Becoming.

bec ming.

OCT/NOV 2018

Seychelle Ross:

HOW CONFIDENCE CHANGESEVERYTHING!

HOPE! FORTHE

DISCOURAGED

TRIUMPH:

Samia's Story

#GIRLBOSS: TONESA MUNNINGS

contents

October/November 2018

17

26

for your spirit Hope for Discouragement: Get up & Fight p .13 Triumph: Samia's Story p. 17

30

for your soul #Girl Boss! : Tonesa Munnings p. 22 How Confidence Changes Everything: Seychelle Ross p. 34

33

for your body Debunking the Breast Cancer Myths:

Is the lump harmful or harmless? p. 30 A "Snatched" Waist The Healthy Way! p. 42

34

enizagaM ehT gnimoceB

contributors October/November 2018

LashantĂŠ Stubbs

Bachelor of Science Biochemistry Founder of Pearls Empowerment Medical Student

Rodesia Wright Bachelor of Science Biology (minor Chemistry) Bachelor of Medicine Medical Student

Tonesa Munnings Associates Law and Criminology Bachelor of Laws Founder of Purpose Over Popularity Currently enrolled in Bar School 5 | Oct/Nov 2018

Seychelle Ross

Bachelors in Theatre Arts (Pending) Miss UWIverse 2018

Christna Stubbs Bachelor of Arts English Studies (minor Literature) Masters Degree in English Literature (Pending)

Samia Newbold Bachelor of Arts Marketing (Pending) Entrepreneur Model

Pearls Empowerment |Est. 2009|

Women Helping Women Thrive

pearlsempowerment@gmail.com

from the editor

"Become all that God has destined you to be."

W

omen's empowerment has always been my passion. In a world where so many women see each other as competition, it's easy to forget that strong women lift each other up. It's easy to forget that "the presence of someone else's

beauty, does not mean the absence of your own beauty" . I believe that as women, we should encourage our sisters to become the best possible women - physically, emotionally and spiritually! This magazine is simply that belief put into practice.

The magazine is called "becoming" because I believe that growth never stops!

Step by step we become a better version of ourselves. Although we make mistakes, we must never stop becoming- becoming wiser, becoming stronger, and ultimately becoming a better woman.

It is my prayer that this magazine deeply enriches your life. I hope that the content empowers you to thrive and become all that God has destined you to become!

xoxo, L. Stubbs "...shine like lights in a dark world."

-Philippians 2:15

8 | Oct/Nov 2018

Founder, Pearls Empowerment

GOD remains the strength of my heart.

-Psalm 73:26.

Owner, Bonita Nails

10 | Oct/Nov 2018

Photos provided by Bonita Nails By Drew

Andrewnique

Opening Hours Tuesday-Saturday: 9:30 A.M. - 5:30 P.M. Sunday & Monday: CLOSED Adore Hair Studio, Madeira Street, Nassau, Bahamas 11 | Oct/Nov 2018

www.bonitanails242.com bonitanails242@hotmail.com 1-242-535-7212 @ bonitanailsbydrew

Hope For Discouragement

By Christna Stubbs

"I have learned over the years that discouragement has a voice."

F

or years, it felt like a cloud of discouragement followed me wherever I went.

This was true all throughout high school and college. Just when I thought it was over, discouragement came at me like a bulldozer when I enrolled in graduate school.

Day in , and day out I found myself building up my hopes only to have them shattered again. Night after night, I would fall asleep only to wake up to this uninvited guest!

I constantly longed for joy, hope and peace. Despite my desires, I felt like nothing was changing. But just when I found myself ready to give up, God reached out and drew me out of those deep waters. He taught me that if I was ever going to win this battle against discouragement, it would require much more than me feeling sorry for myself. I would have to get up and fight back.

14 | Oct/Nov 2018

#1 Fight Back with the Truth I have learned over the years that discouragement has a voice. I can remember waking up and feeling so incredibly overwhelmed by it: “You won’t get anything done today!” “You’ve been trying for months!” “Today will be just like yesterday, you should just give up!”.

