10 Year Anniversary w/Karen Civil by IMPACT Magazine

editorial/ living your vision

karen civil Page 6

Being Karen Civil

A decade; that is how long IMPACT Magazine has been in existence. It seems surreal to have been consistently bringing an idea of passion, perseverance, and purpose to life. No matter who supports it or not, it has been a consistent source to empower, encourage, and to educate our readers. We challenge you, the readers, to desire to achieve the life you desire. In order for you to achieve this desire, we highlight ordinary people living extraordinary lives. People, just like you, who utilize their gifts to bring about change in their lives and in the lives of others. This issue of IMPACT, we are celebrating our 10year anniversary with women who are influencing the world. Whether it be financial, legal, real estate, film, fashion, or beauty, we are highlighting the women who are making an IMPACT in their respective industries. Take for instance our cover feature Karen Civil, a young woman who’s from Elizabeth, NJ who began a fan website that ultimately got her an opportunity to meeting the Backstreet Boys and Brodie from The Wire. Learning how to engage her audience on social media, Karen built a media empire with a stellar clientele with names like Beats by Dre, Jeezy, Nipsey Hussle, and Mary J. Blige. No matter if its win, lose, or draw, women are at the forefront handling business. Forefront of our homes, our children’s lives, and businesses’, we are making it happen. Entrepreneur, New York Times Best-Selling author, actress, philanthropist, and television personality Antonia “Toya” Wright best-selling novel “Priceless Inspirations”, offered young women, the very pearls of wisdom that she collected as she

Who are the ‘Women of IMPACT?’

The Woman of IMPACT is defined

traveled a very difficult and tumultuous journey, but somehow found the strength to not only endure, but to successfully overcome. Women like Cynthia Gooding, of Ms. Prity Fashion Spa House, who are paving their own way in the cosmetics industry. Ms. Prity skincare has been featured in celebrity events at BET, Essence Music Festival and Martha’s Vineyard. She was recognized by Martha Stewart as a Made in America nominee and in 2015 won the Best of Baltimore for Beauty and Personal Care. In March 2016 she was on the Dr. Oz show speaking on her many uses of coconut oil, especially in her products. Through these pages, you will find women who are making strides in the world. Women who do not allow the status quo to define their lives. Women who go above and beyond to make an IMPACT!

Remember to always be an IMPACT! Tunisha Brown

editor in chief

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Being Karen Civil

It takes a special young lady to move the civil way. Get to know Karen Civil.

Dropping Gems

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Out to make a change, Jewel Tankard wants every person to know that “You Can HaveIt All”!

The Boss Chick

Learn how fashion made Rasheeda BO$$ up!

All About The Details Get to know Dale Scott of P Scott Events.

The Mercurial

Avery*Sunshine is the personification of all things jazz, rhythm, and blues.

To Give Is To Receive

Understand why Jasmine Crowe has a passion for giving back!

The Power Player

IMPACT MAGAZINE

It Ain’t Easy Being Sweet

Editor in Chief Tunisha Brown Instagram: @impactmagazine Twitter: @impact_magazine

Get to know Catherine Brewton who has the ear for current trends.

See how Shatan McRae-Thompson is taking over the cupcake business.

Questions and feedback: Email: info@theimpactmagazine.com

Layout and design by Final Draft Design www.finaldraftdesign.com Twitter/Instagram: @finaldraft Email: info@finaldraftdesign.com

Women of 4

@impactmagazine

IMPACT?

Statistics say that we are the most educated, we are the rising entrepreneurs, we are the most vulnerable, and the most disrespected….we are the Women of IMPACT! The Women of IMPACT are women of distinction who are handling business in their respective industries. Women who are making groundbreaking headlines and decisions in legal, television, fashion, beauty, and entertainment. Black women who are breaking down the glass ceiling innuendo that the sky is the limit. Women who look this system in the face and say, “Not on my watch”! We are the builders, the dreamers, the doers…we are the Women of IMPACT!

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Karen Civil

I like people to see me as a ‘girl next door’ who conquered and went after what she wanted.”

@impactmagazine

karen civil BEING

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aren Civil, the CEO of Always Civil, is the blossom of entertainment mastermind of all things social. The heart of the system, she earned her title from the lengthy resume of social media and marketing success. Civil has been able to take her knowledge, create a personal brand off of it, thus opening the door to even greater achievements. Behind the phenomena of Beats by Dre headphones stands a woman responsible for such epic product placement. This influencer, Karen Civil, a digital renaissance woman who is a builder of great things, has become the unstoppable force in digital placement. Hailing from Elizabeth, NJ, and her campaigns has led her from an intern at HOT 97 to being sought out by presidential candidate, Hillary Clinton to become the campaigns “Director of Cool”. A lover of all things social, Karen began her journey by managing popular 90’s group’s fan pages. Her own site featured artists like Nicki Minaj and Drake before they were household names. Now, KarenCivil.com is where all the exclusive news on today’s hottest en-

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tertainers is filtered to the masses. Karen also started LivingCivil.com and the Live Civil Foundation to empower and give back to the community.

Karen told NBC News, “I think people should be the original version of themselves. I’m not going anywhere. Don’t put limits on what you can do. I tell people to use me as an example

Tunisha Brown/ CEO/Editor-In-Chief of IMPACT Magazine Seeing the need in her community for positive imagery, Tunisha C. Brown, began the journey of bringing forth IMPACT Magazine. IMPACT Magazine is a lifestyle print and digital publication. IMPACT’s mission is to empower, encourage, and to educate readers through the power of images and words.

A brand connector, Karen is the CMO (Chief Marketing Officer) of the Marathon Agency which is a new venture with her business partner, Steve Carless. At the Marathon Agency, she is in charge of marketing and branding clients like Nick Cannon and Nicki Minaj, while growing her own brand and marketing herself as the talent.

of what they can do if they don’t give up. I like people to see me as a ‘girl next door’ who conquered and went after what she wanted.” Follow @karencivil

This daring and aggressive publication tackles the issues of life, by giving examples of ordinary people, living extraordinary lives. IMPACT educates the readers on health, wealth, and all things pertaining to who they are; challenging them to evolve into whom they are destined to become. IMPACT has had the honor of speaking on issues with some of today’s influen-

tial thinkers and doers. Grammy nominated artists R&B Diva’s Angie Stone & Kelly Price/Musiq Soulchild (The Husel), Grammy winner Chrisette Michele, NAACP Image Award Winner and actor Malik Yoba, hairstylist creator of the Rock Out With Me campaign and costar of the WEtv’s ‘Tamar & Vince Show April Daniels, have all graced the cover of IMPACT Magazine. 2015 brought about a change for the number one urban inspirational publication. Well known for its events, IMPACT Magazine evoked on a journey for the reader to have a live experience with the cover features; wherein ‘IMPACT Magazine Presents: Cocktails & Conversations’ came to life! Cocktails & Conversations launched in Atlanta, GA with Grammy Nominated R&B Diva,

Angie Stone with approximately 200 guests in attendance. From the initial event, Cocktails & Conversations has expanded to include over 100 partners, including sponsors, bloggers, small businesses, and other industry professionals. Cocktails and Conversations offered events featuring an array of conversations ranging from overcoming obstacles with Angie Stone, owning your own business with NY Times Best Selling Author Zane, women supporting women with WEtv’s Braxton Family Values Towanda Braxton, to living on purpose where we spoke with Grammy nominated artist Musiq Soulchild which featured up and coming fashion designers.

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Jewel

Dr. Karen

Tankard

Davis, PhD

Out to make a change, she wants every person to know that

“You Can HaveIt All”!

Dr.

Karen Davis is an advocate for the people. Known as the legal guru of her industry, she has received esteemed recognitions from the highest levels of our government, including the United States President, Barack Obama. In 2010, she received a Presidential Appointment under Schedule C National-Global Mediation and Arbitration for the United States National Board of Arbitrators / Mediation for US Railroads and Airlines in the transportation industry. Her determination to succeed did not come easy as she had to overcome many challenges for equality, respect, and credentialing, as she entered into a high male dominated industry. However, God was always on her side and led her to lead operations for one of the nation’s top railroad transportation companies, BNSF for over 13 years. “It was those moments that confirmed my purpose and that was to dedicate my life to helping others fight against legal injustices,” said Dr. Karen Davis. Her national appointment provides a platform to work across several industries in all 52 states and globally. Her specialized skills include negotiation, mediation, arbitration, contract negotiation and management, talent acquisition, and many more. Her client list ranges from high-profile corporate and private clients to everyday domestic clients in need of legal advocacy. This is what truly makes her unique as a woman! She is committed and passionate to advocate for the people and provide protection and support in their legal affairs.

n economist by trade and financial expert through hard-earned experience, Jewel Tankard is the star and matriarch of Bravo’s hit reality series, “Thicker Than Water.” The wife of Gospel Jazz Musician Ben Tankard, Jewel Tankard is a pastor and business mogul who desires to see women and families live their dreams by obtaining financial freedom.

She strongly believes that prayer is paramount to success and is committed to giving people, especially women a picture of what is possible. Jewel candidly shares the principles she used to make the transition from working for others to owning her own successful business. As a result, she helps those who desire to have the same kind of financial freedom.

A network marketing extraordinaire, Jewel is widely known as a top income earner in the MLM industry, where she grossed over $2 million dollars and a team of over 80K members. The success landed Jewel an invitation to be a part of the reality TV show, “Amateur Millionaires Club.”

A Financial Services expert, Jewel currently offers Indexed Universal Life (IUL) policies that allow one policy to cover life, disability, provide cash value and lifetime income at retirement. She also assists individuals with expanding their financial portfolio through improving their credit scores, acquiring currency grade gold, and through trading in the foreign exchange market. She understands her purpose of helping her clients improve and secure their financial portfolio. Amidst her financial pursuits, Jewel maintains involvement in her community as a board member of the Rutherford County Domestic Violence Shelter in Murfreesboro, TN. Jewel teaches throughout the country and is determined to change lives all over the world through television, conferences, and the social media. She is a wife, mother of five, co-pastor, actress, entrepreneur, author, and friend. Jewel is not only a voice to the kingdom of God, but a voice to the socioeconomic systems of the world.

