Bold Favor Magazine – June 2015

JUNE 2015

F AV O R

THE FUTURE FAVORS THE BOLD! BOLDFAVORMAGAZINE.COM

BOLD AWARD WINNER, ROWENA SILVERA BECK And other BOLD Award honorees.

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ARE YOU READY FOR MARRIAGE?

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in this issue | june 2015 06

EFFORTLESS STYLE

FILTHY CHIC

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TOAK-EN STYLE

DESIREE & ERIN GREEN

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BOOK REVIEW: MENTAL TOUGHNESS STEPHANIE SANDERS TRAVELS CONTINUE JULES NOBLES

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AMERICAN GIRL PARISIAN WRLD

RUE CLARK

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DESTINATION RESTORATION

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LULU JOHNSON

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PRICELESS TALENT

DENISHA

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BEST KEPT SECRET

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ADVOCACY IS STILL RELEVANT

SHANA THORNTON

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DARE TO HELP THE HOMELESS

ALBERTA LAMPKINS

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THE WATER WALKER

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THE BARRIO

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RAW & REAL

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TINY DOCS TO THERESCUE!

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MOUNTAINS OF FAITH

LINDA HOARD

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BOLDFAVOR MAGAZINE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MANAGING EDITOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR VIDEOGRAPHER PHOTOGRAPHER MAKEUP ARTIST

LYNITA MITCHELL-BLACKWELL EBONY HILLSMAN JODECI RICHARDS TYRA BREAUX JOSH E. MARTIN ELIZABETH ST. JOHN-HALL

JUNE2015 MAGAZINE CONTRIBUTORS LYNITA MITCHELL-BLACKWELL KEELIA ASBURY TAMRA ASBURY RUE CLARK WILLIAM R. CO OK DESIREE & ERIN GREEN

PAUL S. GRIEVE DEBORAH HIGHTOWER LINDA HOARD LULU JOHNSON ALBERTA LAMPKINS SHANA THORNTON

AR E Y OU I N T R I G U ED B Y B O L D FAV O R MAGAZINE? WOULD YOU LIKE TO CONTRIBUTE TO, ADVERTISE IN, OR SIMPLY COMMENT ON OUR PUBLICATION? HERE’S HOW YOU CAN!

CA LL: 866 • 61 1 • 3 753 EMAIL: INFO @LE AD I N G T H ROUG H L I V I N G .C OM VISIT: BO LDFAV ORM AG AZI N E.C OM

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LETTER FROM THE

EDITOR LY N I TA M I T C H E L L- B L A C K W E L L

This fifth issue of BOLD Favor Magazine is especially dear to my heart, as the release date celebrates two major milestones in our young history: the one year anniversary of our official launch party and the announcement of the first BOLD Award recipients who will be honored June 28th. Our magazine has had the honor of working with world-class writers, photographers, and BOLD advocates to bring to light issues that impact our global community. It is now our pleasure to recognize some of these wonderful people on Sunday,

June 28th during an intimate celebration in suburban Atlanta. Our cover, Reverend Rowena Silvera Beck, is one of 10 recipients of the BOLD Awards; to view the brief write ups on the other awardees, read our feature.

It is most fitting that our theme this month is Empowered Style, as it entails not only culture, fashion, and beauty; but also self-care

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and self-love—major celebrations of the “wonder and wow” of our BOLD inner selves. Enjoy reviews of beautiful Paris and divine South Florida as travel destinations; be reminded of the importance of advocacy work and mental toughness in our complicated world; be inspired to build a business empire with our profiled entrepreneurs; and delight in the fashion and beauty worlds of two upcoming fashion weeks.

May you be emboldened to ask for all you want, know that you are empowered with the resources to properly manage it, and constantly believe that you are “all that” and then some.

The future favors the BOLD. Be fearless!

Lynita

Lynita Mitchell-Blackwell, Esq., CPA, CCLC Editor-in-Chief

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effortless

STYLE ANY DAY

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n a perfect world every woman would wake up and the perfect chicest outfit, with all the right accessories, would magically appear and off we would go about our day. Sounds great, but we do not live in a perfect world, and we actually have to put some effort into our wardrobe.

Every woman wants to look her best, but sometimes it can be discouraging when you may not know how to style a certain clothing item. Creating an effortless style may sound intimidating, but we have a few tricks that may help you along the way.

Nature Calls Creating a wardrobe with a neutral palette allows for versatile combinations in outfit options. Think hues of black, white, navy, gray, blush, and cream. You can mix and match and it automatically alludes to an extremely chic look.

ADD-ccesorize With a neutral-palette outfit base, sprinkling in a bold accessory not only adds chicness, but interest to the outfit. Bold accessories are not 6

limited to statement necklaces and scarves. Depending on your agenda for the day, a turban, a unique wrist cuff, or a cute headband are all key pieces that can add style to any outfit.

Put it in the bag!

We love a structured bag. Whether it is a large handheld or a small satchel, adding a great color or print is a must. Try mint, coral, or floral print; or go more subtle with a blush color. A bright and fun structured bag helps to pull your outfit together and ensures a chic look.

