MELANIN MILSO June 2020
50
Founding Roses of the Exclusive Society for Black Military Wives Creating Their Own Lane
Manifesting Destiny Elizabeth A. Reid Shows Us How to Stop Micromanaging the Possibilities and Let Success Flow
Simply Liz Love THE
PRIME
BEAUTY
PROVIDER
What it Means to be Black in America During a Pandemic
Join the Movement to Unite Black Military Spouses Across the Globe.
join the league of roses Get the free app for iOS and Android.
Visit us at www.theleagueofroses.com
MELANIN MILSO
CONTENTS
HEALTH+CULTURE+FASHION
01 FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dr. Shaunte' McFarland Gives Her Thoughts on this Month's Issue.
05 LIVING THROUGH A PANDEMIC Genetics and Choices.
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EXCLUSIVE!
SIMPLY LIZ LOVE
09
COVER STORY
13 BAWDY GOAL BADDIE Shenice Vondrea Thompson
18 ON BEING BLACK IN AMERICA Black Women are the Standard of Beauty
28 SAVAGE ADVICE I'm Sick of My Husband's Children.
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MEET THE NEW ROSES
HAVING IT ALL
Get to Know Some of the New Members of the League of Roses.
You Can and Will Have all You Set Out to do.
633 WEST 5TH ST. 26TH FLOOR LOS ANGELES, CA 90071 (213) 476-3628 WWW.MELANINMILSOMAGAZINE.COM
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Letter from the Editor -inChief
"What you are is God's gift to you, what you become is your gift to God.”
That career you believe you deserve. Go get it, sis! Life is so precious and but a vapor.
Over the past decade, I have made it my goal to live intentionally. I had a clear plan of what that meant and until recently, I stuck by it. We are indeed living in unprecedented times. It's 2020. Donald Trump is president and we are facing a pandemic. It's time to stop letting the fear of others control how we live our lives.
Wisdom says that the richest soil on earth are grave sites. Not because of decomposed bodies but because of all of the people who died with their gifts. Don't be buried treasure. Live your life to the fullest and leave a legacy above ground.
It's time to manifest destiny. That business you want to start. Start it. That person you want to date. Shoot your shot.
I present to you one of the greatest pieces of my legacy. This magazine - Melanin Milso.
ae
Dr. T O X -
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Our Staff Editor in Chief Dr. Shaunte' McFarland, M.Ed. Creative Director Rasheda Abdullah Health Editor Jana Sanders Fashion Editor Precious L. Russell Culture Editor Rasheda Abdullah Health Writer Tia Wilson Fashion Writer Shawneequa Burks Savage Advice Dr. Shaunte' McFarland, M.Ed. Bawdy Goal Baddies Elandra Gilmore Mama's Kitchen Folasade Okere EDITORIAL OFFICES 633 West 5th St. 26th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90071 (213) 476-3628 Promenade II 1230 Peachtree Street, 19th Floor Atlanta, GA 30309 Mappin House Oxford Street London W1W 8HF
SUBSCRIPTIONS (213) 476-3628 633 West 5th St. 26th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90071 info@melaninmilsomagazine.com Melanin Milso Magazine is published by Magnolia Publishing House. melaninmilsomagazine.com
MELANIN MILSO Celebrating Women of Color
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Living Through A Pandemic BREAKING GENERATIONAL HEALTH CURSES By Tia Wilson
“Soon they’ll say everything makes you sick,” my mother said as she watched an updated coronavirus report from Channel 7 news. She commonly says this whenever the story has recent research on something that can cause illness. This was two months ago. The latest overall COVID-19 mortality rate for black Americans is 2.4 times as high as the rate for whites and 2.2 times as high as the rate for Asians and Latinos, as reported by the APM Research Lab on May 27th. One of the leading causes for these numbers is something called comorbidity or having more than one chronic condition.