If you’re familiar with discouragement, you’ll understand how quickly these words can turn into a feeling.

You no longer hear discouragement in your head, but you feel it in your body, you feel like you want to give up; you feel like it’s easier to just stay in bed all day. One morning while I was going through this, I was urged to read Psalm 139 aloud. The minute I started reading the first three verses, I could feel discouragement lifting. The truth of God’s word became louder than any word discouragement was reciting in my mind.

At first, you might feel as though nothing is changing, but I promise you that the more you speak the truth in confidence, you will surely see discouragement cower!Speak the truth: “You will succeed!” “God will complete the good work that He has begun in you!”

#2 Fight Back with Community As an introvert, I can honestly say that I’ve never been much of a people person. I always preferred to be alone. After doing so though, I learned quickly that it is impossible to do life alone- I needed people who were grounded, spiritually mature and strong. I needed these people to walk with me, and honestly at some points, to carry me. Like me, you need people. During my battle with discouragement, I found that sharing my struggles with friends freed me in so many ways.

Not only did they remind me that I was not alone, but they provided encouragement, and prayer! I encourage you to surround yourselves with the right people. Take it from an introvert, healthy community is crucial in this battle against discouragement.

#3 Fight Back with Gratefulness I know some of you might be thinking, how can that help me with discouragement? When I mastered the art of gratefulness, it changed my life. Whenever I would feel discouragement creeping in,

I would begin to thank God for every gift or blessing that He has graced my life with. A wise person once said that what you focus on is magnified. If you focus on the goodness of God, joy will take the place of discouragement.

longer controlled by discouragement. Don’t allow it to control you any longer, fight back!

It would be impossible for me to end this article without urging you to also pray and worship God through this process. Without prayer and worship, these 3 points would really mean nothing. By the grace of God, I have grown in so many ways! And although I am still tempted to feel discouraged, I am no

"When I mastered the art of gratefulness, it changed my life."

15| Oct/Nov 2018

TRIUMPH

These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith,of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire,may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.

-1 PETER 1:7

T

o say my life was in shambles would be an understatement. I was lost, broken and spiritually dead. I felt like I was in a coma, and someone else was living my life.

Not one day went by where I didn’t suffer from a migraine, all because of my constant worry. I worried about how others would perceive me or how I looked, I worried about how I could live my reckless life without offending my “super spiritual” mother (as I called her).

"I could live my reckless life without offending my “super spiritual” mother" I became lost in a destructive maze. I was constantly trying to stand out by wearing excessive makeup, and dressing up because I never felt like I measured up to the world’s standard of beauty.

I was always a size too big compared to my friends, and my insecurities ate at me like a flesh eating virus.These insecurities and the obsession with physical appearance made me desperate for attention, seeking it in all the wrong places. At this point of my life, I was a freshman in college, allowing anyone to fill my head with what I now call “sweet lies”.

I have had only two serious relationships in my life; the first leaving me with a child that I now raise on my own.

I fell victim to postpartum depression very soon after having my daughter, and eventually latched onto anything that took my mind away from the fact that I was indeed a double statistic, “a single teenage mother”. Because of this reality, I entered the second relationship which quite frankly, nearly took me out.

I was involved with someone much, much older than I was, someone who I know for sure was not good for me. In this relationship, I was introduced to drugs, abuse and a polygamous relationship that made me question my own sexuality. No one around me knew what I dealt with, because I feared judgment. The extra attention that I received in this relationship made me desire to always have him around.

"No one around me knew what I dealt with, because I feared judgment."

Although I was bitterly broken, mentioning my pain to anyone was out of the question. I felt that telling would cause him to leave me, so I kept quiet.

Imagine being in a relationship for 2 years and your mother never physically

meeting the guy!? My mother however, being deeply rooted in God, started to have visions of him and would warn me day after day to end it, but I never took heed to her warnings. My addictions grew. I was now not only addicted to acceptance, but also to alcohol.

Many times, because of what I went through, I hoped that one day I would be healed from my brokenness. I desired to one day become a mentor to other young women like myself.I needed to be free.