Daring Shoe Wearing a daring shoe will leave them talking as you walk away. A great stacked heel, gladiator or platform shoe is the final touch to your chic look. Being that your outfit is within a neutral palette, a textured print such as crocodile, or snake in a neutral or bright color will add variety.

Follow these four tips, and creating your personal style will always be effortless! n Filthy Chic

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For consultations and workshops, contact Ms. Knight she’sunlimited.com 470-315-2150

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style

hat do twins, fashion shows, and pamper parties have in common? w Desiree and Erin Green, founders and mentors of non-profit Twin of a Kind Foundation (TOAK). These incredible women are out to share their self-described innovative youth-based brand and foundation.

TOAK empowers and mentors youth and young adults to reach their highest potential and become more productive and confident individuals—those who dare to take risks. Even TOAK’s visual identity reflects its mission; the bright, colorful palette conveys a powerful message of boldness, dynamism, ease, and professional poise.

TOAK educates youth in everything from general life skills, antibullying, human trafficking, and conquering self-doubt, to the difference between self-confidence and self-esteem, overcoming a fearful life, and taking risks. Desiree and Erin use their “dynamic twin factor” for motivational speaking and mentoring because it not only gains audiences’ immediate attention, but it also focuses that attention on the message.

TOAK engages the community and millennials using several platforms.

Because fashion best showcases the TOAK motto—”Why fit in when you were born to stand out!”—it has partnered with Georgia Peach Fashion Week 2015 in Atlanta, Georgia. From June 11-13, all walks of life will come together to celebrate entertainment, community, exclusivity, and (of course) love of fashion. TOAK is particularly excited about The Black & White Celebrity Walk Off—celebrities strutting for a cause—as all proceeds will benefit the Foundation.

All proceeds from TOAK platforms are directed to its projects to benefit youth, and are tax-deductible under IRC 501(c)(3). The Foundation is committed to youth empowerment, and always needs sponsors and supporters. Contact TwinOfAKind.org.

Also visit GeorgiaPeachFashionWeek.com and PrettyGirlRetreat.com for more information.

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Another of TOAK’s platforms is the Pretty Girl Retreat (PGR), which Desiree and Erin founded to foster healthy self-esteem. The retreats empower and pamper women and girls in an ultimate diva-themed experience. As a mobile spa and fashion party service, PGR is uniquely positioned to make every girlfriend get together meaningful and fulfilling—as well as glamorous and fun.

With the community on their side and a spirit for changing lives, TOAK is fashionably, fearlessly, and ferociously doing just that.

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s a seasoned travel professional (and self-proclaimed TrypChyck), I love it when a client wants to go somewhere I’ve personally visited— like Paris. Because I’ve spent time there, I’m able to debunk myths and clue you into some of the local flavor. And ensure that you not only thoroughly enjoy your journey, but have an even better experience than I. Fact vs Fiction “They hate Americans”! This alleged sentiment has been repeated so many times that it’s become as much an urban legend as Bloody Mary appearing in your darkened bathroom mirror.

Truth is, Parisians are a friendly and gregarious lot. They love life and believe that Paris is the most beautiful place on earth, full of the most beautiful people on earth. The fashion, the food, the monuments, the culture... Their native tongue is a romance language for God’s sake.

With so much fabulosity coursing through the rues, the Proud Parisian is puzzled by the bewildered American Tourist who insists the locals English. So, while you’re eating your Big Mac in those darned Crocs, say, “Bonjour.” And don’t forget to say se il vous plait (please), and merci (thank you).

Walk like an Egyptian, but shop like a Parisian.

The Champs-Elysees is where visitors worldwide come to shop when visiting Paris. But just for miles west of Paris—just hop on a bus at the Arc de Triomphe to get there in 10 minutes— is Neuilly-sur-Seine. It’s an affluent area with beautiful homes and apartments, and shopping there will make you feel like Alice in Wonderland.

The Place du Marche’ in Neuilly-sur-Seine is an open-air market full of merchants touting everything you can imagine—from clothing, jewelry, linen, purses, and other accessories to pastries, fresh breads, veggies, and wine—all for phenomenal prices.

You now know some of the whos, whats, and wheres, so is it time to squirrel away your pennies? Keep these two cents in mind when planning your visit to The City of Lights—Paris, France. Au revoir. n Rue Clark, The TrypChyck

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D N R R

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e all get caught up in our day-to-day schedules. Appointments, deadlines, career goals, family—it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the stress of managing it all. So, it’s imperative that we take time for ourselves and “get away from it all” to restore peace of mind.

When I’d faced my own anxiety-inducing daily life, I wondered where I could find such a place. I knew I needed to find peace, and realized it was tranquility that I longed for, a sense of calmness that comes over me when I feel a sudden level of peacefulness. And I realized that I equate tranquility and peace to one place—South Florida.

I began my love affair with South Florida years ago. As soon as I’d arrived, my love was forever solidified by the beauty and tranquility resting beyond the shores of the beach. Florida is replete with incredible views, palm trees, and impeccable beaches stretching from the beautiful islands in Key West to the white sands of Palm Beach. My ultimate search for serenity led me to the gorgeous Delray Beach area.