This means high blood pressure and diabetes all at once, which is typical for many members of the black community. These conditions are preventable. Factors that affect chronic conditions are diet, exercise, stress, genetics, and education. Breaking generational health curses begins with making healthy choices. Diet: A mountainous plate of collard greens, neck-bone drizzled on clouds of rice. Delicious! I firmly stand on the fact that my grandmother makes it THE best! (It’s not up for debate.) Thoughtfully, too | 5
much of these foods can contribute to chronic diseases like high blood pressure and diabetes. Many diet changes can prevent them, but let’s start with fruits and vegetables. Exercise: “Hi, I’m Billy Banks!” Do you remember Tae Bo? My mother loved to pop in his VHS tapes and have us all workout with her. It didn’t matter how old you were. Regular exercise is essential, but maintaining a routine can be tough. My mother loves walking around the perimeter of the park. It is easy, convenient, and does not wear her out. Just 30 minutes of walking daily can increase heart health, strengthen your bones, reduce body fat, and boost muscle power; as stated by Better Health Channel. Whatever you can handle, less is better than nothing at all. See your life and take hold of it.
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Stress: Bills are due, the government is dragging on the next stimulus check, and your children are home in the middle of the school year. What a combination of craziness! Stress is a part of your body’s natural response system. In the longterm, stress can affect your heart, sleep, and appetite. And if walking doesn’t help, here are a few solutions: Light a candle. Yes, whip out that $24 Lavender scented Bath and Body Works candle or that $5 WalMart warming wax and relax. This technique is aromatherapy. It has shown to decrease stress and anxiety and improve sleep. Not enough? Try laughing. Netflix has many comedy specials, including the oldie but goodies. It is not about the stress but changing your reaction to it.
Above A variety of fresh produce
"Just 30 minutes of walking daily can increase heart health, strengthen your bones, reduce body fat, and boost muscle power, as stated by Better Health Channel."
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Genetics: Family genes have a lot to do with your health. Besides inheriting your beautiful hair textures and facial features from your ancestors, genes can predispose you to specific health conditions. Now, before you give up, here’s one thing to consider. Being knowledgeable of this fact can put you ahead of the curve. Choosing to indulge in healthy lifestyle choices can reduce your risk. That includes exercising, eating grandma’s cooking only on Sundays, and choosing water instead of soda or juice. Remember, it is not about what you have, it’s about what you decide to do with it. Education: Malcolm X said, “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” The coronavirus pandemic has spotlighted many issues with healthcare access and inequity
within the black community. To all the black Bill Gates, education can create resources, improve communities, and build better platforms for the next generation. Black doctors, nurses, educators, and other professionals can and will change our standing in the world. And you can too. Educate yourself and bring a friend along with you. Health disparities such as high blood pressure and diabetes are not a part of an evil curse received from the bite of a witch’s apple. They come from the choices we make. From the gallant mother who blooms from her bed ready for the day, though yesterday brought her sorrow. And from her daughter, eagerly gazing upon her mother’s beauty and following every move. We have to choose better for generations to come. Throughout the process, remember to be kind to yourself and take it one day at a time. Live in power, my lovely family!
"Health disparities such as high blood pressure and diabetes are not a part of an evil curse received from the bite of a witch’s apple. They come from the choices we make."
References: https://www.apmresearchlab.org/covid/deaths-by-race https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/walkingfor-good-health https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/16-ways-relieve-stressanxiety#10.-Learn-to-avoid-procrastination https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-youeat/vegetables-and-fruits/
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ELIZABETH A. REID MANIFESTING DESTINY by Shaunte' McFarland
Elizabeth A. Reid is defining the "new normal" of what it means to be an army wife, mother, business owner, and soldier. Life has thrown curveballs along the way, but she has learned that selfless service is her greatest asset and strength. She is passionate about working with charities, organizations, and boards that support girls, women, veterans, and entrepreneurs. Speaking of entrepreneurs, Liz is a business queen in her own right. She is
the owner and operator of Simply Liz Love- a cut-above-the-rest skincare company that doesn't simply offer services, but instead provides exclusive tailor-made experiences for healthy skin, unisex grooming, and makeup artistry for every occasion. Simply Liz Love has positioned itself to be the prime provider of beauty, business, and skincare education. Through personalized consultations, her company curates a plan to help
Take a peek into a day in the life of an army wife, mother, business owner, and soldier
"Ignite the allure of others, one experience at a time."
