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CONTENTS Heart of a Queen Women
10 Handling 12
Business
Minding your Budget 4
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3 steps to Confident Communication 21
Not Another Statistic 22
Spiritually Speaking 23
Identify your Passion 28
Staying Motivated on your fitness Journey 29
Tips for a Flawless Face 31
To be or not to be Natural 32
We need Leaders 34 3
SPOTLIGHTS Small Business (16)
Overcoming (26)
Ginger Burr Stephanie Halfacre
Women to Watch Robin Devonish 13
Tiffany Clay 11 4
Carla Willis 33
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Contributors
Belize Samuel Joan-Lisa Shinault
Aneka Bellamy
Tonya Franklin Anya Pearson
Jennifer Ray 6
Shaneequa Cannon
April Murdock
Bobette Baber
Editor’s Note If you turn on any ‘popular’ television or radio shows, more often than not, you will walk away with the notion that most women live with an ‘if SHE wins I lose’ mentality. I, for one, know that this could not be further from the truth. Yes there are negative people in the world, but I have learned that if you make up your mind to be positive you will attract people of like minds. Speak Woman’s mission is based on a foundation of positivity. Not being unrealistic by saying nothing bad happens, but knowing that WE are strong enough! Strong enough to not only make it through trials, but to reach back to the ladies around us to help when she may be near giving up. Speak Woman wishes to provide a network of women to support one another and build relationship. We invite YOU to this #POSITIVE MOVEMENT!
With Love, La’Shanda Campbell, Founder/Editor At Large
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Reader’s Corner What would you like to see in Speak Woman Magazine? ***Responses from Spring 2015 Tea Talks***
The importance of uniting generations of women, to get past the miscommunication and idea that we can't get along or help empower each other. Acknowledging everyday women and showing how we can be influential; the women in the spotlight aren't the only people to look up to. Spotlighting small businesses; stressing the importance of supporting each other to build our empire (marketing corner). Interaction with the brand and their audience (Q & A); problem solving Tips. Capture different aspects of a women (not just beauty or motherliness) such as: hobbies, friendships, guilty pleasures, & things that make them laugh. Financial section that focuses on building wealth. Show that we don't bash men or feed into the stereotypical angry woman. College student section that focuses on what women might face while in college. Section that shows males perspectives on different issues. 8
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The Heart of the By: Jennifer Ray
Queen So, that takes us back to the question, what did Esther do to become chosen? What attributes did she possess that allowed that favor to manifest in the form of a crown? There are so many attributes to discuss about Esther, but there is one that I think we should really focus on.
Did you know that Esther was an orphan? Her parents were killed as slaves when she was just a child. Her Do you know the Bible story of uncle Mordecai was raising her. When Esther the Queen? She was a Jewish she was brought to the palace with the girl chosen out of all the maidens in other maidens, her uncle told her not to the whole country to be the Queen of reveal that she was Jew. He had his Persia. She was then able to save her reasons and perhaps they didn’t make people from total annihilation because sense to Esther, but guess what she of her courage. did? She obeyed. That’s the first Have you attribute. ever stopped to ask Obedience! “What God has for you, is for you, yourself, why she but even Jesus had to make the was chosen? Of Many times, course, the obvious journey to the cross with His own we struggle to obey answer is that the what God is telling feet.” favor of God was us to do in certain upon her life. That situations. is of course the Sometimes it’s truth, but with every promise or because we don’t understand the blessing we receive from God, we are instructions, sometimes we’re just still responsible for our part. We can’t being rebellious, or we just brush the ask God to send us a new job, but instruction aside because we don’t refuse to send out any resumes. What think it’s very important. The Bible God has for you, is for you, but even tells us that “Obedience is better than Jesus had to make the journey to the sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22). cross with His own feet. 10
We as women are so good at making sacrifices. We do it daily for our children, our men, our jobs, our churches, etc. None of that is necessarily bad, but what if God- the King who gives us our crowns- says that we need to go in a different direction? What do we do then? Some of us get into relationships that WE want, we sacrifice ourselves, our money, our homes, our futures. We do everything that we possibly can to make them happy and to see to it that they are taken care of... even when it isn’t healthy. We sometimes don’t realize that it would be better to seek God and be obedient to wait for Him to send us the right relationship, the right man. Instead we go our own way
and now sacrifice is our middle name. God desires that we be happy, that we would “prosper and be in good health even as our souls prosper” (3 John 1:2). His perfect way for us to do that is by being obedient. This is one thing that Esther discovered. Her obedience to the authority in her life (Mordecai) paved the way for her to save her people, the Jews, from complete annihilation. Ask yourself, what has God been telling you to do? Can you imagine what God may do in your life- through your life, if you just obey Him? The choice is yours, Esther made the right one and so should you. Obey!
