment to get the process started? To get s tarted on a custom garment, the potential client can contact me via Facebook, Instagram, or by phone to set up a consultation appointment. What television shows have you previously been featured on discussing your fashion business 1209 by Avarie Pressley? Starting in 2017 and currently, I’ve held a fashion platform on WACH Fox as a costume designer. What advice would you give to new Fashion Designers who want to know how to be successful in the Fashion Industry? I encourage all fashion designers, new and seasoned to find your own creative lane and give it 1000% because there is no one that can do what you do. I will also, highly recommend getting a business mentor and business contracts for EVERYTHING. Do you have any television appearances or events you would like to tell our readers about in the upcoming year 2020? The readers can keep up with my upcoming appearances/events by following my Facebook and Instagram social media pages. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? In my spare time, I love to hang out with my family, travel, roller skate, and go to church. To conclude this interview give us words to inspire, educate, and encourage women of all ages? The most valuable words I can give to anyone would be to know who you are to be better than who you are! Since being born on December 9,1990 in Columbia SC, Avarie Pressley has always had on creative lens. She noticed her skill to sketch clothing in beautiful silhouettes and dazzling colors in the 6 th grade. That’s when she decided that she wanted to be a fashion designer. At the tender age of 12, her mother brought her first sewing machine and expressed to her that she had to “figure it out,” and that’s exactly what she did. With no sewing classes or mentors to guide her, she gained most of her knowledge through trial and error, eventually mastering her craft as a self-taught fashion designer. After getting married in 2010, Avarie took a break to settle into her role as a wife and mother of 4. In the year of 2015, she jumped back into her first passion and has been trailblazing ever since. She has been and still holds a fashion segment on WACH Fox News for the Soda City Comic Con Convention, she has been featured in the Hair Walk Fashion Show, she has been the head seamstress for Bell Biv DeVoe, Bobby Brown, and New Edition. As well as been in the company of Brandi Maxwell from basketball wives and created custom looks for Houston rapper Tobe Nwigwe. Avarie continues to strive for greatness all the while wearing many hats. She keeps God first, family next, and everything else in God’s hands! With her sewing machine in hand, there’s no stopping her!

FACEBOOK: Facebook.com/1209byAvariePressley

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Women In Business Must Know Their Value Business Women Walking In Purpose And Understanding Their Value

GWBNM BLOG

As women in business we must understand the importance of our value in various industries. It is not always an easy decision to walk in purpose when society tells us that we must work for others to earn income and make a decent living. In the past, women were taught to be homemakers or work on a job for years until retirement to help take care of their families. Today is a new day women are striving towards success while excelling in their businesses.

However, it takes knowing your value to continue to move forward when you have experienced lack of support from family and friends. When you understand the whole concept of building a legacy of your own, it will propel you to not give up on your purpose. If you have a career do not let it stop you from creating your business, even if you have to start out small before becoming a flourishing and successful CEO. I believe it is better to work towards some of your business goals, rather than complain that you never accomplish nothing at all. Create a business that will help you leave a legacy to your children and future generations. Author Jennifer Diaby Five questions you should know before starting your business. 1. Why are you creating your business? 2. What is the main purpose and mission of your business? 3. Who will be your target audience? 4. What are your financial goals and how to effectively earn income? 5. Will your business be online or storefront? Create Your Blueprint When a business woman understands her value, she also knows the value of creating a blueprint to make boss moves in her industry. Yes, challenges can come with any business but when you demonstrate confidence knowing your value, the ability to operate a business effectively becomes easier. Sometimes it takes having connections who are other successful women business coaches that will help you move in the right direction. Remember the circle of people you hang with means everything when it comes to success. If you want to become successful make sure to connect with other successful business people. Work on creating a network with your target audience and those who are supportive of your mission and purpose. This will enable you to increase in clients or customers to grow your business to the next level. How Understanding Your Value Helps You In Business To understand your value is to know your worth that leads to success in business. Yes, it is true that women in business can be on different levels financially, however if you continue to work diligently with determination to become successful you will eventually enjoy the good fruits from your efforts.

How To Maintain Success Within Your Industry When operating in your purpose comes longevity to maintain success within your industry. Through understanding your value, it keeps you motivated to brainstorm and be creative to do more things that will bring successful outcomes. This will keep you in an overflow mode to constantly experience big wins within your business industry. The first few years in business is used to build up the foundation. Small progress is still recognizable, in which eventually elevates you to a higher level of success. So, women in business know your value and walk in purpose. Written By Author Jennifer Diaby

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Heavenly Father, Thank you for this opportunity to support and network with both women and men in various industries across the world. May you bless our readers with the inspirational words in the magazine that will make a great positive impact on their lives. I pray that those who read Growth Women’s Business Networks Magazine will be encouraged, inspired, and uplifted through the spotlight features and contributing writers articles. Lord, through this magazine bless all our readers to feel empowered to keep moving forward and not to give up on their destiny and purpose. Surround us (staff members/readers) and our families with a shield of protection wherever we go in this life. In Jesus Name. Amen.


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