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"THE PRIME PROVIDER OF BEAUTY, BUSINESS, AND SKINCARE EDUCATION." you achieve your ultimate personal and professional goals. Liz's company supports women. "Our gender, circumstances, and hue is not a hindrance but our greatest ally and superpower," says Liz. The mission of Simply Liz Love is to "Ignite the allure of others one experience at a time. This is done by representing beauty to the eye of the beholder. We must become living examples that beauty is a verb. Our actions are what make us captivating, not what we wear or say." Simply Liz Love offers free makeup and skincare classes to local non-profit organizations that support girls and women. The company has also partnered with the Fort Bragg, NC USO to offer free life skills training to soldiers transitioning out of the military. When asked what her life calling was, Liz replied, "My life’s calling is to be a living example of what happens when you let go and let God. For the longest, I’ve allowed my potential to be imprisoned by expectations and society. God wanted more of me. Once I stopped micromanaging the possibilities, success started happening." Liz's mother is her motivation. She raised eight children while in a physically abusive relationship and battling heart disease. Not only did she outlive her father and his abuse, she made living in section 8 housing feel like a luxury.
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She did everything in the spirit of excellence with love. Liz says, "My mother had a way of healing people. Our home was always open to whoever needed help. It was nothing to have another family member or friend stay with us until they got on their feet. My mother did it all with finesse and class. She made her burdens look like clouds as she glided through life." Liz goes on to say: "One of my favorite things to do as a child was to watch my mother put on makeup. She had the deepest shade of melanin but the brightest smile of my lightly complexioned family. I never questioned my beauty or confidence because she gave me the blueprint. She showed me how to love me and be resilient. If I'm going to do something, do it big and unapologetically. I thank her daily for teaching me that vital life lesson young." Liz's advice to her younger self is: "Being resilient is not enough. Don't be satisfied with overcoming a hurdle. Be satisfied with your definition of success. Know that feeling awkward or not always fitting in is a part of the plan. You were made to stand out." As for Liz's future plans, the entrepreneur says, "Scaling my business as I grow. I am a true solo entrepreneur. It is hard developing systems and selecting the right people who can understand the vision and mission of my business. Since public speaking is a lane that I see myself in, I will have to start working less to create those opportunities."
"Don't be satisfied with overcoming a hurdle. Be satisfied with your definition of success." You can connect with Elizabeth A. Reid at: https://www.simplylizlove.com or follow her at the social media links below. https://www.instagram.com/simplylizlove/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SimplyLizLove/YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/SimplyLizLove
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SHENICE VONDREA THOMPSON 27 years old 2LT, U.S. Army
Shenice is a native of Georgia and a devoted Christian. She is a mother of two daughters. Shenice is also the founder & CEO of She Jay’s Hair Collection.
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THE DOCTOR IS IN: MEET THE FOUNDER OF MELANIN MILSO
By Rasheda Abdullah Photographs by Alyssa Coppett IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Having a vision is one thing. Putting action behind that vision is what determines its viability. And for Dr. Shaunte' McFarland, founder of Melanin Milso Magazine and the League of Roses, an exclusive society for black military significant others, seeing her dreams unfold was never a matter of “if” but “when.” Making things happen, inspiring fellow women, and leading others to greatness is just a part of who she is – a visionary, a go-getter, a boss. During her adolescence in Pine Blue, AR, Dr. McFarland learned the value of appreciating everything in life. A ride-or-die member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, she knows the power of believing in yourself and in education. Not only does she hold several degrees, including a BA from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, an MS in Education from Lindenwood University, a PH. D in Biblical Studies, and a graduate certificate in Education and Law from Harvard University, she is also currently completing an additional doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Walden University. While her plate certainly seems full of professional and personal obligations - she is an Army vet, a 12-year tenured educator, a mother of 3, and a dedicated wife to her decorated Marine NOMADIC
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husband - there was one thing missing that she could not find and so created – a community of melanated women who understand what it means to live the military life. “Whenever we PCS'd to a new base, I had to start from scratch: finding schools, a church home, a nail tech, a beautician, and if I had time, a friend,” says Dr. McFarland. “Frankly, black military wives deserve a quality and dedicated organization. After searching for one that provided these things and coming up empty-handed, I decided to just start one myself.”