I was desperate for it, so I committed my life to God. One of the most frustrating things in my search for freedom was the slowness of my progress. I was beginning to feel as though nothing really changed in me. I was like the blind man that Jesus healed. I wanted my deliverance to happen right there and then!

However, I came to realize that healing takes time.

God needed to come and heal not only my body, but also my spirit and mind, since they were the most damaged. Many people would ask me , “What do you want God to do in your life?�. In those moments, I had to think long and hard because I knew that there was so much I needed to be set free from, so my answer was simple- I wanted Him to change everything about me. I wanted to be reborn, and He did just that. I was once told that things will be made clear in my life, and this was very true.

Time has passed, and I have discovered an even deeper need to experience all that God has in store for me. Walking in my new life with Christ honestly feels as though my past life does not exist anymore.

"I was beginning to feel as though nothing really changed in me."

There are days I when I feel discouraged, but when I remember all that I went through I’m encouraged. I also remind myself that I cannot live a mediocre life, I must live up to my full potential. This is what keeps me moving forward. My mind, soul, my entire being has since been changed and renewed. No longer do I feel bound by my insecurities.

I am grateful that God prefers to work through those who are small enough, simple enough, and even flawed enough to demonstrate His true power.

For He has truly chosen the weak and foolish things of this world to demonstrate His power and wisdom. I am living proof.

Want to be a part of the magazine?

Email us today!

JOIN

team "THE ZINE"

pearlsempowerment@gmail.com

#Persistent#Strong#

#GirlB

#Inspiration#Trendsetter#

Wise #Leader #Beautiful

BOSS #Graceful#Dedicated

A

force to be reckoned with, this 24 year old is just getting started! Tonesa recently graduated The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill, Barbados with a degree in law! If working on a legal career isn't enough, imagine running your

own non

profit organization AND launching a new business?!

Tonesa Munnings is representing

Tonesa admits that life has not

everything millennial women are

been easy , and that only by

standing for- strength, passion,

trying and failing was she ever

and the pursuit of purpose! She

able to succeed. In her own

describes herself to be one who

words she "struggled and

"takes pride in being a woman"!

survived" and her persistence has

We describe her as one who is

lead her to this place of triumph.

doing it all! This native of Grand

Tonesa shared with us that she's

Bahama, Bahamas admits that

learned over the years that we as

although she was always

women are great pretenders-

confident in herself, there have

often so good at playing the role

been many moments when she

of having everything together

second guessed!

when our very lives are hanging on by a thread.

24 | Oct/Nov 2018

authenticity

She went on further to say that

a legacy of excellence and Jesus

is necessary to living a fulfilling

she takes pride in her gender,

behind. Tonesa aspires to evolve

life! She added that she

because

encourages other women to see

drastically over the years; "we’ve

about life. She mentioned that

themselves the way God sees

proven our value in the past, the

she desires to become a person

them,focus on their strengths and

present and we're showing the

that her family , friends and God

work on improving their

world that we are the future".

can be proud of.

Tones's greatest fear is leaving

Tonesa's life is such a bright light

this world without fulfilling her

and

being a woman is powerful. That

God-given purpose. So it is no

many women! We at the

it means being gentle, graceful

surprise that when asked about

magazine are excited for the

and humble, while having the

her hopes for the future, they

amazing ways her gifts and

right balance of fierceness,

include leaving

talents will change this world for

Tonesa believes that

women have evolved

and learn all that she possibly can

weaknesses-not ignore them.

She explained that she believes

strength and drive!

breath of fresh air to so

the better.

25 | Oct/Nov 2018

Tonesa is currently enrolled in bar school in The Bahamas. She is the CEO and founder of Purpose Over Popularity. When she isn't killing the entire game, Tonesa is "Netflixing", reading or daydreaming at the nearest beach.

Connect with her!

@Tonesa Monae Munnings @conqueringhell_inhighheels

28 | Oct/Nov 2018

our reading list

OCT/NOV 2018

Books worth reading this month!