I instantly felt this city’s warmth of friendly smiles that filled the atmosphere with a sense of joy. That same sense had earned it the titles of “Best of the Road” and “Most Fun Small Town in America” by Rand McNally and USA Today, respectively. And I found exactly what I was looking for—restoration—while meeting some beautiful people.

When I left, I felt refreshed and ready to return to my wonderful life, for Delray Beach had given me perspective. The day-to-day no longer seemed hectic and unmanageable, and I am grateful to this wonderful city for granting me peace. n Lula Johnson

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priceless talent

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ecording artist, songwriter, minister, intercessor, and savvy business woman, Debra M. Price, started singing at a very young age. She brings a soulful, urban upbeat, jazzy worship blend of inspiring uplifting music.

This anointed songstress just completed her sophomore album titled “Transform Me, The Soul of a Woman.” This album translates the

importance of knowing who you are and valuing the Masterpiece you were created to be. Debra is in Great Expectations this year because she found her true voice and she is letting the world hear it.

Debra has been featured in Change and Mackie magazines, “Dream Out Loud,” and various

Actress Denisha Hardeman is no stranger to finding her way and following her passion.

The Houston native knew she wanted to be an actress from an early age – and was able to begin chasing her dream when she signed with her first agency in college. Soon after, Denisha was selected as an extra in the Oscar-winning film Django Unchained, where she met

Radio stations and Indie blogs. Debra’s single, “I Need You,” is featured in the soon-to -bereleased major movie Fatherless and she also received from South Carolina INFERNO Awards show awards for “New Song of the Year” and “R&B Artist of the Year.”

Book Debra M. Price at debramprice.com.

debut. Denish then began casting and producing alongside Parker for productions including The White Sistas, which was featured on TV One’s Hollywood Divas.

Leveraging her experience and success with Parker, Denisha wrote her first feature film, 8 Lanes, a story loosely based on her own life running track in college where she endured abuse, sexual assault, and depression. The film is in pre-production and will begin filming in October, while the book of the same name was released in May. Out of her experience also came her charity, Un-Hushed Foundation.

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Quentin Tarantino and Samuel L. Jackson, who encouraged her to pursue acting.

To do just that, Denisha moved to Los Angeles to attend The New York Film Academy. That’s when she met fellow actress Paula Jai Parker.

Parker mentored Denisha, which spurred her to cast Denisha as the lead role in her directorial

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Denisha is a show-stopper who shows no signs of stopping. She just finished her first horror film Black Magick, co-wrote the comedy Blazin, and has several projects coming, including two romantic comedies and an allfemale action drama set to shoot this year.

Watch for more from Denisha to see where else her passion will take her.

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ne thing you can almost always hear Traci “Traci J” Jefferson saying: O “If no one else in this world believes you are beautiful, YOU must believe it!” She tells friends, she tells customers and audiences, she even tells herself. That’s how she became the Trendsetter in entrepreneurship, motivational speaking, and philanthropy. By believing in herself.

Traci began her career doing hair in the kitchen as a teenager in Eatonton, Georgia. A young mother of two by the time she was 21, Traci credits her sister with pushing her to get out of the kitchen, past her circumstances, and to obtain her certification—not just for herself, but for her children.

She’s now the founder and CEO of Trendsetters Beauty Salon in Valley, Alabama, with a loyal client following (85% of her clientele has been with her for over 10 years).

Traci’s also parlayed her love for fashion and beauty into Graphic Tees by Traci J—trendy t-shirts that can be purchased at stylesbytracij.com. She even produces an annual showcase: Best Kept Secret (BKS), which features local talent in its fashion show, styling and glamour display, makeup, and true “red carpet” media.

Now, Traci shares her expertise and life experiences to inspire personal and professional growth and success. She’s the founder and President of TDZ Elite Women Organization, and non-profit in which she mentors young women to embrace their natural beauty and serves the community. And she empowers people through her blog and speaking engagements about the importance of loving one’s self and seeing one’s own inner beauty.

And while, by man’s standards, she has reached the pinnacle of success, Traci continues to strive for more so she may use all that God has given her to be a blessing to others. She is ever watchful and expectant of the wonders that God has yet in store.

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BOOK REVIEW

RATING:

Imagine going to work every day with the certain knowledge you’ll be ignored by your colleagues, passed over for career-building assignments and informed of vital meetings only after they’ve occurred. As a woman embarking on a career in the FBI’s maledominated counter-espionage division, LaRae Quy didn’t have to imagine. It was her reality.

Yet, rather than contenting herself with the low-priority cases nobody else cared about or trying to “man up” and beat the boys at their own game, she internalized the bureau’s valuable lessons on mental toughness and worked hard on developing her own psychological and intellectual discipline.

Her strategy worked. In “Mental Toughness for Women Leaders: 52 Tips to Recognize and Utilize Your Greatest Strengths,” Quy explains how cultivating inner strength in the face of adversity helped her actualize her leadership potential. What won me over about the book was that, in her view, true mental toughness is not the stubborn insistence on crashing through obstacles at all costs and against all odds. It’s about accumulating a deep well

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of self-knowledge, looking long and hard at one’s weaknesses as well as one’s abilities, and developing plans that take both of those into account.