Equipped with a unique business message, Jewel uses a Biblical foundation to help ordinary women lead extraordinary professional and personal lives. She seeks to lead by example, maintaining a positive and hopeful outlook on life that helps motivate others to reach their fullest potential. That message is at the core of the Jewel Tankard Brand and sets the tone for her television talk show and the wildly popular Millionairess Club. At the same time, Jewel recently released a bestselling e-book, Jewel Tankard’s JumpStart: Quick Tips for Wealth Building which has provided simplistic financial insight helping people across the globe build a solid foundation for creating generational wealth. Jewel’s teachings and workshops encourage personal development, provide mentorship, invoke new ideas and inspire her audience to dream “big” and change their lives.

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Together with husband Ben, Jewel pastors The Destiny Center, a growing, multi-cultural, non- denominational, Biblebelieving, Word-based church located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. #impactmagazine 11

Stacey Muhammad/ Burn Hollywood Burn “What a gem of a director has been found in the discovery of Stacey Muhammad. Her series, For Colored Boys is a marvel of cinematic craft and superb storytelling. The series reminds you of the high quality HBO shows The Corner and The Wire. Stacey Muhammad is that good of a director.” - Charles S. Dutton

I was interviewed today for a piece about Hollywood, diversity, inclusion, and I’m hoping they print EXACTLY what I said… exactly how I said it. I haven’t thought much about this issue beyond the OBVIOUS, which is that trauma is certainly passed on from one generation to the next. But, as I’m presented with more “opportunities” as an artist, I’m often asked about the challenges I face as a black woman filmmaker and I’ve been asked repeatedly about this diversity (or lack thereof ) issue. It’s clear to me that one’s position on the subject has much to do with how they arrive at their “career” as a filmmaker and how they were politically oriented prior to becoming an artist. It essentially boils down to why one is doing the work they do. The conversation (diversity and INCLUSION) is no different (to me) than the conversations around police terrorism against Black people or the genocide taking place in Flint, MI. With that said, there isn’t a joke or a punch line that’s appropriate when addressing the issue because what we’re talking about here is how people’s lives and dreams are LITTERALLY railroaded and cut short because of someone’s fear, psychosis, and greed. The ONLY thing we’re talking about here is racism and white supremacy and THAT’S IT! The fact that folks in film and television have money and fame (yet no

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power) doesn’t change the fact that we’re still talking about what rich white folk in positions of power and privilege won’t LET them (us) do. I had lunch with one of my mentors in film and he always reminds me that these are the conversations, considerations, and issues that he and his comrades were having back in the day. Mind you, he’s been in this industry for OVER 40 years…OVER! To put it LIGHTLY, we’re in a racially HOSTILE environment. We don’t know another America. We don’t know another America outside of racial hostility and violence toward Black and nonwhite people. The only time we’ve experienced such bliss in America has been when we built and sustained independent communities (infrastructure), until they came and burned them to the ground! So, what AMERICA does this lack of diversity and inclusion contradict? What year are we talking? During a time when it’s easier and more affordable to make movies than ever before…when we have more distribution avenues and opportunities available to us than ever before…when we have direct, immediate access to audiences like never before…when we have more resources available to us like never before…when we LITERALLY have technology at our fingertips…the fact that we’re still talking about doors not being open and opportunities not being “given” is EXTREMELY

telling and disheartening at best. Building INFRASTRUCTURES would ENSURE the Black filmmakers and artist aren’t having these conversations about diversity and inclusion years from now, if not sooner. But nope…as my mentor said today, we love white folk. We need them to validate us as we believe their ice is colder. I’ve spent quite a bit of time over the past few years thinking about what I want, as a filmmaker, as a storyteller, in an industry where people covet things that don’t matter much to me at all. I do know that I NEVER want to be so famous or so rich that I forget exactly what AMERICA has ALWAYS been and that it’s my DUTY to every ancestor, every Black man, woman, and child whose life has been taken, dream deferred, and voice silenced, to TELL THE TRUTH! America as we know it has ALWAYS been a cesspool of corruption, death, and greed. In fact, the only hope it has (after it implodes) is Black and oppressed people, but we can’t build if we’re still begging for poisoned crumbs falling from their table. I certainly applaud, support (and benefit from) some of the organizations, funds, etc. that are addressing the lack of diverse voices. However, they are usually initiated by those whose voices are unheard and stories rarely told. Those initiatives are examples of building infrastructure and creating opportunity and should be where our support and attention is focused. Although I know WHY I’m doing this, I’m still trying to figure out how to do it. But, I do know how I WON’T be doing it! Stacey Muhammad

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Princess Banton-Lofters/ Princess BantonLofters is a living testimony to faith and perseverance. Her story is a miracle still unfolding, and serves as an example of what you can also do with your life. With the odds stacked against her she has found her way to being one of the most powerful women in entertainment in a short amount of time. She is the founder and CEO of Loft 22 Entertainment, Inc., and an inspiration to millions.

Growing up in Jamaica and becoming a mother at a young age instilled a sense of resiliency when it came to her goals. She moved to the United States and began to create her own niche despite not having a degree or business experience. None the less, Princess’ relentless drive and solid visions led to watching her big dreams come into fruition on major television networks. She is not only known for being a successful “female producer” of shows like Real Housewives of Atlanta but a trailblazer in entertainment overall. From the set to the boardrooms, her influence is simply unmatched from coast to coast. Princess went on to produce the hit reality show Ink, Paper, Scissors, which was debuted on BET in October 2016. The reality series showcases Atlanta’s very own Salon Ramsey and follows the lives of ten cast mates as they work under one roof while building their own professional empires. The show not only allowed the cast members to expand their own brands but created opportunities for BET to break ground within the younger urban television space. In the first season of Ink, Paper, Scissors was able to surpass other popular BET programming like Real Husbands of Hollywood in viewers and ratings; something that is rare for reality shows in their starting season. With the evolution of Producer Princess came exposure both on and off the television screen. Today, she is featured on premiere panels across the United States and provides insight on what it means to be a successful producer in an ever-chang-

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ing industry. Her versatility in avenues of business and the creative sector have been noticed by the likes of MTV, BET, VH1, Bravo and more. She continues to be a trendsetter in engaging various audience demographics; not limiting herself and continuously diversifying her brand. “Loft 22 is what I do, Producer Princess is who I am.” Banton-Lofters carries that same passion for change into her philanthropic endeavors. Her non-profit organization, “Producing Princesses”, is catered to developing young women who are seeking guidance in this thing called life. The championing of this cause was sparked from her love of being a mentor to teens at Locke Collegiate Charter School in Los Angele, CA. She hopes to continue to make an impact on transition-age youth and women as she continues her personal and professional journey. Producer Princess Banton-Lofters has created a rising empire that is changing entertainment and philanthropy, while providing opportunities for many. She is a phenomenon, setting her sights on other endeavors while growing her current ventures. Princess wears many hats but her goal remains to be able to show young women and men how to wear their own crowns with pride. No matter the tests she believes that hard work will yield good results. Life is what you make it, and she is making the most of everything she has been given. Princess looks forward to growing with you in the coming years.

ProducerPrincess #impactmagazine 17

Towanda Braxton/ Towanda Braxton is an internationally acclaimed singer, actress entrepreneur, and executive television producer. Best known for her current role as the star of WEtv’s hit series, “Braxton Family Values” Towanda Braxton is an internationally acclaimed singer, actress entrepreneur, and executive television producer. Best known for her current role as the star of WEtv’s hit series, “Braxton Family Values”, Towanda has been involved in different facets of entertainment as early as age 5. As a result, she has been signed to Arista Records, LaFace Records, and Atlantic Records. The only album ever released by R&B female group “The Braxton’s” which also included Toni, Traci, Trina and Tamar Braxton. Towanda travels the world building the Braxton brand working directly with her sister and platinum selling R&B artist, Toni Braxton.

Towanda

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As a spokesperson for Burlington Coat Factory, Macy’s, Gain Detergent, Proctor & Gamble, Rio 1 & 2, Home Goods, Bayer Asprin, and The Vagina Monologues Towanda has captivated the international press and television media; spotlighted in Sister 2 Sister Magazine, Madamenoire, Vibe Magazine, Black Enterprise, Essence, TMZ, Huffington Post, OK! Magazine and many more. Towanda has collaborated with the entertainment industry’s most celebrated brands including Actress Teri Vaughn, Comedian Bruce Bruce, Actor and Producer Carl Payne, Media Personality Ebony Steele and a host of others.

Towanda developed her company, the “Secret Squirrels”, in an effort to provide training, certification and placement for individuals who desire to work as professional personal assistants. Her charitable contributions are observed by working with the CEO of Saving Our Daughters a non-profit organization that focuses on creating the tools to get teen girls discussing key issues in their lives. In addition to her many accomplishments to date, Towanda Braxton has been named St. Jude Children’s Hospitals “Partner In Hope.” With Braxton Family Values currently airing every Thursday at 9:00 pm (est) on WEtv, Towanda’s upcoming projects also include another reality show which she is the co-executive producer, set to air on the network soon. Towanda Braxton hopes to establish herself in entertainment by leveraging opportunities that best fit her professional abilities and creative assets in television, movies, workshops, speaking engagements, sponsorships and product endorsements.

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Toya Wright/ Entrepreneur, New York Times Best-Selling author, actress, philanthropist, and television personality Antonia “Toya” Wright is beautiful beyond words, and talented beyond measure.

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Entrepreneur, New York Times Best-Selling author, actress, philanthropist, and television personality Antonia “Toya” Wright is beautiful beyond words, and talented beyond measure. With the release of her third book and newest memoir, “In My Own Words…My Real REALity”, the New Orleans native has been busy with a number of lucrative endeavors. On February 16, 2015 Toya watched in awe as the world witnessed the televised celebration of her baby girl’s birthday via MTV’s My Super Sweet 16. The special proved to be a hit with millions of viewers across the world and managed to impress talk show queen Wendy Williams. The special also gave viewers a glimpse into the life of Toya and Reginae, and reflected their amazing bond, while highlighting a great friendship with Reginae’s dad hip hop mega star Lil Wayne. Since stepping into the spotlight via her previous reality series Tiny and Toya that debuted on BET during the spring of 2009 and co-starred Tameka ‘Tiny” Harris (wife of hip hop superstar T.I.), Toya has continued to peak public interest and even partook in a spinoff television series “Family Affair”, a docu-series that gave viewers an inside glimpse into a day on the life of Toya along with her closest friends and family.