Tiffany is a seasoned operational leader. She earned her undergraduate degree in business management from Urbana University and a MBA from the University of Phoenix. She resides in West Chester, Ohio with her husband and two children.
Tiffany Clay ‘Success is your ability to achieve the most important things that you have set forth to accomplish. Whether tangible or intangible the path to success will most likely be a journey, so sit back, buckle up and get ready for the ride…sometimes its smooth, but most of the time it’s fairly bumpy. Don’t be distracted by other drivers, they too have their own journey and everyone does not get to the finish line at the same time.’
Women Handling Business By: Tonya Franklin
What century is this? Um, the 21st. Yeah, and it seems like women are still craning their necks against the glass ceiling. As women are taking charge in business, there are still some of the unspoken rules that apply to us that are not trying to “take over,” but just want a little slice of the pie. With all of the strikes women have against them as business owners and management professionals, women still have to be fair, but not wavering when it comes to dealing with employees and clients. I have some tips on how women in management and business ownership can be fair, but still let her clients know that she’s large and in charge. First, women must have respect for themselves. Regardless of how someone may not like you, if you put your best foot forward they will respect you. Make sure that you’re not “cutting corners” to be a team player.
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Second, it is an important that women are confident and comfortable with who we are. Knowing your craft and being comfortable in your abilities to be competent to do the job will quickly set the tone with your employees and clients. Remember it is not about trying to prove yourself. If you spend so much time trying to do that, you waste the time you could be spending to be the great manager and entrepreneur that you are. Lastly, make sure you understand that you are in business to make money and to shape your world, NOT to make friends or be the next shero. Put on your go-get ‘em hats and use your God-given ability of multitasking to do your job. Clients are just that – clients. Build your business and career on experience alone, and realize that your confidence is what will propel you to greater heights and garner you respect among your clients and/or employees. Remember, there is no intimidation or insecurity in greatness! Professional woman encompass the highest magnitude of greatness, so go forth. It’s your world!!!
Robin Devonish
“I define empowerment as selfeducation in whatever area you desire to learn about.”
‘The Self-Publishing Maven’ is a Cancer Survivor, Audacious Author, Spirited Speaker, & Unapologetic Achievement Coach who hopes to inspire others to recognize and pursue whatever floats their boat. Robin works to encourage others to tap into their inner giant & play full out unapologetically.
“I define success with an equation I created PI+C+A+B²+FT = R which means we must constantly do Personal Inventory, stay Committed to our success goals, take Action regularly, have double of Belief and always Follow Through. When we do these things, we have no choice but to yield Results. Hence, we will be successful in whatever area we desire.”
Minding Your Finances By: Bobette Baber
It is important to mind our finances well by establishing a good budget. First, we need to establish the meaning of budget. A budget is a plan you make to ensure your set expenses are covered by the income you make.
Here are some tips to assist with creating a budget: Know your monthly income- This is important to know what you have to work with before preparing your worksheet. Know your expenses- This is important to see exactly where your money is going. Expect the unexpected- It is important to understand that emergencies may arise at any time, so it is a good idea to set some money aside each month for any unexpected needs. Do your math- Once you have gathered all of the above information, it’s time to put your math skills to work. Add up all of your monthly expenses (including emergency funds) and subtract them from your monthly income. Your answer will show if you are in the red or if you have an excess.
For example: Monthly Income: Rent Utilities Cell Phone Car Payment Car Insurance Total Expenses
$1200.00 $ 450.00 $ 120.00 $ 50.00 $150.00 $ 100.00 $870.00
*Total Remaining Income $330.00* *Reward yourself- It is important to pay yourself! Each month put aside some funds to reward yourself with something fun.