Kudos to Quy. While so many books on leadership promote a dogged never-saydie mindset that tempts us to harbour some unrealistic ideas about what we can accomplish (imagine David trying to fight Goliath with a sword), Quy explains that it’s better to save our strength for battles in which we’ve got at least fighting chance. The problem is, many people, especially the most motivated, lack the mental and emotional resolve to do this when it counts, and resolve is what mental toughness is all about.

So (I’m sure you want to know), how does a lone woman earn a leadership position among a cabal of tough-guys who, though not outright hostile, aren’t inclined to take her seriously? For the answer, you’ll have to read the book. You’ll be glad you did. Based on the results so far, I wish I’d come across this book years ago. n Paul Sean Grieve 13

STEPHANIE SANDERS

HER TRAVELS CONTINUE S

ongstress Stephanie Sanders—”The Voice” of Leading Through Living—has been BUSY this quarter, XXing herself in great acting, music, and community successes.

One of such successes is her starring lead role in The Bench. The short drama film, an official entrant for HBO’s Project Greenlight, is directed by Hemant M. Pandya & Anjani Pandey, and you can check it out on YouTube.

Sanders is also lead actress in Child Services, a TV drama, as Rebecca L. Carey. Child Services’ first screening was received with high acclaim May 7, 2015 at Full Sail University, and will soon be in heavy rotation at various film festivals.

Stephanie has also stayed true to her music roots. She created “Let It Go”—a fun, inspirational summer remix to Pharell

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Williams’ “Happy”—with Atlanta-based rapper 13th Desciple. (They even made a music video.

Search “LET IT GO” - The Happy Song - REMIX on YouTube for a listen.) This song has been a glimpse into Sanders’ dream to someday work with Pharrell Williams and make another chart-topping summertime single. (Maybe we can get her connected!)

Sanders was also handpicked to model an authentic beamobrown t-shirt by Mike Campbell, beamobrown’s owner and chief designer.

He chose her because “she believes in God and the gifts he instilled in her are fail proof!”

Beamobrown is an acronym

for “believing is everything and more, because the righteous ones win!” and you can find merchandise at shop.beamobrown.com.

Lastly, Stephanie was honored to receive the “Female Artist Of The Year” and “Producer Of The Year” awards at the All Florida Award Show and follow in the footsteps of her Ill2Def Teammates.

It looks like Stephanie Sanders shows no signs of slowing and she is pressing on to the next levels in her life and career. She is on a mission, and who knows where it’ll take her next.

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ules Nobles is one of the newest young actresses to surface on the Atlanta film scene. A Mississippi native, she got her love of the stage from years of competing in beauty pageants. The fashion model-turned-actress stars in the Indie film “Greed” as Lead Detective Sky, coming summer 2015.

A fashion lover to her core, Jules is excited to host the 2015 Jersey City Fashion Week (JCFW) Tuesday September 22 through Saturday September 27. The week will include a VIP and Couture Fashion Event, Hair and Makeup Show, Youth Designers Contest, Catwalk in the City, and Fashion Brunch. Jules is very excited to host this fabulous event, fresh off her successful presenter role at the Harvest Magazine launch party in Brooklyn.

Jules is also excited about hosting JCFW because it is a community program produced by DLJ Give to Live

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Community Foundation, a project of United Charitable Programs 501(c)(3) charity. Give to Live’s mission is to support charitable causes through fashion, sports, and entertainment.

The 2015 fashion week is its fifth showcase and fourth year, and proceeds from this showcase will be donated to groups that help the homeless.

Stay tuned for more great work from the fabulous Jules that include leading roles in the upcoming comedy film “Uncommon Law,” directed by Brian Work, and TV pilot “The 4th Quarter.”

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for models, hairstylists and makeup artists for JCFW will be held June 13 and July 11, 2015, and they are also in need of designers.

For more information, including sponsorship, contact www.jerseycityfashionweek.com.

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he cacophony of what to wear and what not to wear seems neverending. How do we communicate our individuality in fashion yet fit the groove of Corporate America? Style is, by the way, a tool of communication. Playing in the field where less than ten percent of executives are women defines how I look at style expression.

Style is a personal statement. Even if you’re not trying to make a statement, trust me: you are making a statement. It’s all about presentation. What are you presenting and to whom are you presenting? While the basics of my style stay the same, I am highly aware of necessary conservative moments. Inside Corporate America, attire usually calls for suits or jackets while my outside activities entail stage attire or a trendier frock.

I think it is possible for women to look good (which leads to confidence) while climbing the success ladder. It has been debated whether a woman should fade into the sea of gray pinstripe in hopes that no one notices her girl features. My

primary advice would be to know where you are and why – and dress accordingly. Build a wardrobe of business attire – ranging from the classic pinstripe to tailored dresses. Watch for details of fit, quality of fabric, and ease of wear. Dress in context. If you are meeting with bankers, lawyers, financial advisors, lean toward the conservative. Save haute couture for the Met Ball.

How can we be stylish without looking like we’re trying too hard? One of the most important things about fashion is to know what is appropriate. Beware exaggerated personal statements. Incorporate trendy items that are appropriate for your age, body shape, position and occasion.