Perhaps one of the best qualities about Toya is her altruism. Her New York Times best-selling novel “Priceless Inspirations”, offered young women, the very pearls of wisdom that she collected as she traveled a very difficult and tumultuous journey, but somehow found the strength to not only endure, but to successfully overcome. The quintessential jet setter and a very devoted mother, Toya still finds time to mentor young adults and give back to the community. Having founded her non-profit organization, Visual Beauty, Toya uses her experiences to enrich the lives of at-risk and disadvantaged young women, by helping them find their voice, helping them to see their own inner beauty and knowing their selfworth. Toya was recently featured in Glamour South Africa, Cosmopolitan Magazine Nigeria and Elle South Africa and continues to inspire millions of people across the globe. Beautiful inside and out, she embodies the essence of a true phenomenal woman. Toya also recently appeared on The Real, Dr. Oz and in publications; Women’s Health, Essence and much more!

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Rasheeda/ female mc | entrepreneur personality | fashion and beauty expert

I’ve always been creative, but I didn’t truthfully understand the capacity of how I could get into fashion and how much I would enjoy it.” 22 @impactmagazine

asheeda is the epitome of everything beauty and fashion. This chic fashion entrepreneur, Female MC and Love & Hip Hop Atlanta Star dubbed as the “Georgia Peach”, is an Atlanta Based Independent Female Hip Hop Artist. Rasheeda’s chart-topping and biggest record to date is “My Bubblegum”, which catapult the beautiful MC to fame and stardom. “My Bubblegum” was so popular that is was the platinum ring tone on the number one box office smash, Paul Blart Mall Cop. With well over six million social media followers, Rasheeda has evolved into a beauty and fashion forward trendsetter. In addition to being a wife, mother and philanthropist, Rasheeda is the owner of Pressed located in Phipps Plaza in Atlanta and PressedATL.com, the e-commerce site that has helped redefine how women shop. Talk about a modernday Wonder Woman. Rasheeda is always captivated by what’s next and often think with a few keystrokes that she can change something. Since establishing her store in 2010 and working in the fashion industry, she has realized that launching a popular website is like building a skyscraper—major construction and everything has to be perfect. “I’ve always been creative, but I didn’t truthfully understand the capacity of how I could get into fashion and how much I would enjoy it,” says Rasheeda, on her love of fashion. In 2013, Rasheeda launched her cosmetics line, Poiz Cosmetics…this is where the fun truly began! Rasheeda set out to change the industry by creating stunning lipstick shades that let your lips do the talking! Whether you prefer the perfect nude or something with a little kick, Rasheeda’s Poiz Cosmetic shades were the talk amongst the Internet. Currently, Rasheeda is signed to Atlanta based D-Lo Entertainment, which has been her home for over 12 years and has previously been nominated for Female Hip Hop artist of the year and Best Female Hip Hop artist by BET. Rasheeda is

Yolanda Keels-Walker/ Creator Of Business Babes Yolanda Keels-Walker is an author and successful serial entrepreneur with a portfolio ranging from motivational speaker to salon owner to real estate developer. Yolanda is most known as the brains behind Business Babes (businessbabesonline.com), an online resource and business coaching organization of over 45,000 that helps budding female entrepreneurs manage their businesses and grow their circle of influence. Yolanda walked away from a six-figure salary and high-level career started at the Central Intelligence Agency to enter the world of entrepreneurship. Yolanda was able to grow a startup business to a seven-figure valuation in under two years all while raising two children under three. Yolanda has been invited to speak for organizations like the NAACP, The National Urban League, and has helped to win over $100,000 in startup capital pitch events including Miller Lite’s Tap the Future hosted by Daymond John. Yolanda has been featured in Hairstory: Untangling the Roots of Black hair in America and her expertise has been sought after by prestigious publications such as Black Enterprise, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Rolling Out Magazine, and many others.

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Nicci Gilbert-Daniels/ Singer | Writer | Producer | Designer | Speaker

Writer, director and producer Nicci Gilbert-Daniels is an entertainment industry veteran with over 2 decades in the business. As the lead singer and songwriter for Brownstone, the accomplished songbird sold millions records worldwide and was nominated for a Grammy Award. Hailing from the talent-filled Motor City, Detroit Gilbert had ambitions from early on to pursue a career in entertainment. She has guest starred in films such as “Living Out Loud” with Queen Latifah and “Woo” starring Jada Pinkett. She also enjoyed appearances on TV shows such as “Martin”, “Living Single” and “Sister Sister” and most recently “R&B Divas Atlanta”.

While she remains creator and executive producer, Nicci gracefully exited the series as a cast member to focus on producing and creating more riveting and empowering content through her production company NoEgo. Nicci is currently in development on several new projects and has enjoyed the recent premiere of her new BET/Centric series “From the Bottom Up”. The docuseries was produced in partnership with Queen Latifah’s Flavor Unit. The ambitious mogul in the making has also a TV series in development with fellow superstars Keke Wyatt and Faith Evans and her first scripted series; Curtains, a sequel to her musical Soul Kittens Cabaret.

Sisters of Today & Tomorrow and Egypt Cares. Nicci believes that if we talk the talk, we have to walk the walk. She also believes that we are wasting space on the planet if we are not giving back in some capacity, no matter how big or small. Mrs. Gilbert’s most recent advocacy is the issue empowerment of minority women and girls through the establishment of From the Bottom Up Foundation as well as Women and Girls in Crisis, in honor of her Brownstone bandmate Charmayne “Maxee” Maxwell. In June 2012, Nikki launched her plus size clothing line Curvato during New York’s Full Figured Fashion

Writer, director and producer Nicci Gilbert-Daniels is an entertainment industry veteran with over 2 decades in the business. As the lead singer and songwriter for Brownstone, the accomplished songbird sold millions records worldwide and was nominated for a Grammy Award. Nicci was awarded a musical theater scholarship from Eastern Michigan University, additionally her tutelage comes from the best in the business including Tyler Perry, Michael Jackson and Queen Latifah. She is just as passionate about producing new content as she is about starring in it. In 2012 Nicci created the hit reality series, “R&B Divas Atlanta”, which broke records as the highest rated series in the TV One network’s history. Following its success, TV One quickly green lit “R&B Divas LA”, which also broke network records as the highest rated series.

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The outspoken entrepreneur has also become a pundit for top networks like HLN, CNN and Public Speaker often called upon for her honest and straightforward commentary on the latest hot topics. Growing up in a single parent household with 2 sisters, Nicci learned early on the importance of sisterhood. She has remained actively involved in organizations that support women and girls such as The Center for Black Women’s Wellness, Beyond The Game,

Week. Curvato received rave reviews from Essence, Marie Claire, Plus Model magazines and others. The bold fashionista is expanding Curvato in 2016 by launching Curvatolifestyle.com inspiring curvy women and girls to live a fashionable, happy, healthy and curvy lifestyle.

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Bella Rose

Daisy Kimbro is the CEO/Founder of Aromaology.

activism was born out of these ideas as well. In

conscious products, strategic partnerships continue

Daisy was born in Los Angeles, CA, a city well

addition to soy candles, came the eco-friendly

to support Aromaology’s growth. In 2014, Artisan

known for its health consciousness, fitness and

creation of incredible aromatic diffusers, body

Brands, LLC, a conglomerate house headed by Robert

beauty. Growing up within such social constricts,

butters, all-in-one bath-body-hair and massage oils,

Montgomery has added the company to its stable of many private enterprises turned global powerhouses.

backed with the strong sense of moral fortitude and entrepreneurship taught by her mother and grandmother, it is no wonder that Daisy’s influences would lead to success.

aroma (a·ro·ma) a distinctive, typically pleasant smell.

Aromaology is an all natural handmade bath, body, and home fragrance line. Daisy started Aromaology in October 1998 with no training or experience in botanicals. Up until then, she had simply

ology (ol•o•gy) a subject of study; a branch of knowledge.

made candles from soybeans as a hobby. At the persistence of a friend, Daisy showcased her candles at a local exposition, and sold out of her inventory!

ella Rose of Bella Rose Passion Cosmetics/Vanity was born Aug. 4, 1982, raised in Trenton, N.J. As the only child, throughout adolescence and teen years, Bella Rose was consumed with outdoor activities, uninterested in dressing up or wearing makeup. Bella got married in 2008 and developed a love for glam. Always interested in the new trends, Bella launched the Bella Rose Passion Brand and dove head on into the beauty industry by opening the company’s first brick and mortar, Bella Rose Boutique in 2010. Bella took that opportunity to feed her love of the latest fashion and trends. After high demand from a well based clientele about her potential for carrying makeup, she decided to launch a cosmetics company to meet their needs. Naming the line Bella Rose Passion. The lip line features all-natural products, made with special ingredients such as Shea Butter, which helped launch a natural revolution in the cosmetic industry.