Unapologetically, Dr. McFarland intentionally seeks opportunities to provide women of color (WOC) with resources that encourage them in their everyday lives and that reminds them of the significance of their inherent beauty and matchless power. “Women of color, in general, need to be celebrated more. I started Melanin Milso Magazine so that everyday women who are making a positive impact in their communities are spotlighted,” says Dr. McFarland.
"Women of color, in general, need to be celebrated more."
At the root of Melanin Milso, an Dr. McFarland has a far-reaching enterprising publication for black military background that encompasses expertise in wives, it is a fun and informative quarterly International Relations, Business collection of useful, entertaining, and Management, and Special Education. educational pieces, ads, and more that Thanks to her diverse experiences, her speaks to the experience of black military self-proclaimed personal branding of life and about the black experience across “service”, and her intrinsic motivation to the globe. serve others with excellence, spearheading the League of Roses and FOR THE CULTURE creating Melanin Milso, a movement all on Dr. McFarland shares her time, talent and its own, are just additional ways she is treasures to start a movement for black leaving her mark on the world; specifically, military wives. the military world.
COMMUNITY Along with the premiere magazine, Dr. McFarland is building a lively community through the League of Roses, an accompanying society to Melanin Milso.
THE ROSES “Black military wives are like roses. Everyone sees our beauty but no one knows how we gracefully handle the thorns in the background. They also need a safe place to be accepted and heard,” says Dr. McFarland.
WORK ON PERSONAL PROJECTS A trailblazer of my talents, Dr. Shaunte' McFarland is a powerhouse black woman that shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Committed to leaving the world a better place than she found it and uplifting melanin-rich women to be exactly who they are, she is on a world-class mission to build a lasting legacy for generations to come.
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ON BEING BLACK IN AMERICA "When it comes down to it, black people, especially black women, are the global standard of beauty." Rasheda Abdullah Culture Editor
The splendor that exists in a people does not change because others refuse to see the significance of their inherent value. As black people in America, it can almost seem like a burden to be melanated, but let not your heart be weary because the natural beauty of our many shades of blackness is not a burden. In fact, our splendor and other intrinsic talents, gifts, and attributes are revered and envied, imitated but never duplicated, because of our innate ability to thrive despite the mounting challenges presented to us by a system that is not for us. Thus, this “burden” is not a burden at all to black folks, but instead is a clear indication of our royal heritage that will one day be restored unto us. Being black in American has taken on many meanings over the course of our trek through this country. It has changed from the kidnapped to the enslaved to the lynched to the hunted and back again. It can, at times, feel overwhelming to try and combat centuries-old, oppressive institutions that were created to "keep us in our place." But like the strong beings we are, we rise. Not only do we rise, but we also transcend the limits placed on us to become the influencers of all things in a country that loves our culture but hates our existence. As we work to move beyond current events that seem to have set us back by decades, let us remember what makes us dope and leaders and feared. Because truthfully, the fear of every-
thing we could truly be is the greatest threat to those who question and disregard the importance of our existence. When it comes down to it, black people, especially black women, are the global standard of beauty. Our features, our finesse, our slay, frowned upon when donned by those who biologically possess them – us – are praised, celebrated, and coveted when manufactured by and on others. Think about it. From our lips to our hips to our complexions to our breasts to our walk, black women are the blueprint of beauty. If you are a melanin-rich woman that, for whatever reason, questions your worth, know this – you are so beautiful, so envied, so sought after that women of other races spend money to get what is inherently you. But more than that, regardless if anyone ever tried to, essentially, steal your swag, the very fact that you exist is proof of your worth. Period. And you are worth everything. So, as you go about your lives trying to navigate the world, remember that the way others treat you is not a result of anything you have or have not done. Instead, it is a clear indication of their delusional thinking and a reflection of their inability to measure up to the very thing they hate because they lack the things (melanin, grace, greatness) that they secretly wish they possessed. | 18
MEET NEW LEAGUE OF ROSES MEMBERS
AKIA ISOM By Shaunte' McFarland
Akia Isom is a military spouse and a military brat. Born at Fort Lewis and raised in Colorado Springs, CO, Akia married her husband William Isom, Jr., a US Navy sailor, in 2010. Akia has a bachelor’s degree in political science and women’s studies and a masters in clinical psychology and is an ordained minister. She currently works as the Southern California State Consultant for Military OneSource. Prior to working for Military OneSource, she spent 7 years working in sexual assault and domestic violence prevention and education which is still one of her passion. Akia resides in San Diego with her husband and four children. She loves to help other spouses use the resources available to them to advance themselves and their families.