Style guru Iris Apfel believes style begins with knowing who you are and what looks good on you: “The right outfit is like wearing a suit of armor.”

Wear what looks good, feels good and fits the occasion. When you look good, you feel good; when you feel good, you do good! n Debora Hightower

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a d v o c a c y still relevant in 2015

Advocacy provides a voice, a stance, and representation.

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he term “advocacy” means a lot of things to a lot of people. I personally know individuals that cringe when the word pops up in a conversation. These certain jaded persons immediately start to ponder on the concept of fundraising when advocacy is mentioned in the slightest way. Without question, fundraising has been embedded with the notion. I certainly acknowledge that many groups organize various fundraising initiatives and passionately seek financial donors for support. Thus, some people may develop a cynical attitude towards individual advocates or organizations because they associate the two with the beseechment of monetary support. “We need money” is all many people hear from the pitches to obtain

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much needed support. I can understand the mixed feelings of naysayers.

Yet, I dare to offer sound evidence to advocate why advocacy is so much more than the solicitation of funds and why it benefits all of us. Like it or not, money or financial support is a part of the puzzle. Those asking for dollars to support the purchase of critical medical items to travel to weakened Nepal would love to obtain supplies and even the gas in the airplanes free of charge, but it’s more than likely not an immediate reality. Thus, asking for funds is often a necessity for operations.

Perhaps advocates could do a better job of sharing the mission of various efforts, but most people don’t give enough time during

brief interactions for detailed explanations.

So yes, a lot of times money is needed for efficient operations. Can I go one more step forward? There are numerous advocacy groups that speak up and stand up for various segments of society. As you know, there are those who share concerns for individuals with chronic diseases to those who are committed to eradicating illiteracy globally. Advocacy provides a voice, a stance, and representation.

Effective advocacy is a powerful tool that can make a positive difference in the world.

Sincere advocates see the need for change and dare to act. I think true advocacy with the intent to help, encourage, and grow deserves applauding, not ignoring. n Shana Thornton

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DARE to he the HOMEL Why should anyone help the homeless? They choose the conditions they’re in, after all. They don’t really need our help – in fact, they probably have a stashes of money hidden somewhere, right?

Such presumptions are harsh and undoubtedly untrue. So, why do we tighten our purse straps and walk by as if their lives don’t matter?

In reality, the lives of our homeless American brothers and sisters do matter. Because they are our mothers, fathers, brothers, and sisters; our children and many of our veterans who fought tirelessly for “our” American freedom. And they each have a story – of how they wound up at a shelter for a night, which turned into two, which became days without a home. Do you know those stories? Probably not.

While the actual number of homeless men, women, children and families is hard to pinpoint, it’s clear that a hefty number of people, especially families, are sleeping in shelters, living in their cars, and taking up residence in tent communities. According to estimates of national data, in the United States, more than 3.5 million people experience homelessness each year. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development point-in-time study estimated that in 2012, there were 99,894 chronic homeless people living in America. The size of the homeless Veterans in 2012 was estimated to be 62,619. According to a 2009 study by the National Center of Family Homelessness, 1 out of every 50 American children is homeless each year.

Something is wrong with this picture. Do we really think 3.5 million people chose the condition they’re in? Or that those 3.5 million people all just want a hand-out? Some of the major causes of homelessness include:

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Lack of Affordable Housing The growing gap between wage earnings and the cost of housing in the United States leaves millions of families and individuals unable to meet their basic needs, including food, clothing and shelter.

Lack of Affordable Medical Care For a low to middle income family, a sudden illness, chronic disease, or accident can be financially devastating and leave individuals and families fighting for daily survival.

Cuts in Federal Assistance Elimination of federal assistance for housing programs and social services has challenged the ability to reach the people who are most in need of services. During the 1980s, housing programs were cut down and the homeless population in the United States began to grow.

Without the security of federal and state assistance, many of the lowest income people must choose between things like food, medical care, and housing to survive.

elp LESS Unfortunate Life Circumstances Long-standing issues such as unemployment, mental illness, drug addiction, and alcoholism can elevate situations of low income and poverty and put people at greater risk of homelessness. It is not always one factor, but a number of life factors can play a role in the road to homelessness.

We often label the homeless population and lump them in the same categories: they are severely mentally handicapped, they do not work, they are lazy and they have given up on life. But is it really fair to group every homeless woman, man, child or veteran together and assign a certain stigma to them? Does this give us probable cause to turn our nose up, pass them by, and not offer any assistance?

If you are one of millions of people with love and compassion in your heart, there are ways you can help. You may not be able to eliminate their circumstance, but you can help show them that we see them, we care and we are willing to lend a hand. n Alberta Lampkins

HOW YOU CAN HELP THE HOMELESS Gather toiletries. Simple items such as a small bottle of lotion, deodorant, mouthwash, hand sanitizer or a shaving kit may provide sustenance to a person in need.

Drop Off Food Most all local homeless shelters or care facilities benefit greatly from receiving food to help feed our homeless population. Locate your community shelter and find out what they need.

Make Donations Pick an amount and give once a month, once a quarter or even once a year. Your donation, whether small or big, can make a difference to one or many of our fellow homeless population.