Bella Rose Passion Cosmetics has been featured on many celebrity faces and in shows, such as R&B Divas Atlanta, The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Starz Original “POWER” and various music artists. Now selling wholesale lipstick, creating lipstick lines for others also Bella Rose Passion Products are sold in various boutiques in Houston and Atlanta. Bella Rose’s contributions to the beauty industry were featured

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It was then that Daisy conceptualized the idea of

in Sheen, Black Hair, Hip Hop Weekly, and Essence magazines, also various radio stations and iReport CNN. Her success landed her a small supporting role on the Bravo series, “The New Atlanta,” in 2013. Shortly after she began producing her own reality TV show she solely created, “MUA of Atlanta”, which peaked the interest of many producers for television networks, Bella also produce and direct on photography and music video sets Bella Rose birthed (Bella Rose Vanity) in 2014, which gained notoriety quickly. The agency now employs about a dozen artists. Throughout her success, Bella Rose has maintained community involvement through charity and sponsorship’s for more than 100 events and entities in Atlanta, South Carolina and New York. But dealing with her blood pressure while worrying about her mother who has survived a Brain Aneurysm She wanted to do more to make a difference, Bella partnered with the Brain Aneurysm Foundation to bring awareness to young ladies of different ethnicity. Bella Rose was nominated by Boss Magazine as one of the 2015 Top Atlanta Women To Watch in the beauty industry, also seen with her Bella Rose Vanity staff on The Steve Harvey Television Show in July 2016. Breaking new grounds Bella Rose plans to build her Empire and become a global beauty mogul.

an all-natural handmade bath, body and home fragrance product line. Daisy, a vegetarian, who has always lived a holistic lifestyle, even creating her own household cleaning products from natural resources, founded the Aromaology brand based on personal organic recipes. The company’s mission of environmental

serums, and cleansers. Believing that businesses have the power to do good, she launched her own website www. daisysaromaology.com and maintains that the past few years were the most exciting period of her life – leaving her career as a health professional and creating a vision board that is now a vision come true set to affect consumer health, animal welfare, the environment and community trade. As Daisy

There is no doubt that Aromaology will closely identify within the public mind as the company grows. Daisy’s overall goal is for the company to evolve into a global operation with thousands of people working towards common environmental values that will set Aromalogy apart from mainstream competitors.

continues to create new and innovative health

For more information, visit www.BellaRosePassion.com

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Dale Scott/ P Scott Events is a New Jersey wedding and event planning boutique that specialize in unique and elaborate weddings and events, a premiere planning and design boutique. Creating memorable weddings and events through personalized décor and custom design. P Scott Events, wedding planning services are tailored specifically for each couple. P Scott Events understands how important this day is to couples, and take pride in every wedding managed. Under the direction of Dale Scott, Creative Director and Senior Planner. Dale is a certified wedding planner and an event design professional. She has been educated by some of the best wedding planners and floral designers in the industry. She is a lover of all things sparkly, a true girly girl. Planning and designing comes natural to Dale. She loves the rewarding feeling, when a bride smiles or when a client is so happy they’re in tears. She feels honored to plan life-changing events for clients. P Scott Events philosophy is basic - your wedding your way. They handle the not so fun stuff, while you enjoy your engagement. Whether you’re planning a wedding, dinner for 2, children celebration or a milestone event, P Scott Events will WOW you and your guests with an unforgettable experience.

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Tiffany Williams/ President/CEO of Eye Candy Creations, guru of all sorts in the Eyewear/Fashion/ Film Industry President/CEO of Eye Candy Creations, Tiffany Williams, is a guru of all sorts in the Eyewear/Fashion/ Film Industry. Having almost 15 years under her belt in the optical industry representing and launching brands such as Givenchy, Furla, Tag Heuer, Carolina Herrera, Chopard, Escada and many more. After recognizing a need in the market, Tiffany launched her company Eye Candy Creations and it has become one of the leading companies in the world. Her company has worked on numerous feature films, movies, print ads, music videos, events and with some of the hottest celebrities in the world providing them all with the best eyewear collections on the market. Tiffany’s stylist credits include shows such as “The View”, “Glee”, “Burn Notice”, “Boss”, “ Empire”, “ Survivors Remorse”, “ Saints & Sinners” and so much more. In 2015, Tiffany along with her Husband Warren expanded the company to design and distribute an Eyewear collection for Cynthia Bailey from the Real Housewives of Atlanta. The Collection became so successful that within the first year of launching, they received a licensing deal for their Cynthia Bailey Collection from Steve Madden. The company also recently developed an eyewear collection for Actress/ Model Eva Marcille titled First Ave”, which they anticipate will have just as much success as they have had with the Cynthia Bailey Collection. This is only the beginning for Eye Candy Creations as they are on the rise to becoming the leading provider for celebrity eyewear collections.

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Danika Berry/ Berry recognized the value of her diverse experience and broad contact base would benefit all clients trying to cross over from one industry to another. Danika Berry is the Founder and President of db Agency Public Relations. With a history of working for some of the biggest brands in the entertainment and lifestyle categories, providing publicity, marketing and brand management, Berry recognized the value of her diverse experience and broad contact base would benefit all clients trying to cross over from one industry to another. As the former Sr. Manager of Integrated Brand Strategy for JC Penney Corporate, Berry’s strong strategic communications expertise and reputation management skills have helped organizations establish a corporate identity that differentiates them and their products from the competition. Berry has worked in a capacity where she is able to holistically communicate compelling messaging and strategy among Corporate Communications and cross-functional departments that will integrate all communications for a brand. As one of JC Penney’s corporate spokespersons for consumer, fashion, trade and business press, Berry was responsible for communications, creating and distributing integrated messages related to JC Penney fashion brands. Prior to JC Penney Corporate, Berry was a Senior Account Supervisor for 5WPR and directed corporate, consumer and analyst media relations for companies in the new media, wireless and digital space. While at mPRm Public Relations, Berry supervised a staff of five or more and served as day-to-day client con-

tact and defined various strategies and communication plans for Cartoon Network New Media, Amp’d Mobile, Perfectmatch. com, Break.com, Ceiva, Magellan and NatGeo that generated a great deal of media coverage. Berry also launched several mobile apps for Cartoon Network New Media and wireless products for Amp’d Mobile. During her time at Rogers & Cowan, Berry holistically provided key messaging, brand PR and media strategies for General Mills and Coca-Cola by launching Berry Lucky Charms, Chocolate Lucky Charms, Coke Bl?K & Sprite Remix Berry Clear. Berry has worked closely with CEOs and C-suite executives for the last ten years and feels very comfortable interacting at every level of management. Berry is the former Consulting Producer for the docu-series ‘Livin Lozada’ on The Oprah Winfrey Network. This is a show that Berry sold to the network with her former client, reality personality, Evelyn Lozada. Berry was very

instrumental in changing Evelyn Lozada’s persona on Basketball Wives from ‘Bad Girl’ to ‘Good Girl, by making the transition from Urban Press to Mainstream Press, and building her brand via endorsements and partnerships. Berry began her career as Publicist at Music World Entertainment for the multi-platinum R&B group Destiny’s Child, Grammy winners Beyonce` Knowles, Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams.

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Avery*Sunshine/ A mercurial singer and composer who weds soul, gospel, jazz, and R&B in a signature mix. Multi-Award Winning Artist Avery*Sunshine whose loyal fanbase includes music icons Aretha Franklin, Baby Face, Teddy Riley, Jazzy Jeff, and Patti LaBelle continues to bring her thunderous, gospel-bred pipes and heart-to-heart content to every song and concert. The singer-songwriter and pianist can’t help spilling the truth in her music as she knows the best route is sometimes the direct one. No detours. So listeners won’t have to “get on her level.” She’s already on theirs. “I want people to get my music. I don’t want them to have to decipher some code in order to understand where I’m coming from,” says Avery. Born Denise White, she originates from Chester, Pennsylvania where she began her musical vocation by singing and playing piano in church. By 13, Avery had earned a gig as choir director at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church for $175/hour. Dreams of being a corporate lawyer turned into faded pictures when she realized music was tugging at her heart (she was a piano major at Spelman College). Since then, she’s been putting in work. And the accolades have continued to pour in. In 2010, Avery won Best New Artist at the Reader’s Choice Awards. The following year, JET Magazine named her one of their “5 rising Indie Artists”. Flexing her theater and thespian skills, Avery starred in the musical drama, I Dream, directed by Jasmine Guy, in addition to appearing on BBC 2 Live with Jools Holland. Her song “Like This” was featured in the TBS series, Franklin & Bash. And she appeared on Will Downing’s album, Silver, on the duet “You Were Meant Just For Me.” She attended Spelman College, in Atlanta, where she began her musical apprenticeship on the city’s R&B scene. The first single to feature her vocals was “Stalk You,” a house 12” issued only in Japan, but has since been remixed by numerous producers and is a staple of her live set. That same year, she lent her voice to the soundtrack of The Fighting Temptations and in 2005, she was hired as the lead keyboardist for Tyler Perry’s stage play Meet the Browns. In 2007, Grammy- and Tony Award-winning vocalist Jennifer Holliday sought her out to become the choral director for the theatrical production of Dreamgirls during the National Black Arts Festival in Atlanta. Sunshine came to national attention during four daily performances at the 2008 Democratic National Convention and was subsequently invited to sing at President Barack Obama’s inauguration in 2009. She released her self-titled debut album in 2010 which was co-produced by the artist with lyricist/guitarist/ producer and now, husband Dana Johnson. 32 @impactmagazine

Avery* Sunshine continues to bring her “unique mix of R&B, jazz, soul, hip-hop and gospel melodies – dubbed “jazzgosoul” by a friend (which) has led to collaborations with… Anthony Hamilton, (and) famed pianist David Foster…” (Creative Loafing Atlanta) With over 200plus reviews and features, including VH1.com, Vibe. com, BET.com, JET, USA Today, The Washington Post and more, Avery has made her presence known. The MultiAward winning singer captured her first #1 single on a Billboard chart with her 2014 ballad “Call My Name” and has worked everywhere from Broadway to the Democratic National Convention to the European club and festival scenes. As a wife-preneur, philanthropist, and artist, Avery* Sunshine is a wonderful role model to her fans as she, effectively, balances marriage to her musician husband, plays a very active role to continually take her career to the next level, touring all over the world, parenting, and giving back through philanthropic causes. Causes that she has been proud to participate in include raising awareness for domestic violence, lupus, multiple sclerosis, Music & Arts Education in Schools, breast cancer, HIV prevention through World AIDs Day (w/Sheryl Lee Ralph’s Divas), Alzheimer’s disease, mentoring, youth empowerment, female empowerment, raising awareness for health disparities, and increasing health literacy just to name a few. Despite being busy with a career that is on a increasingly high trajectory, the powerhouse vocalist can always be called upon for a good cause. Fast forward a few years and many industry nods, the selfproclaimed therapist has no plans on stopping and showed that with the recent release of her highly anticipated single, “Come Do Nothing”, which premiered on Essence. com and entered the Billboard Adult R&B National Airplay Chart (Dated 11/19/16) at #27. She’ll join eleven-time Grammy Nominated and 2x Platinum Selling Artist, Musiq Soulchild; platinum-selling R&B and soul singersongwriter, Lyfe Jennings; and Grammy Nominated duo Kindred the Family Soul on the upcoming 22-city NuSoul Revival Tour. She will release her third album slated for release next February. She lives in Atlanta, GA with her husband and three children.