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DANIELLE HARP By Shaunte' McFarland Hello, my name is Danielle Harp and I am a Navy wife of seven years. Originally, I am from Denver, Colorado and received my Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies at Colorado State University. My spouse and I met while he was stationed in Colorado Springs and we have PCS’d to Jacksonville, Florida and now are currently stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. We have three amazing little boys, whom I spend the majority of my time with as a stay at home mom. I also work from home as a customer service representative for various clients. I am passionate about my family, my peace, and my individual relationships, which as a military spouse takes on a whole other type of meaning. The League of Roses is such an exciting opportunity for women experiencing this life to connect and grow and that is absolutely my motivation for becoming a part of this organization.
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CHAN-TRESA HESTER DOUGLAS By Shaunte' McFarland My name is Chan-Tresa Hester Douglas and I am from the great state of Florida. I recently married Captain Chad Hester Douglas and we have a 19 year old daughter, Azariyah, and a 5 year old son, Anthony. I served in the U.S Army and medically retired as a Sergeant. I became a Minister in 2007 and I plan on becoming a Funeral Director. I have also been a stand-up comedian. I am a survivor of military sexual assault and I believe in giving a voice to the voiceless. By believing in this, I’ve helped change the Army SHARP program through my story. I am a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Alpha Gamma Xi Military Sorority, Inc., and Iota Sweetheart Inc. A rose is still a rose and I hope to help plant more seeds so we, military wives, will have a garden at each duty station.
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NATASHA A. BEASE By Shaunte' McFarland
I am so much more than the wife of a Marine. I’m a mother, a volunteer, and an educated professional! As a native New Yorker, I have a pretty tough exterior but everyone who truly knows me is the recipient of my huge heart and loyalty. After meeting my husband while attending Howard University, I spent my entire adult life traveling the world supporting my family while always continuing to fulfill my own dreams. Although I had my hands full taking care of my three beautiful daughters, working full time, being an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, and other various organizations, I wanted to be an example to my girls by pursuing and finishing my master’s degree. I consider myself a dedicated, hard-working woman who knows what she wants in life and doesn’t take no for an answer. I am humbled enough to realize that there is still room for my personal and professional growth. I look forward to meeting and growing with other like-minded women who have given so much to support their country by being the support, strength, and comfort for their service members.
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TRISTEN MATHIS By Shaunte' McFarland
My name is Tristen Mathis. I am from South Carolina, born and bred. I’ve been married to my wonderful husband who serves in the Air Force for almost 6 years. We have two beautiful children together, Christen and Kingston, and currently are stationed at Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan. I enjoy coaching the Kadena High Step Team here on the island, which was created by two other black military wives and myself. It’s been a complete pleasure to share and spread the love, dedication, and culture behind stepping with the locals and military affiliates. I’m excited to be a part of this sisterhood and hope to meet many of you throughout our military journeys!