Carry a Homeless Care Kit in Your Car Fill a re-sealable baggie with basic essentials like: band-aids, comb, deodorant, feminine hygiene, gloves, hand warmers, juice box, lip balm, lotion, nail file, power bar, razor, shaving cream, soap, socks, tissues, toothbrush and toothpaste, wash cloth, hand sanitizer, wet-wipes and any other item you believe may be a benefit.

My book club, the Dazzling Divas Literary Club, an online book club with members around the world, started a “Dare to Care” campaign. Each book club member has been challenged to volunteer in their prospective state with their local homeless shelter, either feeding the homeless, providing personal hygiene items to those in need or making a donation. We are proud of our initiative and encourage others to do the same.

Dare to Care, give a hand-up and together let’s make a difference in our world!

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THE WATER WALKER As a serial entrepreneur, business innovator, and strategist in both the small business and church sectors, Michelda Johnson is passionate about the possibility of others and assisting them in making their impossible possible. She’s the president and founder of WaterWalker Development and has a simple goal: to see every individual walking confidently in their purpose, passionate about their next, and realizing the favor of God in their personal and business pursuits.

WaterWalker was founded after Michelda herself experienced some capsizes. Despite her setbacks, she was able to enter into executive-level positions at 25. She’s now a consultant who has worked nationally with Fortune 500 organizations and federal entities. She is also a certified Senior Professional of Human Resources and EEOC Investigator. Michelda also serves as chairperson for and on the boards of multiple organizations.

She’s even the author of WaterWalker 101: Moving Forward in Purpose.

Michelda has turned everything thing she’s learned to get to where she is into the cutting edge methodology, technological advances, innovative solutions, and strong leadership and program management that WaterWalker Development leverages to help clients achieve their goals— and walk confidently.

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n Sunday, June 28, 2015, BOLD Favor Magazine will host the first annual BOLD Awards. We established this ceremony to honor exceptional people – in the categories of Leadership, Health & Wellness, Relationships, Human Dignity, Style, and Spirituality – who have worked boldly and fearlessly to make our global community strong and powerful. Congratulations to our 2015 BOLD Award honorees: LEADERSHIP Rev. Rowena Silvera Beck – Senior Pastor RISE Church; Founder and Dean, Kairos Seminary; Certified Life & Success Coach We present the BOLD Award in Leadership to Leadership Champions: those who share their skills personally and professionally to encourage, equip and champion their families, communities, and organizations – thereby improving functionality, and emotional and cultural intelligence. Which exactly describes our recipient and cover – Rev. Rowena Silvera Beck.

The senior pastor of RISE Church, Rev. Silvera Beck has led international and local initiatives that, respectively, benefited mothers and children in Liberia and domestic violence survivors in Atlanta. She’s the founder and dean of the Kairos Seminary, where she encourages graduates to be community leaders and pastoral advisors. Rev. Silvera Beck is also an author and keynote speaker who helps people embrace “a new and evolved thought” about life and leadership.

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LEADERSHIP – YOUTH Shay’na Fields – Actress, Dancer, Host of “The Shay’na Fields Show,” Atlanta BOLD Award in Leadership–Youth honorees are Leadership Champions under 20 years of age – like one Shay’na Fields, student at North Springs Charter School of Arts and Sciences. Fields is an actress and celebrity reporter with her own self-titled show, and uses her platform to promote awareness in various community activities that include serving as host at the Diabetes Awareness Show with the Women of Distinction, The Legendary Awards Health Incentive Event founded by Rhonda Wilkins, and serving as keynote speaker for the Urban Spice Magazine Child Abuse Awareness program.

SPIRITUALITY Mona Shah Joshi Director, Art of Living Foundation GA The BOLD Award in Spirituality recognizes the person who has committed to bringing people of varying faiths together, emphasizing the commonality of positive practices that create strong bonds of friendship and community.

Mona Shah Joshi is the recipient in this category for her selfless service in sharing the empowering teachings of the Art of Living Foundation with thousands of people

TOAK has several platforms to engage youth and Millennials that include fashion showcases and “diva-fied” retreats.

TOTAL WELLNESS – INDIVIDUAL Dionne Lackey – The Wellness Xperience, Inc., Atlanta

over the past 20 years in dozens of nations across various religions. Her nominator wrote, “Her undying compassion and her ability to assist each person in living the best they can has been an inspiration.”

MEANINGFUL RELATIONSHIPS Shondrae Knight – She’s Unlimited, Atlanta and First Lady Denene Alvarez – Lover of Souls Ministry Those who receive the BOLD Award in Meaningful Relationships help people engage in and maintain loving, meaningful relationships with significant others and family members, at work and within the community. This year, we recognize two powerful women as the recipients: Shondrae Knight and Denene Alvarez.

Knight’s nominator wrote, “[Knight is] passionate about helping women develop, maintain, and engage in the essence of sisterhood. Her book Mean Girls-Mean Women; You Are Just Too Old For That is the foundation for workshops and programs she developed through her company.”

And Alvarez’s nominator described her as “a spiritual mother, mentor and public speaker. [She is] dedicated to providing integrated, spiritual counseling and consultation services for the unique experiences that women face along their journey. Lovers of Souls provides a platform for women to share their experiences so that others may be inspired and empowered to walk in purpose and destiny.”