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egypt Egypt Sherrod/ CEO of Egypt Sherrod Real Estate Group, Author & HGTV Television Personality

gypt Sherrod, Host of HGTV’s “Property Virgins” & “Flipping Virgins,” has been named “America’s most beloved real estate agent,” with over 14 years as an accomplished Realtor. The energetic and endearing host is passionate about educating and encouraging those in the market. Buyers and viewers easily relate to Egypt’s no-nonsense approach and genuine care for their investment. She’s known for “tough love with a hug,” which obviously transcends because her highly-rated show has filmed more than 235 episodes in its 12 seasons. The broadcast dynamo has also hosted the “White House Christmas Special,” the tri-network “All-Star Halloween Spectacular” and has been pegged to host the “2017 Rose Parade.” As an NAACP image award nominated author, Egypt penned “Keep Calm….It’s Just Real Estate: Your No-Stress Guide To Buying A Home” and is CEO of the Atlanta based “Egypt Sherrod Real Estate Group.” She is a financial empowerment advocate and a licensed real estate professional in both Georgia and New Jersey, specializing in duality as both a selling & listing agent.

A powerhouse speaker and moderator, Egypt hosted the stage at Oprah’s “The Life You Want” Tour, and has keynoted for The National vBlack Archives of Mid-America, Comcast Women’s Conference, and countless business conferences and home shows. The Temple University graduate has also had a 20-year award-winning radio broadcast career in New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Atlanta. She turned her talent for talk into a flair for flipping houses, and helps others achieve financial freedom through her humanitarian association The Egypt Cares Family Foundation. ECFF allows Egypt to offer inspiring and constructive lectures, boot camps and seminars to educate both men and women about the importance of wealth preservation and home ownership. The foundation’s work has been very successful, earning her many Citations & Proclamations for community service from the State Assembly & City Council. Devoted mother, loving wife, respected entrepreneur and focused community advocate—Egypt is seamlessly using the power of television and the microphone to help others, all the while living her own life to the fullest.

She’s made recurring appearances as the real estate “go-to girl” on NBC’s Today Show, Good Morning America, CNBC, FOX, CNN, HLN as well as being featured in Rolling Stone, Black Enterprise, Fast Company, and a host of other magazines. Egypt is also the real estate columnist for Atlanta Magazine’s HOME.

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Jasmine Crowe/

Jennifer Lee-Harrison/

Black Celebrity Giving Chief Change Maker, Jasmine Crowe, hosedt a benefit dinner for teen survivors of Sex Trafficking in Atlanta, GA; in partnership with Wellspring Living with special celebrity guests Demetria McKinney and Terri Vaughn. In Atlanta, anywhere from 200300 girls that are trafficked each month with about 100 girls exploited every night, the numbers are huge. Statistics show these children are lured into this lifestyle at the age of 12, the typical girl is 14 on the street, and many times they’re runaways. They leave home because something is not healthy at home, leaving the child to look elsewhere for love. These kids are forced to sell themselves between eight and 12 times a night. Mary Frances Bowley who runs Wellspring Living says, “We know that they don’t get the money, and sometimes they are very deprived, sometimes drugged to stay awake so they can perform more.”

Jennifer Lee-Harrison is a dynamic business woman with over 18 years of experience as a thought provoking, motivating, business savvy leader with a proven track record for making things happen! In 2012, with her ingenuity and vision, partnered with Steve Harvey to build her multi-million-dollar brand with determination, passion and natural-born leadership skills. As the CEO of Perfect Hair International, she is the exclusive hair and beauty expert featured on the nationally syndicated radio show - the Steve Harvey Morning Show - several times a month. Her success on the radio show has opened the door to the Steve Harvey TV Talk Show! She is always the life of the show during her quarterly appearances. Jennifer provides women with tips on how to be their better selves by enhancing their look head to toe Just The Facts...

The 2nd Annual ‘To Live and Dream Again’ benefit dinner took place on December 9th, 2016 brought together powerful Atlanta women to encourage survivors to dream again! Atlanta’s women of power joined forces to wrap their arms full of love around the young ladies who have been victims of sex trafficking. The event kicked off with a pampering experience week where the young women were treated to manicures and pedicures, a shopping experience at Cupcake Mafia where they were styled by Mz. Skittlez and her team. Their hair was styled at Gocha salon, courtesy of Gocha Hawkins of LA Hair and enjoyed a skincare and make-up class with celebrity make-up artist Shenelle Mays-Smith! Jasmine Crowe, Founder of Black Celebs Giving says, “Last year I hosted the Inaugural “To Live and Dream Again” Benefit Dinner for teen survivors of sex trafficking in Atlanta. It was an evening I will never forget, my spirit was so full. Nothing was more important this past holiday season than giving back to those who have had so much taken from them. We have the power to change their lives and inspire them to dream beyond their past, knowing that everything they want is attainable.”

Jennifer’s commitment to education is obvious by her choice to attend Hampton University when she earned her Bachelors of Science as a marketing major. She understands the value of continued education and took it to the next level by earning her MBA at the highly accredited Robert Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland, She has 15 years of corporate experience, as a senior brand executive, working on building brands like Tommy Hilfiger and J-LO. She has generated over a billion dollars over the span of her career in Corporate America. Her partnership with Steve Harvey was established while Jennifer was the senior diversity marketing executive responsible for Steve’s partnership with Choice Hotels. She left corporate to capitalize on her entrepreneurial spirit, passion for beauty and style and extensive experience in marketing and brand to launch PHC. Jennifer shared her plan with Steve, who was extremely impressed, so he offered to be her business partner in her new endeavor and Perfect Hair Collection was formed! In her first year of business she generated over $1.2M in revenue and is currently working on an aggressive business expansion for 2016. She is launching private label hair extension lines in 2016 with Cynthia Bailey Luxury Wigs by Perfect Hair Collection and Lori Harvey (Steve Harvey’s daughter) Long and Lush Extensions. Her PHC Distributors and Consultant business has grown to over 200 consultants worldwide, with recent additions in Africa and the Caribbean. In 2015, she launched an all-natural hair care products line with her daughter, Ryan Harrison, who she calls the “KID CEO” and is grooming her to be a CEO plus a YouTube tutorial sensation. Jennifer is an active guest speaker and active participant in one of the country’s largest annual music festivals, Essence Music Festival.

Black Celebrity Giving

To become involved, be sure to find Jasmine Crowe of @blackcelebsgiving on social media.

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Owner of Perfect Hair Collection & Business Partner with Steve Harvey

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Raymond Tameka Raymond/ Business Mogul

Sometimes the eye gets so accustomed that if you don’t have a change, you’re bored. It’s the same with fashion, you know. And that, I suppose, is what style is about.” – Bill Blass 38 @impactmagazine

ehind every well-adorned star there stands a chic, trend-setting style expert that composes the modern looks we see on our favorite celebrities from their accessorized coifs to a perfectly matched pair of stiletto-heeled Louboutins. Shopping for the next style craze is just one of the many responsibilities that celebrity stylists such as Tameka Raymond juggles in a typical day of work. Tameka had aspirations to develop a career in the fashion industry as early as high school. Her goal was to become a buyer for major boutiques and to eventually have her own. However it was her Aunt Sadie who owned a consignment shop in Oakland, California called Eureka High Quality Clothiers, which first captured her imagination. Working in the shop with her older cousins, the young Tameka could be found tagging merchandise and steaming wrinkles before she was a teenager. Armed with a strong will to succeed and natural talent, Tameka attended the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) in 1994 as a Merch Marketing Major in Los Angeles, California. Her professional career began working in retail (as both salesperson and manager). She went on to work as a dresser for Giorgio Armani and other designer fashion shows while still attending FIDM. The resident Atlantan

is probably best known for propelling Lauryn Hill’s vintage haute couture look into the limelight, branding her as an international fashion icon.

Fate must have been working the day that Tameka happened to meet the soon to blossom Ms. Hill in an elevator circa 1995. After a Fed Ex mishap with the singer’s former stylist, Tameka got the chance of a lifetime and quickly offset her in a striking pastel pink skirt and matching wrap around top when she took to the stage to croon “Killing Me Softly” alongside Roberta Flack at the 1996 MTV Movie Awards. Lauryn snatched the sensational stylist and the rest is history. Tameka went on to establish Lauryn Hill as one of America’s top fashion forces and created a look that is still emulated by top designers worldwide. Tameka’s work with Lauryn Hill graced the covers of top magazines Harpers Bazaar, Esquire, GQ, Rolling Stone, Seventeen, People, Teen People, Source, Vibe and Details. She worked on The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill album packaging, music videos, performances, television appearances, U.S. and European Tours as well as a myriad of award shows.

Hearing about Tameka’s artistic and innovative style, she was eagerly recruited by another multi-platinum LaFace/Arista recording artist. She began working with Usher Raymond during the course of his third album, 8701 and became the fashion force behind his #1 hit videos “U Got it Bad” and “U Don’t Have to Call” which assisted in ricocheting his career. Since then, Tameka has been hooking Usher up in trendy gear for various Award Shows and TV promo appearances including The American Music Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, Dancing with the Stars, Jean Kelly Tribute/Movie Rocks, VH-1 Fashion Rocks, Teen Choice Awards and Jay Leno. Usher said of the celebrated stylist, “Tameka helped me craft a slick, clean look.” They went on to work together during the course of his fourth and fifth studio albums Confessions and Here I Stand where she outfitted him in even more chart topping videos “Yeah,” “Let it Burn,” “Moving Mountains,”“Confessions” and “Love in This Club.” Tameka paid tribute to haute couture king Valentino by putting the star in one of the Italian designer’s peacoats for the Presidential Inauguration Ball in honor of President Barack Obama.