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ELISHABA BROWN GEORGE By Shaunte' McFarland Elishaba Brown George, like many other spouses, is an entrepreneur and college student finishing her bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies of Business and Fine Arts this summer at Liberty University. Elishaba is an amazing and loving spouse of 19 years to CPO Moshe Yehudah of the United States Navy. They have raised five lovely children and are currently stationed in Camp Butler in Okinawa, Japan. She was able to start the Kadena high step team with her counterparts Tristen Mathis, Kedonya Duff, and Gail Wells. This team gives children an all-inclusion group that builds morality, strength amongst other peers, and camaraderie, while understanding African heritage and bringing school spirit to games, pep rallies, shows, and events island-wide. As a manager, she is responsible for booking events, talent shows, running an after-school club, and more. She does so by networking with other organizations such as sororities, fraternities, milspouse groups, and children enrichment groups. Currently, as the owner of the Artist Cove, a themed Paint & Sip mobile business that has served over 250 clients, Elishaba has shared her appreciation for art and has been selling her work for over 10 years. She is an Admin and Event Planner of the Ebony Wives' social media group and has hosted many events, such as a waterfall photo shoot, lunch gatherings, planned meetings, and community outreach; pulling black women together within the community. Dealing with some women with social anxiety within the black military spouse community, she has recently revisited her 2009 blog, “A Journey Over Ordinary” and birthed a book club to help women who suffer from anxiety. Elishaba uses the past of being from a broken, abusive home and life within foster care to push her forward and has grown to be a leader in the community she so desires to uplift through encouraging women, supporting their ventures, and advocating the importance of sisterhood. She will soon publish a biography to encourage other wives to follow their dreams and give back to the community. The League of Roses exemplifies her dreams and Elishaba is proud to be the President of the Okinawa Chapter. | 25
TAMARA THOMAS By Shaunte' McFarland
Tamara Thomas is an Army wife serving alongside her Soldier for the past eleven years. During this time, she has called North Carolina, Virginia, Texas, Germany, and now Kansas, home. Tamara is a sports mom, curator of memories and lover of live music and road trips. Family, kindness, integrity and personal growth are a few of her guiding values.
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KAMARA RANDLE-JONES By Shaunte' McFarland
My name is Kamara Randle-Jones and I am the proud wife to Leamon Jones and a mother to three beautiful children, Karsyn, Leilani, and Ezekiel. I was born and raised in Columbia, SC and remained there until marrying my husband in 2014. We are currently stationed in Okinawa, Japan. Currently, I attend Trevecca Nazarene University where I am finishing my bachelor’s degree in psychology and will be continuing on to a master’s program in social work. My passions include “KrownedQueen By Kamara”, a Paparazzi Jewelry business where I provide affordable fashions to men, women, and children. Also, I am the founder of “The Postured Woman and Wife,” a ministry for Christian women and wives who aim to learn and grow in their posture for God. My passion for the love, care, and support of women is immense and it is an honor to serve them in every area of my life.
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Here's the situation..."I have a problem with my husband's ex-wife not respecting my place as his new wife. We got married a few months ago and his ex-wife needs to respect me. She has never liked me because I dated my husband while the two of them were separated. My husband and I got married two years after he finalized his divorce. My husband has twins with his ex-wife. The ex-wife is always trying to talk to him about his twins. I feel like his twins are old enough to speak for themselves. They're 15! I also think that the twins are old enough to stop coming for visits each week. My husband and I need our private time together on the weekends. The ex-wife is only sending these twins over so they can report back to her what’s going on in my household. The daughter does not like me and is mad because I make her keep her things in a suitcase when she comes over on visits. And her twin brother just follows her lead. I have told my husband that he no longer needs joint custody and these twins are old enough to stay home. My husband just gets mad and stops talking to me. He says those are his kids and our home is their home. I'm at my wits end. What should I do to get through to my husband? It’s my turn! What should I do?" Sis, is that the type of man you wanted to marry? A deadbeat dad who would toss his kids to the side because he was in a new relationship? These are his children and they will be his children for the rest of his life. Let us not forget you are also their step-mother. These are your children as well. You see how I keep repeating that word; children? They are 15 years old. These are not adults.They are
at an age where they need their father more than ever. It is completely childish of you to want the weekly visits to stop. I understand why your husband gets upset and distances himself from you when you have these tantrums. How on earth can he explain to his wife that he needs to be a father to his children? Would you like it if he went over to his ex-wife's home and spent the weekend there? Yeah, let's
really start rekindling those feeling and see how you act then. Be happy that you married a man who understands his important role as a father. When the kids come over for the weekend, have something planned for them. Spend some time getting to know them and build a relationship. If you have any intentions on having a long and fulfilling marriage, you need to accept this as your new normal.
Need Savage Advice? Send us an anonymous letter to info@melaninmilsomagazine.com and we may answer your question in the next issue. Get ready for a Savage response.
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WONITA GOODMANSCOTT By Shaunte' McFarland
Hi, my name is Wonita Goodman-Scott. I am from the small town of Ridgeland, SC. I am married to the love of my life, Sgt. Chas Scott of the United States Army. We are currently stationed in Okinawa, Japan. We have two boys Kymari (12) and Keshaun (14) that we love so much. Outside of the military life, I love traveling, photography, and working on rebranding my online boutique.