You need to establish a monthly budget to understand where you are financially. If you feel you don’t have enough money to meet your monthly expenses, you just might have enough. It may just be how you are spending the additional money you might have left over. The best way to find out is to Mind Your Finances with a good Budget! 14
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SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Ginger Burr, Total Image Consultants
Tell us about your business
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I started Total Image Consultants 28 years ago after meeting a woman who was offering a three day seminar on ‘Fashion, Color & Image.’ I didn’t hesitate and signed up. I loved every second of the workshop and started my business immediately. I learned I had an affinity for style and a gift for making women feel safe with me. I have always seen my work as a way to empower women and help them feel really good about who they are and project that self-confidence to the world. When you don’t feel good about the way you look or how you are dressing, it’s easy to want to hide. When you love how you look you are ready to step out! That’s what I wanted to help women do. I enjoy watching them blossom.
What does being an entrepreneur mean to you? Being an entrepreneur means taking a risk to start a business. Being willing to learn what is necessary to make the business run and be successful. And, a big part of it, at least for me, is exploring new avenues to support my clients and being willing to change and grow as my clients’ (and my) needs change. You also have to take the good with the bad, but part of what I always said, especially starting out, was that a bad day for me in my own business was often better than a good day at the job I had before. I was responsible for the success or failure of my business and I love that challenge. Read more at http://totalimageconsultants.com/about/
Who has been your greatest influence in business and why? The woman I mentioned above, who introduced me to the world of ‘fashion, color & image’ changed my life and was my biggest influence. Her name is Nevena Cranney and she was a star. She understood not only how to bring beauty into women’s lives but also how to nurture and support them through the transformation. She was also willing to encourage and support me as I built my business and I’m not sure I would be here in this business today without her. She knew how to make women feel special and I have taken her teachings with me all of these years. What is your greatest professional accomplishment to date? My greatest professional accomplishment is having a successful full-time business as an image consultant. I’ve seen many image consultants come and go and a big percentage of them don’t make a living at their profession. I was determined to make my business viable—
actually I had no choice since I had to support myself and this was the way I wanted to do it so I did. It wasn’t always easy, but all my hard work paid off. What is the best business advice you received that you would like to pass on to SW readers? This advice has served me well all these years. You might be extraordinarily good at what you do, but if you ignore the business skills needed to grow and maintain a business it won’t matter. I was lucky enough to have a business mentor who taught me how to keep good records, understand how to market and be willing to let the marketing evolve as the world changed and be aware of my cash flow. It is part of why I am still here today. The administrative, financial and marketing aspects of the business are critical to a thriving business. Without them you can be amazing at your craft, but you won’t be able to show people because your business won’t
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survive. Learn the business skills or hire them out to reputable, smart people and don’t just hope they will take care of themselves…they won’t and you will pay the ultimate price. What has been the most effective marketing tactic for your business?
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Years later, when websites became important, I realized how vital they would be for my business. This would allow someone to research me and learn about what I had to offer without investing any money or having to meet me in person to find out. From this “My work is day forward nearly so personal all of my marketing that dollars go into my someone website and it has needs to paid off time after meet me” time!
In a nutshell, two things- networking and my website. When I first started in this “““aspects business there was no such thing as a website or Do you have any new the internet. I had to do promotions that you would everything the old fashioned way like to tell SW readers about? and since I was new to being a business owner I made tons of There are two things. One, mistakes. so many women stare in their In the early years of my closet and wonder how they got business, I was lucky enough to all those clothes that they never have someone invite me to a wear! I have a free e-book called networking event. It sounds so ‘How to Stop Wasting Money on obvious now, but back then there Things You Never Wear’. were not a lot of networking www.10fashionsecrets.com opportunities or organizations for I also am able to work with women and since my clients are women from all over the world all women that’s what I needed. including New Zealand, Alaska My work is so personal that and the UK with my virtual someone needs to meet me (now coaching program called ‘Who we have websites, but back then Taught You How to Dress?’ it was in person) before they This is a program that gives you were willing to do business with unlimited access to me and my me. I became totally devoted to help as you create a wardrobe networking and it helped get my you love. There’s a special pdf business off the ground.
here that will give you all the details: www.whotaughtyouhowtodress.c om (and there’s a special $100 coupon in the pdf) plus, I will give all Speak Women Magazine readers an additional $50 off with the coupon ‘Bonus50’! What do you do for fun or relaxation? This is always a scary question for me because I love my work and so I tend to work a lot. As visible as I am in my professional life, in my private life I am a very quiet person. I love to read and take every opportunity to do that. I enjoy self-help and self-growth books as well as light fiction. I also enjoy spending time with my partner, kitties, and visiting with friends. While I am not a big
traveler, making an occasional visit to New York City is inspiring and fun!