EMPOWERED STYLE – INDIVIDUAL Amanda Cooper – “Talking Out Loud with A.L. Cooper” Radio & TV Shows, Atlanta The BOLD Award in Empowered Style – Individual goes to the person who uses his/her love of culture and style to empower others to be educated, beautiful, and emotionally powerful. Amanda Cooper is this year’s recipient for her radio and TV shows – “Talking Out Loud with A.L. Cooper” – and free monthly seminars. Her work focuses on topics that can significantly impact one’s self-worth and ability to provide adequate self-care, such as economic development and finances, literacy and spiritual health.

EMPOWERED STYLE – ORGANIZATION Desiree and Erin Green – Twin of A Kind, Inc., Atlanta Entities that use culture and style as a platform to empower others to be educated, beautiful, and emotionally powerful earn The BOLD Award in Empowered Style – Organization.

Non-profit Twin of A Kind’s (TOAK) provides powerful programs centered on empowering and mentoring youth and young adults to reach their highest potential and become more productive and confident individuals.

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We bestow the BOLD Award in Total Wellness to both individuals and organizations who have developed and implemented an effective program that instructs participants on how to achieve optimal form through improved nutrition and dietary regimen; mental, emotional, and cultural intelligence; physical exercise; and spiritual observance.

The Total Wellness: Individual award goes to Dionne Lackey, a Certified Holistic Life Coach and co-founder and owner of The Wellness Xperience, an organization committed to “thoroughly educating women as the nurturers of home on organic and natural living” through workshops and training to fully empower people through the promotion of lifestyle management.

TOTAL WELLNESS – ORGANIZATON Georgia Spartans SemiPro Basketball Team, Jerrell Shearin – Founder & General Manager This year’s recipients for the BOLD Award in Total Wellness for an organization are Georgia Spartans semi-professional basketball team and founder/CEO Jerrell Shearin. The Spartans are collegiate and local (or street) talented players who show community youth and young adults how to live well physically, mentally, and spiritually. They do this through their games, and activism and engagement, which include annual events such as back-to-school drives, health fairs, Toys for Tots, and cancer awareness programs.

HUMAN DIGNITY Shana Thornton – “Let’s Talk America” Radio Show Host and Deborah Hightower – Singer & Human Trafficking Advocate We give the BOLD Award in Human Dignity to a person who directly addresses issues of national/international import that impacts every individual. We are proud to recognize two such persons, Shana Thornton and Deborah Hightower, as its recipients.

Thornton is the host of “Let’s Talk America” family radio show, which focuses on various issues that affect the community, including financial literacy, health, and family strength-building techniques. The show has received several national awards, including the WE DAY Excellence In Journalism Award and the NAACP’s Excellence in Journalism Award.

Deborah Hightower is an award winning singer and thought-leader in the area of Expansion who is a leading national voice in the fight against human and sex trafficking. Hightower has graced the cover of several inspirational magazines, and uses her platform and success to influence policy and advocacy initiatives on behalf of trafficking survivors.

CONGRATULATIONS AGAIN TO THIS YEAR’S BOLD AWARD WINNERS. WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE HOW YOU STAY FEARLESS IN 2016!

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I wondered if marriage was required to build a strong relationship.

I

’ve been happily married almost 10 years.

A few years longer than that, I’ve had the awesome experience of enjoying the love of my life: my beautiful wife. During the course of our marriage, I’ve been asked what made me decide to get married and how I knew I was actually ready. My immediate answer is usually something along the lines of: “I just knew and made the decision to move forward,” or “I found someone who made me happy and complimented me and decided I didn’t want to live without that person.”

But I realized that those responses don’t convey the entire reason I knew I was actually ready to get married.

As a bachelor, I enjoyed the company of whomever I wanted. However, I was genuinely looking for someone with whom I could build a strong relationship. That being said, I wondered if marriage was required to build that strong relationship. As most men in society would probably agree, I had major reservations about marriage: America’s

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divorce rate, though it’s been declining for years, still gave me pause. I would be less than genuine if I did not confess that I often wondered, “What’s the point of marriage?”

So, I decided to look a little deeper into what marriage is—not by textbook or Biblical definition—but what marriage really meant to me. I don’t think most people ever really consider what marriage really means to them as individuals, and if that meaning mirrors that of their intended.

After determining what marriage was from my own point of view, and not allowing society, friends, family or other outside influences determine what marriage was all about for me; I was able to find someone who shared my same view of marriage and establish a strong relationship with her. My wife is someone I like and love! And I truly believe it is because we are truly of one accord.

Take time to determine what marriage means to you—not your family, friends, or even your intended mate. You are the only person who can determine if it is right for you. n William R. Cook

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“The ultimate weapon is not a loaded gun, but an educated mind.”

This is the linchpin of The Barrio, a learning series being taught in classrooms across the U.S. and in 24 countries around the world. The books—From the Barrio to the Board Room, Mi Barrio and Little Barrio—and curricula promote student achievement, particularly in teens and at-risk students, by enhancing their critical thinking skills and bridging the educational gap.