As if those artistic ventures weren’t enough Tameka who strives to strike a perfect balance between family and career, has added philanthropist to her list of accolades. As with fashion, her community passions run just as strong, particularly her heartfelt devotion to nurturing children. With her foundation “Kiles World Foundation”, founded in 2013 in honor of her late son Kile Glover and the “Lost Ones Foundation” which targets young girls in at-risk environments between the ages of 12-18 years old, Tameka is earning the respect and affection of the community at large. Through these programs, she intends to motivate, empower and inspire the lives of these youngsters by having 4-5 day retreats, complete with positive image classes, health and beauty makeovers and testimonials.. Tameka also participates in Northern California’s Oakland Natives Give Back (ONGB) which annually donates backpacks of school supplies, shoes, bus passes to underserved children in Oakland’s communities.

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MoniBrodie Moni B. Cosmetics

oni has always had a love of makeup and started as a freelance makeup artist in her hometown of The Bronx, NY almost 20 years ago. After deciding to relocate due to a shift in the city after 9/11, Moni ended up in North Carolina. As her parents were from North Carolina she thought it would be an easy transition but, never considered there wasn’t much opportunity to work as a makeup artist. Moni never gave up her love of makeup and found herself often doing before & after makeup for family & friends. Tragedy struck in 2005 as she suddenly lost her father while expecting her son. A self-pro-claimed “Daddy’s Girl”, Moni poured her time and attention into raising her new baby and makeup took a back seat. Then again tragedy occurred as she suddenly lost her best friend and Mother in 2013. It was at this time Moni truly understood how life should not be taken for granted and decided to live each day as if it were her last. Never leaving her makeup roots behind, Moni once again began to work as a freelance makeup artist doing weddings, photoshoots and movies while building her dream of owning her own cosmetics line. At the end of 2014, Moni combined her love of makeup with her desire to be an entrepreneur and Moni B. Cosmetics was born.

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Now with her dream a reality, Moni strives to encourage women to be empowered and has even encouraged her son Bryce to be an entrepreneur as he has his own lip balm for boys and will soon debut SO FLY!, a scent created specifically for boys from 8-14. Moni B. Cosmetics, LLC is based in Raleigh, NC and features exciting lipglosses, bold lipstick colors, lip liners, and all natural lip scrubs. The brand has been adorned on the lips of Towanda Braxton of the legendary Braxton Family, health guru Bo Talley, R&B sensation Jasmine Sullivan, TV/movie actress Erika Alexander and more. With retail locations in both Raleigh and Durham, her brand is quickly becoming a household name in the area. In the fall of 2017, Moni B. will open a new venture, The Glam Boutique by Moni B. featuring her lip colors as well as other mostly black owned beauty brands. The Glam Boutique by Moni B. will also offer makeup services, brows, lashes, and more. Moni’s story is one of fearlessness, drive, and motivation and she encourages everyone to always reach for the stars.

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Javet LaNée

“Whether you’re a celebrity or not, I think we can all be queens and kings of the red carpet even if that carpet is in our own home or office.”

ocial Media superstar, check. Crowdfunding campaign strategist, double check. Single mother and mogul motivator with over 65,000 followers across all her social media platforms, a 6,000 member Facebook group, and still manages to pick her son up from school on time? Not only can you check those boxes, there’s no doubt that this Head Mogul in Charge is definitely changing the game! LaNée Javet is no stranger to hard work, prioritizing goals and reaching milestones. As the CEO and Founder of CulSire, the premier lifestyle, education, entertainment, and empowerment destination for people of color around the world, she has grown a following of close to 55,000. She successfully raised $10,000 in crowdfunding in her first attempt and her first website project (CulSire. com) reached 3 Million page views (from over 1 million visitors) in less than 7 months from its launch. With success like that, she’s made a name for herself in the business world among her peers who also wanted to reach those levels of success. Successes in that magnitude lead her to launch her second business, Mogulvation, where she coaches and trains startups and small business owners in the ways of operating their business like a mogul. She shows them specialized and tactful techniques she’s used to reach her own milestones in life and business. By using these mogul techniques, she is changing the way entrepreneurs execute their goals. Six months after launching Mogulvation, The Mogul Institute™ was born to aid in the pro-

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cess of training and educating entrepreneurs and features e-courses around business processes, strategies, planning, and best practices. LaNée Javet, known to her Mogul Tribe as the HMIC (Head Mogul in Charge) facilitates the operation of various projects, websites, social media campaigns, and multi-day events. In less than three years, she has become a social media superstar, crowdfunding strategist, mogul motivator, and a Milestone Mastery Coach. In other words, she knows a thing or two about starting and growing a business. LaNée believes that she can change the world by helping people plan and take action for a better life and business. All three of her businesses show how to produce the life you want, by inserting positive messages, imagery, people, and training. She teaches that everything you ever wanted is at your fingertips, and can be yours if you plan for it. The reason she believes this is because she’s done it time and time again, by setting milestones, that have redefined her in life and business. Her mission is to serve others that want to live their life reaching their milestones. She has launched a new campaign, #1MillionMilestones to show her commitment to her community, her colleagues, and the world, that it is possible to have it all! Why put off until tomorrow what you can have and do today!

Lisa Nicole Cloud/ Business Mogul & Television Personality

isa Nicole Cloud is a woman of passion, purpose, and vision. Lisa, a true multifaceted business mogul, has achieved phenomenal success as a direct sales expert, author, business & success coach, speaker, sales trainer, clothing designer, TV personality and philanthropist. Lisa is the CEO of several successful companies. Lisa is proof that through hard work, focus on personal development, and great mentorship, one can truly live the life they’ve always dreamt of. Lisa received her undergraduate education in Atlanta, Georgia at Emory University where she was a Psychology/Pre-Med major. She completed her graduate work at Johns Hopkins University where she successfully completed their prestigious Leadership Development Program. Lisa is a former pharmaceutical sales rep who is now known as “Ms. Millionaire Maker” for her accomplishments in the development of MLM Millionaires who have been personally coached and mentored by her! Lisa teaches her mentees how to turn their passions into profits and tap into the greatness that lies within us all. Lisa has greatly influenced the Industries of Direct Sales, Professional Networking, and Life Coaching over the past 15 years. Over the last several years, Lisa has conducted several hundred high-energy personal development leadership trainings and sales seminars throughout the US and abroad in which she impacted and trained tens of thousands of representatives. As a result of the success she experienced in Direct Sales, Lisa launched, The Lisa Nicole Collection, a luxury, high fashion, career wear collection for today’s businesswoman. The sleek designs of the Lisa Nicole Collection exude the power, class, and sophistication of today’s professional woman. Lisa is also in her third season on Bravo’s Married to Medicine reality show. Lisa’s storylines on the show include her life as a mother, devoted wife of Dr. Darren Naugles, clothing designer, business mogul and philanthropist. Lisa’s aim is to show the real life drama and struggles of today’s professional woman and be a positive example of a womanhood and sisterhood on reality TV. Lisa recently received the Lifetime Achievement Award for Volunteer Services from President Barack Obama and a Proclamation from the City of Atlanta from, City Council President Ceasar Mitchell for the positive work she does to positively impact the lives of others. She was also recently featured on the cover of The Atlanta Business Journal in a story titled, “Millionaire Mogul on the Move” and she received the 2013 CEO of the Year Award from The Georgia Minority Business Association as well as the Entrepreneur of the Year R.I.C.E. award (Rising in Community Excellence). Lisa is a devoted wife to Dr. Darren Naugles and is the loving mother of two beautiful children, DJ and Amira. #impactmagazine 45

Shun

Marlo P. Hampton/

Melson She Is FASHUN

Television Personality & Business Owner

arlo P. Hampton, best known for her appearances on season 4, 6, 8 and 9 of Bravos The Real Housewives of Atlanta and as the unforgettable bridesmaid on I Dream of NeNe, is quickly gaining traction as an international style expert and television personality. Marlo received a Bachelor of Arts from the College of Arts and Science in 2003 from the University of South Florida where she studied Social Work and Interdisciplinary Science. By 2008, Marlo and her signature style opened her first high-end fashion boutique (The Red Carpet Boutique) which catered to the who’s who of Atlanta’s elite. In 2015, she took her talents on the road, producing and hosting her own nationwide seminars called The Art of Style, which allowed attendees to get up close and personal with Marlo as she provided personal style tips, revealed celebrity fashion secrets and interacted face-to-face with her fans in cities around the country. A little known fact about Marlo is that she is a prolific giver. Every year she increases her philanthropic efforts to many causes, but one of the most near and dear to her heart is her own Glam It UP! Project, which she founded to encourage young girls, ages 13-17, in foster care to pursue excellence in all their endeavors, despite the challenges of their current circumstance. And, every holiday season Marlo spearheads her Simply Giving Initiative, which provides Thanksgiving meals and Christmas presents to families in need. Always accessible to her fans, in May 2016 Marlo launched the digital segment “Ask Marlo” where she answers fan mail via up close and personal videos posted to her Youtube channel and social media pages (i.e., Instagram Twitter, and Facebook). In November 2016 she announced the Marlomoji, a line of custom emoji’s for sale via iMessenger and the Apple APP store. Marlo is currently in production with several new television pilots, and continues to increase her branded merchandise offerings available on her website, www.marlohampton.com.