Is there anything else you would like to share? I encourage every woman to allow herself to shine! That doesn’t mean you have to be ostentatious or bold. It just means letting your inner sparkle shine through. When you shop only buy things you LOVE! I promise you don’t have to sacrifice style or comfort to do this—not in the least. They can co-exist. It’s a matter of exploring outside your usual inner ‘comfort’ zone. The bottom line is that you deserve to feel great about who you are and how you look and that is my best wish for every woman reading this and every woman on our planet!
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3 tips to Confident Communication By: Anya Pearson
I have a confession to make: I am actually an incredibly shy person. If you met me in person, you might find that hard to believe because I don’t appear that way. I appear to be a born extrovert. But that’s because I realized a while back that in order to have the type of success and the impact in the world that I wanted to have, I needed to find a way to overcome my shyness and get really good at speaking clearly and confidently about myself, my value, and what I do well. And I am going to teach you how to do the same! Here are 3 steps to more confidence in your communication and in your life:
Step #1 – Mindset Shift The first step is about mindset. It’s about shifting your beliefs about yourself and your value. Confidence, simply put, is knowing what you’re good at, the value you provide, and acting in a way that communicates that to others. Pay attention to how you treat yourself throughout the day. Start to get really curious about the things you say about yourself both privately and to others. How do you view yourself?
Step #2 – Get Really Clear About Your Value The next step is to get crystal clear about your value. This is not meant to be an attempt to inflate your ego but I want you to honestly look at your strengths in clear terms. Get a piece of paper and a pencil and write a list. Try to be as detailed and concrete in your examples as possible. Can you explain to your boss why you deserve a raise? Can you explain why a company should hire you over another applicant? Can you clearly articulate what you do well and why?
Step #3 – Be Authentically You You are enough! Who you are, what makes you unique, is the foundation of your confident communication. The REAL YOU is so much more appealing and attractive than the fake version of someone else. Confidence comes from being willing to share your gifts with the world.
So go out there and share your uniqueness with the world! 21
NOT Another Statistic By: Shaneequa Cannon
“Now you won’t even finish high school.” And I heard disappointment: “I used to look up to you, now I don’t”. I was determined to prove them wrong, especially since not one of them thought to ask me how it happened. If they did, I would have told them the truth—I was raped. I had Growing up, I strived to be my choice stolen from me and my different. Whatever was expected of womb violated by someone to whom I me, I would do the opposite. If my thought I was safely related. Turned mother told me to hurry up, I would out he knew otherwise, that we shared slow down. If I didn’t see a reason for no blood relation, and that allowed him me to comply or didn’t feel to steal from me. I was at fault, I resisted So I fought for my “So I fought for my the direction. So the day mind in a way that I mind in a way that the doctor called to tell wasn’t able to fight for I wasn’t able to my mother that I was my body! I auditioned for fight for my body!” pregnant, I made up my a school play and scored a mind that I wouldn’t let this part in The Wiz. Even when child stop me from pursuing my withdrawn from school and placed life as I saw fit. At 16 years old, that in a program for pregnant girls, I meant finishing high school and going fought my way back to my home off to college. school. I applied to one college and got in. I worked part-time to help care for The phone call brought the my child. And, despite all the expected recriminations. Word additional burdens piled upon my traveled in all directions and shoulders, I fought to graduate. boomeranged back into the phone After graduating from college with my pressed against my ear. I heard degree and a second child, I then disclosed secrets: “You should get an fought my way off welfare, becoming abortion. It’s not a big deal; I’ve had a teacher. I refused to be boxed in by several”. I heard derision: “Don’t you the limitations set by others. I refused know anything about protection? Your to let the circumstances define my life. 22 uncle died from AIDS”. I heard doubt: I refused to be a statistic!!!