“Bright futures are built on a strong education, and equal education means equal pay and is a great equalizer for any race,” said Robert Renteria, The Barrio’s founder and author.

The Barrio books teach kids that education is the most powerful weapon they can use to change the world; and that gang-banging and

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violence is not a lifestyle but a death style.

The series has been hailed as “a solution that is serving as cure to the disease of gangs and violence that has infected our cities and countries around the world.”

To ensure that its message reaches as many as possible, Renteria has made The Barrio free to institutions and programs ranging from middle and high schools and social services, to colleges, universities, and youth prisons.

His eventual goal: that Barrio books replace guns, knives, drugs, and alcohol. And to teach kids and adults that the real secrets to success are hard work, determination and education.

To learn more, visit fromthebarrio.com.

The Barrio earns high marks Two 2013 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Awards for civil rights activism in education reform.

A 2011 International Outstanding Humanitarian Award for promoting global peace and education.

2012 best comic book for addressing youth issues in Latin America, Spain and the United States of America.

&

& RAW & REAL

O

n September 12, 2004, after swimming 2.4 miles and cycling 112 miles, Nicole DeBoom started the final leg, a marathon, of Ironman Wisconsin in third place. As she dashed into her run, DeBoom’s high-performance, lightweight—and importantly, cute— race-belt skirt darted about her legs. That skirt was DeBoom’s own prototype design. And over the course of those 26.2 miles, DeBoom proved that women can have it all—that women can be both feminine and strong—in her skirt.

DeBoom wound up passing her competitors one-by-one and won her first Ironman in the prototype skirt that would later launch a skirt revolution. She incorporated her new company three days later, and it was truly off to the races for Skirt Sports.

Nearly 11 years later, in March 2015, Skirt Sports selected EJ Powell, owner and creator of Real Athletic Woman (RAW) and Real Athletic, as a Skirt Sports Ambassador. RAW, a division of getmended.com, is an organization committed to helping women (and men) focus on their own, personal, real results based on their individual goals.

RAW’s cornerstone: acknowledging and encouraging the varied individual levels of ability that compose athletics. Because your real may be different than another’s, but at the end of the day, it’s all real.

EJ is very excited that, by incorporating Skirt Sports with the RAW mission, more everyday, wannabe, and couch-athletes will be inspired to work out and get healthy while embracing their femininity.

Now that’s real and raw.

Ti ny Docs to th e Re s cue!

It’s an all too familiar scene: a young child has to go to the doctor, he’s terrified because he doesn’t know what to expect, and his parents and doctors struggle to explain what’s going to happen in a way he can understand.

There are few things that are as important or fragile as a child’s health, so a Chicago-based start-up called Tiny Docs is hoping to make a significant impact in the healthcare world through a simple medium—cartoons.

“We know how important it is for kids to take ownership of their own health, but we also know there’s often a communication gap as kids have a hard time understanding ‘doctorese,’” says founder and CEO Sunny Williams.

“So we’ve created characters and content that kids can be entertained by, relate to, and, ultimately, learn from.”

Along with Dustin Claretto and Vivek Poola, Sunny founded Tiny Docs with a simple

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mission: Creating a healthier, happier planet.

The stars of their cartoons are Dr. Patches, a precocious 10-year-old girl, and Nurse Scrubs, an eight-year-old boy wonder. Together, these two carefully guide kids through the complicated world of hospitals, surgical procedures, illnesses, doctors’ offices, and general health and nutrition. “We grew up on Sesame Street, the Magic School Bus, and Captain planet, so we know that, when done right, cartoons can powerfully combine education and entertainment.”

Tiny Docs will have both a web and mobile platform and will feature games and activities where kids can further learn and interact. “At the end of the day, we want to empower kids and families across the globe to make better informed healthcare decisions and inspire the future generation doctors. If we do that, then we’ve done our job.”

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need of medicine, shelter, food, water and clothing for over 2 million people.

T

hinking of the global issues that confront us daily as we lend an ear to the news, we are obliged to be moved and to feel the pain of others suffering no matter where they live. We examine the recent destruction that struck Katmandu, Nepal on April 25, 2015 when the 7.8 magnitude earthquake befell the nation of 28 million Nepalese people.

More than 600,000 homes were devastated with more than 6,623 reportedly found dead.

According to the United Nations there was

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Surely most of us thought that they also needed God, and perhaps some prayed for the people of Nepal and all that was lost. In spite of the overall catastrophe in Nepal they remained a people of faith. Reports of damage to the shrines, temples, sacred Hindu temples, sacred sites and churches had not shaken their beliefs, which is immovable.

What do the Nepalese say about this devastation to their home and country? The majority remain faithful and steadfast in their beliefs. I have read the comments of many

that worship there as Hindus, Muslims, and Christians. Some vindicate this was not the doing of God, others state that God surely had predestined it; while some say the event was sent to warn nonbelievers. We don’t actually know why the earthquake hit Nepal. We do know that the presence of God is there—in Nepal.

The evidence was clear when we heard that survivors had been found, people removed debris, and volunteers pitched in where needed. Believers held on to their hope and faith for a brighter day. We send prayers of future restoration of mind, body and soul. And we honor the faith of the mountain of Nepal. n Linda Hoard

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