Love Defined By:Kristen Clark & Bethany Baird

"Our culture is obsessed with love and romance--so why are so few women experiencing satisfying, long-term love? In this .. book, sisters Kristen Clark and Bethany Beal help single women of all ages discover a radically better approach to navigating their love lives."

Silent Seasons Trusting God When You Don't Understand By: Heather Lindsey "Are you going through a silent season in your life right now? Do you feel stuck? Do you feel like doors keep closing but nothing is opening in your life?

Do you feel rejected or forgotten? ... If so, this book is for you."

The Pressure Trap By: Heather Lindsey

"Do you feel stressed out and pressured about life?...Don't get caught in the trap of being pressured by this world. Instead, break free to do what God has called you to do! ."

Unashamed By: Lecrae Moore Dating With Purpose By:Ashley Brown "In this uplifting, pageturning read, Ashley Brown revolutionizes the world of dating by sharing her unique and enriching experience from going from a certified “hot mess” to a housewife."

"If you live for people's acceptance, you'll die from their rejection.This is the story of one man's journey to faith and freedom."

29 | Oct/Nov 2018

Debunking Breast Cancer Myths

by Rodesia Z. Wright B.Sc. , B.S. Medical Student (5th Year)

Here’s a scenario: You’re taking your usual evening shower, and as you begin to wash around your left breast, you feel a lump! Immediately, you begin to wonder, “Is this going to kill me?!” and your mind starts racing. You’re now coming up with all sorts of possibilities as to what it could actually be!

The first thing that may come to your mind is “OMG, I have cancer”! Such a reaction is normal, especially if you’re unfamiliar with how to distinguish between cancerous and non-cancerous lumps!

However, when faced with a predicament like this, cancer may not always be the case. While there are women who may be at risk of developing breast cancer at a young age, only about 5 % of all breast cancer cases occur in women under the age of 40.

Myth #1: Breast Lumps= Cancer If you find yourself in a scenario like the one I mentioned above, the first thing you should determine is: Is the lump painful or is it painless? Painful lumps are usually non-cancerous.

Weird right? If you’re not a doctor or a medical student, you may be more inclined to believe that painful lumps would be more detrimental to your health. However, this is not the case. Some causes of painful breast lumps are cysts (fluid-filled sacs), periductal mastitis (inflammation of the duct beneath the breast) or an abscess (swollen area containing pus).

"Is the Lump painful or painless?"

While the painless lumps are more likely to be cancerous, there can be other causes of painless lumps like cysts and fibroadenomas (harmless tumors in the breast).

Some important symptoms of breast cancer to pay attention to are unusual changes in the appearance of your breasts, nipples pointing inwards or nipple discharge. If you experience any of these symptoms, please visit a doctor.

Myth #2: You should only get a mammogram if cancer runs in your family!

One important thing that you should be aware of are the recommendations for mammograms. It is recommended that women aged 40 to 49 get a mammogram every 1 to 2 years.

This is especially important in women who have a high risk of developing breast cancer.

According to the Komen Bahamas, there are estimations of about 300 to 500 new cases of breast cancer in The Bahamas every year with 48% of women being diagnosed under the age of 50. Of these women, 44% have stage 3 or 4 cancers, and 43% of them die under the age of 50 from breast cancer!

31 | Oct/Nov 2018

Although it is not recommended that women under 40 get mammograms, women 20 years of age or older should be performing monthly breast selfexaminations. So, ladies please make this a priority! It may save your life!

"...estimations of about 300 to 500 new cases of breast cancer in The Bahamas every year . "

These women usually experience painful breasts at certain times of the month. As women, the important thing is to be aware and to stay active. Exercise and diet are also important as obesity plays a role in the development of breast disease.

Remember, self-breast examinations should be carried out every month to monitor changes in the breast. There are tons of online resources that can teach you to do a self-breast exam. Mammograms should be done for those in the “at risk” age group (ages 40-49). Remember, as the Cancer Society of the Bahamas states, “Early detection saves lives”!