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ANDY BURNS By Shaunte' McFarland
Konichiwa! My name is Andy Burns born and raised in Baltimore, MD, and currently stationed in Okinawa, Japan. I was blessed to meet my soulmate, Jordin Burns, seven years ago and we have a beautiful two-year-old daughter named Zara Peyton Burns. Just like many women, I have so many roles and struggled to find my purpose while navigating MILSO life in my early years. Currently, I have two cosmetic businesses, Nazara Beauty Cosmetics and my makeup artistry business, Andy Beats. I have continued to open multiple virtual businesses to build different avenues of wealth and my sole motivation behind all of this is to leave a legacy of financial freedom for my family. While I relish in the sisterhood of MILSO life, I appreciate the push that my black MILSOs gave me throughout the years. I was able to find my purpose and affirm that I am more than my husband’s career, more than the duty station I am at, and more than the circumstances surrounding our lifestyle. And for that, I am proud to be affiliated with The League of Roses that commits to helping black spouses like myself find their way.
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TAKIA DAVIS By Shaunte' McFarland I’m Takia Davis, originally from Markham, IL, a city outside of Chicago. You would think spending majority of my 36 years on this earth as a military brat I would have been prepared to be a military spouse but, nope I was NOT prepared at all. After 11 years of marriage to my handsome Marine and being a mommy to five amazing kids, I’m still learning and exploring the layers that make me who I am. Throughout the years, I have been able to accomplish so many things and connect with some delightful people that I will treasure for the rest of my life. Since starting this journey in 2009 in beautiful Twentynine Palms, CA (oh look, I made a funny), I’ve volunteered my time and heart to help my husband’s many units, single Marine program, and being a support system for new wives starting their journey in this unpredictable lifestyle. Fast-forward to Cherry Point, NC, where I served as president of the Enlisted Spouses Club. There, I assisted with and executed meet and greets, gift-wrapping events, auctions, and newcomer briefs. Now stationed in Okinawa, Japan, after much soul searching, I decided to return to school. I’m currently studying psychology with the hopes of becoming a therapist. In January of 2020, I launched FABULOUSLY FLAWED AND TRYING (www.fabulouslyflawedandtryin.com), a blog that focuses on removing the stigma attached to mental health and therapy in the black community by sharing my own journey. I also focus on empowering women and young girls to show them that they’re capable of anything they put their minds to. I believe that black military spouses deserve a safe place and a platform to grow into something significant and League of Roses is just the organization to help with that. | 31
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CYMBER CLAY-EDENS By Shaunte' McFarland
I am Cymber Clay-Edens from Hampton, VA. I am an Air Force wife and a mother of a 9month-old baby boy. We are currently stationed on the beautiful island of Okinawa, Japan. I am an alumna from one of the illustrious HBCUs, Savannah State University, where I became a member of the National Council of Negro Women and other local organizations. The League of Roses sisterhood gives me the feeling of unity all over again. Since I am overseas and move frequently, it is hard to keep and form bonds. I know this organization will encourage me to share my bubbly personality and hippie spirit with women I can call my sisters all over the world.
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KENDRA DIXON By Shaunte' McFarland
Kendra Dixon has been married to LT Commander, Wilbert Dixon III ,for 11 years. Currently stationed at WRNMMC, they have three children, Jayda, Imani, and Wilbert IV who keep her very active. She has her BS in psychology and plans to go back to school to further her education. Kendra is very creative, enjoys volunteering, giving back, and has a huge passion for mental and physical health. While navigating this military life, faith and her prayer life continues to keep her grounded.
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KATINA YOUNG By Shaunte' McFarland
I am Katina Young. I am an Army Wife and mother of three beautiful children Jayvion(7), Maliyah (2), and Mariah (1). We are currently stationed in Okinawa, Japan. I am originally from a small town called Carthage, North Carolina where I lived majority of my life, up until I married the love of my life. My hobbies include working out, going to the beach, and spending time with my family.
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Join the movement to unite Black Military Spouses across the globe.
join the league of roses Get the free app for iOS and Android.
Or visit us at www.theleagueofroses.com
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