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n icon in her own right, you can’t pronounce celebrity stylist Shun Melson’s name without saying the word fashion; she is FaSHUN. Shun has become somewhat of a modern day superwoman, swooping in and transforming her clients from best-dressed list unknowns to media darlings. Shun boasts a diverse clientele ranging from reality TV ‘it girls’ such as Kim Zolciak-Biermann, Phaedra Parks and Tameka “Tiny” Harris, to Grammy and Academy award winning entertainers Ledesi, Monica, Fantasia, Ludacris, Jennifer Hudson, Fred Hammond, Marvin Sapp, and Tyler Perry. The fashion maven also counts a number of artists (gospel, r&b, rap), professional athletes, housewives and business executives as clients, which explains her often used #NeverNotWerkin hashtag. The trendsetter does more than improve her clients’ style; she helps improve their lives and careers. “My goal is to keep my client’s focused on their business at hand whether that is a promotional tour, game, concert, business meeting or just having more quality family time. I eliminate the stress of them doing any of the legwork to look polished and feel fantastic.” Shun, who started her career working in highend retail, knows how to provide outstanding customer service and put all the details together. She provides wardrobe assessment consulting, closet organization, shopping assistance, personalized look development, personal fittings, cross-country shipping, outfit snapshots for effortless dressing and packs each item with meticulous instructions. Shun is also notorious for scouring the globe to procure a specific item upon a client’s request and she does so with a

smile. “I’ve been told that I handicap my customers,” says the proud clotheshorse. “They’ll tell me ever since they hired me they can’t even walk into their closets, a store or go on a trip without contacting me first.” An Atlanta native, where she resides with her two young sons, Shun turns just as many heads as her loyal protégés. As a result she launched FaSHUN 101 classes, introductory courses on the basic principles behind the styling business where she travels the country spreading the magic secrets to her success. In 2013, the fashion maven introduced her FaSHUN apparel line that consists of everyday basics such as t-shirts, hoodies, jogging pants and hats with clever hashtag quotes she is known to use on her social media platforms like #luvthystylist, #luvthyhaters and #stylist. Shun’s portfolio of work has been profiled in People, In Touch Weekly, Rolling Stone, Essence, XXL, Billboard, Spin, BET and VH1. Additional features include Oprah, The Wendy Williams Show, Regis and Kelly, American Idol, The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Wrestle Mania, The Grammy’s and Soul Train Awards, to name just a few. Shun has also made cameo appearances on network television including Bravo’s The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Don’t Be Tardy for the Wedding and Don’t Be Tardy. The ultimate tastemaker, Shun will continue to expand her FaSHUN brand in an effort to make the world a more stylish place. “Whether you’re a celebrity or not, I think we can all be queens and kings of the red carpet even if that carpet is in our own home or office.” #impactmagazine 47

Oliver

Whitehead

Kim

Talia

The Shaderoom and Author of Not Your Mother’s Closet

11 years old, Talia Oliver received a journal from her mother who encouraged her to write down all of her thoughts, ideas and experiences. As any of you can imagine, preteen rebellion kicked in and she refused her mother’s wishes! Later, this young lady would realize that her mother was inadvertently trying to set her up for a writing career.

Oliver grew up very introverted throughout her childhood and instead of using that journal to document her truest thoughts and feelings, she sought comfort in singing and playing sports. Writing always seemed to play a background role in her life. Always enrolled in advanced creative writing classes and excelling in them, the young lady never thought of herself as a writer, much less entertained becoming one. In high school, the cool thing to be was an athlete, so that title was what she would spend her entire high school and college career chasing. As fate would have it, being an athlete didn’t work out, because it just wasn’t meant to be! God has an interesting way of reminding us that our steps are already ordered and that His plan is set for a reason. When Oliver left college, she would spend the next 4 years trying to figure out what exactly God’s plan was for her since being an athlete was definitely not it. The young woman had pretty much hit rock bottom near the end of 2014 after so many years of trial and error, merely hanging onto what little faith she had left. That is, until one day, she read the Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25 and understood that she needed to make use of her natural gifts and talents before she lost them! 48 @impactmagazine

The following year, Oliver tried her hand at writing and recording music while she searched for a job that allowed her to use other natural gifts and talents. In February 2015, she learned that a woman named Angie needed help with her blog called The Shade Room and was offered an internship. Oliver never really expected to enjoy her new “writing job,” but month after month, as she produced story after story, a new gift had presented itself--one she never realized she had! For almost two years now, Talia O. has worked tirelessly with her coworkers to establish and demand respect for the Shade Room brand. From starting with The Shade Room when it was only a few months old to witnessing how much the publication has accomplished in such a short amount of time encouraged Talia O. to dream bigger! The only thing that was stopping her from becoming super successful was her way of thinking. So, in addition to curating articles, interviewing celebrities and attending countless industry events on behalf of The Shade Room, Talia O. registered an LLC and opened her first online clothing store called Not Your Mother’s Closet. During the summer, she began writing her book “Will Write For Food: Experiencing Rejection & How It Ultimately Strengthened My Faith In God” which was published in October. Not to mention, all of this was done while she was pregnant! Through the connections she makes in the entertainment industry, prayerfully, Talia hopes to be granted the opportunity to share her wisdom and experiences with those who are seeking to become the best versions of themselves.

Award-winning CEO of LuxDreamGroup and the founder of Demand The Dream, which produces The Dream Principles onlinecourse seriesas royal heirs in God’s kingdom.

im Whitehead is The Dream Strategist TM. She is the award-winning CEO of LuxDreamGroup and the founder of Demand The Dream, which produces The Dream Principles online course series, in-person workshops and publications designed to help men and women manifest the full potential of the talents and gifts bestowed upon them as royal heirs in God’s kingdom. She is the author of the 5-star rated book, Give Me The Fairytale: Reawaken Your Dreams for an Extraordinary Life. Kim is also an experienced patent and trademark attorney. For almost 15 years, she has held licensure in the District of Columbia Bar and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Kim received her engineering degree in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania and her Juris Doctor from Georgetown University Law Center. Although no longer in full-time legal practice, Kim still consults with entrepreneurs and companies on protecting the works they create. She helps them build and monetize their intellectual property portfolios through her law practice, IP-Advantage. By day, Kim is a Management Consultant and Certified Information Privacy Manager. She advises executives and managing partners of the world’s premiere

law firms and corporations on information governance, global data privacy, electronic discovery and legal technology, and is a recognized thought leader and national speaker on these topics. In 2016, Kim was recognized as one of Atlanta’s Influential Leading Ladies. She has been profiled in Who’s Who in American Law® and Who’s Who in America®. She was featured in the published book “Profiles and Essays of Successful African-American Law School Applicants” and was chosen to share a snippet of her life story in the published book “Hear Us Roar! 28 Stories of Everyday Women Leading Extraordinary Lives.” In memory of a dear sister-friend, Kim recently served on the board of the National Blood Clot Alliance, a 501(c)(3) organization. Under her leadership, LuxDreamGroup is a community partner of the Atlanta Children’s Shelter. Her friends, family, and close colleagues jokingly call Kim the “Game Changer”. She is the one they can count on to listen to their goals and collaborate with them on their plans. Kim believes that there is a demand that we must place for our dreams to come true, and to enable the inherent power that we all possess to transform our lives.

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Dr. Myla/ Certified Plastic Surgeon

Dawn W.

Dickson/ Innovator, Flat Out Of Heels

oard certified plastic surgeon, speaker, beauty preservation strategist, and business mogul Doctor Myla Bennett Powell is the founder of PreserveYourPretty.com and has become one of the most sought after female plastic surgeons on the east coast. A graduate of The Ohio State University Medical Center, Dr. Myla specializes in aesthetic surgery of the face and body, as well as, non-surgical facial rejuvenation. In addition, Dr. Myla’s expertise extend to body contouring, breast surgery, tummy tuck and liposuction. She has made it her mission to gain exposure to cutting edge products, treatments, and surgical procedures to prevent, slow down, and even reverse the signs of aging. Featured in both national and international publications and networks including, Single and Living Fab, Black America Web, NBC, The Tom Joyner Morning Show, Radio One, and many more, Dr. Myla continues to strive to become a household name through national recognition.

awn W. Dickson is a serial entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in marketing and business development. She launched three successful cash flow positive companies since 2002, her most recent ventures Flat Out of Heels, LLC and Solutions Vending International (SVI) in April 2011 after identifying a need to create a product to provide women with convenient relief after hours of wearing high heels.

A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Dr. Myla is one of six children raised in a single parent home. After high school she completed undergraduate studies at University of Michigan in Ann Arbor where she earned a B.S. in Biology. She then returned to Ohio to complete medical school at The Ohio State University College of Medicine where she became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. After completion of surgical training Dr. Myla accepted a position with Reid Hospital in Richmond, IN where she started the Allure Center for plastic surgery. After 3 years there and completion of her contract, she opted to venture out on her own and start her own private practice in plastic surgery.

A recognized leader in entrepreneurship and digital marketing, Dawn is featured in Who’s Who in Black Columbus, Who Who’s in Black Atlanta, honored as one of Legacy Miami’s Top 40 Under 40 Leaders in South Florida, and listed among the ‘50 Young Visionary Women Leaders to Watch in 2015’ by Innov8tiv Magazine. Dawn is a member of the Miami Dade Chamber of Commerce, and currently sits on the boards of Fashion Inspires More and the Nelson Foundation where she can continue her life’s passion of working with women and underrepresented entrepreneurs.

Dawn has received numerous awards and accolades for her business savvy and pitching skills, recently being awarded second place in the 2016 SBA InnovateHer Challenge. As an entrepreneur Dawn has been invited to speak on numerous panels and workshops and featured in countless media outlets including Forbes, Huffington Post, Essence Magazine, The Miami Herald, Ebony.com, Women’s World Daily, CNBC/ Yahoo series ‘The Biz Fix’ with Marcus Lemonis, and MSNBC ‘Your Biz’ Elevator Pitch.

A native of Columbus, Ohio, Dawn received her B.A. in Journalism from The Ohio State University, she currently resides in Miami, FL with her 12-year-old daughter, Nia.

As a wife and mother to Bennett and Bradley, Dr. Myla currently resides in Johns Creek, Georgia where she is preparing for the grand opening of her private practice, Ederra Bella Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa, PC. Dr. Myla is currently accepting invitations to speak on panels, expo’s, seminars, and conferences. For all inquiries contact PRTeam@epimediagroup.com

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Ebony Steele Radio Personality

bony Steele is one of the greatest multimedia personalities in entertainment today. Ebony was a major driving force behind the Rickey Smiley Morning Show’s growth into national syndication, quickly becoming the fastest growing morning show in the country. As a woman who was not known to the rest on her laurels, Ebony went on to conquer television. Making appearances on CNN, VH1, Fox and countless others, reaching millions of loyal fans. After winning a very intense battle with breast cancer, Ebony joined the Susan G. Komen for the Cure as a Circle Of Promise national ambassador, helping millions of African American women find the strength to win their own battles. In addition, Ebony devotes her time to mak-

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ing countless appearances for the organization, as well as spearheading viral marketing campaigns to raise breast cancer awareness which includes annual live events that are anything but conventional. Her efforts have raised millions of dollars for breast cancer research.