Spiritually Speaking Embracing the Purpose of Our Trials By: Joan-Lisa Shinault
“How did I get here and how do I get myself out of this mess?” If you have ever asked yourself these questions, you no doubt have been the carefully chosen participant of a TRIAL! Someone reading this article may not classify their life’s issues in this manner. Instead they may identify their circumstances as strings of bad luck, misfortune or deem them results of poor personal choices. Nonetheless our human experiences concerning trials are a part of our life’s existence. No matter what our ethnicity, race, socio-economic status, occupation, gender, etc., if we live long enough we will have our fair share of trials. Our trials are God allowed and intricately designed with purpose in mind. The ultimate purpose of our trials is this: to develop the God ordained overcomer within each of us. You may be thinking to yourself, “How in the world will I be able to overcome this situation? It seems to be overtaking me!” Let me assure you of one important life lesson I have
learned through my personal trials: Embracing the trial is the key to overcoming it! Our spiritual development is dependent upon how we embrace our trials. James 1:2-4 admonishes: “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. (NKJV) Our faith is tested through trials and unless we embrace each trial our tested experiences become limited, incomplete and void. Embracing our trials requires our participation. We must involve ourselves in what seems difficult, overwhelming, unfair, and often challenging. At the youthful age of 36 I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Believe me when I tell you, there was nothing about the diagnosis and subsequent trial that I wanted to embrace. This trial was not what I planned for my life, especially at this age. However in the process of seeking God for direction and understanding concerning what was happening I found the strength to embrace the trial 23
by choosing to walk it out in faith. Sure I would have preferred to be healed supernaturally, but the trial was a part of my journey and testimony.
Meditation Tips Get comfortable Sit on the floor
Today, I realize that without the experience I would be lacking what is necessary for me to fulfill the call and purpose of God for my life. The trial is an integral part of my testimony. A testimony only has validity when it is provided by a witness. We should be witnesses of God’s greatness in our personal lives and we do this by facing and embracing the trials set before us. In the midst of our trials our personal testimony provides an eyewitness account of God’s faithfulness for us. Our willingness to face and embrace each trial renders us the verdict sealed by the Righteous Judge, which cannot be reversed and ushers us into our intended victory. So be reminded of this important thing: when you feel hard pressed, overburdened, overwhelmed and even lost in your trials, remember that you are a work in progress. Much like a beautiful hand woven tapestry you are being prepared to be presented as a masterpiece handcrafted by the Grand Artisan of all creation! God wants you to embrace your trials, even if the reverse side of the tapestry looks a mess and makes no sense. Rest assure that with the embrace of each trial, you will walk through and overcome it; all for the glory of God! 24
(i.e. Indian Style)
or in a chair.
Don’t get in a rush Life is stressful enough. Sit still and allow yourself to simply BE in the moment.
Choose a focus With eyes open or closed focus on your breathing (natural rhythm), mental/physical image, or a sound/word that you repeat out loud or in your mind.
If your mind wonders *gently* bring it back to the focus point
Gently close meditation session when you wish or need to.
Meditation works best when done regularly. So schedule meditation time just as you schedule all other activities
On Purpose Women’s Network (OPWN) is a mentoring and networking organization for Women 18 + who feel the leading and calling for Christian ministry. Pastor, Teacher, Evangelist are common ministry areas but there is ministry in writing, performing arts and the marketplace such as corporate or entrepreneurial endeavors. We realize for many of us, our business is our ministry!!! At OPWN, we define ministry as any act of service that is motivated by the hope of the Gospel of Jesus Christ multiplied on the earth and the goodness of God on display through our ministry. OPWN was founded out of a sincere desire to see women move forward in fulfilling their God-given destiny. We come from diverse cultures, denominations and experiences but we commonly share a desire to please Jesus!
Through membership, you can get involved in 3 ways: 1. Become an On Purpose Mentor to a less experienced female in ministry 2. Become an On Purpose Mentee and work with your Mentor to achieve your ministry goals 3. Become an On Purpose Group Leader in your community and help women discover and fulfill their God-given purpose
For more information and membership fees visit
www.opwn.org or contact
Kimberly Jarvis at 937-673-6988
“For the Ministry You’ve Envisioned”
OVERCOMING SPOTLIGHT Stephanie Wilson Halfacre
Tell us a little about yourself (family, occupation, spiritual beliefs etc.)