Myth #3: Breast Pain means Breast Cancer!

Have you ever had moments in your life where you experienced strange breast pains? Like, maybe your breasts have felt very tender and painful to touch? Normal hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy can cause painful breasts.

Also, there are certain medications that can cause breast pain.

According to The National Breast Cancer Foundation, there are women who simply have lumpy breasts. This is referred to medically as, “fibrocystic breasts” where there are fluid filled cysts within the breasts.

32 | Oct/Nov 2018

"As women, the important thing is to be aware and stay active."

ed d d r! a No uga S

Easy Like Sunday Morning

What you'll need...

1 cup pineapple juice 1 banana 1/2 cup frozen Strawberries 1/2 Cup Greek yogurt A good blender of course!

Instructions...

Blend & serve!

Smoothie!

Seychelle RossÂ

How Confidence Changes Everything

E

arlier this year we attended the Miss UWiverse pageant at the University of the West Indies Trinidad & Tobago! Of the 11 contestants, Seychelle Ross claimed the crown ! After the pageant, we stood outside and watched her celebrate her victory by fire dancing. Yes! Actual fire dancing! It wasn't just her stunning beauty that intrigued our team, but rather her spark and overwhelming confidence! We were fortunate enough to speak with Seychelle one-on-one. Here's what she had to say!

Q: How old are you?

A: I am 20 years old.

Oh, wow!

Q:Where did you grow up?

A: South Trinidad, San Fernando to be exact.

Q: Any hobbies?

A: I love swimming, singing and dancing.

Q: What is your biggest fear?

A: My biggest fear is losing my mother!

She is my best friend, my adviser and my confidant.

Q: What does being a woman mean to you?

A:Being a woman consists of far too many things to put into words. Being a woman encompasses loving yourself, and all of your flaws! "Breaking no bones" and having confidence even when it’s not felt. It's about working hard for what we call ours, and most importantly, being true to yourself and your spirituality!

Q: What is one thing that you are proud of yourself for accomplishing this year?

A:One of my most rewarding accomplishments this year was realizing that anything I put my mind to can become a reality! The Miss Uwiverse Experience program helped me to realize this!

Q: Tell us more about your journey Seychelle. Were you always so confident?

A: I was introduced to theater at just 6 years old! It has trained me to always be confident with myself. Healthy confidence brings much happiness!

Q: What were some ways you were able to build and develop confidence?

A: One of the many ways I was able to develop my confidence was to visualize myself achieving a set goal and constantly repeat , “I can and I will”.

Another way I build my confidence is by surrounding myself with positive people.

I also strive to build confidence in other women in my circle.

Q: What are some ways you’d encourage other women to become more confident?

A: One of the ways I encourage my family and friends to be more confident is by complimenting them often! I also show genuine interest in what they have to say or their goals, plans and desires.

Which is why it's important to have the right people in your circle!

Q: Why do you feel it is important for women to be confident and true to themselves?

A:To be honest, life becomes a whole lot easier when you remain true to yourself and what you believe in. It empowers a woman to truly express her emotions without doubting herself.

Q: What are your hopes for the future?

A:To create a theatre based-organization that teaches young Indo and Afro Trinidadians the history of our beloved country and it’s rich cultural diversity.

.............................

Sounds like lot but we know that you will accomplish whatever you set your mind to! Thanks so much for your time! We pray that your life continues to blossom into all that God intends it to be!

37 | Oct/Nov 2018

Oven Fried Chicken

Ingredients

4 Chicken thighs Vegetable oil of choice 2 tablespoon black pepper 1 tablespoon salT 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Mix salt, garlic powder and pepper in a large bowl. Coat each piece of chicken thoroughly with mixture, distribute oil evenly oven chicken and mix.Add chicken to pan , bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until the chicken is no longer pink inside.

Serve hot.

DrinkMore Water!

 t s i a w

ed h c t a n AS

ay!

W y h t l a TheHe

Replace1meal with a smoothie!

Pilates!

pearlsempowerment@gmail.com |

@ pearlsempowerment