If you’re looking for her on the radio, you can find Ebony as the anchor of The Syndicated Afternoon show on The Afternoon Rush featuring Loni Swain and Michael Colyar. As a voiceover artist, her voice work is responsible for millions of dollars in sales for major brands like Walmart, Verizon, or the SyFy channel. The former Miss Gulf Coast Alabama and Miss Tuskegee is a very successful entrepreneur, owning and operating the largest African American owned dance studio in Alabama, The Ebony Arrington Dance Studio.

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Simmons

Tamra

TV & Talent Producer

new currency now widely recognized as ROR, or return on relationships. Cultivating healthy relationships around the globe, Simmons’ premiere startup, RMG, was expanding honorably to meet customer needs. In less than 24 months their dashboard included market research, data analysis, media training, branding, crisis management, and bleeding edge content creation. By summer 2012, Simmons’ personal brand and company had become a trendsetting powerhouse. Revitalized Marketing Group was among the first to initiate insight as-a-service with consistent monthly reporting to ensure consistency, effectiveness, and success of client brands.

uxury branding and entertainment executive Tamra Simmons is on the fast track to earning her place among iconic media moguls. In 2011, Simmons introduced dynamic and aggressive methods of marketing that essentially gave her first company, Revitalized Marketing Group an ineluctable presence in and outside the digital space. RMG’s rapid growth and over the top service made Simmons one of the most sought after marketers from Miami to Dubai. Implementing powerful influencer strategies, Simmons’ focus across departmental lines began shaping something greater than ROI at a time when return on investment was the key focus of the market. With consistent monitoring of social media channels and tech trends, Simmons quickly found her company ranking among industry leaders as she introduced a powerful

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Leaving nothing to chance, Simmons took RMG a step further by educating her clients’ personnel to establish and maintain ambassador networks across key social media sites. Interested in her ideas, clients and other media professionals were now bidding for creative direction from this stylish marketing expert that was taking Atlanta by storm. Simmons stock was rising by the hour. Embracing the bounty God had placed before her; Simmons amplified her service stack, and launched an international firm called The Tamra Simmons Brand Agency under which she provides a prestigious pool of services, and a transparent bridge between major networks and opportunities for talent. As a Talent Agent/Director, TV Producer, and Casting Director secures work for actors, authors, film directors/producers, musicians, models, professional athletes, writers, screenwriters, broadcast journalists, and many other roles throughout entertainment and broadcast media. Expanding in markets from software to fashion, Simmons is irrefutably molding her status as a media mogul. As The TSB Agency’s presence grows both domestic and abroad, so does the resume of its’ CEO. Continuing to diversify her professional portfolio, Simmons is also brokering deals with investors and developers in luxury real estate. Implementing her professional foresight, Simmons expansive operation is a gem in the recruitment industry and beyond.

Cynthia Gooding/ The Connoisseur Of Wellness

ynthia “Msprity” Gooding is a consummate dream chaser. Her passions are health, wealth and wellness. Her moniker’s acronym meaning Mission Statement Personal Right to be In To You and is the driving force of her businesses. A nurturer by nature and a nurse with over 20 year’s experience, her first business was founded in 2006 when she decided to start her company Msprity Spa Luxuries, a vegan skin and hair company. This skincare has been featured in celebrity events at BET, Essence Music Festival and Martha’s Vineyard. She was recognized by Martha Stewart as a Made in America nominee and in 2015 won the Best of Baltimore for Beauty and Personal Care. In March 2016 she was on the Dr. Oz show talking about her many uses of coconut oil, especially in her products. In 2011, Cynthia opened Serenity Wellness Studio, a healthy lifestyle consortium. It offers spa, fitness and well-

ness classes, products and services to care for the whole individual. In 2014 her wellness studio was recognized by CBS local as one of the top 3 spas in Baltimore. In 2014 she added a personal training studio, Healthy Evolution, which is run by her husband, a Master Level Personal Trainer and CPR Instructor. Knowing that if you look good you feel good, Msprity started a fashion boutique with handmade jewelry and positive imagery Glamtees, sustainable fabric clothes and accessories that also includes a lash and brow bar. Fondly called Fashion Spa House whose slogan is “A girl should be two things: Glam and Pampered”. Her latest business venture is Better Business Collective where she assist new and established business owners to do business better, as she proudly exclaims to be a Functionality Expert. #impactmagazine 55

Kachelle Kelly/ Best Selling Author

achelle Kelly is founder of Kachelle Kelly International, Inc., a small business & empowerment coaching firm. Kachelle utilizes her creativity and candor as she coaches career driven women & men to not only activate their hustle but faith by providing them with innovative ideas, strategies, resources and empowerment to achieve authentic success, profitability, peace and happiness in their business and life. Her coaching clients rave about her ability to not only understand them and their struggles but their businesses; knowing exactly how to be “real” in sharing a step-by-step plan to grow their businesses online and offline. Kachelle empowers others to “Activate Your Hustle”, encouraging them to actively go after their dreams and visions by eliminating distractions; adopting best business practices to be successful. In addition to being a Certified Life Coach and Certified Compass Spiritual Coach, Kachelle draws on her 18-year background of helping corporations and individuals excel. An accomplished administrator, marketer, and frequently sought-after speaker, she is known for her ability to help organizations and individuals reach higher levels of success. Kachelle’s impressive list of brand marketing clients includes Moet Chandon, Proctor & Gamble, Dr. Pepper, Wachovia Bank, and NEXTEL. She previously exhibited her strong business acumen as the Territory Manager for an International weight loss company, managing the operations and staff in the greater Houston area. She coached, trained, and developed over 100 service providers, while leading area meetings that encourage members through their weight-loss journey. Weight loss coaching is not included in Kachelle’s services nor is KKI affiliated with any weight loss companies.

high schools and universities across the country to motivate teens to make the right decisions, stay in school, and excel in life. Kachelle’s first book, Pretty Painful, is a motivational work that offers new hope to women everywhere, encouraging them to find lasting beauty within. Kachelle’s second literary work, Boss Women Pray & Boss Men Pray: 31 Prayers to Increase Your Success & Spirit is a comprehensive prayer guide for entrepreneurs and those in leadership. Boss Women & Men Pray is an international movement seeking to bridge the gap between succeeding in business while nurturing the spirit. As a member, she has been previously selected by the National Association for Professional Women’s Texas Chapter as “Woman of the Year” for her superb Coaching and Consulting skills. She is also a columnist for several business publications sharing tips and strategies to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses. Kachelle has begun an international “Dream. Pray. Hustle.” movement online as well, encouraging others to go after their dreams by eliminating distractions, adopting a “healthy” hustle and best practices to be successful. Also, she is the creator of the “Activate Your Hustle and Faith with Kachelle Kelly” podcast, sharing weekly tips, empowerment and strategies to build your business and spirit. Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes! Boss Men Pray & Boss Women Pray also available on Amazon Kindle & iTunes. The City of Houston has proclaimed Kachelle with her very own annual day in the city, Boss Pray Day, beginning August 25, 2015! Kachelle holds a Bachelor in Biblical Counseling from The College of Biblical Studies and a Certification in Christian Counseling. She resides in Pearland, Texas.

Kachelle empowers others to “Activate Your Hustle”, encouraging them to actively go after their dreams and visions by eliminating distractions.”

Kachelle Kelly

As a former certified speaker with Monster.com’s Making It Count programs, she has traveled to

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Shatan McRae-Thompson/ Tan’s Tasty Cakes LLC

hatan McRae-Thompson is the proud owner, & head baker of Tan’s Tasty Cakes LLC of Hamilton Square, New Jersey, established in 2012. She is a self taught baker, with over 14 years baking experience. She first discovered her love and passion for baking, at the age of 17, when she took her first home economics class. Shatan worked in the medical field for almost 17 years, before she decided to step out on faith, & follow her passion and love for baking. After months of perfecting her recipes, Shatan started a web based cupcake business, where she attended several local vending events, where she first gained attention for her amazing baked goods, not wanting to travel back and forth to rented commercial kitchen space. She started her search for a store front. After searching for months, she found the ideal location, & Tan’s Tasty Cakes LLC was born. Shatan has gone on to compete on Food Network’s Cupcake Wars (Breeders’ Cup episode), coming in 2nd place. She then went on to compete on Cooking Channels hit show Sugar Showdown

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(Princess cupcake episode), taking home the win, & becoming a Sugar Showdown Champion. She has appeared on several major networks such as, 6 ABC FYI Philly, Fox 29 Morning News, Fox Chasing News, & will appear on a upcoming episode of Food Network’s Diners, Drive Ins, & Dives, hosted by celebrity chef Guy Fieri. Shatan continues to build and grow her brand, and customer following, through her delicious gourmet made from scratch dessert creations. Keeping her customer’s up to date on all of here delectable treats, through social media. Shatan has plans to expand to a 2nd location, where she will add soul food to here expanding menu. Shatan was born in Trenton NJ, and currently resides in Mercerville NJ, with her husband, & three children. Shatan can be contacted at www.tanstastycakes.com Twitter: www.twitter.com/tanstastycakes www.facebook.com/tannycakes www.instragram.com/tanstastycakes

The Musicians’ Wives™ The Musicians’ Wives™ is a group of dynamic, innovative women committed to encouraging, uplifting and providing support for women who are connected to the entertainment industry. The ladies have a passion for uniting women from all walks of life. This event is essential to them due to wanting to provide insight to women about the entertainment industry. The Musicians’ Wives consists of Founder of The Musicians’ Wives, Brandi Jackson, Diane Tribitt, Greta Jordan Williams, Kanita Turner, Sonya Early, and Sheila Moore-Piper. The group describes themselves as the wives of some of the most talented musicians in the Houston area. Women who each working hard to achieve success in their own respective expertise which range from real estate to playwright.

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