I was born in Dayton Ohio and grew up with two sisters and three brothers. I’ve been an ordained minister Amazing People I Met Along The Way). I and inspirational speaker for over 30 also launched DQ Spirit Works, a years and I enjoy spreading the word of publishing company dedicated to sharing God. I presently serve as a staff pastor at the inspirational "works of God" in Christ Cathedral Church in Dayton people's lives. Ohio. I’ve been happily married to Stewart for 20 wonderful years. I’m also In 2013, I was diagnosis with the mother of three beautiful daughters, breast cancer and today I am a Akiya (Tia), Veronica, breast cancer survivor! In and Victoria. My first 2014, while recovering I took the “In 2013, I was grandson, Antwan Dale time to write another book Halfacre Tucker, was diagnosis with entitled “The Edward and Mary born, February 22, 2015. breast cancer Wilson Family Chronicles” with and today I’m a the help of her husband. I am also a Mary breast cancer Kay Consultant, survivor!” Volunteer at Artemis What is one of the biggest Center of Dayton (an agency dedicated to obstacles you have helping women suffering from domestic overcome? violence), and author. In 2011, I completed my first The biggest obstacle was dealing with book, "DreamQuest, A Journey of breast cancer. My life was great until Significant Vision" (Including Inspirational Stories from Some 26
December 2013, when I received a call stating that I had breast cancer. It was very hard telling my three daughters.
What do you do to make it through a tough day? (A day when you are not feeling well)
lives. Dr. Leon and Connie Stutzman were one of the first people that I called.
What do you do for fun or relaxation? I love traveling and taking vacations, I am a licensed Vacation Benefits Specialist (VBS). I also enjoy walking. Walking is a good way to relax and relieve the stress. It’s enjoyable and free.
During my cancer recovery, I found the nighttime hours were the most difficult. The house was quiet and everyone was sleeping and I could not sleep. My mind was full What brings you joy? “Put God first in all of uncertainty. I would (What makes you laugh?) that you do and he will lie in bed and pray. I realized all I could do see you through your Spending time with was pray and believe family and friends bring darkest hour.” that God would answer me great joy. You need a my prayers. I could hear sense of humor. I love joking and feel the prayers of my around. The song by Pharrell pastor and it would comfort me. I Williams – Happy was one of my also enjoy reading and listening to motivational songs inspiring music. I have learned to RELAX! What is the most important message
Who or what has been your greatest positive influence while going through breast cancer? I put all of my trust in God. My husband was such an inspiration - I could never tell him how much I love and appreciate him. He prepared healthy foods and continued to maintain his health through walking. We have been attending Christ Cathedral for 15 years, our Pastors have been such a positive influence in our
that you would like to share with SW readers? I would tell everyone that life is a journey – we are not here to stay. You don’t know what obstacles you are going to have to overcome, but you will face something. Go through it with a positive attitude and stay away from negative people. Keep laughing and smiling. Put God first in all that you do and he will see you through your darkest hour. God says that the joy of the Lord is our strength. I truly needed his strength at this time in my life.
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Identifying Your Life’s Passion By Aneka Bellamy you may hear reggae music (Jamaica?) or the sounds of Latin America (South Beach, Miami?) as you meet Mr. Sandman and slip into La-La land. As you are driving to your 9 to 5 the next morning, you may think of the beach; hear the music; feel the rays from the sun; however, this time, you now see your family members, a few business associates and yourself working on the beach. Ladies, we have all heard time and time again that your passion is whatever you would be willing to do for free, day in and day out, without question. We’ve also been told that if you follow your passion, the money will eventually come to you. I agree with this testament wholeheartedly and go further to say that wherever your mind drifts when you are bored and wherever your mind escapes to when you are stressed; are actually glimpses into your passion. When you daydream, you may not see the entire vision at once. You might see a beach with a beach house and nearby cabana. Later that night, as you drift off into your night’s slumber
Have you identified your life’s passion? Quite possibly. My rule of thumb is where your mind wanders to when you need to unplug from your reality is part of, if not the entire vision, of your life’s passion. Pay attention to your idle thoughts and blend them together into your vision which supports your passion. If you are not quite sure how to do this find a Life Coach who can assist you with the process. You are already pre-wired with the answers. You owe it to yourself to excavate your passion beyond your present day 9 to 5.
JOB 33 15
In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falleth upon men, in slumberings upon the bed;
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Then he openeth the ears of men, and sealeth their instruction,
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That he may withdraw man from his purpose, and hide pride from man.
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5 tips to stay motivated during your fitness journey By: Belize Samuel Many people are already enjoying the Spring weather, but everyone is counting down to Summer. The ability to not focus on getting fit is impossible. When you turn on the television or go to the store, the advertisement for gym equipment, gym wear, and weight loss products is everywhere. The desire to want to become healthy is everyone top goal. The difficulty to getting in shape is staying motivated. If you ask anyone that loss weight if they were not motivated at times the answer would be yes. The main problem for most people is sticking to the process. I have learned from my own fitness journey and many others that planning is key. You have to plan daily to eat healthy and workout. If you have a busy life, it’s still possible to place your fitness goals in your schedule.
5 tips to stay motivated: Meal Prep for the Week Pick a day in the beginning of the week and cook what meals you’ll have for lunch/dinner. Make sure to pick out your snacks as well. You don’t want to make a bad choice based on not planning. Schedule your workout Pick the days and times you want to work out. Stick to your workout or make the necessary adjustments. Stay Consistent Cheat days are ok. Just don’t make cheat days a habit. Learn how to make different meals to keep it fun and tasty. Set your mind Don’t look at your fitness goals as a diet. When you treat your goals as a diet, you will not keep them. Your fitness goals must be a lifestyle change. Learn how to make healthy choices daily. Accountability partner Make sure to find an accountability partner or group. The support will help make your journey fun and enjoyable. Just don’t depend on the accountability partner to keep going. You don’t want to quit because your accountability is not available. If you stick to your fitness goals you will meet them!!! 29
Dinner Under $30!!! Chicken/Shrimp Alfredo 1 pound diced chicken breast 1 pound cooked shrimp Fettuccine Pasta (white or wheat) Ragu Alfredo Sauce Baby spinach leafs
Treat Yourself‌
Girl’s Night In 1 part Moscoto 1 part Sprite (1/2 mini can) 1 part flavored lemonade
*Add frozen blueberry & raspberry for color*
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Tips for a flawless face By: Sherrita Stroud
Cleanse & Moisturize! Choosing the right cleanser and moisturizer for your skin type is important to remember. Skin types can be normal, dry, combination, oily or sensitive. Choose products formulated for your specific skin care needs.
Prime!! A primer is applied before the foundation. A primer creates a smooth canvas for the foundation of your choice. A primer also helps increase the longevity of your foundation. There are a wide range of primers based on your preference. For example, there are primers that ‘mattify’ which will create a matte finish, primers that help with oil control, and luminous primer that give
an extra glow to the skin. After applying your primer, allow at least five minutes before applying your foundation.
Foundations come in different forms. There are creams, powders and liquids to name a few.
Concealer!!! Concealer can be used underneath foundation. Concealer tends to be a thicker consistency than that of a foundation and has more pigmentation. This helps to camouflage blemishes. Choose a concealer that is close to your skin tone. Using the wrong color will only draw attention to the blemish. Apply concealer sparingly to the problem areas. Using a concealer in conjunction with your foundation can help reduce the amount of foundation needed.
Foundation!!!! The next step is to apply foundation.
Choosing a formulation that is right for your skin type is important. For example, if you have oily skin, a mineral powder foundation may help to absorb excess oils. On the other hand, if your skin tends to dry, a water based foundation may be the best choice. As a rule of thumb, liquid foundations tend to work for most skin types.
Set!!!!! After applying your foundation you can use a pressed powder or makeup finishing spray. This will keep your flawless face in place all day!!
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NATURAL, The Great Debate
By: April Murdock No doubt you’ve see her at every event with the tamed coils, the wild kinks, the curly afro, the taught fro-hawk, and that puff but wait…. Why is this cute when we all were told that’s nappy? Did we just replace the word “nappy” with “curly”? Is this some Jedi mind trick? Why is this Natural Hair movement so alluring all of a sudden? Yup this has to be a Jedi mind trick ‘cause everyone can’t do the natural look… and I’m sure I’m one of them! If that last sentence is something you have pondered, you are absolutely CORRECT! Everyone can’t rock the natural lifestyle. Yes honey, it’s a lifestyle! Once you go back natural, you have to re-learn EVERYTHING you ever knew about your hair. From what 3products work best for your hair to what hairstyles work best and let’s not even talk about that pillow case & diet! A few years ago you saw few Naturalistas rocking afros and your face and mind are straddling the fence. Do I love that hair …or nah? 32
Let’s be real, we were taught over years that our natural texture is wrong and “nappy”. When you embrace your hair it’s really curly… and if you have 4C hair… REALLY REALLY TIGHTLY wound curls (the struggle). But thank the heavens the cavalry came through with The Movement. You now see runway models, high end fashion, music and even local markets displaying and marketing natural hair products. Moisturizers, Curling Custards, creams, Edge Control, Co-Washes the list goes on. For any natural sistah, YouTube has become a constant help, like reaching for the Good Book. I’m not going to lie and say I was a Natural advocate all my life. I must say there are some naturals out there that need a really good conditioning, a lustrous moisturizer and a prayer to be Delivert! This is a reflection on the work that goes into the maintenance of natural hair. This isn’t for everyone and I just KNEW it wasn’t for me! ”Honey you can’t and WON’T see ME running around with a little nappy afro. Child cheese, I’m too fly for that!” Now here I am two years in with my hair laying just past my shoulders (at my last length check) and it’s healthy!*pats fro* The real struggle is being CONFIDENT in the transition! KNOWING that you are still just as fly as you were when you had that short cut or those long flowing locks… you haven’t changed, you hair did! ] #Naturalista #NaturalandFly #GlamWithCurls #NaturalDiva
WOMAN TO WATCH Carla Willis ‘Misteree’ Poetess Misteree is a single mother of two (Morgan & Braylon), an internet-blog radio show host for Black Satin Radio, and co-founder of M & S Dreamchaser Productions and NFINITE Entertainment Group. “I'm a spiritually driven woman on a conquest to inspire others and share my gift of poetry.”
How do you define success? I define success in two (2) parts. (1) To be successful you must put God first in your life. There has to be a spiritual awakening and guidance that you adhere to. Your spirituality has to be centered and in alignment with your vision to come to be. (2) There must be a driven desire towards your intricate goal/vision. You must be obedient when the pressures of the development of the vision wakes you up at night, deters you from going or doing what you want to do. The accomplishing of the vision is the award of success!!! 33
We need leaders Kwynn Riley
I love being an African American female millennial. There have been so many eye opening, revolutionary, radical situations that have occurred in my 20’s. This is the time of my life right now! Fashion, music, love; we have it all as millennials. Everything but leaders. Honestly, we do not have any Martin Luther King Jr’s, Malcolm X’s, Harriet Tumban’s, or even Assatta Shakurs. Let’s talk about a few, who I know are doing big things for millennials and social justice.
Bree Newsome Marilyn Mosby Marilyn is the prosecutor who sought justice for the death of Freddie Gray. The Baltimore native, is a powerful pioneer. I read the feature about the leader in Vogue, and became inspired. Heidi Mithchell, really painted a masterpiece of Mosby. This is a powerful quote from the column: “Later, at her desk, which overlooks the harbor, we talk about the issues that have been bedeviling not just her city but African-American communities everywhere”. “There have been decades of failed policies: zero tolerance and harassment and people being locked up for small crimes,” she says, “policies that drive a divide between communities and law enforcement. So many people feel like they are voiceless, that they’ve been dehumanized. What we saw in the riots is a result of that.” Mosby stands by every word she uttered at that podium on May 1, 2015 and is confident that the six officers will get a fair trial in her city. (On May 21, a grand jury handed down indictments that largely supported her charges.)” Marily Mosby is definitely a trailblazer, and I look forward to her future endeavors.
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Black.Girl.Magic
After the hate-fueled killing of nine black churchgoers and a week of debate about the Confederate flag’s presence at the South Carolina statehouse grounds, this 30-year-old woman took matters into her own hands. She woke up before dawn, strapped on climbing equipment and scaled a 30-foot flagpole. She did all of this knowing, she would be arrested. Honestly, she did not care! In a Washington Post article “Who Is Bree” she was quoted “I just became aware that simply being myself was an act of defiance,”
Amandla Stenlberg When I have my daughter, I want her to be like Amandla Stenlberg. The young activist coined the question “When will America love black people as much as it loves black culture?” Black culture, by definition refers to the traditions, accomplishments, made by black people. For example, cornrows or braiding hair.
FINAL THOUGHT
Follow Us!!! Speak Woman Magazine strives to be an empowerment tool for all of our readers. We want to water that seed of greatness that lies within EVERY one of us! Our goal is to motivate our readers by spotlighting women who are fearlessly going after their dreams (whatever they may be). We are constantly in search of inspirational women from all walks of life. If you are interested in contributing, advertising, being interviewed or featured please visit speakwomanmagazine.com to connect with SWM staff. SWM understands the importance of staying connected and available to our readers, so please connect with us via social media. Don’t forget to tell all of your friends & family about this #PositiveMovement! SWM deeply appreciates all who have supported us on this positive journey. Please know that your prayers have been felt. The success of SWM would not be possible without YOU!!!
Keep spreading those positive vibe!!! Be Blessed, La’Shanda Campbell, Founder/Editor-At-Large
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